How to Properly Clean and Sanitize Your Makeup Brushes?


In every cosmetic routine, makeup brushes are a necessary tool, but if they aren't cleaned and sanitized correctly, they can house bacteria and other pathogens. Maintaining the quality and longevity of your brushes through routine cleaning also helps to stop the spread of dangerous germs that can result in acne and other skin issues. Here, the best cleaning and sanitizing methods for makeup brushes is shown.

Step by Step Instruction to Clean Makeup Brushes

Following are the major steps −

Wipe Away Extra Makeup

The procedure of deep cleaning begins with this. Grab a paper towel or a clean hand towel and give your brush a thorough wipe down, handle and all, before beginning any deep cleaning. With this short once-over, you might be amazed at how much makeup comes off, which can significantly simplify your cleaning task. To get rid of all the extra makeup, try whirling your makeup brush onto some paper towels many times.

Submerge the Bristles in Water

Keep the bristles pointing downward while you rinse. This will lessen the chance of water running back and dissolving the glue holding the brushes together in the center of the brush. To properly go into the center of the brush, move and separate the bristles. Never use boiling water; just lukewarm water. Over time, particularly if you clean your brush frequently, hot water can harm the bristles.

Combine Shampoo and Warm Water

Baby shampoo or clarifying shampoo are also acceptable. Add your preferred shampoo after adding some sink water to a bowl or small dish. Make sure there is enough water in your measurements—they don't need to be exact—to completely submerge your brush's bristles. Detergents or makeup removers are alternative options, but shampoos work just as well. While some makeup experts advise using dish soap because of its ability to remove grease, others warn that the harsh soap may eventually dry out your bristles.

Add Coconut or Olive Oil

Only around 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of oil is required to assist in cleaning your brush. Add 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of olive oil or coconut oil to your water and shampoo if you use a makeup or concealer that contains oil as a base. The oil will make it easier for the makeup to be broken down, resulting in a cleaner, fresher brush. This is an excellent method for maintaining the cleanliness of natural brushes.

Whirl the Brushes in Your Mixture

For the greatest results, attempt to create a thick lather. It ought should simply take a few seconds. As the makeup falls off your brush, you'll probably notice that the water is becoming hazy or soiled, which is a positive sign. Work up a lather with your brush in the palm of your hand if it's particularly grimy. The bristles will become more agitated as a result, which may result in a deeper clean.

Clean the Brush

To thoroughly clean the bristles, keep stroking them. Rinse again until all of the soap or shampoo is gone, keeping the brush pointed downward to prevent water from running back into the handle. If your brush isn't entirely clean yet, don't panic; you still have time to wash it more thoroughly. Your brush is good to go if the water flows flawlessly! You don't have to clean it once more.

Clean the Brush One More

It could be a little difficult to remove thick makeup. Empty your filthy bowl and re-fill it with warm water and shampoo if your brush so requires. Revolve the brush once more before giving it a warm water rinse. For the majority of brushes, a second cleaning will be sufficient for thorough cleaning. However, feel free to continue washing your brush if the water doesn't flow clear after the second shampoo.

Squeeze Extra Water Out

Ensure that your brushes are not excessively moist. Gently squeeze the bristles with your palms or a fresh piece of paper towel until they are moist. Avoid wringing or rubbing the brushes because doing so could harm the bristles. To prevent water from running into the handle while the brushes are still soaking wet, try not to tilt them upward. You can be a little less cautious about this after you pat them dry.

Set Out Your Brushes to Dry

To absorb any additional moisture, spread out a clean towel. To prevent the bristles from flattening out while drying, hang the brush's tip off the edge of a counter or table. To prevent water damage to the handle or the glue within, try to keep the brushes flat until they are completely dry. The amount of time it takes for your brushes to dry will depend on their size and thickness. Avoid using heat to dry your brushes, even though it can seem like a smart idea! The bristles on your brushes can become damaged and warped by hair dryers, especially if they are synthetic.

After Each Use, Spray Rubbing Alcohol on Your Brushes

Cleaning your brushes on a daily basis can help keep them free of microorganisms. Spray some rubbing alcohol into the bristles of any brush you've used after using it, and then gently wipe it off with a clean towel. Before using the brush again, let it air dry. Most pharmacies and medicine stores carry rubbing alcohol. Consider purchasing a beauty brush sterilizer if you're really concerned about the bacteria on your makeup brushes. Your brushes will be 99.9% germ-free after being disinfected by this equipment using a UV light in a matter of minutes.

Deep Clean Once Each Week

Breakouts and congested pores can result from the use of soiled makeup brushes. Try to give your brushes a thorough cleaning every seven to ten days if you use them frequently. Your skin will appreciate it. Since foundation and concealer brushes are frequently covered in heavy layers of makeup, this is particularly true for those tools.

Conclusion

It's essential to take the time to thoroughly clean and sterilize your makeup brushes in order to preserve healthy skin and the highest level of brush performance. By using the advice provided in this tutorial, you can make sure that your brushes are free of dangerous bacteria and will last longer, giving you a better overall experience when applying makeup. Do not forget to include routine cleaning and sanitizing of your makeup brushes in your beauty regimen.

Updated on: 18-Apr-2023

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