As the old adage goes, ‘A man is only as good as his tools’. We’re all aware of how crucial makeup brushes are for creating a flawless beauty look, but it defeats the purpose if you’re neglecting them. To maintain their quality for the long haul, we’ve identified six common mistakes many of us accidentally commit when cleaning and storing these important tools. Find out if you’re guilty and follow these tips for proper maintenance.
Brush Etiquette
You're Not Washing Them Enough
This should be an obvious one, but turns out 72% of us don't wash our brushes. To avoid bacteria transfer, breakouts on the face and to keep them fresh wash your brushes at least every two weeks. Try a cleaning mat for an optimal cleanse. Plus, it'll make for better application of your makeup products.
You're Not Drying Them Upside Down
One of the most common blunders is drying your wet brushes up-right or horizontally on a flat surface. This is a big no-no as water can seep into the ferrule, which is the metal part where the hairs collect, and loosen the glue. Try investing in a brush stand or dry them at an angle to deposit the moisture.
You're Not Cleaning The Handle
We tend to only focus on the brush head, but the handle is what you touch the most. It is filled with germs, dirt and oil that should be cleaned as much as the hairs.
You're Not Using A Brush Guard
Water pressure and cleansing can misshape your brushes fast. Maintain the form by using brush guards to keep the hairs in place as they dry.
You're Not Being Gentle Enough
Because you want to keep the hairs intact, you should be careful when handling them. Gently swirl or sweep the brush in the direction of the hairs as you wash and never pull when you're squeezing out the excess water after rinsing.
You're Not Storing Them Properly
Avoid storing your makeup brushes in the bathroom. This exposes them to the humidity from the shower, which can transfer bacteria from mold onto the brushes. Instead, keep them upright in a cup or holder located in a dark, cool area on your vanity. Also, never store too many together as this can cause them to lose their shape.
