How Often Should You REALLY Clean Your Makeup Brushes? A Guide for Beauty Lovers & Makeup Artists
- Erin
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Blog by Gabriela Matos
Let’s be honest—most people don’t clean their makeup brushes nearly as often as they should. It’s the chore everyone avoids… until their skin starts acting up or their makeup looks patchy.
But here’s the truth: cleaning your makeup brushes more often than you think you need to is one of the easiest, most effective ways to improve your makeup application and keep your skin healthy. Whether you’re a beauty beginner or a working makeup artist, proper brush hygiene is essential.
This guide breaks down when, why, and how to clean your brushes—and why it’s worth doing more frequently than most people realize.
How Often Should You Clean Your Brushes? (Hint: Probably More Than You Think)
Most people follow a weekly or biweekly routine, but that leaves plenty of room for product buildup and bacteria to accumulate. A better standard—especially for those who wear makeup frequently—is:
For Personal Use
Ideally: wash brushes after each use (This gives you the cleanest application and minimizes the risk of breakouts.)
Realistically:
Face brushes: every 1–2 weeks
Eye brushes: every 1–2 weeks
Cream/liquid brushes: weekly
Sponges: after every 1–3 uses
For Makeup Artists
Clean brushes after EVERY client—non-negotiable.
Use a brush cleaner or 99% alcohol between clients to sanitize quickly.
Register for our Makeup Brush Workshop on Jan 10th, 2026 to learn more about brush types and how to use them. Looking for new, beautiful brushes? Receive an exclusive 10% off makeup brushes during this event!
Why Cleaning Your Brushes Matters More Than You Think
Dirty brushes carry more than leftover makeup. Over time they collect:
Oils from your skin
Bacteria
Dust
Dead skin cells
This buildup leads to:
Breakouts and irritation
Dull, uneven makeup application
Streaky foundation
Muddy eye shadow
Premature brush damage
Clean brushes = better blending, smoother finishes, and healthier skin.
Daily Cleaning Makes a Difference
You can clean your brushes daily—and it’s easier than you think.
A nourishing brush cleaner (one made with natural oils like coconut oil) melts off makeup, conditions bristles, and prevents shedding.
Because these products clean and hydrate, they protect your brushes far better than harsh soaps.
If you wear makeup often, daily quick washes with a brush-specific cleanser will keep your tools soft, fresh, and high-performing.
Using 99% Alcohol: Fast but Use Carefully
99% alcohol is a must-have for professional makeup kits because:
It sanitizes instantly
It evaporates quickly
You can clean a brush in seconds between clients
But there’s a catch:Overuse can dry and damage bristles by breaking down the glue at the ferrule.Use it sparingly—and always pair with a conditioning brush cleaner to maintain brush health.
How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes Properly
What You’ll Need
Brush shampoo or gentle soap
Warm water
Silicone cleaning pad or your hand
Clean towel
Step-by-Step
Wet only the bristles, avoiding the ferrule and handle.
Apply cleanser to your palm or cleaning mat.
Swirl gently until makeup breaks down.
Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
Gently squeeze out excess water with a towel.
Reshape the bristles.
Dry flat, bristles angled downward. Never upright.
Final Thoughts: Clean Brushes = Better Makeup + Better Skin
Cleaning your brushes isn’t just about appearance—it’s about skin health, hygiene, and protecting your investment.
Your makeup will blend smoother.
Your skin will be less irritated.
Your brushes will last significantly longer.
Whether you’re a beauty lover or a professional makeup artist, consistent brush cleaning should be part of your routine—not an afterthought.
Glow starts with skin! Join us for Skin First: The Art of Makeup-Ready Skin Radiance, an immersive skincare class powered by Topical Skin’s clean, biotech-driven dermaceuticals.
Learn how to prep like a pro with hands-on training in product layering, barrier support, and creating a smooth, radiant base that makes your makeup perform better and last longer. You’ll walk away with insider MUA tips and your own personalized skin-prep ritual.
Exclusive Topical Skin offers included.
Comments