Makeup brushes accumulate product, skin oils, and bacteria with every use. Dirty brushes apply makeup less evenly, can cause skin irritation, and harbour bacteria that contribute to breakouts. A quick weekly clean and monthly deep clean keeps brushes in good condition.
Quick Spot Clean (After Each Use or Weekly)
- Spray a brush cleaning spray or 70% isopropyl alcohol onto a clean cloth or paper towel
- Swirl the brush on the cloth in circular motions until no colour transfers
- Allow to air dry for a few minutes before using again — brushes are ready when no longer damp
This removes surface product quickly but doesn't deep clean the brush fibres. Use for routine maintenance between washes.
Deep Clean (Monthly)
- Wet the brush bristles under lukewarm running water — keep the water away from the ferrule (the metal band) and handle, as water there loosens the glue holding the bristles
- Apply a small amount of gentle shampoo or dedicated brush cleanser to the palm of your hand
- Swirl the brush in the product in circular motions until the water runs clear
- Rinse thoroughly under lukewarm water until no product remains
- Gently squeeze excess water from the bristles — don't pull
- Reshape the bristles to their original form
- Lay flat on a clean towel to dry — never stand upright in a glass while wet, as water runs into the ferrule and loosens the glue over time
- Allow 6–8 hours or overnight to dry completely before use
Tips
- Baby shampoo or dish soap both work well for deep cleaning — dish soap cuts through oil-based products particularly effectively
- A silicone brush cleaning mat or glove provides better agitation than the palm alone and is reusable
- Replace brushes when bristles shed heavily, lose their shape, or smell despite cleaning
- Beauty blenders and sponges: squeeze soapy water through the sponge repeatedly, rinse until the water runs clear, then squeeze dry and allow to air dry fully — replace every 1–3 months