Keeping your makeup brushes clean is essential – not just for flawless makeup application, but also for maintaining healthy skin. Dirty brushes can harbour bacteria, oils and old makeup, leading to uneven blending as well as potential breakouts. With the right care, your brushes will last longer and perform beautifully every time.
1. Rinse the bristles
Hold your brush with the bristles facing downward under lukewarm running water. This positioning prevents water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal part), which can later loosen the glue that holds the bristles in place, leading to shedding.
2. Lather up
In your palm, on a cleaning mat or in a small bowl, mix a few drops of brush shampoo or gentle cleanser with a bit of lukewarm water. If your brushes have been used with oil-based products (like long wear foundation), add a drop of olive or coconut oil to help break down stubborn residue. Swirl the brush into the mixture, allowing the cleanser to penetrate deep into the bristles.
3. Deep Cleanse
Work up a rich lather and then gently massage the bristles with your fingers or against a textured cleaning mat. Pay special attention to the base of the bristles, where product build-up tends to accumulate, but avoid scrubbing too hard. Continue massaging until the water and lather start running clear.
4. Rinse Thoroughly & Reshape
Hold the brush under running water, still angled downward, to rinse away all the cleanser. Then, use your fingers to gently press out excess water, ensuring all residue is completely removed. Once clean, reshape the bristles into their natural form. Never twist or wring them out, as this can damage their structure.
5. Dry Properly
Never dry your brushes upright, as water can seep into the handle and then weaken the glue, leading to shedding. Instead, lay the brushes flat on a clean, dry towel with the bristles slightly hanging off the edge of a counter. This ensures air can circulate around the bristles to allow for even drying.
Quick fix
Need a fast refresh? If you’re using the same brush for multiple shades in one look, try a dry brush cleaner for a quick switch.
Our favourite products to clean your makeup brushes with
Wash schedule
Foundation & concealer brushes: (Used with liquid or cream products.) Wash at least once a week. Liquid and cream products create a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause breakouts and skin irritation.
Powder brushes: (Used for setting powder, blush, bronzer, etc.) Wash every one to two weeks. They don’t harbour bacteria as quickly, but regular cleaning prevents product build-up.
Eyeshadow brushes: Wash every week or every few uses. Eyeshadow brushes pick up a lot of pigment, and dirty brushes can affect the colour and blending.
Eyeliner & brow brushes: Wash every two to three days. These brushes are used near the eyes and can accumulate bacteria, increasing the risk of infections.
Lip brushes: Wash after each use. Regular cleaning helps prevent bacterial growth and colour mixing, ensuring a smooth and hygienic application every time.
Blenders & makeup sponges: Wash after every use. Sponges absorb product and moisture, making them highly prone to bacteria as well as mould.
Brush up on your collection
Are your brushes past their prime? Replace brushes when needed – if they start shedding, losing shape or feeling rough, it’s time to invest in new ones.
Note: Store brushes properly in an upright position or a brush holder to maintain their shape.
These are our top picks:
Real Techniques Snatch + Sculpt Contour Brush
$38.99, at Adore Beauty
With plush, dense bristles and an oval head shape, this brush perfectly hugs the contours of your cheekbones to lift and define.
Tools of the Trade Eye Shader Brush
$18.40, at Adore Beauty
The easy-to-clean and endlessly versatile Eye Shader Brush effortlessly applies and blends both cream and powder eyeshadows.
Tools of the Trade Angled Blush Brush
$21.85, at Adore Beauty
The soft and fluffy Angled Blush Brush beautifully diffuses setting powders and bronzers, as well as blushes.
Revlon Concealer Brush
$21.99, at Life Pharmacy
Perfect for blending both liquid and cream concealers, this brush features small, dense bristles for smooth, even coverage.
NYX Pro Brush Total Control Foundation Brush
$12, at Chemist Warehouse
Ultra-soft and flexible, the NYX Pro Brush Total Control Foundation Brush follows the natural curves of your face for a flawless finish.
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