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One of the earliest beauty lessons I learned as a child was to avoid sharing mascara or lipstick. While these products may seem harmless, the microorganisms residing on our skin and eyelashes were enough to instill a sense of hygiene awareness. With the heightened focus on cleanliness due to coronavirus—a far more justified concern—it’s the perfect time to extend that care to our makeup brushes. Here’s a guide on when and how to clean them.
What’s the Recommended Cleaning Schedule for Your Brushes?
Makeup brushes can harbor harmful bacteria. Research published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology revealed that “approximately 79–90% of all used cosmetics [lipstick, lip gloss, eyeliners, mascaras, and beauty blenders] were contaminated with bacteria,” including fungi and E. coli. So, what’s the best way to clean your brushes, and how often should you do it?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), makeup brushes and tools should be cleaned every 7-10 days to safeguard your skin and eliminate any harmful bacteria that may accumulate in your brushes.
I consulted makeup artist Ashley Webb from Ashley Webb Beauty about her brush-cleaning routines and tips. On set, she strives to wash brushes and sponges after every use. When time is tight, she opts for makeup wipes as a quick substitute for a thorough wash. For everyday users, cleaning after each use might be excessive, and a weekly wash should suffice.
As highlighted by the AAD, cleaning brushes also helps protect your skin. “If you struggle with acne or eczema, using unclean brushes can worsen these conditions,” Webb explains. Consistent cleaning can minimize breakouts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes
The good news is that cleaning brushes is simple: all you need is soap and water. Just run the bristles under warm water and use your palm or fingertips to work up a lather and rinse thoroughly.
Tools such as silicone makeup cleaning mats and specialized cleaning solutions can be highly effective in removing built-up makeup and bacteria from your brushes. In a Huffington Post UK article, makeup artist Belle Jorden recommends performing this deep cleaning routine every two to four weeks. The silicone mat fits snugly in your sink, and you can scrub your brushes against it using soap and water to thoroughly clean between the bristles.
It’s also important to consider the type of brushes you own, as different materials require different care. “For brushes made with animal hair, a mild shampoo or baby shampoo works best,” Webb advises. Natural animal hair brushes are typically softer and need gentler treatment, while synthetic brushes, made from nylon and polyester, are generally more resilient. Always tailor your cleaning approach to avoid damaging your tools.
In this video, Webb shows how to use an antibacterial soap bar to clean synthetic bristle brushes effectively.
Clean brushes ensure vibrant colors
Regular cleaning not only prevents breakouts and eliminates bacteria but also ensures a smoother makeup application and prevents unintended color mixing. “If you were painting one wall red and another blue, you’d definitely wash your brushes in between,” Webb explains. “The same principle applies to your makeup brushes.” So, keep your brushes clean and maintain a consistent cleaning routine.
