Our makeup brushes are true partners in our beauty routine and deserve our full attention. Whether they're used to smooth foundation, blend eyeshadow, or sculpt cheekbones, these precious tools all have one thing in common: they need to be cleaned regularly.
I'm often asked how to clean makeup brushes effectively, which products to use, and how often. So I've put together this little guide for you, revealing all the best practices for keeping your brushes in perfect condition.
Why is cleaning your brushes so important?
A chilling revelation: a recent American study has discovered that our unwashed makeup brushes can harbor more bacteria than… our toilets!
These small breeding grounds for microbes accumulate dead cells, sebum, and cosmetic residue, creating an environment conducive to the growth of pathogenic germs.
The consequences for your skin can be numerous: acne, skin irritations, eye infections, not to mention the contamination of your beauty products.
How often should you clean your makeup brushes?
Dermatologists are unanimous: Once a week is the bare minimum . This rule applies whether you wear makeup daily or occasionally, as bacteria naturally multiply over time.
If you have sensitive skin or eyes prone to irritation, it's best to cleanse after each use. This extra precaution will save you a lot of trouble.
The classic method: soap and warm water
This technique, as simple as it is effective, remains the gold standard for cleaning makeup brushes. You can opt for soaps specifically designed for brushes. For example, the one from Da Vinci , a renowned manufacturer of high-quality brushes. However, a traditional Marseille soap will also do the job perfectly.
Instructions for use:
- Dampen your brushes with lukewarm water (never hot, as this risks damaging the fibers).
- Gently twirl the fibers over the soap
- Massage into the palm of your hand to distribute the product evenly.
- Or, do as the pros do: use a textured silicone mat or glove.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
- Feel free to repeat the process if necessary.
Liquid soaps also work very well.
On the other hand, avoid makeup removers and micellar waters, which are too gentle to effectively remove ingrained residues.
Drying: a crucial step
After rinsing, gently pat your brushes dry with a clean towel to absorb excess water. Reshape them if necessary.
Then lay your brushes flat to dry naturally in the open air. Attention : Never place them near a heat source (radiator, hair dryer), you risk damaging them irreparably.
Especially useful for large brushes, there are some small tubular nets which maintain the shape of your brush while drying. Very practical!
Express cleaners for emergency situations
In the world of professional makeup, speed is often paramount. These specialized products allow for instant cleaning between uses.
Use : Pour a small amount into a small bowl, dip and swirl the brush. Then wipe it off on a tissue.
When things need to be done quickly, which happens often in my life as a professional makeup artist, I use a specialized cleanser.
One of my favorites for many years: the cleanser of Kryolan . A market leader for its remarkable effectiveness.
Another, Parian Spirit, a favorite among professional makeup artists, removes even the most stubborn pigments from white fibers.
Warning: These solutions contain alcohol and solvents which, in the long term, can dry out and weaken your brushes, especially those made of natural bristles. They are best used only as a temporary solution.
Also, be careful with work surfaces, these products can leave stains.
And what about makeup sponges?
Makeup sponges, which we moisten before use, are a particularly fertile breeding ground for bacteria. Their porous structure and humid environment make them veritable germ bombs if they are not properly cared for.
Therefore, to avoid any risk, it is essential to clean your sponges after each use with soap and warm water, gently squeezing them to remove all residue. Let them air dry completely.
Don't forget your eyelash curler!
Because it's applied so close to the eye, the eyelash curler deserves special attention when it comes to hygiene. Even when used on "clean," unmade-up lashes, it can accumulate traces of eyeshadow, pencil, or mascara residue.
A quick cleaning with a little soap or a cotton ball soaked in brush cleaner is all that is needed to keep this indispensable tool in perfect condition.
Practical summary
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Frequency : Clean your makeup brushes at least once a week, ideally after each use if you have sensitive skin.
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Main method: Wash with soap and lukewarm water, never hot, to preserve the fibers.
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Technique: Swirl the sponge over the soap, massage in your palm, rinse thoroughly.
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Drying: Gently pat dry, reshape, and air dry flat (never near a heat source).
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Express solutions: Specialized cleaners (Kryolan, Parian Spirit) are suitable for occasional use, but be careful with solvents which can damage natural hair.
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Why this is essential: Prevent the proliferation of bacteria (sometimes more numerous than on the toilet!), prevent acne and irritation, maintain the quality of makeup application
- To avoid: Makeup removers and micellar waters (too gentle), water that is too hot, drying near a heat source.
I wish your makeup brushes a long life!
If you have any makeup questions, feel free to send me a message. message. Or contact me for a makeup coaching, also in video conferencing.
By Louise Wittlich
* All models in the photos on my blog have their makeup done by me, unless otherwise stated.
