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Misconception: It is unnecessary to wash your makeup brushes if you are the only one using them.

Brushes are accessories that are commonly used to apply beauty treatments and makeup. Many people tend to think that cleaning brushes is unnecessary if they are the only ones using them. This is a misconception, as brushes need to be cleaned.

Summary
Published November 12, 2021, updated on February 14, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 3 min read

Why should you regularly clean your makeup brushes?

Due to lack of time or motivation, it happens that dirty brushes are reused many times. However, it's important to know that brushes accumulate germs that can potentially infect the skin. Whether it's a matter of hygiene or skin protection, it is recommended to wash the brushes after each use.

Using dirty brushes can lead to the development of acne and difficulties in applying certain treatments like eyeshadows. Indeed, other pigments are still impregnated on them. Washing your brushes will also allow you to keep them for a long time while maintaining their bristles soft and flexible.

When should you wash your makeup brushes?

Brushes should be washed after each use. However, the frequency of cleaning a brush can vary depending on its use. Brushes that come into contact with foundation or blush should be cleaned after each use. If this is not possible, we recommend washing them once a week.

How to clean your brushes?

To clean your brushes, all you need is warm water, a gentle shampoo, and a clean towel. To wash your brushes, follow these steps:

  • Moisten your brushes with warm water;

  • Apply a few drops of gentle shampoo into the palm of your hand;

  • Massage the bristle tips of the brushes into the palm;

  • Rinse the bristles of the brushes with warm water;

  • Then, wring them out using a clean towel;

  • Finally, dry your brushes horizontally in the open air.

Lipstick brushes are cleaned using a damp cloth and alcohol.

To facilitate the cleaning of brushes, it is now possible to find brush cleaning sprays on the market. There are also cleaning gloves available for deep cleaning of brushes.

How to clean your makeup accessories?

In addition to washing your makeup brushes, it's also important to clean your makeup bag. Indeed, it serves as a storage for your clean brushes. Therefore, it's essential to keep it clean. The same goes for the bag that contains your skincare products. Over time, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. A cycle in the washing machine and your bag will be as good as new.

The makeup sponge also needs to be cleaned. This tool is often used to apply foundation, thus it comes into contact with the entire face. It is best to clean it after each use or once a week. When stored with brushes, the makeup sponge can accumulate bacteria. Its cleaning is done using a baby lotion and a bit of alcohol for disinfection.

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