Makeup Brushes: Cleaning Makeup Brushes

Many wonder why cleaning makeup brushes is necessary. A simple answer to this question is that, makeup residue, body oils and dead skin collects on the makeup brush, encouraging bacteria to thrive. And when we reuse the brush without cleaning, the dirt collected on the brush sits on our skin, causing skin problems and other infections. So, it is necessary to clean the brushes on a regular basis. If you are good at applying makeup, you should also know how to clean makeup brushes. Here are a few methods that can be used for cleaning makeup brushes at home.

Before we start on with makeup brushes cleaning, few pointers regarding these brushes should be kept in mind.

• Whenever you use any liquid makeup, always see to it that the brush is cleaned as soon as possible. This is necessary because dirt sticks faster on the liquid makeup that remains on the brush.
• Never keep brushes open or lying anywhere. Either keep them in your makeup box on in any other container to avoid dust sticking on them.
• Always use makeup and makeup brushes of standard companies that provide the best quality. Never take risk regarding any skin care products.

Clean Makeup Brushes

A Simple Solution
Soak brushes in a container that is enough for all the brushes to fit in. Make a solution of oil-free makeup solution (two tablespoons), soap-free facial cleanser (two tablespoons) and a cup of warm water (not hot water). Soak all these brushes in this solution for two minutes. Keep swishing the brushes after every 20 seconds. You will see that the makeup that was stuck on the brushes is lifted up. Remove these brushes and wash them with cold water and place them on a tissue so that the water is soaked up. Make sure that you do not soak the brushes for more than 5 minutes. Now pour a few drops of cleanser on your palm and add a little water. Now swirl every brush in this mixture till all the makeup from the brushes come out. Rinse the brushes with warm water. Now let the brushes dry with their heads slightly lifted. Re-fluff the brushes when wet and after they are completely dry. Your brushes are clean and ready to use.

Brush for Blush!
Clean blush brush with this simple solution. Blush brushes are thick and so they are a bit difficult to clean. In a container add water and a few drops of face wash and stir it. Now place the blush brushes in this water for 2 minutes. Swirl these brushes or use a toothbrush to comb the bristles. (Warning: Comb the bristles very gently or else the bristles of the blush brush will come out). After all the dirt has come out of the brush, rinse it with warm water and squeeze out the excess water. Dry your brushes on a tissue paper. This is a very easy way for cleaning makeup brushes.

A Little Vinegar!
Use 6 tablespoons of water and 2 tablespoons of vinegar, dip in your brushes for around 2 to 3 minutes in this solution and then rinse them with warm water. This is specially for regular makeup users or makeup artists as their brushes have multiple users. You can even use any shampoo for cleaning your makeup brushes or specifically to clean eyeliner brush or brushes used for eye makeup. In one cup of warm water, add half tablespoon of shampoo. Now stir this mixture well and dip your brushes in the solution. Swirl the bristles on your palm gently till the color of the eyeliner that is stuck on the brush does not come off. After the brush is completely clean, dry it properly and keep it covered in a safe place.

You can also read an article on makeup brushes and their uses for more information.

These were some easy tips on cleaning makeup brushes. Cleaning makeup brushes is necessary not only to increase the life of cosmetic brushes, but also for hygienic purposes. The frequency of cleaning depends upon your makeup, but cleaning them once a week (if frequent applications) or once every fortnight is recommended.