How To Clean Makeup Brushes Like A Pro

Written by Anushka ShahJul 13, 2022
How to Clean Makeup Brushes Like a Pro

Give your brushes the TLC they deserve! Clean and store them to perfection to keep them working longer and better. After all, why should you compromise on a flawless base?  Unveil all the pro secrets and tips here! 

Application, technique and how your products blend into each other all depend on your makeup brushes. Being the support system of every #glamazon makeover or every “no-makeup makeup” look you create, these fluffy friends do a lot for us.  But inevitably, they pick up bacteria and germs! And if your makeup brushes aren’t in the best state, it’s not time to discard them,   but give them a wash instead

Why should you clean your makeup brushes?  

Yes, we’ll admit it, cleaning your makeup brushes at home isn’t the most exciting thing in the world.  But dirty makeup brushes can transmit harmful bacteria. we’re talking about  staphylococcus, streptococcus and E. Coli. If your brushes aren’t regularly washed properly at the right time, your face can be at risk of breakouts and irritation.  

Plus, you can own the most expensive and exquisite makeup brushes, but if they’re loaded with dirt and gunk they won’t perform at their best – their strands may become stiff and create that patchy look when you come to use them. We’re talking about unblended concealer areas, blocked blush zones and blotchy contour — a BIG no no! Also, a grubby brush may barely grasp any product pigment, making application more of a challenge.  

How often do you clean your makeup brushes? 

If you’re dolling up on the regular, you need to give your brushes a quick bathe every so often — once a week is perfect! And if not (we can all be lazy at times!) at least once every two weeks. However, if you happen to spot crusty makeup residue or if your brushes begin to poke your skin, that’s your wake-up call to get cleaning immediately. 

how to clean makeup brushes

How to wash makeup brushes: choosing the right products

When it comes to clean makeup brushes, the options are endless. Below are the makeup brush cleaning products that work the best... 

The best makeup brush cleaners 

how to clean makeup brushes

How to Clean Makeup Brushes: #1 Baby shampoo 

These gentle formulas do the job of cleansing without causing any damage. When looking for an ideal product, nothing does the trick like the Baby Dove Rich Moisture Baby Shampoo. Enriched with moisture this mild cleanser gives the bristles a deep clean so that they‘re fresh and fluffy for your next makeup session. 

How to Clean Makeup Brushes: #2 Makeup brush cleansers 

As the name suggests, these products have been specially formulated for this purpose, easily soaking out the most stubborn makeup residue – making them the best choice for brush cleaning.  

How to Clean Makeup Brushes: #3 Texture cleaning mats 

These portable pals just require a drop of brush cleanser and some gentle scrubbing, and you’re good to go!  

How to clean your makeup brushes at home 

Step 1: Wet the bristles 

Run the bristles of your makeup brush under lukewarm water, while dodging the ferrule and handle. 

Step 2: Add cleanser  

Apply a small amount of makeup brush cleaner to your palm and dip your brush into it, gently twirling the brush-head to ensure all bristles are coated. 

However, beware of the handle — don’t submerge it in water, as the glue holding the bristles in place can dissolve. If the handle is looking a bit grubby, get your hands on some good wipes - they’ll do the job neatly and quickly!  

Step 3: Rinse, rinse, rinse 

Run the bristles under water with the makeup brush head facing downward, continuing to avoid wetting the handle and ferrule. If the water coming out of the bristles is pigmented, repeat steps 2 and 3 until it runs clear. 

Step 4: Buh-bye excess water 

With the bristles facing downwards, squeeze out the excess soapy liquid. This will ensure your brush hairs aren’t damaged and retain their original shape and form.  

Step 5: Let air-dry 

Let your makeup brushes dry by laying them flat on a towel and leaving them for 6 to 12 hours—ideally overnight! 

how to clean makeup brushes

How to dry and store your brushes:

Step 1: A clean towel   

Lay out a clean towel and place your brushes on it. Gently press them into the toweling material so the extra water seeps out!  

Step 2: Air drying angle  

Lay brushes flat on the towel so that the bristles are hanging over the edge. You want the air to be able to circulate around the brushes so they can dry evenly and thoroughly.  

And yes, while you may be all excited, wait a few hours until you use your brushes! To give you the time, we recommend washing them before bed and letting them dry overnight.  

Once almost dried, store your brushes upright in a mug or mason jar so that the bristles can air out. If they are still damp, ensure all the moisture has made its way out — or else it ruins the hairs’ grip by damaging the glue bond and thereby shortening the brushes’ lifespan! 

So now you know how to clean your makeup brushes quickly, what are your favourite tips and tricks? Let us know in the comments... 

Anushka Shah

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