If you're a makeup enthusiast, then you know how important it is to keep your brushes clean. Not only do dirty makeup brushes harbor bacteria and germs, they can also negatively affect the outcome of your makeup application. But how exactly do you go about cleaning your makeup brushes? In this article, we'll break down the best practices for cleaning makeup brushes.

 

Step 1: Choose Your Cleaner
The first step to cleaning your makeup brushes is choosing the right cleaner. There are two types of cleaners: liquid and solid. Liquid cleaners are great for quick cleanups, but solid cleaners will give your brushes a deeper clean. Some popular liquid cleaners include baby shampoo, facial cleanser, and brush cleaner. Solid cleaners often come in the form of bars or eggs, and you can gently swirl your brushes in them to remove dirt and buildup.

Step 2: Wet Your Brushes
Once you've chosen your cleaner, wet each brush with lukewarm water. Avoid getting the handle wet, as this can cause the glue that holds the bristles in place to loosen over time. Make sure to rinse each brush thoroughly, until the water runs clear.

Step 3: Apply Cleaner
Next, apply a small amount of your chosen cleaner to the palm of your hand, or directly onto a sponge or brush cleaning mat. Swirl each brush in the cleaner, making sure to cover the entire bristle surface. Be gentle when working with delicate brushes, like those made with natural hairs.

Step 4: Rinse and Repeat
After you've applied cleaner to each brush, rinse them individually under lukewarm water again. Check that each brush is fully clean, and repeat the process if needed.

Step 5: Dry Your Brushes
Now that your brushes are fully clean, it's time to dry them. Use a clean towel to gently blot each brush, and then lay them flat on a surface to air dry. Be sure to avoid standing your brushes upright while they dry, as this can cause water to seep into the handle and loosen the glue.