The Complete Guide to Cleaning and Caring for Your Makeup Brushes

Your makeup brushes are essential tools that deserve proper care. Regular cleaning not only extends their lifespan but also protects your skin from bacteria and ensures flawless makeup application. Here's everything you need to know about brush maintenance.

Why Brush Cleaning Matters

Dirty brushes harbor bacteria, oil, dead skin cells, and old makeup that can cause breakouts, skin irritation, and infections. Clean brushes also perform better, picking up and depositing product more evenly for a professional finish.

How Often to Clean Your Brushes

Foundation and concealer brushes: Weekly (they touch liquid products and your skin directly). Eyeshadow brushes: Every 2 weeks. Powder brushes: Every 2-3 weeks. Lip brushes: After each use. For quick daily maintenance, use a brush cleaner spray between deep cleans.

The Deep Cleaning Method

Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add gentle shampoo or brush cleanser. Swirl each brush in the solution, working the soap through the bristles. Rinse under running water until the water runs clear. Gently squeeze out excess water—never pull or tug on bristles.

Drying Your Brushes Properly

Reshape the bristles and lay brushes flat on a clean towel, with the brush heads hanging slightly off the edge of a counter. This allows air circulation and prevents water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal part), which can loosen the glue and cause shedding. Never dry brushes upright—water will damage the handle and loosen bristles.

Quick Cleaning Between Uses

Spray brush cleaner on a microfiber cloth and swipe your brush back and forth until no more product transfers. This is perfect for switching between eyeshadow colors or quick touch-ups.

Brush Cleaning Solutions

Professional brush cleanser works best, but gentle baby shampoo or sulfate-free shampoo are excellent alternatives. For natural brushes, add a drop of olive oil to condition the bristles. Avoid harsh soaps that can damage delicate fibers.

Storage Tips

Store brushes upright in a holder or cup to maintain their shape. Keep them in a dry, well-ventilated area away from humidity. Use brush guards or the original packaging for travel to protect bristles from damage.

When to Replace Brushes

Replace brushes when they shed excessively, lose their shape, feel scratchy, or no longer apply makeup smoothly. Quality brushes can last years with proper care, while cheaper brushes may need replacing every 6-12 months.

Spot Cleaning Mat Hack

Use a textured silicone mat or brush cleaning pad to deep clean stubborn product buildup. The ridges help work cleanser through dense bristles more effectively than hand-washing alone.

Maintain your makeup tools and explore our beauty collection for products that work beautifully with clean, well-maintained brushes. Your skin will thank you!