Cleaning your makeup brushes is probably the last thing on your to-do list, if it’s on your list at all. But if you think about it, your brushes are exposed every day to any dirt and grease you have on your face, which can lead to acne and other skin issues – why wouldn’t they need a good cleaning?
Cleaning your brushes
In one study, it wasn’t just dirt that was found on makeup brushes – fungus, yeast, and bacteria were also found. Old makeup on the brush collects bacteria, and that can cause breakouts and other problems.
So, how often should you clean your brushes? The experts say at least every 1 or 2 weeks, or when you start to notice makeup on the brush. To wash your brushes
1. Use lukewarm water to wet the bristles.
2. Use just a drop of cleanser in the palm of your hand – some options for cleanser are sulfate-free shampoo, dishwashing liquid, and face cleanser. There are also cleansers specifically made for cleaning makeup brushes.
3. Gently massage the bristles of the brush in your hand.
4. Rinse thoroughly, while keeping the base of the bristles away from the water (where the bristles are glued to the handle). The water can destroy the glue and make the brush come apart.
5. Squeeze out any extra water and reform the brush back to its proper shape.
6. Place the brush to dry with its bristles hanging off the counter. Don’t dry your brushes on a towel, which can allow mildew to grow, and don’t dry them with their bristles pointed up.
Some makeup professionals, however, like to use specific tools to help clean brushes – these include special sponges and cleaning gloves. And, no matter how well you take care of your brushes, they won’t last forever – throw them out when the bristles start to fray or fall out.
Keeping your makeup brushes clean keeps your skin cleaner, and it can also make your brushes last longer. But no matter what we do, sometimes an acne breakout just happens. For help with acne or other skin issues, contact Miami Plastic Surgery® for an appointment, at (305) 595-2969.
