A Practical Makeup Brush Cleaning Routine

A Practical Makeup Brush Cleaning Routine

A foundation brush can look clean at the tips while product remains packed near the base of its bristles. Washing is not complicated, but soaking the whole brush or storing it damp can make care harder. Focus on the bristles, keep water away from the handle joint, and let the brush dry fully before putting it back in rotation.

Wash the Bristles, Not the Handle

Wet the bristles with lukewarm water, keeping the brush angled downward so water does not run into the ferrule, the metal or plastic sleeve that holds them. Work a small amount of gentle cleanser through the bristles with your fingers, then rinse until the water runs clear. Avoid twisting or pulling the hairs, which can distort the brush head.

Dry It in the Right Position

Press excess water out with a clean towel and reshape the bristles while they are still damp. Lay the brush flat with the head extending beyond the edge of a counter, or position it so air can circulate around the bristles. Do not put it away while damp: trapped moisture can affect the brush over time and transfers the cleanup problem to your storage.

Make Care Part of Tool Choice

Before choosing a new brush, check whether its maker provides cleaning guidance and whether its shape is practical to wash and dry in your space. Dense brushes may hold more product than a loosely packed eye brush, so the time needed to rinse them can differ. If this article includes Amazon affiliate links, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases; you can use the care criteria to compare products without following any link.