Your makeup brushes may be harboring more than residual foundation — they may actually be a bacteria breeding ground that can really wreak havoc on your skin. The American Academy of Dermatology Association says you should be cleaning your brushes every seven to ten days as a preventative measure against skin infections and general hygiene.
Of course, there are more than enough ready-made brush cleaners available on store shelves, but most of them are loaded with harsh chemicals that can cause a reaction on sensitive skin and aren’t very kind to the planet. The better news? You can create strong, effective cleaning solutions with ordinary ingredients you may already have sitting in your pantry.
The Smart Way to Clean Your Brushes
When you’re washing your brushes, the temperature of the water really matters. You might think that hot water would clean better, but it can end up diluting the glue that keeps the bristles stuck together, destroying your brushes in the long run. Lukewarm water is the key to safe, effective brush cleaning.
A popular choice among beauty enthusiasts is Dr. Bronner’s liquid castile soap. It is derived from pure plant oils and organic compounds, making it tough on makeup residue but extremely kind to your brush bristles — and your complexion.
Need an effortless DIY cleaner? Mix some castile soap with a bit of white vinegar. Don’t worry about the smell of vinegar — it’s gone once your brushes dry. The vinegar breaks down any remaining soap and gets your brushes doubly fresh and clean.
The Right Cleaning Method
To clean your brushes well, swirl them gently in the cleaner. Be careful — pulling or rubbing too vigorously can ruin the bristles. A good trick is to use the palm of your hand to rub out the makeup and dirt with small, circular motions.
Something important to look out for: try not to get water into the ferrule (that metal component that holds the bristles onto the handle). Water will soften the glue and cause bristle fallout. Always rinse your brushes with the bristles facing down.
The Importance of Proper Drying
After washing, reshape the bristles gently while they’re still wet. Then put the brushes on a clean towel to dry flat — never upright. Having water drip down into the handle can harm both the wood and the adhesive that keeps the bristles in place.
Why Natural Cleaning Matters
Selecting natural cleaning techniques is healthy for your skin, healthy for the environment, and healthy for your brushes. Cleaning your brushes keeps them functioning better, which translates into smoother makeup application and healthier-looking skin overall.
Dirty brushes aren’t just gross — they can clog your pores, cause irritation, and even lead to serious infections like staph or pinkeye. Taking a few minutes to clean them regularly protects your investment in quality brushes and, more importantly, helps keep your skin healthy and glowing.
More for you: