Cleaning makeup brushes is an essential step in skincare and makeup routines.

Frequently used makeup brushes accumulate residues from foundation, eyeshadow, and blush, as well as skin oils, dust, and bacteria from the air.

Without regular cleaning, this buildup on the bristles can negatively affect makeup application and potentially irritate the skin. Proper cleaning keeps makeup brushes soft and hygienic, extends their lifespan, and reduces the risk of skin issues.

It's recommended to clean them regularly with a mild soap or a specialized cleaner, thoroughly rinse them, and dry them properly to maintain optimal condition.

Using mild soap to clean makeup brushes effectively removes makeup residue without damaging the bristle fibers. Many products on the market are specifically designed for cleaning makeup brushes.

However, if these are costly or hard to find, a simple, unscented baby soap or mild hand wash can also be effective. Compared to ordinary soap or strong oil-removing cleansers, mild soap cleans effectively while preserving the softness and elasticity of the bristles, preventing premature wear.

Stronger cleansers can cause bristles to become rough or even break, creating an uncomfortable feel on the skin during application.

When cleaning makeup brushes, start by rinsing the bristles with warm water, then gently swirl them in the mild soap to create a rich lather that dissolves and lifts away the makeup residue and impurities within the bristles.

During this process, avoid submerging the handle in water to prevent moisture from seeping into the roots of the bristles, which can weaken the adhesive and cause the bristles to shed or loosen.

Gently rub the bristle tips to ensure thorough cleaning, allowing the lather to remove any hidden dirt. After cleaning, rinse the bristles with clean water until all lather is washed away, ensuring no soap residue remains.

After rinsing, gently press out excess water with a towel without twisting or wringing, which could damage the bristles. It's best to lay the brushes flat in a ventilated area to air dry or to position them slightly downward to prevent moisture from settling into the handle's junction.

Avoid using a hair dryer or other heat sources to speed up drying, as high temperatures can dry out and weaken the bristles, even leading to deformation. After a few hours, the bristles will return to their dry and fluffy state, and the brushes will be ready to use again.

Regularly cleaning makeup brushes not only removes accumulated dirt and bacteria but also extends the life of the brushes. For those with sensitive skin, using unclean brushes over time may lead to skin issues such as breakouts and clogged pores.

Therefore, it's recommended to clean frequently used brushes, such as foundation, blush, and eyeshadow brushes, at least once a week. Other less frequently used brushes can be washed based on their usage frequency.

Cleaning makeup brushes is not only a way to protect the tools but also a way to take responsibility for the skin. Keeping brushes clean ensures true-to-color makeup application and a more refined finish.

When applying makeup with clean brushes, you'll notice a more even look, and the softness of the bristles will provide a more comfortable experience.

Additionally, clean brushes won't carry old makeup residues, which could interfere with the colors of new looks. For those who wear makeup regularly, this is not just a habit but also a small secret to enhancing makeup results.