Makeup Brush Cleaning Do’s and Don’ts

Cleaning makeup brushes is essential for maintaining both your brushes and your skin. Brushes accumulate product residue, oils, dirt, and bacteria that can lead to breakouts, clogged pores, and even damage the brush fibers. Keeping your brushes clean doesn’t have to be complicated, especially with the right tools like the Jenny Patinkin luxury vegan makeup brush soap and her quick-drying spray away brush cleaner, which make it easier to keep your brushes in perfect condition. Here’s a rundown of important dos and don’ts for cleaning your brushes to ensure they’re always ready for flawless makeup application.

DO: Clean Brushes Regularly

Clean your makeup brushes weekly if you use them daily, especially for foundation and concealer brushes that can trap oil and bacteria. Powder brushes might last a bit longer between washes, but keeping a routine is key to reducing skin irritation and preventing buildup. With Jenny Patinkin’s Luxury Vegan Brush Soap, you can effectively deep-clean your brushes. This soap is formulated specifically for makeup brushes, removing residue while keeping the bristles soft and flexible.

Don't: Use Harsh Detergents or Soaps

Avoid using strong dish soap or alcohol-based cleansers on your brushes, as these can strip natural bristles of oils, making them brittle and more prone to breakage. Jenny Patinkin’s brush soap is an ideal alternative since it’s gentle yet effective at removing makeup residue. It’s also vegan and free of harsh chemicals, which keeps your brushes conditioned and ready for consistent use.

DO: Use Lukewarm Water

Temperature matters when it comes to cleaning brushes. Always use lukewarm water, as hot water can break down the glue in the brush’s ferrule (the metal part connecting bristles to the handle), leading to shedding. Lukewarm water is gentle and ensures the brush structure remains intact.

Don't: Soak Your Brushes

Soaking brushes in water can damage them over time, especially if water seeps into the ferrule, loosening the adhesive and causing the bristles to shed. Instead, run water over only the bristles, avoiding the handle and ferrule as much as possible. Apply Jenny Patinkin’s brush soap to the bristles, lather gently, and rinse thoroughly, but don’t submerge the entire brush.

DO: Use Circular Motions

When washing, swirl the brush in circular motions in your palm or on a silicone cleaning pad. This technique effectively dislodges makeup residue while keeping the bristles in their proper shape. For smaller eye or lip brushes, use gentler, smaller circles to avoid damaging the bristles.

Don't: Skip Quick Cleanings Between Uses

For days when a deep clean isn’t feasible, try a quick-dry option like Jenny Patinkin’s Spray Away Brush Cleaner. This spray cleanses and sanitizes your brushes instantly, removing residue and disinfecting without soaking. It’s perfect for a quick cleanse between different makeup products or when you need to refresh your brushes mid-week. Just spritz it on the bristles, wipe them on a tissue, and they’re ready for immediate use without any downtime.

DO: Air-Dry Properly

After washing, squeeze excess water from the bristles and lay the brushes flat on a clean towel, with the bristles hanging slightly off the edge to allow air to circulate. Avoid drying brushes upright, as water can seep into the ferrule, loosening the glue. Allow brushes to dry naturally overnight before using them again.

Don't: Neglect Natural Bristle Brushes

If you use brushes made from natural fibers, a gentle conditioner can help keep them soft. After using Jenny Patinkin’s Luxury Vegan Brush Soap, apply a small amount of conditioner to the bristles, rinse, and reshape them to maintain their texture.

DO: Store Brushes Properly

Once your brushes are clean and dry, store them in an open container or a brush holder to allow air circulation. Avoid closed bags or drawers, as these can trap moisture, promoting bacteria growth. Keeping your brushes upright also helps prevent any bristle warping or contamination.

With these dos and don’ts, along with high-quality tools like Jenny Patinkin’s brush cleaning soap and makeup brush cleaner, you can maintain your brushes for optimal performance and a cleaner, healthier makeup routine.