How to deep clean makeup brushes

As a makeup enthusiast, you know how important it is to keep your makeup brushes clean. Not only does it help to prevent the spread of bacteria and germs, but it also ensures that your makeup looks its best. However, simply wiping your brushes with a tissue or giving them a quick rinse with soap and water isn't enough. To truly deep clean your makeup brushes, you need to follow a few simple steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you start cleaning your brushes, you'll need a few materials. These include:

• Mild soap or brush cleanser

• Warm water

• A clean towel

• A bowl or container

• A gentle brush cleaning mat or a silicone brush cleaning pad (optional)

Step 2: Remove Excess Makeup

Start by gently wiping each brush with a tissue to remove any excess makeup. This will make it easier to clean the brushes and prevent any stubborn stains from setting in.

Step 3: Mix the Soap and Water

In a bowl or container, mix 1-2 teaspoons of mild soap or brush cleanser with warm water. The mixture should be gentle enough not to strip the bristles of their natural oils, but still effective at removing dirt and grime.

Step 4: Soak the Brushes

Dip each brush into the soapy water, making sure to fully saturate the bristles. Gently massage the soap into the bristles using your fingers or a gentle brush cleaning mat. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the bristles.

Step 5: Rinse the Brushes

Rinse each brush under running warm water to remove the soap. Make sure to rinse the brushes thoroughly, as any remaining soap can affect the quality of your makeup application.

Step 6: Shape and Lay Flat to Dry

Use a clean towel to gently shape each brush back to its original form. Lay the brushes flat on a clean towel to air dry. This is important, as it helps to prevent water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal band that holds the bristles in place) and causing damage.

Step 7: Repeat if Necessary

If your brushes are particularly dirty or have been used with heavy makeup, you may need to repeat the cleaning process a few times to get them fully clean.

Tips and Variations

• For particularly stubborn stains, you can use a gentle brush cleaning mat or silicone brush cleaning pad to help remove them.

• To sanitize your brushes, add a few drops of tea tree oil to the soapy water.

• To deep clean your brushes on a regular basis, try setting aside one day a week to clean them.

• To prevent your brushes from getting dirty in the first place, try wiping them with a tissue after each use and storing them in a clean, dry place.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your makeup brushes clean, hygienic, and in good condition. Remember to deep clean your brushes regularly to ensure the best possible makeup application.