How To: Care for Your Makeup Brushes

In this post I’ll discuss how to care for your makeup brushes.

First some DON’Ts…

DON’T store them in the bathroom. This is a high humidity area and will cause the bristles to loosen from the adhesive.

DON’T keep them shoved into a makeup bag. This will make them lose their shape and possibly shed bristles.

DON’T ever soak them in the sink when you wash them. Again this will cause the bristles to loosen and shed from the ferrule.

DON’T use harsh hand soap to wash your brushes. This will make them dry and brittle.

DON’T leave your clean, wet brushes jammed into a towel to dry. This will make them mildew and cause them to lose their shape.

DON’T forget to dry off the handles. Water spots over time will cause the paint to chip on your handles.

Now onto the DO’s…

DO store them upright or laying flat in a makeup case or brush roll to keep them dust free.

DO store your brushes in any room other than your bathroom.

DO take the time and care to wash your brushes by hand. Wash them as an artist would wash their paint brushes, get them good and soapy and rinse them thoroughly until the water runs clear so you know they’re completely clean.

DO use an appropriate cleanser for your brushes. You don’t necessarily need a brush cleanser. You can use a conditioning shampoo to wash your makeup brushes. Anything that you would use on your own hair is perfect {baby shampoo is a nice option, but it might not get them entirely clean}. I like to use a drugstore shampoo and conditioner in one. I find that this makes the brushes soft and shiny.

DO use a cold cream or lotion cleanser for your synthetic bristle brushes if your shampoo isn’t doing the job. Follow up with your normal shampoo.

DO allow your clean, wet makeup brushes proper room to dry. Allow them to hang over a counter or table so the air circulates and hits them on all sides {see my banner photo}. I like to wash my brushes at night and they are dry and ready for me in the morning. Simply shake them into place, and voila. You’ve properly cleaned your makeup brushes.

Now lather, rinse, and repeat. Wash your brushes at least once a week. Dirty brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria and can cause eye irritation and skin breakouts. You’ve paid good money for your brushes, and they are an important investment. If you take proper care of them you will enjoy them for years to come.

Hope these tips help you take better care of your makeup brushes!

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