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Makeup brushes are a major part of our daily beauty routines—they blend, contour, and perfect our looks with ease. But let’s be real for a second: when was the last time you actually cleaned them? Don’t worry, no judgment here—we’ve all been guilty of putting it off. But here’s the thing: dirty brushes can mess with your skin and your makeup game. Luckily, it’s not hard to give them a good clean, and we are here to make it simple for you.
Ready for some super easy tips?
Why You Should Clean Your Makeup Brushes (Like, Right Now)
Using dirty makeup brushes isn’t just gross—it can actually lead to breakouts and make your makeup look streaky. Let’s break down why keeping your brushes clean is a skincare must-do.
Bacteria = Breakouts
Think about it: your brushes touch your face, makeup products, and the air. Over time, they collect bacteria, oils, and leftover products. When you skip cleaning, you’re basically putting all that grime right back on your skin. If you’ve been breaking out and can’t figure out why, this could be your answer.
Smooth Makeup Application
Have you noticed your makeup looking patchy lately? That could be your brushes’ way of telling you they need a wash. The buildup makes bristles stiff and uneven, which leads to streaky application. Keeping your brushes clean not only makes your skin happier but also helps your makeup blend like a dream—especially if you’ve splurged on the best makeup brushes out there.
How Often Should You Actually Clean Your Brushes?
Let’s be honest, nobody wants to clean their brushes every day. But there’s a happy medium that can keep your tools in top shape without taking over your life.
If You Use Makeup Daily
If you’re a makeup lover who wears it almost every day, aim to do a quick spot-clean after each use and a deeper clean once a week. This way, your brushes stay fresh and bacteria-free without much effort.
If You’re an Occasional User
For those who only wear makeup a few times a week, a deep clean every two weeks should do the trick. Just don’t forget to clean any brushes you use for liquid or cream products more often since they can harbor bacteria faster.
What You Need to Clean Your Brushes
You don’t need a fancy setup to get your brushes clean—just a few basics you probably already have at home.
Gentle Cleanser or Soap
You can use a brush cleaner, baby shampoo, or even a bit of dish soap. Just make sure it’s gentle, especially if you have sensitive skin. Natural products work great, too!
Warm Water and a Bowl
Warm water helps loosen product buildup without damaging the bristles. Using a bowl keeps things neat and makes it easier to rinse your brushes thoroughly.
A Towel for Drying
After you’re done washing, you’ll need a clean towel to dry your brushes. Air drying is key to keeping the bristles soft and in good shape.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Brushes
Let’s make this as painless as possible. Here’s a quick routine that’ll have your brushes looking (and feeling) brand new.
Step 1: Rinse with Warm Water
Start by running your brush bristles under warm water. Be careful not to get the handle wet—nobody wants glue loosening up and bristles falling out.
Step 2: Lather Up with Cleanser
Add a drop of soap or brush cleaner directly to the bristles. Gently massage the product in with your fingers or swirl the brush on your palm.
Step 3: Swirl and Scrub Gently
Keep swirling until you see the makeup residue washing away. If you have a silicone brush cleaning mat, even better—those little bumps make scrubbing super easy.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse under warm water until all the soap is gone. Make sure there’s no residue left behind, as this can dry out the bristles.
Step 5: Reshape and Lay Flat to Dry
Gently squeeze out the excess water and reshape the bristles. Lay your brushes flat on a towel with the bristles hanging off the edge to dry. This helps them keep their shape and prevents water from seeping into the handle.
Don’t Forget About Your Makeup Sponges!
We can’t talk about brush cleaning without mentioning sponges. If you use a makeup sponge, you know how quickly they get grimy. Here’s how to clean them up in no time.
Soak and Squeeze
Soak your sponge in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, then squeeze it out under running water until it’s clean.
Microwave Hack
For an extra deep clean, try microwaving your soaked sponge for 30 seconds. It helps kill bacteria and loosens up any leftover product.
Quick Tips to Keep Your Brushes Cleaner, Longer
Want to stretch the time between deep cleans? Here’s how to keep your brushes looking fresh without washing them constantly.
- Spray Cleaners Are Your Friend: Use a quick-drying spray cleaner for spot cleaning after each use.
- Store Them Properly: Keep your brushes upright in a dry holder to avoid dust and bacteria.
- Replace Them When Needed: Even the best makeup brushes have a shelf life—swap them out every year or so if they start looking frayed.
Conclusion
Taking a few minutes to clean your makeup brushes can make a world of difference for both your skin and your makeup routine. Not only will your makeup go on smoother, but you’ll also help prevent breakouts and keep your tools in great condition.
It’s a small habit that really pays off, giving you better results and healthier skin. So next time you’re watching your favorite show or scrolling through your phone, take a moment to wash your brushes—you’ll be glad you did.
