Makeup Brushes
Makeup Brushes
What’s the proper way to care for makeup brushes?

January 13, 2004

By: April Tom
Website: http://www.1st-in-cosmetics.com

What’s the proper way to care for makeup brushes?

Alison Raffaele, creator of Skin Alison Raffaele cosmetics, offers the following advice: Well, that all depends on the kind of brush you are talking about!

  • Blush, Powder, and Eye Shadow Brushes (including soft angled eyeliner brushes): These types of brushes are usually made with natural bristles, such as goat, pony, squirrel, or sable. To keep them in top condition, natural bristle should brushes be washed every 2-4 weeks, as a heavy buildup of pigment and oil can turn abrasive and cause the bristles to break. The best way to do so is with warm water and a mild shampoo, lathering the bristles in the palm of your hand. Then, keeping the bristles facing downward, rinse under running water until the water runs clear. Blot the excess moisture with a towel and lay flat to dry.

  • Concealer, Foundation, Lip, and Flat Eyeliner Brushes: Because most of the cosmetics they apply never truly dry (except for powdered eyeliner), these brushes are generally made with synthetic bristles, which remain durable when constantly moist (natural bristles would tend to split). For sanitary reasons, it is best to wash these brushes at least once a week, to prevent the buildup of bacteria. In addition, because these types of makeup do not dissolve as easily with water, these brushes clean up best when lathered directly against a dampened bar of hand. Doing so will cause any non-water soluble makeup on the brush to bind together with the soap, which can then be easily rinsed away with warm water. Blotting the bristles with a towel is generally sufficient to dry them.

    Most importantly, NEVER dry any makeup brush standing up. Doing so will allow water to drip down into the ferrule, which will eventually loosen the glue that joins it to the handle.

    Also see: airbrush makeup kit

    About The Author:

    April Tom is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cosmetics.com.  Tips on skin care, hair care and beauty products to bring out natural beauty.


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