Makeup Brushes Cleaning Guide – Step by Step

Makeup brushes are essential tools for achieving flawless makeup. But did you know dirty brushes can harm your skin? They accumulate makeup residue, dirt, oil, and bacteria, which can lead to acne, irritation, infections, and uneven makeup application.

Regular cleaning of your brushes is not optional—it’s a must for healthy skin and better makeup results. This guide will walk you through a step-by-step cleaning routine, tips, and tricks to keep your brushes clean and long-lasting.

1. Why Cleaning Makeup Brushes is Important

Dirty brushes can cause:

• Breakouts and clogged pores
• Eye infections if using around the eyes
• Skin irritation and redness
• Dull makeup application
• Shortened lifespan of brushes

Tip: Aim to clean face brushes at least once a week and eye brushes every 2–3 uses.

2. Tools and Supplies Needed

Before you start, gather the following:

• Gentle brush cleanser or mild liquid soap/shampoo
• Bowl of lukewarm water
• Clean towel or paper towel
• Optional: Brush cleaning mat or glove for deep cleaning

3. Step-by-Step Makeup Brush Cleaning

Step 1: Rinse Brushes with Lukewarm Water

Hold the brush bristles downward and rinse under lukewarm water. Avoid getting water into the ferrule (metal part) as it can loosen the glue and shed bristles.

Step 2: Apply Cleanser

• Add a few drops of gentle brush cleanser or baby shampoo to the bristles.
• Gently massage bristles with fingers or swirl on a brush cleaning mat/glove.

Step 3: Work on Stubborn Makeup

For heavy foundation, concealer, or glitter:

• Mix a small amount of olive oil with cleanser to break down makeup
• Swirl the brush gently until residue is gone

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse under lukewarm water, keeping bristles downward. Repeat until water runs clear and no soap or makeup remains.

Step 5: Squeeze Out Excess Water

Gently squeeze bristles with a towel to remove excess water. Avoid twisting or pulling, which can damage the brush.

Step 6: Reshape and Dry

• Reshape the bristles to their original shape
• Lay the brushes flat on a clean towel, preferably hanging off the edge to allow air circulation
• Avoid drying brushes upright as water can seep into the handle

4. Deep Cleaning for Eye Brushes

Eye brushes, used for eyeliner, eyeshadow, and brow products, require extra care:

• Use gentle soap or brush cleaner
• Clean every 2–3 uses to prevent eye infections
• Swirl gently on fingertips or cleaning mat
• Rinse thoroughly and dry flat

5. Tips for Keeping Brushes Clean Longer

1. Use a daily brush cleaner spray for quick cleaning between uses.
2. Avoid sharing brushes with others to prevent bacterial transfer.
3. Store brushes upright in a clean holder to prevent dust accumulation.
4. Wash hands before makeup to reduce transfer of dirt to brushes.
5. Regularly check bristles for shedding or damage; replace brushes as needed.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot water, which can loosen glue and damage bristles
• Scrubbing harshly, causing shedding or fraying
• Skipping drying, leading to mold and bacteria growth
• Not cleaning regularly, which can cause acne and infections

7. Recommended Frequency

• Face brushes (foundation, blush, contour): Weekly
• Eye brushes (eyeshadow, eyeliner, brow): Every 2–3 uses
• Sponges and beauty blenders: After every use
• Powder brushes: Every 1–2 weeks

8. Homemade Brush Cleaning Hacks

If you don’t have a commercial cleanser:

• Olive oil + baby shampoo: Dissolves foundation and nourishes bristles
• Castile soap: Gentle, safe for synthetic and natural brushes
• Vinegar solution (1:2 with water): Disinfects brushes occasionally

9. Caring for Brush Handles

• Wipe handles with a damp cloth regularly
• Avoid soaking handles in water to prevent loosening glue
• For wooden handles, apply a light olive oil wipe occasionally to maintain finish

10. Final Thoughts

Clean brushes are the key to healthy skin and flawless makeup. A simple weekly routine can prevent breakouts, infections, and irritation, while keeping brushes soft, durable, and easy to use.

Remember, your brushes are an investment—take care of them, and they’ll take care of your skin and makeup!