best travel makeup brushes

HOW TO WASH MAKEUP BRUSHES

Your makeup brushes are the unsung heroes of your beauty routine. They help you apply foundation flawlessly, blend eyeshadow like a pro, and achieve that perfect winged eyeliner. But, just like any tool, they require regular cleaning to function at their best. Dirty makeup brushes are more than just gross—they can be a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially leading to breakouts, irritation, and even infection. That’s why it’s important to clean your brushes regularly, ideally once a week.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES

Regularly cleaning your makeup brushes is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and ensuring the best application of your cosmetics. Ideally, you should clean your brushes at least once a week to prevent the buildup of makeup residue, oils, and bacteria. Dirty brushes not only compromise the effectiveness of your makeup application but can also contribute to skin issues such as breakouts, irritation, and infections.

Establishing a consistent cleaning routine is particularly important if you use your brushes daily. The accumulation of product and impurities on the bristles can not only affect the performance of the brushes but may also lead to skin problems over time. By incorporating regular cleaning into your beauty regimen, you ensure that your makeup tools remain in optimal condition, providing you with a flawless application and promoting the overall health of your skin.

In addition to weekly cleaning, it’s essential to spot-clean your brushes between uses, especially if you switch between different products or colors. This quick maintenance routine helps remove excess product and maintains the integrity of your brushes, extending their lifespan. By adopting these habits, you’ll not only enhance your makeup application but also prioritize the health and hygiene of your skin.

STEPS TO CLEAN MAKEUP BRUSHES

Start by gathering all the necessary supplies. You’ll need lukewarm water, a bowl, and a gentle shampoo or clarifying shampoo. Avoid using plain soap and water, as it can dry out the bristles over time. Selecting the right shampoo is key to preserving the softness and quality of your brush bristles.

STEP 1: WASH THE BRUSH HEAD

Begin the cleaning process by rinsing the tips of your brushes under lukewarm, running water. This step is essential for removing residual makeup and ensuring the bristles are free from any product buildup. Focus on the tips while avoiding submerging the entire brush head. Submerging the whole head can compromise the glue that connects the brush head to the handle.

STEP 2: ADD A TABLESPOON OF SHAMPOO

Once the tips are thoroughly rinsed, fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a tablespoon of the chosen shampoo. Swirl the brushes in the soapy water, ensuring that the bristles are fully immersed. Gently agitate the brushes to loosen any remaining makeup, oils, or impurities.

STEP 3: CLEAN THE BRUSH BRISTLES

After allowing the brushes to soak for a few minutes, use your fingers to gently lather the shampoo through the bristles. Pay attention to the base of the bristles near the ferrule, where makeup residue tends to accumulate. Be cautious not to press too hard, as this can damage the bristles.

STEP 4: RINSE THE BRUSHES

Rinse the brushes under running water again, ensuring that all soap and makeup residues are thoroughly washed away. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, indicating that the brushes are clean.

STEP 5: SQUEEZE OUT THE WATER

Gently squeeze out excess water from the bristles using a clean towel or paper towel. Reshape the brush heads to their original form to maintain their structure. Avoid pulling on the bristles, as this can lead to shedding or misshaping.

STEP 6: ALLOW THE BRUSH TO DRY

Finally, lay the brushes flat on a clean towel to air dry. Ensure they are arranged in a way that allows air circulation around each brush head. Avoid leaving brushes upright while drying, as water can seep into the ferrule and compromise the glue.

WHAT SHOULD YOU USE TO CLEAN YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES?

Parian Spirit Professional Makeup Brush Cleaner: Parian Spirit Professional Makeup Brush Cleaner is a renowned and widely trusted product in the beauty industry, specifically formulated for the efficient and effective cleaning of makeup brushes. This professional-grade cleaner is favored by makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike for its exceptional performance and quick-drying formula. Key features of Parian Spirit Professional Makeup Brush Cleaner include its fast-drying nature, making it a convenient choice for those who require a rapid turnaround between makeup applications. The cleaner is designed to thoroughly remove makeup residues, oils, and impurities from both natural and synthetic bristles, ensuring that brushes remain pristine and ready for flawless makeup application.

Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser: Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleanser is a beloved skincare product that has garnered a reputation for its simplicity and effectiveness. This gentle yet efficient cleanser is designed to remove makeup, cleanse the skin, and tone in a single step. The formula is mild and suitable for all skin types, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and balanced. Philosophy Purity Made Simple is known for its ability to dissolve dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. With a light and refreshing fragrance, this one-step facial cleanser has become a staple in many skincare routines, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to uncomplicated yet powerful skincare solutions.

Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleanser: Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleanser is a professional-grade solution that has become a go-to choice for makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike. This cleanser is specifically formulated to quickly and effectively clean makeup brushes, removing residual makeup, oils, and impurities. Known for its fast-drying formula, Cinema Secrets allows for swift and convenient brush cleaning, making it an ideal choice for busy professionals in the beauty industry. The cleanser is suitable for both natural and synthetic bristles, maintaining the integrity of the brushes while ensuring they stay hygienic and ready for flawless makeup application. With its efficient performance and ease of use, Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleanser has earned a reputation for being a reliable and time-saving tool in the world of makeup artistry.

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap: Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap is a popular household product known for its effective cleaning power and delightful scents. Formulated with plant-derived ingredients and essential oils, this dish soap cuts through grease and grime, leaving dishes sparkling clean. What sets Mrs. Meyer’s apart is its commitment to using biodegradable and environmentally friendly components, making it a conscious choice for eco-conscious consumers. The various scents, such as lavender, lemon verbena, and basil, add a refreshing touch to the dishwashing experience. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap not only delivers on cleaning performance but also brings a touch of aromatherapy to the kitchen, making it a favorite among those who appreciate both efficacy and a pleasant fragrance in their cleaning products.

Sigma Spa Express Brush Cleaning Mat: The Sigma Spa Express Brush Cleaning Mat is a game-changer for makeup enthusiasts seeking an efficient and thorough way to clean their brushes. This compact and innovative mat features a variety of textures and patterns designed to deep clean both eye and face brushes. The suction cups on the back secure the mat to your sink, providing a stable surface for brush cleaning. The different sections on the mat cater to various brush sizes and types, ensuring a comprehensive cleanse. The Sigma Spa Express Brush Cleaning Mat streamlines the cleaning process, making it a must-have tool for maintaining the hygiene and longevity of your favorite makeup brushes.

HOW TO STORE MAKEUP BRUSHES

Your cherished brushes are impeccably clean and completely dry! Now, ensuring their longevity involves proper storage practices. To maintain the optimal condition of your top-tier makeup brushes, it’s crucial to provide them with adequate space, reducing the risk of bacterial buildup. Reserve the makeup bag for travel purposes, and instead, favor a jar or drawer organizer for everyday storage. Storing brushes upright in a brush bouquet or neatly tucking them into a designated drawer compartment minimizes exposure to unwanted dust. 

For those on the move, a brush roll is an excellent choice, offering seamless storage to keep both your brushes and, by extension, your skin and makeup, looking their absolute best.

CAN YOU USE RUBBING ALCOHOL TO CLEAN MY MAKEUP BRUSHES?

While some people may consider using rubbing alcohol to clean makeup brushes due to its disinfectant properties, it’s generally not recommended by beauty experts. Rubbing alcohol can be too harsh on the bristles of the brushes, especially those made of natural fibers or synthetic materials.

Rubbing alcohol has a drying effect, and continuous use may lead to bristle damage, making the brushes coarse and prone to shedding. Additionally, it may compromise the glue that holds the bristles together, causing the brush to lose its shape over time.

Beauty experts often suggest using gentler alternatives like mild shampoos, baby shampoo, or specially formulated brush cleansers. These products effectively remove makeup residues, oils, and bacteria without causing harm to the brush bristles.

It’s essential to prioritize the longevity and quality of your makeup brushes by choosing cleaning solutions that are gentle and suitable for the specific materials used in your brushes. Regular cleaning with the right products helps maintain the hygiene of your brushes and ensures optimal makeup application.

When should you throw away a makeup brush?”

Knowing when it’s time to part ways with a makeup brush is crucial for maintaining both effective application and the health of your skin. Signs that indicate it’s time to replace a makeup brush include frayed or splayed bristles that no longer maintain their original shape. If the bristles start shedding excessively or if the brush no longer feels soft and smooth against the skin, it’s a clear indication that its performance is compromised.

Additionally, if the brush has become discolored despite regular cleaning or if there is an unpleasant odor, it may be harboring bacteria that could lead to skin issues. When any of these signs become apparent, it’s advisable to invest in a new brush to ensure a hygienic and flawless makeup application. 

Regularly inspecting your brushes and being attentive to changes in their condition will contribute to a more effective and enjoyable makeup routine.

FAQ

1. What kind of soap do you use to clean makeup brushes?

To clean makeup brushes, it’s recommended to use a mild and gentle soap such as baby shampoo, a sulfate-free shampoo, or a specialized brush cleanser. 

2. Can I use my cleanser to wash my makeup brushes?

It’s generally not advisable to use your facial cleanser for makeup brushes, as facial cleansers may not effectively break down makeup residues.

