Cleaning makeup brushes is an essential routine to maintain the integrity of your brushes and ensure flawless makeup application. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get your brushes sparkling clean, using effective methods and easily accessible supplies.
Gathering Supplies
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s crucial to gather all necessary supplies. You’ll need (affiliate links):
These items are essential for an efficient and thorough cleaning process.
Preparing the Cleaning Solution
To start, you’ll need to prepare a cleaning solution. Fill a small glass container with a little water, add a pump of your chosen cleanser, and a drop of jojoba oil. This mixture helps break down the makeup residue, especially for eyeshadows and concealers.
Soaking Small Brushes
Soaking is a vital step for smaller brushes, such as eyeshadow and concealer brushes. Submerge the bristles in the cleaning solution without letting water reach the handle where the bristles are glued. Soaking helps to loosen and break down heavy makeup residues.
Cleaning Larger Brushes
For larger brushes, place the silicone scrub pad in a stable position, such as the sink. Add a few pumps of soap and drops of oil onto the pad, along with a bit of water. Gently scrub the brushes against the pad, being careful not to be too aggressive to avoid damaging the bristles. If a brush is particularly dirty, apply soap directly onto the bristles and work it in with your fingers.
Rinsing the Brushes
Rinse the brushes under running water, ensuring that water does not seep into the handle. This prevents the glue from dissolving and the bristles from falling out. A useful tip for rinsing small brushes is to let the water hit your hand first, then let it flow over the brush to minimize water contact with the handle.
Cleaning Frequency
The frequency of cleaning your brushes depends on usage. For daily users, it’s recommended to clean your brushes every one to two weeks. Clean brushes not only improve makeup application but also prevent the spread of bacteria, ensuring healthier skin.
Cleaning Beauty Blenders and Sponges
Beauty blenders and sponges require a similar cleaning method to brushes. Avoid putting them in the microwave as it can cause permanent damage. Instead, wet the sponge, apply soap and a bit of oil directly onto it, and work the mixture in with your fingers.
Drying the Brushes
Proper drying is crucial to maintain the shape and quality of your brushes. Use a three-towel system with microfiber towels. Roll up two towels and place them side by side, drape a third towel over them, and lay your brushes on the towels with bristles pointing down. This position helps water drain out of the handle, speeding up the drying process.
To expedite drying, mix 70% isopropyl alcohol with distilled water in a spray bottle. Spritz the brushes lightly; this not only aids in cleaning but also accelerates drying time.
Keep them Looking Great!
With these steps, your makeup brushes will be clean and ready for use, ensuring optimal makeup application and better skin health. Regular cleaning is a small effort with significant benefits, keeping your brushes in top condition for years to come.