How to Clean Makeup Brushes
Even in the post-COVID world, there's been a renewed commitment to hygiene, with many people wanting to make sure that their makeup brushes are not only clean, but properly sanitized. Unfortunately, over-washing, excessive soaking, and exposure to harsh chemicals can actually damage makeup tools, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your makeup brushes.
The best way to clean makeup brushes is to rely on a safe, effective, and science-backed method. Allow Sigma Beauty to provide you with guidance as you learn how to care for your makeup brushes.
Why Cleaning and Sanitizing Are Not the Same Thing
Cleaning and sanitizing are not synonymous. A simple rinse under running water will rid your makeup brushes of residual build-up, dust, and dirt particles, but it will not remove bacteria or germs. Knowing how to clean makeup brushes thoroughly and effectively is necessary for keeping you healthy, enjoying a smooth and consistent application, and protecting your equipment.
What Happens When You Clean Brushes the Wrong Way
Some of the most common mistakes that people make when washing makeup brushes are soaking them in hot water, relying on harsh chemical cleaners, and washing too frequently, all of which can lead to lasting damage.
Water Damage to the Ferrule
When submerged in hot water for an extended period of time, many makeup brushes can weaken at the ferrule due to glue breakdown, leading to loosening or shedding over time.
Sigma Beauty brushes are engineered differently. Our ferrules are made with corrosion-resistant SigmaAlloy™ and feature patented interlocking technology with double-threaded engineering. This construction helps protect against water damage and makes Sigma brushes the only truly waterproof brushes on the market.
Harsh Ingredients That Destroy Fibers
Harsh chemical cleaners that rely heavily on alcohol or strong detergents can break down brush fibers over time, leading to inconsistent application. High-fragrance or high-sulfate cleansers, including dish soap, may also strip fibers and reduce performance.
Sigma’s exclusive synthetic fibers are engineered to be antimicrobial, durable, and gentle on skin. For best results, use a purpose-built cleanser like SigMagic® Brushampoo™ Liquid or Foam, formulated with clean ingredients and free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and added fragrance.
Overwashing and Mechanical Stress
It may come as a surprise, but washing your makeup brushes too aggressively or too often can cause unnecessary wear. Excessive scrubbing can distort bristle shape, while drying brushes upright may allow water to travel into the base of the brush.
Sigma brushes are designed with solid, waterproof polymer handles and durable construction to withstand frequent cleaning. To maintain fiber integrity, reshape brushes after washing and allow them to dry flat or with a slight downward angle. Tools like the Sigma Dry’n Shape® Spa or Dry’n Shape® Tower Face & Eyes can help support proper drying and maintain brush shape over time.
What to Use to Clean a Makeup Brush Safely
The right makeup brush cleaner and cleaning supplies will ensure that your brush maintains its shape and performance for years to come.
Gentle, Low-Residue Cleansers
A gentle makeup brush cleaner with mild surfactants and a pH-balanced formula is the best choice. Avoid heavy conditioners, which may leave a residue on your brush bristles.
Recommended Makeup Brush Cleaning Ingredients
These are the best ingredients to look for in a makeup brush cleaner:
- Light surfactants.
- Antimicrobial agents that are safe for synthetic fibers.
- Conditioning agents that preserve bristle flexibility.
- Quick-drying formulas that protect the integrity of your brush.
Tools That Prevent Damage
Beyond choosing a makeup cleaner with gentle, safe ingredients, you should consider investing in tools designed to protect your brushes. Textured cleaning mats, like the Sigma Spa® Express Brush Cleaning Mat, feature multiple high-grade silicone textures to effectively clean brushes of every size. These materials are non-toxic and free from latex, BPA, and lead.
Drying tools and brush care accessories can also help maintain shape, reduce drying time, and support long-term performance.
How to Clean a Makeup Brush Without Ruining It
Knowing how to clean your beauty brush allows you to enjoy your award-winning makeup brushes for as long as possible. This is the best way to clean makeup brushes:
- Wet the brush.
(Thanks to our patented, glue-free technology, the entire Sigma brush can be fully saturated) - Apply cleanser to the cleaning surface.
- Gently swirl your brush, do not scrub it.
- Rinse under water until it runs clear.
- Reshape bristles after rinsing.
- Dry brushes flat or angled downward.
Need more tips? Check out expert cleaning tips from Sigma Beauty pros.
How Often to Wash Makeup Brushes
The frequency of your cleanings may depend on the type of brushes. Foundation brushes should be thoroughly cleaned once or twice per week. Eye brushes can be cleaned weekly, and powder brushes can be washed biweekly.
How to Properly Sanitize Makeup Brushes Between Uses
In addition to routinely cleaning your makeup brushes, you will want to sanitize them regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Quick sanitizing sprays may be appropriate if you are sharing brushes with another person, and if you are using these products, be sure to opt for fast-dry spray methods. Professional makeup artists often prevent cross-contamination by sanitizing between clients and thoroughly disinfecting their equipment daily.
FAQ
Personal makeup brushes should be cleaned and sanitized at least every week. If you are a professional makeup artist, your makeup brushes should be sanitized between clients, and a thorough cleaning should be done daily.
A gentle makeup brush cleaner is best for regular washing, but alcohol-based cleansers may be necessary for sanitizing.
The 2X Sigma Spa® Brush Cleaning Glove is an excellent tool for cleaning foundation brushes, effectively removing excess makeup and buildup without damaging them.
Yes, makeup brushes that have residual makeup and dirt on the bristles can irritate the skin. In addition, dirty brushes will prevent you from being able to apply your makeup thoroughly and consistently.
Clean Brushes Perform Better
As you prioritize care and maintenance for your brushes, you will not only extend the lifespan of your makeup brush set but also enjoy an even, professional-looking application every day. When washing makeup brushes, purpose-built cleaning products can prevent damage and protect the integrity of your equipment. Rather than aggressively cleaning your brushes on an as-needed basis, you should develop a routine that allows you to freshen up and sanitize your brushes regularly.
Sigma Beauty offers makeup brush care supplies to protect your investment in our award-winning makeup brush sets. Discover why we have become known as The Most Awarded Brush Brand, and learn more about our makeup brushes today.