3. Can I use micellar water to clean brushes?

While micellar water can remove some makeup from brushes, it may not be as effective at breaking down oily residues, and continuous use might not thoroughly clean the brushes. 

CONCLUSION

Maintaining clean makeup brushes is an essential aspect of a healthy skincare and beauty routine. By incorporating this practice into your beauty regimen, ideally on a weekly basis, you ensure that your makeup application remains flawless, hygienic, and a positive contribution to the overall health of your skin. Regular attention to your brushes underscores a commitment to both effective cosmetics use and the well-being of your skin, allowing you to confidently express your unique style.

The 11 Best Travel Cosmetic Bags in 2023

Something about packing your weekend backpack or carry-on bag with your travel cosmetics kit really makes you feel eager to go on vacation. Travel cosmetic bags can keep you organized whether you’re leaving for your honeymoon or a little overnight vacation to meet friends for dinner. But not all travel cosmetic bags are made equal. While some choose a hard-sided, extra-large bag, others adore a compact fabric pouch that stores only a few necessities. With our list of the 11 best travel cosmetic bags, we can assist you if you’ve had trouble choosing the right bag for yourself.

Lay-n-Go Cosmo

The Lay-n-Go Cosmo is a brilliant concept for those who can’t tolerate spending hours rummaging through their cosmetic bag in quest of that one, little eye pencil. It changes into a travel bag to keep your belongings organized while you’re on the go, but when you get to your destination, it unfolds into a 20-inch mat so you can see everything at once. There is a raised lip to prevent rolling, a zipped pocket for secure keeping, and an integrated elastic strap that serves as a practical brush holder. And in case of spillage, it can be machine-washed.

Everyone adores this purse. The ingenious conversion to lay everything flat makes it simple to find what you need, even when you’re on the road and without a counter. It’s ideal for people who don’t have a lot of extra room for a cosmetic bag. However, after a few usages, the drawstring begins to sag. If you don’t use them too frequently, this might be prevented. 

Saie Lilac Oversized Makeup Bag

You can carry anything in this large-capacity cosmetic bag. The bag, which is made of vegan leather in the brand’s characteristic lilac color, has a strong exterior, a single quick zipper, and plenty of inside room so you can carry it wherever you go. Perfectly enough to include all of your routine’s faves, yet stylish and portable enough to throw in a bag or tote and leave.

Customers have given Saie’s Oversized Makeup Bag a mix of favorable and unfavorable feedback. For several customers, the bag’s roomy design and ability to accommodate all of their cosmetic necessities make it ideal for travel. Additionally, they like that the bag is constructed of eco-friendly materials and is durable. Yet, some clients claim that the bag is overly large and heavy, making it challenging to carry. 

Peachloft Cosmetic Bag

The outside of this premium travel cosmetic bag is water-resistant to prevent the contents from getting wet. It is constructed of PU leather fabric. With a steel wire placed at the aperture and a big capacity design, accessing the contents is made simpler. The bag is multipurpose. It can be used to hold toiletries, cosmetics, jewelry, gadget accessories, and more. It features a handy, long-lasting handle, and the zipper is a useful, user-friendly design.

Peachloft cosmetic bag reviews on most online shopping websites are quite positive as this bag can carry most of your things with you while not causing you any trouble. The case is very pretty and closes well so as to not disturb all your stuff inside. If you want to maintain its pretty look, you should be extra careful because it’s hard to clean any stain on the outside and the zipper might be difficult to unzip sometimes.

Lululemon Go Getter Pouch

The Go Getter Pouch from Lululemon is perfect for road trips or gym workouts because it is made of water-repellent nylon. This compact purse is available in pastel mint and traditional black hues and is great for organizing little items like hair ties or travel-size deodorant.

This pouch is the ideal size for a variety of items, including cosmetics, skincare, and hygiene. This Lululemon bag is all you need for anyone seeking a bag that can go a long way. But if you see it in person, you could be surprised by its size, so if you don’t have much room for another bag, think about getting this.

Monstina Double-Layer Makeup Bag

This amazing cosmetic bag with compartments is all you need for a short day trip. You can conveniently put a medium-sized eyeshadow palette, a few beauty brushes, and the rest of your go-to goods in the bag. It has three layers, which include pockets on each side and elastic brush slots. This bag will last you on many journeys before you need to wash it because it is also water-resistant and simple to clean owing to its faux-leather finish.

This bag is rather tiny, therefore not all brushes will fit inside. Still, if cost is your first priority, you may pick this one because, in comparison to other items on the market, it is rather affordable. 

