Deep Clean Your Makeup Brushes: The Ultimate Guide for Flawless Skin

Updated at: 04/06/2025

We all know the feeling: that fresh, radiant complexion after a flawlessly applied makeup look. But what many overlook is the crucial role our makeup brushes play in achieving – and maintaining – that perfect canvas. Dirty brushes harbor a surprising amount of bacteria, old makeup residue, and even dead skin cells, all of which can lead to breakouts, clogged pores, and dull, uneven skin. Ignoring regular cleaning is essentially applying yesterday's grime to today's face, sabotaging your skincare routine and potentially harming your complexion. Investing a little time in proper brush hygiene is a game-changer.

Beyond simply looking cleaner, deeply cleaning your makeup brushes is an essential step in maintaining healthy, radiant skin. By removing the buildup of product and bacteria, you’ll unlock your makeup’s full potential, ensuring a smoother application and preventing future skin problems. Ready to transform your makeup routine and achieve truly flawless skin? Let's dive into our step-by-step guide to cleaning your brushes effectively.

Safety Guidelines

  • Always use a gentle, brush-safe cleanser. Harsh chemicals can damage the bristles and the brush handle.
  • Thoroughly rinse your brushes until all makeup residue and cleanser are gone. Leftover product can harbor bacteria.
  • Allow brushes to air dry completely, laying them flat to prevent water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal part connecting the bristles and handle) and causing damage or shedding.

Methods: Thorough Brush Cleaning Method

Tools Needed

  • Brush Cleaner (Daiso)
  • Brush Scrubber (Brush Egg)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brush

    • Wet your brush. Do not soak your brushes in water to avoid damaging the glue that holds the bristles together.
    Wet your brush. Do not soak your brushes in water to avoid damaging the glue that holds the bristles together.
    Prepare the Brush

  2. Clean the Brush

    • Apply brush cleaner to your scrubber.
    • Gently move your brush around the scrubber in circular motions (clockwise and anti-clockwise) to clean the bristles thoroughly. Avoid being too rough to prevent bristles from falling out.
    • Rinse your brush with water to check for cleanliness. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the soap is free of makeup color.
    Rinse your brush with water to check for cleanliness. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the soap is free of makeup color.Rinse your brush with water to check for cleanliness. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the soap is free of makeup color.Rinse your brush with water to check for cleanliness. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the soap is free of makeup color.
    Clean the Brush

  3. Dry the Brush

    • Gently squeeze out excess water.
    Gently squeeze out excess water.
    Dry the Brush

Tips

  • Use a dedicated brush cleaner, not shampoo, to avoid product buildup and skin irritation.
  • Be more gentle with animal hair brushes due to their higher cost.
  • Clean brushes two to four times if needed, but always prioritize the integrity of the bristles over complete immediate cleanliness.

Read more: 3-Minute Makeup Brush Cleaning & Drying: The Ultimate Guide for Flawless Skin

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong cleaning method

Reason: Harsh soaps or improper techniques can damage brush bristles, leading to shedding and a shorter lifespan.
Solution: Use a gentle cleanser specifically designed for makeup brushes and gently swirl them in the solution without harsh scrubbing.

2. Not cleaning brushes frequently enough

Reason: Bacteria buildup from old makeup can cause breakouts, skin irritation, and transfer of germs.
Solution: Clean your brushes at least once a week, or more often if you use them daily.

3. Not completely drying brushes before storage

Reason: Damp brushes are breeding grounds for mold and bacteria, which can negatively impact skin health and the brushes themselves.
Solution: Reshape brushes after washing, lay them flat to dry, or use a brush drying rack to ensure complete air circulation and prevent damage.

FAQs

How often should I deep clean my makeup brushes?
Ideally, deep clean your makeup brushes once a week, or at least every two weeks, depending on how frequently you use them. Synthetic brushes may need cleaning less often than natural hair brushes.
What's the best way to deep clean my makeup brushes without damaging them?
Gently swirl your brushes in a bowl of lukewarm water and a mild, sulfate-free cleanser (baby shampoo works well). Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Reshape the brushes and lay them flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid rubbing the bristles vigorously or getting the metal part of the brush wet for too long, as this can damage the glue.
Keeping your makeup brushes clean is crucial for healthy skin, preventing breakouts and ensuring your makeup always looks its best. Investing in high-quality brushes is a great first step, and if you're looking to upgrade your travel kit, you might find our guide on essential brushes for on-the-go application helpful. Check out our recommendations for portable makeup brush sets to discover the perfect tools for flawless makeup wherever you are. Now, let's delve into the ultimate guide for achieving truly sparkling clean brushes!