How To Clean Makeup Brushes: A Step-by-Step Guide
, by Lewkin Unnie, 6 min reading time
Ever glance at your makeup brushes and think, “When did these go from fab to drab?” Yeah, it happens.
At Lewkin, we’re all about that fresh-face feel; believe it or not, your brushes are key players. It's time to roll up your sleeves and give those bristles some love. Why? Because nobody wants a week-old foundation doing a cameo on today’s look.
Read on to get the scoop on how to make sure your brushes are as ready to slay as you are.
Why Should You Clean Your Makeup Brushes?
Think about it — those bristles touch your face almost daily, picking up not just makeup but also oil, dust, and dead skin cells. Gross, right?
Regular cleaning prevents this build-up, which can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and even infections. Plus, clean brushes mean smoother application, giving you that perfect, streak-free finish.
How Do You Clean Makeup Brushes?
Convinced your brushes need a spa day now? Perfect, because clean brushes mean your makeup game stays on point and your skin stays happy.
Let's break down the process into simple steps so your tools are always ready to deliver that flawless Lewkin finish.
Step 1: Rinse With Lukewarm Water
Start by rinsing your brushes under lukewarm water. Keep the bristles pointing downwards to avoid getting water into the handle, which can loosen the glue over time. This initial rinse helps to wash away loose particles of makeup and dirt before the deep clean.
Step 2: Gentle Soap or Brush Cleanser
For this next part, use a gentle soap or a specialized brush cleanser. Squirt a little cleanser into the palm of your hand or on a cleaning mat, and gently swirl the brush around to build up a lather. This action helps pull the makeup out of the bristles, ensuring a thorough clean.
Step 3: Rinse Again
After you’ve given your brush a good scrub, rinse it again under lukewarm water. Make sure all the soap and residual makeup is completely washed out. You want the water to run clear, signaling that the brush is squeaky clean.
Step 4: Squeeze Out Excess Water
Gently squeeze the excess water out of the bristles with your fingers or a clean towel. Be careful not to pull on the bristles, as this can damage your brushes. The goal is to remove as much water as possible before drying.
Step 5: Reshape and Dry
Reshape the brush head to its original form if it’s gotten a bit splayed out. Then lay your brushes flat on a towel to dry overnight. Avoid drying them upright since water can seep into the handle and loosen the glue, leading to shedding bristles.
How Can You Keep Your Makeup Brushes in Tip-Top Shape?
Got your brushes sparkling clean? Awesome! Now, let’s make sure they stay in A+ condition. Brush care doesn’t stop after cleaning — it’s an ongoing vibe.
Here’s how to keep your beauty tools ready to rock your makeup routine, day in and day out.
Store Them Properly
Treat your brushes like the stars they are! Avoid throwing them into a crowded makeup bag or drawer where they can get bent out of shape. Instead, store them upright in a cute cup or dedicated organizer on your vanity. This keeps them from getting crushed and helps maintain their shape and quality.
Keep Them Separate
Keep your face brushes separate from your eye brushes to avoid color contamination. You don’t want yesterday’s smoky eye mixing into today’s blush. Organizing them this way not only keeps your application flawless but also prevents any color mishaps.
Regular Shape Checks
Every now and then, give your brushes a little “shape-up.” After cleaning, gently reshape the bristles to their original form if they start to splay. This ensures they'll always pick up and distribute makeup evenly, keeping your looks sharp and professional.
Quick Clean Option
For those days when you’re in a rush but need a clean brush, keep a brush cleaner spray on hand. A quick spritz and a wipe on a paper towel can remove surface makeup and oils, making your brush ready for immediate use. It’s perfect for quick changes between different colors or products.
How Do You Know When To Replace Your Makeup Brushes?
Curious about when to retire your trusty makeup tools and welcome some fresh talent? Even the best brushes can’t last forever.
Here are some clear signs it’s time to say goodbye and refresh your collection:
Bristle Shedding
If your brush starts shedding bristles like it’s in a shedding season, it’s a signal. A few bristles here and there are normal, but consistent or excessive shedding means the brush is at the end of its rope.
Persistent Stiffness
Even after cleaning, if your brushes remain stiff or the bristles clump together, it’s a sign that they’re holding onto product build ups or just not bouncing back to life. Time for a switch to keep your makeup application smooth.
Shape Shifting
When brushes lose their shape, and no amount of reshaping helps, they can’t distribute makeup evenly anymore. This can mess up your blending game big time and make your makeup look patchy.
Scratchy Sensations
A good brush should feel like a mini spa session on your face. If it starts to feel scratchy or irritating, it's probably because the bristles are damaged or frayed. Comfort is key!
Sad About Tossing Your Old Brushes? Don’t Be!
Instead, why not level up with our super chic Rose Book Watercolor Brush Set? Crafted for silky-smooth blending with fewer clumps and killer color payoff, these brushes come in a fab waterproof pouch with slots for each brush — keeping it all neat and tidy.
Looking for something more portable? Our Pink Roll Brush Set has got you covered. It's perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, with soft synthetic bristles that glide right over your skin, making your whole makeup routine a breeze.
Stay Flawless With Lewkin
Absolutely nailing your beauty routine isn’t just about the right moves — it’s about the right tools! With our step-by-step guide, your brushes are set to deliver flawless makeup applications every time. And at Lewkin, we’re all about keeping you stocked with the coolest, most reliable beauty essentials.
Dive into our K Beauty Collection — because with perks like free worldwide shipping and eco-friendly packaging, staying glamorous has never been easier. What are you waiting for? Upgrade your beauty game with Lewkin today!
Sources:
How to clean your makeup brushes | American Academy of Dermatology
Think Makeup Makes You Break Out? It Might Be Dirty Brushes | Cleveland Clinic
Clogged Pores: What They Are, Causes, Treatment & Prevention | Cleveland Clinic
Dog Shedding: What to Expect And How to Manage It | AKC
