What’s the Best Shampoo for Cleaning Makeup Brushes?

Let’s face it, cleaning our makeup brushes is one of those tedious tasks that often gets pushed to the bottom of our to-do lists. But it’s an important job—not only does it help to extend the lifespan of our brushes, but it also keeps our skin healthy and clear. So, what’s the best way to clean our makeup brushes, and is there a specific shampoo we should be using? Well, grab a brush and get ready, because we’re about to dive into the world of brush hygiene!

The Lowdown on Brush Cleaning

First things first: how often should we be cleaning our brushes? Well, the ideal scenario is to give them a quick clean after every use. This helps to prevent a buildup of makeup, oil, dirt, and bacteria, which can not only affect the performance of your brushes but can also cause breakouts and skin irritation.

Now, we know what you’re thinking—who has time for that? If a daily brush cleanse isn’t feasible, aim for a weekly deep clean. This more intensive process will ensure your brushes are squeaky clean and ready for the week ahead.

Shampoo Options for Brush Cleaning

So, what should we use to clean our brushes? There are a few options to choose from, and the good news is, you might already have some of these in your home!

Baby Shampoo

This gentle option is easily accessible and affordable. Baby shampoo is designed to be mild and non-irritating, making it perfect for cleaning brushes that come into contact with sensitive skin. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss option.

Gentle Clarifying Shampoo

Opting for a gentle clarifying shampoo is a great choice, especially if you want to give your brushes a really thorough clean. This type of shampoo is designed to remove product buildup and impurities, so it will leave your brushes feeling fresh and looking new.

Organic Brush Shampoo

If you’re passionate about organic products, there are brush shampoos on the market that might be right up your alley. For example, Gucci Westman, a makeup artist, recommends the Éminence Organics Natural Brush Cleanser. This type of product is designed specifically for cleaning makeup brushes and can be a great investment if you’re looking for a dedicated brush-cleaning solution.

Painter’s Brush Cleaner

Now, this might seem like a strange option, but hear us out! If you use brushes with heavy pigments or wax-based products, a painter’s brush cleaner can be a lifesaver. These cleaners are designed to strip away oils and pigments, so they’re perfect for giving your brushes a deep clean. You can easily find these at any art supply store.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Brushes

Now that we’ve talked about the different shampoo options, let’s walk through the steps of actually cleaning your brushes:

1. Prepare your cleaning solution: In a shallow bowl, mix a small amount of your chosen shampoo with lukewarm water. You only need enough water to submerge the bristles of your brushes.
2. Rinse the brushes: Hold your brushes with the bristles facing downward and gently swirl the tips in the shampoo mixture. Focus on the bristles, avoiding the area where the handle meets the head to prevent loosening the glue. You can also massage the brush tips in your palm to create a lather.
3. Rinse and repeat: After rinsing the brushes with lukewarm water, repeat the process if necessary, especially if your brushes are particularly dirty or if you’re doing a monthly deep clean.
4. Dry your brushes: Gently squeeze the excess water out of the bristles, being careful not to tug or pull on them. Lay the brushes flat on a lint-free cloth or towel and let them air-dry. Avoid drying them upright, as the water can seep into the handle and loosen the glue.

FAQs

How often should I clean my makeup brushes?

It’s recommended to clean your brushes after every use to prevent the buildup of bacteria and makeup residue. However, we understand that this isn’t always feasible, so aim for a deep clean at least once a week.

What type of shampoo should I use?

You can use a gentle baby shampoo, a clarifying shampoo, or a dedicated brush shampoo for cleaning your makeup brushes. Avoid using harsh, heavily fragranced shampoos, as these may irritate the skin.

Where can I buy brush shampoo?

You can find brush shampoo at beauty supply stores, drugstores, and online retailers. If you’re looking for a more natural or organic option, specialty beauty stores and health food stores may carry these products.

How long does it take for my brushes to dry?

Depending on the climate and the thickness of your brush bristles, it can take a few hours to a full day for your brushes to completely dry. It’s best to clean your brushes after you’ve done your makeup for the day, so they have ample time to dry before your next use.

Conclusion: Time to Get Cleaning!

There you have it—a simple guide to keeping your makeup brushes clean and your skin happy! Remember, a good brush shampoo and a consistent cleaning routine will ensure your brushes stay in tip-top shape.

So, which shampoo will you be trying out? Have you found a brush-cleaning routine that works for you? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to Blue Headline for more beauty tips and tricks!