After every makeup job, I’m faced with the daunting task of cleaning my brushes. It can take me up to 45 minutes to get through all of it. I carefully go through each brush gently washing them while thanking them for the work they’ve done. A sense of accomplishment greets me once I’ve finished. There’s nothing better than seeing the dirty water begin to run clean. It’s as if all of my worries go down the drain, all of the stresses of the last job are removed, and I create room for more work to come my way.

One step that I’ve introduced in the last year is lighting up sage and smudging my makeup brushes before washing. White prairie sage (Artemisia ludoviciana) is both antimicrobial and antibacterial. White sage (Salvia apiana) is also antimicrobial. And both have been shown to repel insects. It can also have spiritual benefits such as repelling negative energy and creating positive energy while reducing stress.

Basic tools

• Sage bundle (or smudge stick)
• Seashell or bowl of ceramic, clay, or glass to hold burning sage and capture ash

• Matches
• Optional feather or fan for fanning smoke

Allergic to smoke? Use Cleary Sage essential oil in a spray bottle with your favorite brush cleaner.

After completing this process I begin to wash the brushes. I recommend using fragrance-free/low fragrance soap to prevent skin irritation. I love using the Beauty Blender soap, or baby shampoo as it is gentle to use for brushes and won’t irritate your skin. I highly recommend getting a mat from either Beauty Blender or a similar company. I received a sample last year when I purchased Beauty Blenders. This small mat makes a huge difference and is able to reach the bristles better than the palm of my hand ever could.

Here are the steps I follow:

• Wet brush with water and rinse as much product as possible, focusing on only getting the bristles wet.
• Swirl the brush head all over the bar of soap, then swirl it in the palm of your hand/glove
• Rinse and repeat this process until the water runs clear
• Squeeze excess water out of brushes, reshaping the bristles as you squeeze
• Lay flat to dry this prevents the water from traveling into the handle, which will damage the brush and loosen the bristles

Lastly, I’ll lay the brushes on a towel facing the sunlight so that they can breathe and be cleansed and energized by the sun.

For concealer and foundation, brushes wash at least once a week to prevent a buildup of product and for better makeup application. Brushes that are used with powder can be washed once a month. All other brushes should be washed once a month and can be spot cleaned in-between deep cleanings. I recommend using Parian Spirit Brush Cleaner.

Here are some reasons you should be washing your brushes:

Longer lasting brushes

The more you care for your brushes, the longer they will last. By removing product buildup the bristles can remain intact for much longer, they also stay softer with time. The more frequently you wash them, the longer your investment will last.

Acne prevention

Your makeup brushes collect everything that’s on your skin; oils, bacteria and everything else. Dirty brushes clog your pores and are a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing your chances of breakouts.

Better makeup application

Have you ever tried to apply your makeup with caked up dried makeup? Yeah me too! It made for a very streaky application. Clean brushes help blend colors better, achieving the desired look.

How often do you wash your makeup brushes and what’s your favorite brush cleaner? I want to hear all about it! 

E xoxoxox