Do you clean your makeup brushes often? I know I am guilty of neglecting my brushes, but it is important to care for them. Try this simple, yet effective essential oil makeup brush cleaner.

I recently bought some new face mineral powder and blush, while purchasing I was reminded to use only clean brushes with it and to be sure that I washed them every week. Every week?! Oh my, I couldn't even remember the last time that I did clean them.

Makeup brushes can hold a ton of grime and dirt that builds up over time. This can lead to clogged pores & possibly allow infections to develop. Washing your brushes often can help keep that build up of bacteria and grime off your face.

It is recommended to do it weekly, but I think if you do it at least once or twice a month, then that is a good start.

Essential Oil Makeup Brush Cleaner

Cleaning your makeup brushes is an important part of maintaining proper hygiene and creating a flawless look. If done right, you can easily solider on through your daily beauty routine with safe and properly clean makeup tools. (affiliate links)

Ingredients Needed

• 1/4 cup Witch Hazel, alcohol free/unscented
• 1 teaspoon Liquid Castile Soap
• 1 drop Lavender essential oil
• 1 drop Tea Tree essential oil
• Small bowl
• Makeup Brush Scrubber (optional)

How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes

Step 1: In the small bowl, add witch hazel, liquid castile soap and essential oils, blend together with a spoon. You can use water in place of the witch hazel if you prefer, but I like the witch hazel version better (they seem cleaner).

Step 2: Wet the brush of the makeup brush under warm water, making sure to keep the bristles pointed down when running under water. 

Step 3: Once the bristles are wet, dip them in the bowl with the cleaning solution. Rub bristles in a circular motion on the palm of hand to help get the makeup out (or use a textured makeup brush scrubber). Repeat this step 3-4 times or until makeup is completely out of the brush.

I really like using a silicone scrubber, it really gets the grime in the middle of the brush!

Step 4: Rinse the brush under warm water, making sure to keep the bristles pointed down when running under water. Rinse until there are no more bubbles or soap in the bristles and the water runs clear.

Step 6: Gently squeeze excess water out of the bristles and lay the brush flat to dry on a clean towel, or hang to air dry with bristles pointing down if able.

While cleaning my makeup brushes, one brush kept having bristles fall out. I don't want bristles falling off on my face when applying my powder, it was definitely an inferior brush, it couldn't even stand up to a quick wash, I tossed that one!

How to Store Your Makeup Brushes Properly

Once your brushes are clean and dry, storing them properly is key to keeping them in good condition. To do this, experts recommend lying your brushes flat or storing them upright.

• Lying flat helps the brush maintain its shape and allows water to drain away from the bristles and ferrule. This also helps ensure that parts of the brush aren’t bent too far out of shape after cleaning.
• An upright storage solution is usually best for powder brushes or eye makeup brushes as these typically need to remain more firmly pressed so they don't become misshapen.

Organizing your brushes can also help to easily find the one you need for a particular look or task. Some ideas include using a brush holder with individual compartments, rolling up a set of brushes in a cloth pouch, or placing your brushes in mason jars. If you use these natural materials, they can even double as decoration in your beauty area!

Keeping your brushes clean and stored away properly will extend their life and help keep your daily routine running smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Makeup Brushes at Home

How often should makeup brushes be cleaned?

Ideally, makeup brushes should be cleaned weekly. This helps to prevent the buildup of dirt and oil, as well as the spread of bacteria that can cause skin irritation and infections. Not only that, but regularly cleaning makeup brushes can help them last longer and keep them looking their best.

Do I have to clean my brushes after each use?

While some debate whether or not brushes should be cleaned after each use, it is recommended that you at least clean them once a month to maintain cleanliness regardless of its usage frequency.

After all, bacteria builds up quickly and having bacteria near your face isn’t healthy or wise.

Properly cleaning your brushes begins with ensuring you have the tools and ingredients you need. Doing this will ensure that your skin stays naturally clear while also keeping your makeup looking flawless too.

Share on Pinterest