Clean makeup brushes are the unsung heroes of a flawless beauty routine. In 2023, ensuring your brushes are immaculate is more critical than ever. Not only does regular cleaning contribute to optimal hygiene, but it’s also the secret to enhancing your makeup application.
The Importance of Brush Cleaning
Makeup artists Troy Surratt and Robert Sesnek emphasize that regular brush cleaning is mandatory. It not only keeps bacteria, dust, and dirt at bay but also significantly improves the performance of your brushes. As makeup artist Wendi Miyake notes, cleanliness and maintenance are top priorities for preserving the longevity and quality of your brushes.
Surratt assures us that with proper care, makeup brushes can last for years, and some even get better and softer over time. So, let’s dive into the essentials of how to clean makeup brushes for even better beauty looks in 2023.
How Often Should You Clean Your Makeup Brushes?
To maintain optimal performance and avoid bacterial build-up that can lead to acne, a weekly washing is a must—especially if you use a similar makeup look daily. However, if you regularly switch up your makeup colors, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Makeup artist Troy Surratt suggests making the chore of cleaning enjoyable. He recommends using a product like Oribe’s Signature Shampoo, known for its gentle yet effective cleaning properties.
> "If you apply a similar makeup look daily, I recommend washing your brushes thoroughly once a week," says Surratt.
Top Products for Makeup Brush Cleaning in 2023
In 2023, the beauty industry offers a variety of products to streamline the brush cleaning process. Here are some pro-recommended options:
| Product | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cinema Secrets Professional Makeup Brush Cleanser | – Quick and hygienic cleaning<br>- Contains an antimicrobial solution for bacteria-free brushes<br>- Fast drying |
| Sephora Collection Deep-Cleaning Brush and Sponge Shampoo | – Deep and thorough cleaning<br>- Removes stubborn buildup |
| Beautyblender Liquid Blendercleanser | – Ideal for sponges<br>- Effectively removes oil-based makeup stains |
| Clinique’s Cleanser | – Gentle yet thorough cleanse<br>- Highly regarded by reviewers |
| Real Techniques Brush Cleansing Gel | – Affordable and effective<br>- A trusted choice for makeup enthusiasts |
Deep Cleaning Makeup Brushes with Bar Soap
While some experts prefer traditional liquid formulas, others like celebrity makeup artist Fiona Stiles opt for bar soaps. These are not only effective at cleaning brushes but also conditioning the brush hairs. Notable options include:
- Takeda Brush Purely Soap: Offers a deep clean and conditions brush hairs.
- Jenny Patinkin’s Luxury Vegan Makeup Brush Soap: Sulfate-free, fragrance-free, antibacterial, and antimicrobial. Suitable for brush and beauty sponge cleaning.
Fiona Stiles emphasizes that using bar soap for beauty sponges is a quicker and more efficient method compared to regular dish soap.
> "If you try to wash a beauty sponge with something like dish soap, you’ll spend 10 full minutes trying to get all of the soap out of them," she says. "You’ll never have that problem with either of these soaps, and the sponges are spotless when you’re done."
Remember, your brushes are the tools that help you create your beauty masterpiece. Give them the care they deserve to achieve even better beauty looks in 2023.
Whether you prefer liquid cleansers, bar soaps, or other cleaning products, keeping your brushes in top condition is an investment in both your cosmetics and your skin. Make 2023 the year of cleaner brushes and more stunning beauty looks.
Enhancing Your Beauty Routine: Beyond Brush Cleaning
What is the most effective way to clean makeup brushes?
Only rinse the tip, as submerging the whole brush head will eventually dissolve the glue that connects the brush head to the handle. Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and a tablespoon of either gentle shampoo or clarifying shampoo. Using plain soap and water can dry out the bristles. Swirl each brush tip in the bowl.
How do professional makeup artists clean their brushes?
Dish soap is the most popular option because makeup artists like Avendaño believe that it helps lift away stubborn foundation from bristles best. Lerma likes Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap, specifically in the Lavender, Rosemary and Lemon Verbena scents for their aromatherapy properties.
How many years do makeup brushes last?
1-3 years
If washed regularly, makeup brushes should last much longer than makeup sponges. We recommend replacing your makeup brushes about every 1-3 years. For upkeep, makeup brushes should be washed weekly – whether it’s application brushes, blush, bronzer or eyeshadow.
Should you wash makeup brushes when new?
Eliminate Bacteria: Makeup brushes are often exposed to bacteria during the manufacturing and shipping process. When you use these brushes without washing them first, you’re essentially transferring bacteria onto your skin. This can lead to breakouts, infections, and other skin issues.
How do you clean makeup brushes without alcohol?
Wet the bristles of your brush with warm water. In a small bowl (or even in the palm of your hand), mix together distilled water with a small drop of soap—Dawn, antibacterial hand soap, or whatever you use as an everyday face wash. (Just be sure not to use a face wash that contains exfoliants.)
How do you clean makeup brushes with real techniques?
