Here's How to Clean Makeup Brushes the Right Way

It falls somewhere between trimming cuticles and replacing the little eyelash curler pad on your beauty task list. And we get it! Remembering to wash your beauty tools usually happens right about the time you’re ready to use them but don’t want wet brushes. Once you learn why it’s so important to use clean tools, this to-do will become a priority. Read on for all the details you want to know on how to clean makeup brushes.

Why You Should Clean Your Makeup Brushes Regularly

You usually apply makeup to clean skin, right? This may make it seem like brushes don’t come into contact with a lot of bacteria. While you wash your skin daily, those dirty brushes sit on your counter or inside your medicine cabinet covered in makeup residue, oils from skin, and dust. A true breeding ground for bacteria.

If that sounds icky, well, it is. And it can lead to skin issues you definitely do not want. All of those skin care efforts are way less effective if you are using brushes that harbor bacteria which could lead to the appearance of breakouts, irritation, and redness.

How Often to Clean Your Brushes

As you can see, it’s super important to use clean brushes. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends washing brushes every 7 to 10 days to keep bacteria at bay. Set a reminder on your phone or designate a day of the week to give your beauty tools a good cleansing.

Here’s a fun beauty *hynt* -- apply your favorite facial mask and wash your brushes while it sets on skin. Both you and your tools get a mini makeover.

How to Clean Makeup Brushes the Right Way

Start by rinsing brushes in lukewarm water. Next, fill a small bowl with a mild foaming facial cleanser. The one you use on your skin is perfect. Now, gently massage bristles to remove build up and rinse well until water runs clear.

Squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel and, taking the brush handle between palms, brush end pointed toward the floor, move hands back and forth to remove excess water from bristles. Let brushes air dry completely before use.

Since the eye area is more delicate than the rest of the face, it’s best to take a gentler approach when cleansing eye makeup tools. Shadow and brow brushes can be cleaned the same as facial brushes but be sure to use a gentle touch on these small brushes and rinse thoroughly. Don’t squeeze too hard on the towel either.

As for those fuzz attracting spoolies … yes, they can be cleaned. Begin by gently removing excess build up with a tissue or makeup wipe, then spritz with a liquid makeup remover. Rinse well under hot water and allow to air dry.

More Clean Makeup Brush Tips

Keep it to yourself: Don’t share your brushes with others to avoid bacterial buildup.

Contaminant-free containers: Store your brushes upright in a beauty container or glass so the bristles don’t come into contact with dirt, dust, or other contaminants.

Swap them out: Replace brushes when they begin to shed, become sparse or frayed, are discolored, or you feel like they aren’t coming all the way clean.Go vegan: Animal hair brushes tend to shed and may cause skin sensitivity. Use brushes with synthetic bristles to avoid feelings of irritation and get a flawless application.