Bosidu Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

This hanging makeup bag is surprisingly roomy and, in all honesty, is just perfect for keeping things organized in a hotel or Airbnb bathroom. To hang this portable organizer on the back of a door, a towel hook, or in your closet, just unzip the sides to reveal a hook. Four waterproof and transparent compartments for your toothbrush, makeup, face oil, etc. are accessible via the center.

Particularly practical are the internal waterproof vinyl pockets, which make it simple to keep everything tidy and dry. This functionality is crucial for travelers who bring goods like water bottles or toiletries that are likely to leak or spill. Travelers may feel secure knowing that their things are protected from moisture and spills with these pockets. It’s important to note, though, that several testers have complained about the zipper’s propensity for breaking. Despite the fact that this is a problem, it’s crucial to remember that not all testers have run across it, and it might not be a deal-breaker for everyone.

Herschel Chapter Travel Kit.

With this adaptable Herschel Chapter Travel Kit, it’s difficult to know where to begin. It’s quite reasonably priced and has a roomy size that allows you to store your phone, keys, lipsticks, concealers, brushes, and even a couple of palettes inside. There is at least one of these bags’ 15 eye-catching colors and designs that will suit you, and it also features a very practical handle.

Some customers appreciate the bag’s spacious interior, convenient size, and durable construction. They also find the waterproof interior lining and sturdy hook to be useful features. However, some customers have reported issues with the bag’s zipper breaking easily, which can be frustrating and inconvenient. Though this is concerning, it’s vital to remember that not all testers have encountered this issue, and it might not be a deal-breaker for everyone.

Impressions Vanity Co. Hello Kitty Faux Leather Makeup Bag

For admirers of Hello Kitty, the Impressions Vanity Co. Hello Kitty Faux Leather cosmetics Bag is a chic and adorable cosmetics bag. It is composed of sturdy, cleanable imitation leather of the highest caliber. The bag is a cute and cheerful accessory because of its pink and white pattern and the distinctive Hello Kitty character on the front.

Customers praise the bag’s ideal size, detachable partitions, and premium design and heartily endorse it to others. They are particularly impressed by the bag’s stylish and durable design, well-thought-out areas for storing cosmetics, and general high quality. Overall, it appears like the Herschel Men’s Chapter Travel Bag is a superb option for anybody searching for a well-made and premium travel bag.

Mark & Graham Concourse Vegan Leather Cosmetic Case

The case is both functional and fashionable, and the synthetic leather mimics the genuine thing. When you hang the spacious bag over a hook in the bathroom, you can see all of your toiletries at a glance thanks to two internal zipped compartments with see-through lining. 

For those looking for a practical and stylish alternative, this travel bag is a good choice. Its inside compartments and hanging possibilities are practical elements for keeping things organized, and its contemporary design adds a fashionable touch. Yet prospective customers should be mindful of the additional expense of customization and the white color’s sensitivity to stains.

AWAY The Cosmetics Bag

This budget-friendly choice comes in a variety of colors, including black, rose gold, gold, pink, a floral pattern, a marble design, and more. It also has a mesh pocket to keep things organized, an elastic brush slot, and plenty of storage space. For a cosmetic addict who can’t travel without her eyelash curler, a beloved set of makeup travel brushes, and a couple of lip glosses, the outside is waterproof and simple to wash clean. Also included is a built-in mirror. 

This bag is perfect if you enjoy having all of your cosmetics and toiletries in one convenient case that is both fashionable to show and simple to travel with. Because the cosmetic brush part is removable, this purse may be used by anybody. You don’t have to worry about wet days because it also includes a nylon body that is water-resistant. However, personalization costs extra and it can still get collapsed even when it’s structured.

Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case

For those looking for a convenient and fashionable method to keep their toiletries and cosmetics organized while traveling, the Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case is a popular option. This case has a zipped clasp to keep goods safe and is constructed of transparent plastic, making it simple to see what’s within. The size of this case is one of its distinguishing qualities. This makes it a fantastic alternative for those who want to have a lot of options when it comes to their cosmetics and toiletries, or for longer vacations.

For people who want to keep their belongings organized while traveling, this cosmetics bag is a unique choice. It has two clear sides that make it simple for consumers to access and separate their merchandise. Additionally, it comes in three different sizes, giving it a flexible choice for those with various needs. The fact that this is the priciest cosmetic bag on the list should also be noted. Even if the extra features and distinctive style can make the price worthwhile for some, it might not be a sensible choice for people on a tight budget.

The key to a smart cosmetic bag is organization. It should accommodate all of your supplies and be simple to clean in case you encounter a messy situation when unpacking. You may discover cosmetic bags on our list that have been endorsed by beauty enthusiasts for use at work, on the road, and for other situations.