You paint and contour with makeup brushes every day, but how often are those brushes being cleaned? Dirty makeup brushes can create chaos on the skin! In addition to collecting product dirt and oil, makeup brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria. This could compromise your skin complexion through acne and rashes as well other health issues.
To protect your skin and kill the harmful bacteria that lingers in your makeup brushes, it's a good idea to wash your makeup brushes every week -- if not every day. Dermatologists recommend the following tips to clean up your makeup brushes in the right way.
How often should you clean your makeup brushes?
Many dermatologists recommend you to clean your makeup tools, especially foundation brushes, at least once or twice a week to prevent bacteria buildup. Brushes that are used for your eye lids should be cleaned at least twice a month as eyeshadow is not as moist. Washing your makeup brushes regularly can extend the life of the bristles and make for a better makeup application. If your brushes are dirty and uncleaned, your application will be spotty and blending will be difficult.
What you should use to clean your makeup brushes?
The best method for cleaning brushes requires only water and either a gentle shampoo or brush cleanser. When it comes to choosing a product for cleaning makeup brushes, base it on how much work you want to put in.
Some girls like to make the process quick and efficient, using a store-bought, specialist brush cleaner. These are often produced by major cosmetics brands and are widely available. However, you may prefer to use something natural and close at hand. The best method for cleaning brushes requires only water and a cleaning agent to remove any greasy residue. Pick something that is relatively mild -- like baby shampoo. An oil-free facial cleanser or soap will prevent more oil from being added to the brush.
DO:
- Run brush tips under lukewarm water to rinse off dirt and makeup
- Add a small squirt of clarifying shampoo to a bowl full of lukewarm water
- Gently swirl each brush tip in either the bowl or the palm of your hand for a good lather
- Rinse and repeat until water runs clear from brush
- Clean and squeeze out excess dirt with a dry paper towel
- Dry brushes flat on a new paper towel, tips hanging off the edge of the counter
DON'T:
- Submerge the whole brush head, or it will dissolve the glue holding brush head to handle
- Dry brushes upright, as the water will run down and loosen the glue on the handle
- Allow tips to dry on a moist paper towel, let water drip off edge of counter
- Use hot water as heat may damage bristles
- Use plain soap that may dry out bristles
Skin infections are on the rise, so it's prudent that you never share your makeup brushes. Wash them often! As soon as you notice that you have a hard time cleaning your brushes, replace them.