How to Store Makeup Brushes and Clean Them Effectively
Properly storing and cleaning your makeup brushes is crucial for maintaining their quality and ensuring hygienic application. With the proper techniques, you can extend the lifespan of your makeup brushes and keep them in pristine condition.
Applying makeup is a regular ritual for millions of people worldwide, and while it makes them feel beautiful, it's essential to do it in ways that aren't harmful. One such method is routinely cleaning makeup brushes and storing them effectively.
If makeup has become a part of a person's near-daily routine, they likely have a skincare regimen to care for, moisturize, and protect their skin. However, skincare doesn't end with products one applies to one's face.
Makeup brushes spread across a counter opposite a row of rolled towels | Source: Shutterstock
As a person who applies makeup, it's essential to care for and sanitize one's makeup tools, particularly the brushes. Many dermatological experts agree that makeup brushes are the "breeding ground" for harmful bacteria.
They can store residue, oils, and dirt. If they are not properly cleansed, they can lead to various skin conditions and infections, like acne breakouts and rashes, which can be severe. Hence, it is imperative to wash one's makeup brushes regularly.
A close-up photo of a person washing their makeup brushes | Source: Shutterstock
How to Properly Cleanse Makeup Brushes
Experts recommend cleaning makeup brushes every seven to ten days. The first step is to rinse them under lukewarm running water to remove residual makeup. Ensure only the tips of the brushes align with the water, as submerging the brush might loosen the glue holding the bristles together.
Next, fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle or clarifying shampoo. Dip the tip of each brush and swirl it around, or use your hand to lather the tip gently, then rinse and repeat until the water runs clear.
Once done, use a paper towel to squeeze out any excess water or moisture, then lay the brushes flat on a dry towel, with the tips hanging off the edge of the table or counter.
A close-up photo of a person drying a makeup brush using a paper towel | Source: Shutterstock
Other Ways to Clean Makeup Brushes
Social media influencers have shared their ways of cleaning makeup brushes, with some using typical household appliances. In 2020, a YouTube creator tried three popular methods, the first requiring dish soap and extra virgin oil.
The second method also included dish soap with white vinegar and hot water. Lastly, she used castile soap and apple cider vinegar. Another YouTube creator revealed an affordable device that allows makeup users to clean their brushes mid-application without using a spray or alcohol.
Ways to Store Your Makeup Brushes
Once the brushes are clean and you're ready to try 2023's top makeup trends, finding an organized and convenient way to store them is next, and there are quite a few. A brush roll is one convenient way to keep makeup brushes and compartmentalize a makeup bag.
Magnetic brushes may also be handy, so they're always in one place, i.e., stuck together. Storing them upright in a cup-like container is also efficient for a dressing room.
One can upcycle a candle container, an old mug, a jar, or a vase. When storing your brushes in containers, it is best to choose containers with lids, as this will help prevent dust from settling on the bristles.