Keep your skin clear and your makeup flawless with this easy guide on how to clean makeup brushes at home.
Our makeup brushes are the pillars of our makeup vanity. They swipe on foundation, blend in blush, buff eyeshadow, and somehow always end up at the bottom of our makeup bags, gathering dust (and worse). So if you're wondering how to clean makeup brushes properly, you're not alone. It's one of those beauty chores we tend to put off until we're dealing with stubborn breakouts or patchy makeup. But here's the thing: learning how to wash makeup brushes isn't just about keeping them looking pretty. It's about hygiene, skin health, and getting the most out of your makeup. Dirty brushes can harbour bacteria, cause irritation, and affect how your makeup sits on your skin. So, let's break down the easiest, most effective way to clean and care for your brushes—using things you likely already have at home.
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Before we dive into the how-to, let's talk about why it's so essential to clean your brushes in the first place.
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Whether you use professional brush cleansers or prefer a DIY approach, cleaning your brushes doesn't have to be a drag. Here's a method that's quick, gentle, and effective.
What You'll Need:
Steps:
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Run your brush bristles under lukewarm water. Avoid wetting the metal ferrule (the bit that connects the handle to the bristles), as water can loosen the glue.
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Mix a few drops of baby shampoo or gentle soap into the water. Swirl your brush in the mixture, then massage it gently against your palm or a silicone mat to loosen makeup and dirt.
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For extra-stubborn foundation or creamy formulas, pre-soak the bristles with Simple Micellar Water. It's brilliant for breaking down product buildup without drying out your brushes.
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Rinse the brush under clean water until the water runs clear. You may need to repeat the lathering step for heavier products.
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Gently squeeze out excess water using a towel. Reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat to dry over the edge of a counter—never upright, as water can drip into the base and damage the brush.
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It really depends on how you use them:
| Brush Type | Cleaning Frequency |
|---|---|
| Foundation & Concealer Brushes | Every 3–4 days |
| Eyeshadow Brushes | Once a week |
| Blush, Powder & Bronzer Brushes | Once a week |
| Lip Brushes | After each use, if possible |
If that feels like a lot, aim for a full brush cleanse every weekend. It's the perfect Sunday self-care task and keeps your skin (and brushes) happier in the long run.
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Even if you've got the best intentions, there are a few things that can ruin your brushes:
If you don't have time for a full wash, you can simply use micellar water on a cotton pad for a quick clean between applications. It lifts product and oil without damaging the brush or drying it out. Just swipe, swirl, and let the brush air dry. The Simple Micellar Cleansing Water is a good option for this.
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Cleaning your brushes might feel like a chore, but trust us—your skin (and your makeup) will thank you. Once you get into the habit, it becomes second nature, and the difference it makes is undeniable. With tools like Simple Micellar Water and a bit of consistency, clean brushes become the secret weapon behind every flawless makeup look
Typically 6--12 hours. It's best to wash them in the evening and let them dry overnight.
Yes---just like your hair, bristles (especially natural ones) benefit from a light conditioning treatment after washing.
Absolutely. A gentle formula like Simple Micellar Water is perfect for dissolving makeup and residue without damaging the brush fibres.
If the bristles are fraying, shedding excessively, or the shape is completely off, it's time to say goodbye.