Makeup brushes are an essential tool for anyone who loves makeup. However, if they’re not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate bacteria and oil, which can cause breakouts and other skin irritations. In addition, dirty brushes can also affect the way your makeup is applied, making it look streaky or uneven. Therefore, it’s essential to clean your makeup brushes regularly, and this guide will show you how to clean your makeup brushes like a professional.
Why Clean Your Makeup Brushes?
There are several reasons why you should clean your makeup brushes regularly:
- Bacteria: Dirty brushes can harbor bacteria and other harmful microorganisms, which can cause breakouts, skin infections, and other skin irritations.
- Product Buildup: Over time, makeup residue and oils can accumulate on your brushes, causing them to become stiff, sticky, and less effective at applying makeup.
- Uneven Makeup Application: If your brushes are dirty, they won’t apply your makeup evenly, leading to streaky, patchy, and uneven makeup.
- Longer Lifespan: Cleaning your brushes regularly can help extend their lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
How Often Should You Clean Your Makeup Brushes?
It’s essential to clean your makeup brushes regularly to prevent bacteria buildup and to maintain the effectiveness of the brush. Experts recommend cleaning your brushes at least once a week, or more frequently if you use them daily. If you notice any signs of buildup, such as caked-on makeup, it’s time to clean your brushes.
What You Need to Clean Your Makeup Brushes
To clean your makeup brushes like a professional, you will need:
- Mild liquid soap or shampoo: Use a mild soap or shampoo that’s gentle on your brushes and won’t cause any damage.
- A bowl of lukewarm water: You’ll need a bowl of water to soak your brushes in.
- A clean towel: You’ll need a clean towel to dry your brushes after washing.
- A silicone brush cleaning mat or a textured surface: You can use a silicone brush cleaning mat or a textured surface to help scrub your brushes.
- Optional: Brush cleaner or alcohol: If your brushes are extra dirty or you want a deeper clean, you can use a brush cleaner or alcohol.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes
Follow these steps to clean your makeup brushes like a professional:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Gather all the supplies you’ll need, including a mild soap or shampoo, a bowl of lukewarm water, a clean towel, a silicone brush cleaning mat or a textured surface, and a brush cleaner or alcohol (optional).
Step 2: Rinse Your Brushes
Rinse your brushes under lukewarm water, making sure to avoid getting water on the metal part of the brush, as this can cause the glue to loosen and the bristles to fall out.
Step 3: Add Soap or Shampoo
Add a small amount of soap or shampoo to the palm of your hand or onto the cleaning mat. Gently swirl the brush in the soap, making sure to cover the entire brush.
Step 4: Scrub Your Brushes
If you’re using a silicone brush cleaning mat or a textured surface, use it to scrub your brushes gently. Make sure to use gentle circular motions to avoid damaging the bristles.
Step 5: Rinse Your Brushes
Rinse your brushes under lukewarm water, making sure to remove all soap residue.
Step 6: Repeat If Necessary
If your brushes are still dirty, repeat steps 3-5 until they’re clean.
Step 7: Squeeze Out Excess Water
Gently squeeze out the excess water from your brushes, making sure not to twist.