facial cleanser for hard water

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.

20 BEST EXFOLIATORS FOR FACE, (TESTED AND REVIEWED FOR 2024)

Getting a natural shine might be difficult. Your complexion may appear a little lifeless when dead skin cells remain on the surface of your skin for far longer than they should. Fortunately, the top facial exfoliators can assist in removing that doubt. Excessive force could result in irritation, which can lead to hyperpigmentation. Give up using the product if you become red and raw. You’ve come to the perfect spot if you’re searching for the best exfoliator for face.

DERMALOGICA RAPID REVEAL PEEL

Want a peel that looks professional without having to get out of your house? Try this incredible Dermalogica peel. Users gave it high marks for smoothing wrinkles, brightening skin, evening skin tone, and reducing the visibility of pores. An astounding 100% of respondents agreed that their skin tone was more balanced and that their skin was brighter and smoother. In the meantime, 75% of customers concurred that pores, fine lines, and wrinkles were less noticeable. The tubes, however, may be hard for you to open.

ACURE BRIGHTENING FACIAL SCRUB

This scrub is an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin because it works best at preventing severe skin irritation. The best facial exfoliant for achieving a brighter, more radiant complexion was this one, as it gave the deepest cleanse. People adore how it leaves my skin feeling soft and nourished while still leaving me with a deep sense of cleanliness. Be advised that using this scrub could get messy because of the possibility of sink stains caused by its rich color.

ST. IVES FRESH SKIN APRICOT SCRUB

Without a doubt, the best drugstore face exfoliator is St. Ives’ traditional creamy scrub. It minimizes the look of pores, efficiently cleans and removes makeup, and removes debris, oil, and other contaminants. Because it leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated, clean, and healthy, most consumers adore it. Additionally, it makes their skin sparkle and helps makeup apply more smoothly. Be aware that some people may find this physical exfoliant’s abrasive particles to be very irritating. 

DR.DENNIS GROSS ALPHA BETA UNIVERSAL DAILY PEEL PADS

The typical amount of beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) in most skin care products is 2%, which is also present in this liquid exfoliant. According to the manufacturer, the exfoliant is good for all skin types and aids in pore cleaning and fine-line smoothing. Use your fingertips or a cotton pad that has been lightly moistened to apply the liquid to your face and neck. Do not rinse it off.

PAULA CHOICE 2% BHA LIQUID EXFOLIATOR

This toner, which is made with a blend of BHAs and PHAs, is a fantastic choice for people who are new to using chemical exfoliants because it is mild on the face. According to the firm, because PHAs like gluconolactone are large molecules at the molecular level, they assist in giving the skin more time to respond to their exfoliating benefits. This makes them suitable for sensitive skin. In addition to the chemical exfoliants, the recipe contains hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and moisturize, as well as tea tree extract to lessen irritation.

TULA SKINCARE EXFOLIATING SUGAR SCRUB

People’s #1 choice for the best non-abrasive scrub is the Tula Skincare So Polished Exfoliating Sugar Scrub. This skin exfoliant boasts a chemical and physical formula that is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is made with a blend of probiotic extracts for smoothing and improving texture, pineapple and papaya extracts for breaking down dead skin and brightening the complexion, and sugar for gently polishing the skin. Although the product’s label claims that it can be used without water, we discovered that this had a slight pulling effect on the skin. Nevertheless, this is still a good exfoliator for face.

NEUTROGENA DEEP CLEAN GENTLE DAILY FACIAL SCRUB

We suggest the Neutrogena Deep Clean Gentle Daily Facial Scrub as a more affordable option. This face scrub polishes and softens the skin by removing dead skin cells gently using a combination of chemical and physical exfoliants. The non-abrasive face scrub is a great choice for skin types who are oily or prone to acne because it is also oil-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. 

PCA SKIN PORE REFINING TREATMENT

We suggest the PCA Skin Pore Refining Treatment, which is made with mandelic acid, rice powder, pumice, papain, kaolin, and bentonite, if you want softer skin. In order to brighten, even out uneven texture, absorb extra oil and pollutants, and gently exfoliate without causing irritation, the exfoliating recipe combines physical and chemical ingredients. Customers particularly enjoy that their complexion does not feel tight or raw after using it and that it has a lovely viscous consistency that makes it simple to apply evenly over the skin. It’s not a daily exfoliator because you can only use it once or three times a week. 

PEACH & LILY GLASS SKIN FACE POLISHER

Including regular exfoliation in your skincare routine is one of the greatest strategies to rid your skin of blackheads. The Peach & Lily Glass Skin Face Polisher is a product we adored due to its powerful combination of physical and chemical exfoliants that gently remove dry skin and prevent oil buildup. This exfoliating scrub targets premature symptoms of aging, brightens, and soothes the skin. It is enhanced with salicylic acid, fruit extracts, angelica root, and ginseng.

CETAPHIL EXTRA GENTLE DAILY SCRUB

An excellent substitute for a face scrub if you don’t like face scrub but still want the benefit of using it, this is the exfoliating cleanser you will love. In order to offer a deep clean without stripping, the solution is enhanced with micro-fine granules that pull away dirt, debris, and dead skin buildup. One of the best cleansers for oily skin, its hypoallergenic formula is also mild enough to use on more sensitive skin types. Its formulation targets dirt, debris, and excess oil buildup. Nevertheless, it doesn’t do much to lighten skin tone.

