Clean makeup brushes are essential for flawless application and healthy skin.
Regularly cleaning your brushes removes dirt, oil, bacteria, and old makeup residue, preventing breakouts and ensuring a smooth makeup application.
Here is an easy guide to help you through effectively washing your makeup brushes at home, using readily available household items by Good Housekeeping.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items on hand:
- Warm water
- Gentle shampoo or baby shampoo
- Olive oil or coconut oil (optional)
- A bowl or sink
Pre-Rinse Your Brushes
Start by rinsing your brushes under warm water. Hold them with the bristles facing downwards to prevent water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles), which can weaken the glue and cause shedding.
Prepare the Cleaning Solution
In a bowl or sink, mix warm water with a small amount of gentle shampoo. You can also add a drop of olive oil or coconut oil for extra conditioning, especially for natural hair brushes. Swirl the brushes in the soapy water to create a lather.
Cleanse Thoroughly
Gently swirl the brush bristles in the soapy water, working the lather through the hairs. Pay extra attention to the base of the bristles where makeup tends to accumulate. For stubborn residue, you can use your fingers to gently massage the bristles.
Rinse and Repeat
Rinse the brushes under warm water until the water runs clear. If there is still residue, repeat the process until the water runs clean. Be careful not to submerge the entire brush, as this can weaken the glue over time.
Squeeze Out Excess Water
Gently squeeze the bristles with your fingers to remove excess water. Be careful not to pull or tug on the bristles, as this can damage them.
Reshape and Lay Flat to Dry
Reshape the brush heads with your fingers to their original form. Lay the brushes flat on a clean towel or paper towel to air dry. Avoid standing them upright while drying, as water can seep into the ferrule and loosen the bristles.
Also see: How to pick the perfect foundation shade for your skin tone
