How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes (and How Often You Really Should)

Philippa Howearth
5 days ago
2 min read

Introduction

Let’s be honest—cleaning your makeup brushes probably isn’t your favourite beauty ritual, but it should be. Dirty brushes don’t just mess with your makeup—they can trigger breakouts, clog pores, and make even the best foundation go patchy. The good news? Clean brushes can completely transform your application, blending, and overall finish. Here’s how I clean mine as a professional makeup artist and what I recommend for you at home.

How Often Should You Clean Your Makeup Brushes?

It depends on how often you use them, but here’s a general guide:

Foundation & Concealer Brushes: After every use or at least every 2–3 days
Eyeshadow Brushes: Once a week
Powder, Blush, & Bronzer Brushes: Every 1–2 weeks
Lips & Gel Eyeliner Brushes: After every use
Between Clients (Pro Use): Clean immediately with alcohol-based sanitiser

Even if you don’t do a full wash every time, make it a habit to spray your brushes with an alcohol-based brush cleaner after use. It’s quick, easy, and keeps bacteria at bay—especially for your base and eye brushes.

If you’re using your brushes daily and haven’t washed them in over a week, it’s definitely time. You’ll notice the difference in how your products glide and blend once your tools are clean again

What I Use to Wash My Brushes

When I do a full clean, I keep it simple but effective. Here’s my go-to process:

1. Sard Soap

Sard soap is amazing for breaking down product build-up, especially for foundation and cream products. It lifts oils and makeup out of dense brushes without damaging the bristles.

2. Shampoo (for a Deep Clean)

A gentle shampoo works beautifully to give your brushes a thorough clean and soften them at the same time. This step is especially good for natural-hair brushes.

3. Alcohol-Based Brush Cleaner (Between Clients)

When working on clients, I always sanitise my brushes between faces with a spray-on alcohol brush cleaner. It kills bacteria instantly and helps dry brushes faster.

How to Wash Your Brushes Step-by-Step

Wet the bristles with lukewarm water (avoid soaking the ferrule—the metal part—as it loosens glue over time).
Lather with soap or shampoo, gently swirling the brush in your palm or on a silicone brush pad.
Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
Squeeze out excess water with a towel.
Lay flat to dry on a towel, ideally with the bristles hanging slightly over the edge of a counter so they keep their shape.

📌 Never dry brushes upright, as water can seep into the handle and cause shedding or damage

Why Clean Brushes Matter

Better Application: Product goes on smoother and blends seamlessly
Less Product Waste: Clean bristles absorb less makeup
No Cakey Finish: Dirty brushes lead to patchy, uneven results
Skin Health: Reduces clogged pores, breakouts, and irritation
Hygiene: Especially important if you’re applying makeup to others

Final Thoughts

A clean brush is the secret to flawless makeup. It's one of the simplest ways to elevate your look, improve your skin, and protect your products. Trust me—you’ll feel the difference instantly. Take the time, even once a week, and your face (and your brushes) will thank you.

Love & Artistry, Philippa