The Makeup Brush Guide for Life: Keeping your Brushes Clean

Your makeup brushes are the faithful tools you use to create your look every morning. Once you find the perfect set, you’ll never want to let them go.

Keeping makeup brushes clean is an easy way to help prolong their lifespans. Unwashed brushes can accumulate a buildup of dirt, oil, and debris, which can get between the bristles and wear them down.

Not only will you get more use out of clean brushes, but you will also get better performance. Dirty, clumpy bristles can result in uneven makeup application and can limit your ability to blend.

Most importantly, regular cleaning helps prevent bacteria from building up in the brush. Applying makeup with a brush that has gone too long without a wash can result in nasty, painful breakouts.

With all that in mind, it’s easy to see why you shouldn’t let dirty brushes fester in your makeup drawer. Washing makeup brushes is a quick and simple task that can be done in just a few easy steps.

Start with a Rinse

Start the cleaning process by gently rinsing the bristles of your brush under running water. Stick to a comfortable lukewarm temperature that will be easy on both your brush and your skin.

To ensure the longevity of your brush, do your best to avoid getting water on the base of the brush’s head as you rinse. The bristles are held in place by glue, which can be disintegrated by excess moisture.

Clean the Bristles with Soap

Once the brush is damp, place a small amount of soap or brush cleansing solution into the palm of your hand. Then gently massage the tips of the bristles into the soap.

Although any gentle soap will get the job done, you may want to try out a specialized brush cleanser for the best possible makeup brush care. These products are designed to effectively yet gently clean the bristles of your brush.

If you’d rather use a DIY solution, dilute one part baby shampoo in four parts water. It’s important to use a gentle product like baby shampoo, as ordinary soap can dry out your brushes, especially if they are made of natural fibers.

You can also add tea tree oil to the solution or use a shampoo with moisturizing properties to hydrate the bristles of your brush. Tea tree oil has the added benefit of antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce breakouts.

If you’re washing a full set of makeup brushes, soap up each one before doing the final rinse. Remember to take care not to wet the base of the brush head while rinsing away the soap.

Let Everything Dry

Lay your brushes flat to dry overnight. If you can, place the brushes so that the bristles are hanging over the edge of a counter. This allows the brush to dry into their natural shapes.

You should always allow your brushes to dry completely before storing them or putting them back in a travel case. Laying them flat is also important, as it prevents water from running down into the brush base and dissolving the glue.

How Often Should You Wash Your Brushes?

Now you know that keeping your makeup brushes in top condition is a pretty simple task. But how often should you get out the brush cleanser for the best results?

According to dermatologists and makeup artists, cleaning makeup brushes once per week is ideal for keeping buildup and bacteria under control. However, a wash once a month is enough for most of your tools.

Any brushes you use near your eyes need special attention, since your eyes can be sensitive to infection. Eyeshadow and eyeliner brushes should be washed twice a month at minimum.

Cleaning your brushes is an easy way to make your favorite tools last. After all, every makeup addict needs a set of brushes that are worth fussing over. Take a look at LaLa Daisy’s wide selection of makeup brushes today to find your perfect match!