How Dirty Are Poorly Cleaned Makeup Brushes? The Truth Is Alarming

Cleaning makeup tools is easy to overlook. Some people see little reason to wash them and continue using the same brushes for years without a proper clean. But tools that go unwashed for long periods could be contributing to persistent skin problems.

Microorganisms that accumulate on dirty makeup tools may disrupt the balance of microbes on the skin, leading to inflammation or irritation. Bacteria on unwashed eye makeup brushes may also contribute to inflammation and problems such as styes and chalazia.

Poor performance can be another sign that your tools need cleaning. Brushes and sponges that struggle to pick up product, apply color unevenly, or wear out quickly may simply have gone too long between washes. Makeup sponges can also develop mold.

Different tools need different cleaning methods. For powder puffs and makeup sponges, the suggested cleaning frequency is every two to three days for dry skin and daily for oily skin. Gather a puff cleanser, a resealable food bag or clean plastic bag, paper towels, and a sponge drying stand.

Wet the puff or sponge, then apply cleanser directly to it. Place it inside the bag, add a suitable amount of clean water, and seal or tie the opening.

Gently knead the puff or sponge to work the cleanser through it, then squeeze to release foundation trapped inside. Avoid vigorous rubbing or scrubbing.

Once there are no obvious foundation marks on the surface, rinse with clean water until there are no suds and the sponge no longer feels slippery.

Press out the moisture with dry paper towels. Do not wring it, as twisting can cause it to split or tear. Place the sponge on a drying stand, or hang a puff from a clip, and leave it to air-dry in a cool, well-ventilated spot.

After each use of a cushion puff, gently press its surface with a tissue to absorb excess moisture and product. This helps keep it cleaner and extend its useful life.

For makeup brushes, a dry clean after each use helps prevent leftover colors from mixing and making your makeup look muddy. This method requires loose powder and a tissue.

Pour a little loose powder onto the tissue, then work enough of it into the brush. Sweep the bristles across the tissue in one direction, following their natural lay, until the brush no longer leaves any color behind. Tap off the excess powder when finished.

Avoid brushing back and forth, which can cause the bristles to splay. Do not use expired loose powder, as it may contain excessive microbial growth. Choose a matte powder rather than one containing shimmer or glitter.

Brushes also need regular washing. If you use them frequently, wash them at least once a week to prevent oil and dust from building up on the bristles and affecting your skin. Brushes used less often should be washed every two weeks, as they can still collect dust between uses.

For washing, gather a dedicated brush cleanser or a gentle shampoo, a textured silicone brush-cleaning tool, paper towels, and a brush drying rack.

Wet the bristles with cold water and distribute cleanser evenly through the brush head, allowing it to reach the inside. Keep water away from the handle, as it can loosen the glue holding the brush together.

Hold the brush vertically and gently work both sides of the brush head over the silicone cleaning tool. Move in one direction, following the lay of the bristles rather than pushing against them.

Rinse with clean water running in the direction of the bristles. For dense brushes, such as powder and foundation brushes, gently separate the bristles so the water can reach inside. If the brush is still dirty, repeat the cleansing process.

Blot the brush head with paper towels to absorb the water. Do not twist or wring the bristles.

Slide a brush guard over the head to help preserve its shape; one may have been supplied with the brush. Hang the brush with its bristles pointing downward on a drying rack. Drying it upright can cause the bristles to splay or shed.

Leave brushes to dry naturally in a cool, well-ventilated place. Do not use a hair dryer or leave them in direct sunlight.

Avoid washing makeup brushes with cleansing oil, as it can cause the bristles to clump together.

Regular cleaning is worth making part of your makeup routine. Clean tools help products apply more evenly and can reduce skin problems associated with using dirty brushes, puffs, and sponges.