Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes: The Do's and Don'ts
Why Should You Clean Makeup Brushes?
It’s not pleasant to think about but unclean brushes can lead to folliculitis. This is where your skin follicles are inflamed and it causes white-headed pimples or red bumps. Makeup artists never share unclean brushes because they know the bacteria can spread viruses such as conjunctivitis and cold-sores.
Research hasn’t proven it, but experts suggest that unclean brushes may reduce skin elasticity. This causes early aging, so it makes sense to clean your brushes. Even if you don’t share them with others, you should still clean them to remove dirt, oil, and bacteria.
How Often Should Your Makeup Brushes Be Cleaned?
According to experts, you should be cleaning your concealer and foundation brushes at least once a week. This is because they're used all on your face and if the bacteria builds up, then you’re likely to suffer from an unwanted breakout. If you use brushes to apply eyeshadow, wash them twice a month.
Your makeup brushes are designed to hold on to makeup, which means they also pick up debris and oil from your skin. Not only will you be more susceptible to breakouts, you’ll also find it harder to achieve a smooth makeup application. So, here are the basic rules for cleaning your brushes.
To Soap or Not to Soap?
If you have natural hair brushes, then you should treat them with care. Think about how you’d treat your own hair and choose a gentle shampoo. Most people choose baby shampoo and warm water. Your aim is to remove the debris and bacteria from the brushes, not the bristles. Protect the bristles by not pressing the brush head down.
You need to get tough with synthetic brushes, especially if you use them to apply liquid foundation. You can use a caustic soap or dishwashing liquid but rinse the brushes thoroughly to remove the oil and bacteria.
Which Cleaning Technique Should You Use?
It’s best to use the palm of your hand to clean your brushes instead of placing them in a cup of warm water. If you’re washing a large brush, then massage the bristles with the brush facing downwards. Smaller brushes should be gently swirled in the palm of your hand to protect the bristles.
Now it’s time to rinse and dry your brushes. Use clean water and rinse until it runs clear. Tap away any excess water and wrap the brushes in kitchen towels. Squeeze the kitchen roll and then leave the brushes to dry. The metal part of the brush, also known as the “ferrule†must be kept dry or the bristles will shed. A great tip to protect your brushes is to put them on the edge of a counter instead of into a towel to prevent mildew.
Follow these tips and then enjoy your clean brushes. Yes, it’s another item for your to-do list but worth it.
