How to clean your makeup brushes

Head’s up beauty lovers, it's time to give some TLC to your makeup brushes! It’s so important to learn how to clean your makeup brushes – both properly and regularly. Not only will this ensure perfect makeup application, but avoid any nasty skin irritations from the dirt that culminates on the bristles. Yuk.

So, let's dive into the key elements to brush cleaning.

Clean Brushes = Happy Faces

You’ve got to show your brushes some love. They're your makeup BFFs, after all! Troy Surratt, the genius behind those covetable brushes inspired by calligraphy masters, says that if you want your brushes to stay bacteria-free and perform like champs, a weekly wash is essential. You read that right – WEEKLY!

Further to that, you may need to wash them more often if you regularly change your colours.

Is your brush caked in foundation?

Use a la dish soap for a deep clean and rinse until the water runs clear. Dish soaps are great for degreasing. But be wise! Avoid harsh cleansers – they could harm your brush and loosen the glue that holds the brush together.

There are specific brush cleansers that you can purchase from your local Mecca or Sephora. Certain types of Hair Shampoo such as the Sephora Collection Shampoo work well too.

It’s all in the brush cleaning technique

“Put some cleanser on a small dish. Wet your brush, making sure to wash only the top part of the brush that comes into contact with makeup and skin, then tap it into the soap to dilute the concentration a bit,” says Celebrity Makeup Artist Troy Surratt.

Next, work the brush back and forth in the palm of your hand to create a lather, then rinse it with tepid water until all of the soap is gone.

Proper Drying Is Paramount

It’s important to get as much water out of the brushes as possible after cleaning them. Use a clean towel to help eliminate the moisture. Afterwards, use the towel to elevate the handle of the brush so that the bristles are lower. This will help to stop any water going into the handle which can affect the bundling of the bristles.

Look for Signs Your Brushes Are Ready to Be Replaced

When your brush buddy starts shedding, it's time to let go. But no worries! Treat them well, and they’ll be your pals for years. They should be replaced at least every 3-5 years.