how to clean makeup brushes

HOW TO CLEAN MAKEUP BRUSHES: A COMPLETE GUIDE FROM THE PROS

Whether you’re using the best makeup brushes or a beginner brush set, cleaning your makeup brushes regularly is non-negotiable — for your skin, your product performance, and the longevity of your tools.

But let’s be honest: most people either don’t clean their brushes often enough, or aren’t doing it correctly. That’s why we’re breaking down how to clean makeup brushes the right way, backed by expert advice and practical techniques — no guesswork required.

🌟 Why It’s Critical to Clean Your Makeup Brushes

If you’re wondering, “How do you clean makeup brushes, and why does it even matter?” — here’s what top dermatologists and makeup artists have to say:

💬 According to the American Academy of Dermatology, unwashed makeup brushes can harbor bacteria, oil, dead skin cells, and product buildup, leading to breakouts, infections, and dull skin. (AAD.org)

💬 Celebrity MUA Bobbi Brown says: “Using dirty brushes not only affects application but can contaminate your products and clog pores. Clean brushes are as essential as clean hands.”

🧼 How Often Should You Wash Your Makeup Brushes?

  • Foundation, Concealer & Cream Product Brushes: 1–2 times per week
  • Powder & Blush Brushes: Once a week
  • Eye Brushes (especially eyeliner/smudger): Every 2–3 uses
  • Beauty Sponges: After every use (Yes, seriously!)

If you’re using NOORELA Beauty brushes — like our Wild Rose Face Brush Series or Dazzling Diamond Eye Brushes — they’re built with high-performance synthetic bristles that are easy to clean, fast to dry, and gentle on the skin.

🧴 Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes

Whether you’re searching how to wash a makeup brush or looking for a quick cleaning routine, here’s the method that professionals trust.

✅ You’ll Need:

  • A gentle makeup brush cleaner or baby shampoo
  • A silicone cleaning pad or your palm
  • Lukewarm water
  • A towel for drying
  • Optional: NOORELA Cleaning Box — included free with all brush sets!

💧 The Cleaning Process:

1. Rinse the bristles only

Hold the brush head downward under lukewarm running water. Avoid soaking the ferrule (metal part) and handle — this prevents loosening the glue and damaging the brush.

2. Apply a small amount of brush cleaner

Use a professional makeup brush cleaner or gentle shampoo. Lather it on your palm or cleaning mat.

3. Gently swirl & lather

Massage the bristles in circular motions, removing built-up product, oil, and bacteria.

4. Rinse thoroughly

Rinse until water runs clear. Repeat if needed.

5. Squeeze out excess water

Use a clean towel to press the bristles gently.

6. Reshape & air dry flat

Lay brushes flat (bristles hanging off the edge of a counter is ideal). Never dry standing up — water may seep into the handle.

🧽 How to Clean a Beauty Sponge (Like Our Bear Jelly Sponge)

  • Soak in warm water
  • Lather with gentle cleanser
  • Squeeze repeatedly until clean
  • Rinse thoroughly
  • Let air dry on a breathable surface

Our Gummy Bear Sponges are soft, hygienic, and fun — made to dry quickly and last long with proper care

🌱 NOORELA’s Sustainable Cleaning Promise

All NOORELA brushes are:

  • Eco-friendly & cruelty-free
  • Made from high-grade synthetic fibers
  • Designed to resist bacterial growth
  • Paired with a complimentary cleaning box — no extra purchase needed!

When you clean your brushes regularly, you're not only protecting your skin — you're honoring your tools, your beauty ritual, and your self-care.

💡 Pro Tip: Create a Weekly Brush Cleaning Ritual

Turn Sunday night into your “Beauty Tools Recharge” moment — a mindful habit that protects your skin and extends the life of your makeup brush set.

Just like our mantra at NOORELA Beauty: “Your vanity is your sanctuary. Your brush is your wand. Your ritual is your power.”

🛍️ Ready to Upgrade Your Routine?

Try the NOORELA Foundation Brush, our Rose Blush & Contour Brushes, or the Dazzling Diamond Eye Brush Set — and experience tools that are not only professional-grade, but powerfully empowering.

With every set, you’ll receive:

  • Our signature cleaning box
  • Beautiful, ergonomic design
  • Ethically made, eco-conscious packaging

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