Dirty makeup brushes harbor product residue, dirt, oil, and bacteria that can damage your skin, leading to acne, rashes, and serious health risks.
Neglected brushes may cause irritation or infections like yeast, E. coli, or staph—which can be severe. As dermatology experts advise, wash your brushes every 7 to 10 days to eliminate harmful bacteria and safeguard your complexion.
Follow these proven steps to clean your makeup brushes effectively:
- Rinse the tips of your brushes under lukewarm, running water to remove any remaining makeup. Rinse only the tip, because submerging the entire brush head will eventually dissolve the glue that connects the brush head to the handle.
- Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and a tablespoon of mild shampoo or clarifying shampoo. Using regular soap and water can dry out the hair.
- Swirl each brush tip in the bowl. For a good lather, you can also massage each brush tip into the palm of your hand.
- Rinse the brush tips under running water.
- Continue washing and rinsing each brush until the water runs clear from the brush.
- Squeeze out excess moisture with a clean, dry paper towel.
- Lay your brushes flat to dry on a towel with the tips on the edge of the counter. Do not dry your brushes upright in a container, as this will allow water to run along the brushes, loosening the glue that connects the brush head to the handle.
With rising skin infections, never share brushes and clean them regularly. If makeup triggers acne or irritation, consult your doctor promptly.
