How to Clean Makeup Brushes: The Ultimate Self-Care Routine

Self-care is more than face masks and spa days—it’s about taking care of the little things that matter. One thing you might be forgetting? Cleaning your makeup brushes. This simple task keeps your skin healthy and your makeup looking flawless. Plus, it’s quick and easy! Let’s explore why cleaning your brushes is so important and how to do it right.


Dirty makeup brushes

Why You Should Clean Your Makeup Brushes

Skipping regular brush cleaning may seem harmless, but it can cause skin problems over time. Here’s what can happen if you don’t keep your brushes clean:

  1. Breakouts Makeup brushes collect oil, dirt, and bacteria. When you use them, all that grime transfers to your face, clogging your pores and causing breakouts.
  2. Irritated Skin Grime and old makeup on brushes can irritate your skin, leaving it red or itchy. Regular cleaning helps keep your skin calm and clear.
  3. Infections Unclean brushes can hold bacteria, which may cause issues like styes or skin rashes.
  4. Aging Wrinkles Believe it or not, dirty brushes can damage your skin over time. Free radicals from bacteria may cause wrinkles and dull your glow.
  5. Uneven Makeup Dirty brushes don’t apply makeup evenly. You might notice streaky foundation or patchy eyeshadow. Clean brushes help you achieve a flawless finish.

The Best Brush Cleaning Schedule:

You don’t need to clean your brushes every day, but regular cleaning is a must. Here’s a quick guide to follow:

  • Foundation and concealer brushes: Wash them once a week.
  • Powder and blush brushes: Clean every 2-3 weeks.
  • Eyeshadow and eyeliner brushes: Wash weekly if you switch colors
  • Sponges and beauty blenders: Clean every 2-3 days to prevent bacterial buildup.

The Easiest Way to Clean Your Brushes:

You don’t need expensive products to keep your brushes clean. Baby shampoo or gentle dish soap works perfectly. Just follow these steps to get started:


1. Mix warm water with a small amount of baby shampoo or dish soap in a bowl.

2. Swirl your brush in the soapy water, then gently massage the bristles to loosen makeup.

3. Rinse the brush under lukewarm water until the water runs clear.
under lukewarm water until the water runs clear.

4. Dry by reshaping the bristles and laying the brush flat on a clean towel to air dry.

That’s it! In just a few minutes, your brushes will be clean and ready to use.

cleaning-makeup-brush

When It’s Time to Replace Your Brushes

Even with regular cleaning, makeup brushes don’t last forever. Here’s how to tell if it’s time to replace them:


   •   The bristles feel rough or scratchy on your skin.

   •   When the brush sheds bristles during use.

   •   It loses its shape, even after washing.

   •   If it still looks dirty, no matter how much you clean it.

When your brushes start showing these signs, it’s time to treat yourself to a new set!

old makeup brush

Keep in mind

Cleaning your makeup brushes is a quick and simple way to care for your skin. It prevents breakouts, keeps your makeup flawless, and helps you feel more confident. Add it to your self-care routine—it’s as satisfying as a relaxing cup of tea, and your skin will thank you!

Clean makeup brushes

Other Articles:

The (Gross) Reason You Should Clean Your Makeup Brushes ASAP

Think Makeup Makes You Break Out? It Might Be Dirty Brushes

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Cindy Blakely

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