Many of us use our makeup brushes everyday, but the same can’t be said for how often we clean them. Cleaning makeup brushes is a task that is easy to put off, but it is vital for the health of your skin and brushes to make cleaning them a regular part of your routine. Not sure how to clean makeup brushes? Don’t worry, it’s easy! We’ve broken down the best way to clean makeup brushes into 7 simple steps for you.
How Often Should You Clean Your Makeup Brushes?
Whether you wear makeup often, or only from time to time, making sure your brushes get a good clean on a regular basis is imperative. Most dermatologists recommend cleaning makeup brushes once a week to prevent buildup. Dirty makeup brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to breakouts or even infections. Clean makeup brushes also last longer, as the bristles degrade more quickly if they’re not maintained. Maintaining a clean set of makeup brushes is good for your skin, your health, and your wallet! Ready to learn how to wash makeup brushes? Just follow these seven steps.
How to Clean Makeup Brushes
- Fill a clean sink or basin with warm or lukewarm water.
- Add a gentle cleanser, like our Oxi Booster or Sensitive Skin Laundry detergent.
- Swish the brush through the solution and gently massage the tips of the bristles in your palm. Avoid getting water into the base of the brush, as the water can dissolve the glue.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Place the bristles between two towels and press firmly to remove excess moisture.
- Fluff the brush back up to help it take its original shape.
- Lay the brush out to dry with its bristles hangings off the edge of a counter to avoid flattening the shape. Avoid having your brushes directly dry on a towel as the bristles can turn mildewy.
What Can I Use to Clean Makeup Brushes?
It is best to use a gentle but effective cleanser on your makeup brushes. While some companies sell a dedicated makeup brush cleaner, you don’t need to run out and spend your money on this when you already have gentle soaps at home! We recommend using our Oxi Booster Pods or Sensitive Skin Laundry Detergent, but most gentle soaps (or even shampoos) will do. Avoid using products that contain harsh sulfates or artificial fragrances. Remember, these brushes come in contact with your skin, and you want to avoid using anything that may cause irritation and breakouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about how to clean makeup brushes? We’re here to help.
How can I clean my makeup brushes at home?
Cleaning your makeup brushes at home is easy! You can wash them easily in your bathroom. Washing makeup brushes once a week does not take long, and prevents makeup building up on your brushes. Follow our simple 7 step guide for clean brushes that will keep your makeup looking flawless and your skin free of breakouts.
What should you not clean makeup brushes with?
We recommend avoiding harsh cleansers like sulfate-based dish soap, or soaps containing artificial fragrances. Harsh cleansers can damage the brush’s natural fibers and shorten their lifespan, while fragrances can cause irritation, particularly if you have sensitive skin. Remember, these brushes will be touching your face, so it’s best to use a gentle cleanser.
Can you use dish soap to clean makeup brushes?
A gentle, unscented dish soap can be used to clean makeup brushes. Be sure to rinse thoroughly before using, as dish soap is not intended to be used on skin. Avoid using dish soaps with a high alcohol content or harsh solvents, as they may loosen the glue holding the brush together and shorten the lifespan of the brush.
How do you clean makeup brushes fast?
Luckily, cleaning makeup brushes doesn’t take much time! You should only need to set aside 10-15 minutes a week to wash your makeup brushes. To optimize your time, consider doing this while doing another household task, like waiting to move your clothes from the washer to the dryer, or while soaking dishes in the kitchen sink.