KIEHL’S DAILY REFINING MILK PEEL TONER

This product is incredibly fulfilling and yields immediate outcomes. If you are striving for “glass skin,” you should look into this. It literally makes you glow and is all about giving yourself a really mild exfoliation and intense hydration boost. Almond milk, 23 percent emollients, and lipo-hydroxy acid, a derivative of salicylic acid, are combined in a dual-phase composition for the peel. When you mix it up, the ingredients combine to clear blocked pores and remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, leaving the skin looking radiant and hydrated. 

AESOP PURIFYING FACIAL EXFOLIANT PASTE

Aesop’s purifying face exfoliator paste is definitely worth keeping in your cupboard because it combines the benefits of manual exfoliation with chemical components for fast velvety soft results. Fine quartz and lactic acid are added to the cream-based washing recipe to help exfoliate dead skin cells, and the fine-grain textured paste evens and smoothes your face. It’s easy to apply: just give your face and neck a gentle massage twice a week. A little goes a long way, which is great given the price, and the subtle earthy aroma appeals to a lot of consumers.

DR BARBARA STURM FACIAL SCRUB

Benefits of this refining facial peel from DR. Barbara includes anti-aging and cell renewal. The scrub buffs away at dry, flaky skin as the chemical components work to soften your complexion. It’s an excellent choice for people who steer clear of more physically demanding scrubs. The mild product, which dispenses as a thick cream with fine grains and leaves skin soft and soothed without causing irritation, is easy to wash off. 

REN CLEAN SKINCARE READY STEADY GLOW AHA TONIC

For years, REN’s ready steady glow tonic has been a beloved mainstay in our skincare routine, living up to its cult status. The non-invasive exfoliating mix includes salicin to soothe, lactic acid to exfoliate dead skin cells, and a combination of AHAs and BHAs to refine skin. REN’s toner is made for everyday use and fits into your evening routine with ease. It applies smoothly with a cotton pad. It not only makes your face look cleaner at the end of the day, but it also makes your skin look younger.

KATE SOMERVILLE EXFOLIKATE INTENSIVE EXFOLIATING TREATMENT

For good cause, Kate Somerville’s exfolikate is a cult favorite. The dual-action exfoliant provides brightness at home by utilizing both chemical and physical components. The lotion uses natural alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, and enzymes from papaya, pineapple, and pumpkin to gently exfoliate dull skin. Rosewood and cinnamon extracts work together to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while a calming combination of aloe vera, antioxidant vitamin E, and honey works to relieve any irritation. When applying the cream to your face, there is a tiny tingling sensation at first, but the effects are an unmatched radiance.

CHARLOTTE TILBURY SUPER RADIANCE RESURFACING FACIAL

Two years ago, Charlotte Tilbury’s first exfoliation product was released, and it did not let down. This dual-purpose product promises to give skin the instant glow that comes from a spa facial at home. It does this by exfoliating and resurfacing the skin. The treatment is meant to be used once a week, and it needs to be applied evenly and kept on the skin for up to 20 minutes. Charlotte Tilbury’s mask exfoliator dried swiftly and wasn’t sticky like some other mask exfoliators.

MURAD VITAMIN C EXFOLIATING FACIAL

Murad’s triple-action exfoliating facial with vitamin C is designed to revitalize skin by combining physical, chemical, and enzymatic techniques for remarkable outcomes. Enzymes work toward radiance, micro-mineral exfoliants manually remove dead surface cells to significantly smooth skin, and vitamin C supports healthier-looking, brighter skin. Glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids complete the trifecta by brightening and cleansing pores.

AVEENO POSITIVELY RADIANT SKIN BRIGHTENING EXFOLIATING DAILY SCRUB

This inexpensive scrub does a great job cleaning. Microbeads softly polish skin while soy extract helps to moisturize and brighten. For acne-prone skin types, it’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and it’s oil-free, so there’s no need to worry about outbreaks.

BOSCIA EXFOLIATING PEEL GEL

This cool peeling gel exfoliator uses both chemical and physical means. Because the formula’s molecules really join together as you apply it, it helps remove debris and dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. Buffing is a unique pampering sensation that will make your skin ball up. Then, much deeper, alpha-hydroxy acids from different fruits truly remove bacteria or oil. Even skin types that are sensitive will benefit greatly from it because of the combination of calming botanicals and the absence of preservatives.

M-61 BY BLUEMERCURY POWERGLOW PEEL

This one-step peel uses a combination of salicylic and glycolic acids to tighten pores and remove dead skin cells. It’s great if you’re having trouble with breakouts because it also helps to enhance the texture and tone of your skin. Additionally, chamomile and lavender are added to the pre-soaked wipes to reduce redness and irritation. Please be aware that it could take some time to become used to it. To prevent peeling or dryness as your skin adjusts, start by applying them three times a week before bed and lather on your favorite moisturizer. If your skin is sensitive, cut back or, once your skin is able to tolerate it, use every day.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Sunscreen use and daily washing are essential for healthy skin practices. However, exfoliation may be the unsung hero of any skincare regimen. Why? Even though dead skin cells are naturally shed by the skin, this process isn’t always successful. Allowing those dead cells to remain and build up can lead to a host of issues with the complexion, including hyperpigmentation, flaky spots, dullness, clogged pores, and more obvious fine wrinkles. To address these concerns, exfoliating can assist in hastening the skin’s turnover process. Check out our list for clear, luminous skin.