Clean makeup brushes don’t just help your makeup look smoother — they also keep your skin healthy! Dirty brushes can collect oil, bacteria, and old makeup, which can cause breakouts and dull-looking applications. Regularly washing your brushes helps them last longer and keeps your beauty routine hygienic. Here’s how to do it properly.
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have everything ready:
-
Gentle shampoo or brush cleanser
-
Lukewarm water
-
A clean towel
-
A shallow bowl or silicone brush cleaning mat
Tip: Avoid harsh soaps or hot water — these can damage your brush bristles.
Step 2: Wet the Bristles
Hold your brush with the bristles facing downward under lukewarm running water.
Avoid getting water into the metal ferrule (the part that connects the bristles to the handle), as it can loosen the glue and cause shedding.
Tip: Use gentle water pressure to prevent damaging the bristles.
Step 3: Lather and Clean
Add a small amount of brush cleanser or mild shampoo to your palm or brush mat.
Swirl the brush in circular motions until you see the makeup residue lifting off.
Repeat this until the suds appear clear.
Tip: Focus on cleaning one brush at a time for the best results.
Step 4: Rinse and Repeat if Needed
Rinse the brush bristles under lukewarm water, gently squeezing out any remaining soap.
If residue remains, repeat the cleaning process until the water runs clear.
Tip: Avoid soaking the brushes — it can weaken the handle or loosen the glue inside.
Step 5: Dry the Brushes Properly
Gently pat the brushes with a clean towel to remove excess water.
Lay them flat on a towel with the bristles hanging off the edge of a counter to air-dry overnight.
This helps the brushes maintain their shape and prevents mildew.
Tip: Never dry brushes upright — water can seep into the ferrule and ruin the brush.
✅ Final Thoughts
Washing your makeup brushes once a week keeps your tools — and your skin — clean and fresh. It’s a simple routine that makes your makeup go on smoother and prevents breakouts. Treat your brushes with care, and they’ll last for years!
