Cleaning brushes is seen as a tedious task by many and quick fixes such as makeup brush cleaning solutions are suitable for makeup artists’ gigs but they are not the most hygienic alternatives. I cannot stress enough on having clean makeup brushes, as it prevents muddy makeup along with acne and other skin problems. I believe brushes are a long-term investment as the good quality ones can be price.
What you’ll need:
- Baby shampoo or anti-bacterial hand/body wash.
- Olive oil or conditioner (to maintain the softness of the bristles
- A plate
- Tape (to maintain the shape of the brushes)
Step 1: Pour equal amounts of the shampoo and olive oil on to your plate; estimate the portions according to the number of brushes you have to clean.
Step 2: Dip the brush into the plate, load it up with product, and wipe it in circular and back and forth motions on your palm as this will thoroughly extract all the buildup in the bristles.
Step 3: Under running lukewarm water gently massage the bristles, draining all the dirt out of them. You must keep your brush facing downward as this will prevent the water from seeping into the band and washing the glue that keeps the bristles together.
Step 4: Squeeze the excess water from the brush (still keeping it faced downward) and gently pat it dry on a towel without pulling at the bristles.
You may leave the brushes on the towel, leaning against something so they are at an angle and any remaining water seeps out. However, this may ruin the shape of the brushes, making the bristles slightly slanted. So if you’re really OCD about your brushes (like I am), go the extra mile as I have done below.
Step 5: Take tape (scotch tape will do) and wrap it around the bristles- sticky side on the outside- to prevent them from straying. I go a step further and stick my brushes upside down on my bathroom wall so that all the moisture seeps out of the brush and does not seep into the band of glue.