Last issue, we discussed how important it is to keep your makeup applicators clean and sanitized for three big deal reasons: first to protect your skin and eyes from all sorts of bacteria, second to make your brushes and sponges last as long as possible, and third so that your applicators will be in optimum condition and apply makeup beautifully, the way they were meant to, instead of being so bogged down in oil and dirt that the makeup doesn’t go on the way it should.

We started out by outlining the products you can use to get your brushes properly cleaned at home.  Aside from a professional Brush Cleaner and shampoo, these are some other options you can use:

Facial Cleanser. A facial cleanser that works gently but thoroughly to remove oil and dirt from your face will work just as well on your brushes and sponges.  Don’t use the milk-type products as these are too thick, but the liquid, gel and mousse cleansers are very acceptable.  Again, put the cleanser into your palm or a small container and then mix with a little water or wet the brush first before dipping it into the cleanser and lathering it up well.

Vinegar & water. Another alternative is a mixture of vinegar and water.  Mix a half cup of water with  four tablespoons of vinegar, you can use red vinegar which is great for disinfecting.  Dip your brushes into this mixture and then rinse completely in warm water.

Alcohol. Use the same process as with vinegar and water.  Mix with water instead of using the alcohol full-strength.
You can spray the brushes with a store or grocery-bought spritz bottle filled with a mixture of alcohol and water or vinegar and water.  After a good spritzing, wipe thoroughly but gently, and then let dry.

After Cleaning. Remember to always handle brushes, especially the hair portion, very gently.  Don’t pull on the brush hairs, even when you’re lathering them up as this could remove some of the strands, thinning out your brush.

NEVER leave your brushes soaking in water because this could weaken the bristles and even warp the wood or metal portions of the handle.  Maximum soaking time should only be a few minutes.

When you’re done with whatever cleaner you choose, rinse well in warm water, making sure all residue of the cleaner is gone.  Use a soft towel to gently pat your brushes.  Lay them flat on a towel and reshape the bristles.  Allow them to air dry in a warm, dry area. 

To make sure the brushes keep their shape, you can use a brush guard, a plastic cover that holds the bristles in place after they’re cleaned so that when they dry, they retain their original shape and condition.  You can find brush guards at www.brushguard.com for $8.50 ($5.50 + $3 for shipping & handling) for a set of 5 assorted sizes.  I wanted mine right away and found them here: mybeautybasket.net for only P375.00.

Now your brushes are cleaned, sterilized, and ready for use. 

(Write the author at wellbeing@mb.com.ph)