A new poll has found that almost a quarter of make-up wearers worldwide never clean their brushes, raising concerns among beauty experts about the risks to skin health.
The survey, conducted by Fresha, the beauty and wellness marketplace, found that 24% of make-up users admitted to never washing their brushes, while a further 20% do so only once a year.
Annabelle Taura, beauty expert at Fresha, said the findings were alarming. “Every time you use your make-up brushes, they are collecting oil, dead skin cells, bacteria and a build-up of product, and without regular cleaning, these build up very quickly. You are then essentially reapplying all of these things directly back onto your skin, disrupting the skin’s barrier and in turn contributing to more clogged pores, breakouts and skin irritation, especially in more delicate and sensitive areas such as the eyes, where it can even lead to infection.”
She added that hygiene also affects performance. “Dirty brushes don’t perform well and can lead to patchy applications, poor blending and even dull-looking colours.”
How often should brushes be cleaned?
Taura said the recommended frequency depends on the type of product being applied. Brushes used with liquid or cream formulas such as foundation or concealer should be cleaned one to two times per week, as moisture causes bacteria to accumulate faster. Powder brushes should be cleaned at least once a week, and eye brushes once or twice weekly to protect the sensitive eye area. Brushes used for multiple eyeshadow colours should be cleaned after each use.
Dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology advise washing brushes every seven to ten days at minimum to reduce the risk of clogged pores, acne and irritation.
Summer increases the need for cleaning
As temperatures rise, Taura recommends stepping up the routine further. “Heat and humidity create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, and with the heat rising, you’ll likely be sweating more, which means your brushes will be picking up more oil and sweat residue than normal, which will be transferred back to your skin if brushes are not cleaned.” She suggests cleaning liquid product brushes two to three times per week in summer, and powder brushes at least twice weekly.
How to clean make-up brushes
Taura outlines the following steps:
- Rinse the bristles under lukewarm water, keeping the flow directed downward over the bristles only. Avoid wetting the handle, as this can loosen the glue over time.
- Apply a small amount of gentle brush cleanser, mild shampoo or gentle soap to the palm of your hand or a brush cleaning mat. Gently swirl the brush in circular motions to break down residue, oils and bacteria.
- Rinse thoroughly under lukewarm water until the water runs completely clear. Soap residue left in the bristles can irritate skin and affect application.
- Gently squeeze out excess water with your fingers or a clean towel, without pulling or tugging the bristles.
- Reshape the brush head with your fingers to maintain its original form and preserve performance.
- Lay brushes flat or slightly angled downward on a clean towel to dry. Drying them upright can allow water to seep into the handle and weaken the glue.
- Allow brushes to air-dry completely before use. This may take several hours and is best done overnight.