Oman today_ Aside from choosing the right cleaning method for makeup brushes, another crucial factor is determining the right time to clean them. In general, the frequency of cleaning makeup tools varies from person to person and does not follow a fixed schedule. If you use your makeup tools daily, it’s recommended to wash your brushes and sponges weekly.
For those who don’t wear makeup often and rarely use their brushes, washing them every 10 to 15 days is sufficient. Beauty salons and makeup studios, however, must clean these tools daily after each use. It’s also worth noting that if you have sensitive skin, you should thoroughly clean your tools after every use.
Best Methods for Cleaning Makeup Brushes
Surveys show that many women clean their makeup brushes less than once or twice a month. Many are unaware of the risks of using dirty brushes. While cleaning makeup brushes may seem challenging at first, by following some simple steps and using effective techniques, you can restore your brushes to their original state in no time and protect your skin from potential harm caused by contamination. Here’s a detailed guide to cleaning makeup brushes properly:
Step 1: Remove Residual Makeup from the Brushes
The first step is to remove any excess makeup stuck on the surface of the brushes. Use a lint-free tissue or towel and gently swirl the brushes in a circular motion on its surface. Perform this step gently for 1 to 2 minutes. It’s a good idea to do this after every use to minimize residue buildup.
Step 2: Rinse the Brushes with Lukewarm Water
Hold the brushes vertically, bristles facing downward, under a gentle stream of lukewarm water. Using your fingers, carefully separate the bristles to allow water to reach all areas. Move the brush in circular motions against your palm to ensure thorough rinsing.
Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the bristles to shed and damage the glue holding them in place. Also, ensure that the base of the brush head does not come into direct contact with water to prevent weakening the adhesive.
Step 3: Choose the Right Cleaning Agent
For cleaning, you can use dish soap, oil-based cleansers, or brush-specific cleaning solutions. Dish soap is particularly effective for brushes used with thick, sticky products like foundation and concealer. However, if your brushes are of lower quality, exercise caution with dish soap to avoid potential damage.
Oil-based cleansers are another excellent option, especially for brushes used with creamy or oily products like primers and concealers. They help break down stubborn residues that regular cleansers may struggle to remove.
Step 4: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Fill a clean bowl with two cups of water and add your chosen cleaning agent. Stir the mixture until it lathers. If needed, you can add a tablespoon of an oil-based product for extra cleansing power. Submerge your brushes one at a time, gently swirling them in the solution for 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 5: Rinse the Brushes Thoroughly
After cleaning the brushes in the solution, rinse them under lukewarm water, holding them vertically to prevent water from running into the handle. Use your fingers to ensure all soap residue is washed away.
Step 6: Remove Excess Water
Gently squeeze the bristles to remove excess water, then use a lint-free towel to blot and absorb any remaining moisture. Make sure no water is left between the bristles, as this could loosen the glue, cause bristle shedding, or lead to bacteria growth.
Step 7: Reshape the Bristles
During the cleaning process, the bristles may lose their shape. To restore them, gently reshape the bristles by lightly flicking the brush back and forth.
Step 8: Allow the Brushes to Air Dry
Lay the brushes flat on a clean, lint-free towel, ensuring there’s enough space between them for proper airflow. Depending on the size and density of the brushes, drying may take several hours to a couple of days.
Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers, heaters, or other appliances, as these can damage the bristles and adhesive. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a fan to speed up the drying process.
Step 9: Dry in a Well-Ventilated Area
Always dry your brushes in an open, well-ventilated area. Avoid placing them in damp, enclosed spaces like bathrooms, as this can delay drying and promote bacterial growth.
By following these steps, you can ensure your makeup brushes remain clean, hygienic, and in excellent condition, safeguarding your skin from potential irritations or infections.