Makeup tools like brushes are the easiest and most effective way to apply beauty products. There are brushes for practically every type of makeup, and if used properly, they can help you achieve your desired look with precision. The downside? You will need to clean them regularly.
Not only will cleaning them wash off leftover product, but it will also help eliminate germs and bacteria that could cause a breakout or infection. Here are some tips to help you clean and maintain your beauty brushes properly.
When to Clean Makeup Brushes
How often you clean your makeup brushes depends on how often you use them and the types of products you apply. If you want to be able to remove buildup from your tools so they hold and apply your favorite product with ease, it’s best to clean them once a week. If you need to use the same brush to apply different products, you may need to clean or at least rinse and dry between products. Tools that are used for liquid or cream-based makeup should also be washed more often.
What to Use
When shopping online for beauty supplies, it’s easy to find makeup-removing products that are designed specifically for cleaning brushes. Before you make a purchase, check to see if they’re safe for your type of brush (i.e. natural vs. synthetic bristles). You can also use warm water instead, but it may take a little longer to get them clean without detergents or soap.
If you are planning to deep clean your tools, try baby shampoo and warm water. If you want to disinfect between cleanings, spray them with a little bit of rubbing alcohol.
How to Get Started
There are a few different ways you can clean your makeup brushes. Keep in mind that some tools require a delicate hand, and others are more durable and can handle a little rougher treatment. Unopened fragrances and makeup brushes should be stored in a cool, dark place to prolong their shelf life. You may want to try out a few different methods to see which ones you prefer and which work best for your arsenal. Here are a few to consider:
Dab Method
This requires you to fill up a small bowl with water and your cleaning solution. Gently dab the brushes against the bottom and sides of the bowl to remove the product. The water will start to become dirty depending on how much product buildup was on your tools. Pour out and refill the bowl several times until the brushes rinse clear.
Spray Method
If you are simply disinfecting your brushes or if you just want to lightly clean them, you may choose to spray them with a detergent and water. Lightly brush your tools against a paper towel to remove the leftover product and solution. This works best if your brushes aren’t too dirty or don’t have too much buildup.
Silicone Cleaning Mats
Silicone mats with a rough texture are designed for cleaning makeup tools of all angles, shapes, and sizes. The bumps and ridges on the mat open your brushes up and make it possible for the cleaning solution to get to all the bristles. You can also rinse the mat easily when you are done. A personalized set of high-quality makeup brushes is a thoughtful and practical wedding gift for her.
Rinsing Makeup Brushes
It is just as important to rinse your beauty brushes as it is to clean them with soap. The soap or cleaning solution you use can actually break down the brushes if it is left on them for too long or not rinsed off properly. Run your tools under warm water until it turns clear and there are no soap bubbles or suds. You can also blot them in plain water after cleaning.
Drying Makeup Brushes
Drying helps your tools maintain their angles and shapes so they can apply makeup accurately. It also helps prevent the bristles from being damaged. You can dry makeup brushes by gently blotting them on a soft cloth, removing excess water. Style fashion guru often recommend using a variety of makeup brushes to create different looks and to apply makeup evenly and smoothly. Prop them up in a cup or lay them flat on a dry towel for 24 hours to allow them to air dry. Never put your brushes away wet.
Storing Clean Makeup Brushes
Once you have properly cleaned, rinsed, and dried your tools, you can store them. It’s important to store your brushes properly as it will ensure they maintain their shape and are not damaged. Try keeping them on a vanity or shelf in a cup that holds them upright.
You may also choose to lay them flat in a drawer. Before doing so, just make sure they’re spaced out so they are not touching or in danger of getting crushed. If traveling with your beauty brushes, store them in a protective case that will keep them safe.
If you love applying fresh looks and use your trusty set of makeup tools and brushes regularly, it’s important to know how to clean and care for them. The above guide can help you keep your brushes looking and working great so they last a long time and allow you to get the most out of them.
Author Bio:
Tess DiNapoli is an artist, freelance writer, and content strategist for Firma Beauty. She has a passion for yoga and often writes about health and wellness, but also enjoys covering the fashion industry and world of fitness.
