How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes

If you use makeup brushes on a daily basis, like most women, then you should know how to clean them. Makeup brushes that are not cleaned every few months can store a lot of dirt and bacteria, and that can lead to acne. There are several ways that you can clean your makeup brushes and sponges, and any of them will work. Just make sure that you clean your makeup brushes every few months so you are not causing skin problems for yourself.

How to Clean Makeup Brushes

Makeup brushes can be costly, so I like to clean them with a gentle cleanser. I use shampoo or makeup remover. If you use a makeup remover, opt for a cleanser. Avoid makeup removers that are oily, like eye makeup removers usually are. These may not rinse clean, and will result in your makeup brushes being oily and attracting more dirt. Wet the brushes and rub the cleanser or shampoo in. You can do this under a little bit of running water. When the water runs clear, you are done. If your makeup brush is messy, comb it out and lay it out on a towel to dry.

How to Clean Makeup Sponges

Because makeup sponges rub against your skin, and many face makeup products contain oils, I like to clean my makeup sponges with an antibacterial hand soap. I wet the sponges and rub some antibacterial hand soap into each one and let them sit for a few minutes. Then I follow the same process that I use for cleaning my makeup brushes. Squeeze the sponge under running water, and apply and massage more soap in until the sponge is no longer giving off water tinged with makeup. Sponges absorb so much makeup that you can rarely get them all the way clean. They are bound to have some staining. But, once you have soaped them up a few times, at least you know that they are clean and not full of bacteria.

If you clean your makeup brushes and sponges on a regular basis, they should last for many years. Brushes last longer than sponges. A makeup sponge is ready to be replaced when the material is starting to wear down or crumble. At that point, you want to replace it because it will no longer apply your makeup evenly. Clean your makeup brushes as needed so they will have a nice long life.