How to Clean Makeup Brushes Properly to Protect Your Skin - House Beautiful

When it comes to applying makeup, your results will only look as good as the tools and products you use. Skincare and makeup obsessives know their way around a Sephora counter better than anyone, but even the most beauty-literate among us may forget one key part of the makeup application process: clean brushes.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, makeup brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria—even if you're consistent about applying products to only clean skin—making it super important to know how to clean makeup brushes properly. Failure to do so can result in pesky breakouts, rashes, and even something as serious as E. coli or a staph infection. The takeaway? Cleaning makeup brushes regularly—and effectively—should be a regular part of your beauty routine.

And here's the good news: doing so is way easier than you think. Below, we're breaking down the step-by-step process for cleaning makeup brushes and answering some common questions about this oh-so-necessary beauty tool—including how to know when it's time to trash yours altogether.

imagenavi//Getty Images

How often should I clean my makeup brushes?

Most derms and makeup artists agree that the more consistently you clean your makeup brushes, the better chance you have of staving off any bacteria and prolonging their lifespan. As a general rule of thumb, you should suds up your brushes every 7 to 10 days or so, though beauty fans who wear makeup less frequently can get away with washing their brushes every two weeks. This suggested timeframe holds especially true for brushes used for all-over makeup applications, like those you turn to when applying concealer, foundation, or powder. Brushes that are used just for things like eye shadow or brows can be washed a bit less frequently. Make sure to wash your makeup brushes any time you share product with someone else or when you start to notice product buildup on the bristles. Most quality brushes (and sponges) are made of porous materials, so they'll absorb any oils and buildup from your makeup and will therefore function less effectively over time until given a good clean.

Do I need a special cleanser for my makeup brushes?

When it comes to cleaning your makeup brushes thoroughly, you'll need more than just water to rid them of oils, residue, and bacteria. Most pros rely on specially formulated brush cleansers or a facial cleanser to get the job done, but sulfate-free shampoo and mild, clean dish soap can also be effective. Do your best to rinse your brushes thoroughly after cleaning so you don't risk any residual cleanser irritating your skin, and avoid using any formulas with rubbing alcohol, which can dry out the bristles of your brush and make them susceptible to breakage.

How do I dry my makeup brushes after cleaning?

As frustrating as it may seem, the best way to dry your makeup brushes after cleaning them is the good old-fashioned way: air and time. Avoid blasting them with a hair dryer or rubbing them too vigorously with paper towels, both of which can lead to bristle loss. The best way to ensure your brushes dry completely and maintain their shape is to dry them laying down, with the brush tip hanging over the edge of the counter or sink so it "floats" off the surface and therefore can dry without flattening on one side.

When should I replace my makeup brushes?

Determining when to replace your makeup brushes is on a case-by-case basis—there is no hard-and-fast timeline to abide by, and purchasing a new set depends largely on the frequency with which you use your brushes, as well as their quality. In general, keep an eye out for any telltale signs your brush is reaching the end of its life span, like frequent bristle loss, a cracked handle, a compromised shape, or a funky smell you just can't seem to get rid of.

Guido Mieth//Getty Images