Help! I Never Clean My Makeup Brushes
Dirty makeup brushes create problems, large and small.
Be honest: When is the last time you cleaned your makeup brush? According to a new survey, 61 percent of women clean their brushes less than once a month or not at all. Personally, I’m guilty, and it’s pretty gross seeing as makeup brushes can harbor bacteria and cause breakouts, and when shared even cause staph infections. As a beauty editor I know better, but I’m forgetful, and with brushes stashed in various makeup bags I lose track.
Intrigued by this survey conducted by Anisa International (the company that creates makeup brushes for every brand from Lancome and MAC to L’Oreal and Sonia Kashuk), I reached out to the founder and CEO, Anisa Telwar-Kaicker, to find out exactly how much trouble I’m in.
If you haven’t cleaned your makeup brushes in a while, there’s still hope.
Why don’t people clean their brushes?
According to this survey: Because it takes too long. “There also seems to be a real lack of awareness about the need to and how to clean them, with 21 percent of women saying they were not aware they needed to regularly clean them,” says Telwar-Kaicker. It turns out many youngsters may have an excuse, with 31 percent saying they don’t know how to clean them. (YouTube vloggers, get on that!)
How often should you clean makeup brushes?
“We recommend a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning routine for brushes that are used daily,” says Telwar-Kaicker. “For brushes used less frequently, blot the brush on a soft cloth to remove excess product.” She says all brushes should get a deep cleaning once a month — especially foundation and concealer brushes. If you’re spending a lot on brushes, regular care can make them last for years.
How can you clean them and what should you use?
Wipes or sprays — These are great if you’re lazy or time pressed. Anisa International recently launched some disposable wipes that can clean and dry brushes in minutes. “To use, simply lay the wipe on a flat surface,” says Telwar-Kaicker. “For natural fibers, sweep back and forth against the wipe. For synthetics, swirl the brush in a circular motion.” Pat dry on a towel and you’re ready to go.
A good old fashion wash — Shampoo, dish soap, and olive oil will all do the trick. “When using these products, gently run the brush under water, massaging the cleaner through the bristles,” she says. “Swirl your brush on a sponge or similar product to work up a good lather.” Rinse with lukewarm water, pat dry on a towel, and let it dry overnight. Whatever you do, don’t submerge your brushes in water or stand them up when drying them. “Doing so can damage the ferrule – the metal piece that holds the brush fiber in place – leading to fiber fall out.”
When is old brush a lost cause?
“It’s easy to get attached to your favorite makeup brush, however, when you begin to see the fibers dry out or prickle your skin, it may be time for a replacement.” If the application is suddenly sub par it may be time to invest in a new one.
Related:
When Should You Toss Your Beauty Products?
