Makeup Brushes: 101



Ladies, ladies, ladies let's talk about brushes, cleaning them and why it's so important. Four years ago when I first got into makeup I had NO idea about brushes or what the differences were and I definitely had no knowledge about cleaning them. It's so important to clean your brushes because they can carry bacteria and cause nasty skin infections. Not only that, if you don't clean your brushes you will find yourself replacing them often. As makeup brushes are pretty pricey you want to make sure you keep them in top condition as they are the tool that makes your makeup application flawless. And with dirty brushes, how can you have a flawless face?

There are two different methods to use when cleaning your brushes. You have 'Spot Cleaning' and 'Deep Cleaning.'

Spot Cleaning is used in between deep cleaning. Usually I spot clean my personal brushes after every two applications while I spot clean my brushes after each makeup application on a client or friend. The sole purpose of spot cleaning is to get rid of makeup residue and depending on what cleaner you use to get rid of bacteria as well.

  •         How to spot clean your brushes
    • First gather your brushes, spot cleaner, and paper towels or just a regular cotton towel
    • Fold your paper towels in half (prevents leakage and makeup residue left on surface)
    • Spray your spot cleaner onto your paper towel but leave a dry section (you don't want to completely drench it but make sure it's thoroughly damp)
    • Take your brushes and rub your brush in a circular or back and forth motion on the section where you sprayed the spot cleaner
    • You want to do the same step as the one before except on the dry side of the paper towel
Don't assume that all of your foundation, eye shadow, etc will disappear off of your brush as brushes do become stained.

Before 

After




                                                   
Deep Cleaning is when you take a deep cleanser and thoroughly wash your brushes to get rid of makeup residue and bacteria. Deep cleaning your brushes also brings back the softness to your brushes as they can become harsh and stiff with makeup use. Personally I deep clean my brushes twice a month, usually at the start of each month and the end (it's just easier to remember that way) . Makeup artist should deep clean their brushes once a week, that's depending on their clientele. The video below is the exact way I deep cleanse my brushes.



Now, not only does cleaning your brushes prolong the use of them but they also prevent you from getting eye infections. Once you use a mascara wand, eyeliner brush or whatever it instantly becomes contaminated (as we all should have learned in high school) so yes, bacteria transfers from brush to brush. You definitely do not want to have a client calling you saying they have pink eye.


Brush Cleaners- Here's a list of brush cleaners you can go out and purchase

                                                    Spot Cleaners

  • MAKE UP FOR EVER Travel Instant Brush Cleanser- $12.00 (Sephora)
  • Professional Brush & Sponge Cleaner- $3.50 (Ulta)
  • bareMinerals Quick Change Brush Cleaner- $18.00 (Ulta)
  • SEPHORA COLLECTION Daily Brush Cleaner- $7.00 (Sephora)
  • e.l.f. Studio Daily Brush Cleaner- $3.00 (Target)
                                                          Deep Cleaners
  • SIGMA SPA™ BRUSH CLEANING GLOVE- $35.00 (Sigma Beauty)
  • MAC Cosmetics Brush Cleanser- $15.00 (MAC)
  • e.l.f. Studio Brush Shampoo- $3.00 (Target)
  • SEPHORA COLLECTION Purifying Brush Shampoo- $7.00 (Sephora)

DIY Brush Cleaners

Why spend money when you can make your own right? I will link the EXACT way I make my spot and deep cleaners for my brushes below. 



Hopefully you guys found this post to be educating and hopefully you learned some tips for taking care of your brushes. I would LOVE to hear your feedback and if you have any suggestions on topics.

Please return Friday for, "Sleeping with your makeup on? Yuck."




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