Have you ever wondered how to clean an eyebrow brush properly? Knowing how to clean correctly is crucial for those of us who like to buy different kinds of eyebrow brushes since we know how to use various eyebrow brushes properly and for different purposes. Washing your brushes is essential for cleanliness and makeup performance. Clean brushes make makeup not only apply smoothly but evenly simultaneously. In contrast, dirty brushes can harbor bacteria that can irritate or infect the skin. This post will address different types of eyebrow brush bristles and how to clean them correctly without damaging them.
There are 10 types of eyebrow brushes available these days. All brushes need to be cleaned to avoid germs and dirt buildup. In the following sections, we’ll cover brush cleaning methods using different ingredients to stop harming your precious eyebrow brush. Cleaning your eyebrow brush can lengthen its life, improve makeup application, and preserve hygiene. Observe the cleaning schedule and avoid common storage mistakes to keep your brushes smooth, flexible, and bacteria-free.
So, let’s start with learning how to clean your eyebrow brush properly, so you can achieve flawless makeup looks while taking care of your skin and health.
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EYEBROW BRUSH BRISTLE TYPES
There are various types of eyebrow brushes with various brush bristles. However, the most common are synthetic, natural, or blended.
Nylon or polyester synthetic bristles are cheaper than natural ones. They also shed less and clean better. Yet, natural bristles may be more precise. Sable, goat, and pony hair make natural bristles. These soft, flexible bristles are perfect for blending and producing natural-looking brow strokes. They’re more expensive and demand more maintenance. Mixed-bristle or blended-bristled brushes benefit from synthetic and natural bristles. These brushes have natural bristles and synthetic precision. Yet, they may be harder to clean.
Your eyebrow brush bristles rely on your preferences and needs. Clean your brush regularly to maintain its quality and lifespan, regardless of bristles.
Though we have talked in detail about various eyebrow brush types and the right way of using them to get the highest benefit, we have summarized the info in the table below for your convenience. However, we strongly advise you to take a look into Various eyebrow Brush types to get a complete understanding of the 10 most popular eyebrow brushes and the right way of using those eyebrow brushes.
BRUSH TYPE | BRISTLE MATERIAL | SHAPE |
ANGLED BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Angled |
SPOOLIE BRUSH | Synthetic | Spiral |
DUAL-ENDED BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Varies |
POWDER BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Round |
PADDLE BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Flat |
PRECISION BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Pointed |
STRAIGHT BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Straight |
TAPERED BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Tapered |
ROUNDED BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Round |
FAN BRUSH | Synthetic or natural | Fan-shaped |
WHY CLEANING YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH IS IMPORTANT?
Cleaning your eyebrow brush may not be your top makeup priority. Nonetheless, brush cleaning is vital for various reasons. Let’s talk about those –
HEALTH BENEFITS
- AVOIDING SKIN AND EYE INFECTIONS: Dirty brushes can store bacteria and fungi. Regular brush cleaning prevents these illnesses and keeps skin healthy.
- LOWERING EYE AND SKIN IRRITATION: Dirty brushes expose skin and eyes to irritants and allergens. Frequent washing removes these particles and reduces inflammation.
- REDUCING THE SPREAD OF GERMS: Often times we need to share our eyebrows and other makeup brushes with friends and family, especially when traveling. Sharing your eyebrow brush with others might transfer germs and bacteria. Cleaning your brush after each use can keep you and others healthy.
MAKEUP APPLICATION BENEFITS
- APPLYING MAKEUP BETTER: Using a clean brush helps makeup go on easily and evenly, giving a beautiful finish.
- ENSURING A SMOOTHER APPLICATION: Dirty brushes can destroy your makeup look. Washing your brush often helps you apply it evenly.
- REDUCING THE NEED FOR TOUCH-UPS: If your makeup is uneven or patchy, apply more or touch it up throughout the day. A clean brush can prevent this, saving time and effort.
LONG-TERM BRUSH MAINTENANCE BENEFITS
- PROLONGING THE BRUSH LIFE: Frequent cleaning can extend your brush’s life, saving you money.
- MAINTAINING THE SOFTNESS AND FLEXIBILITY OF THE BRUSH: Dirty brushes stiffen, making makeup applications more challenging. Cleansing your brush keeps the bristles fresh and flexible, improving makeup application.
- AVOIDING DAMAGE TO THE BRUSH HANDLE: Makeup and debris on the brush handle might harm or fragile it if you don’t clean it regularly. Cleaning your brush after each use can prevent this damage and maintain its quality.
WHEN TO CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH
Maintaining performance and safety requires cleaning your eyebrow brush. Of course, It’s not always easy to detect whether your eyebrow brush needs cleaning, but here are some signs –
- VISIBLE DIRT, DEBRIS, or BUILDUP ON THE BRISTLES: If your brush has buildup, clean it. Buildup can block pores and make makeup uneven.
- UNPLEASANT SMELL FROM THE BRUSH: If your brush smells bad, bacteria has grown on the bristles. So, clean it.
- DISCOLORATION or STAINING OF THE BRISTLES: If your brush is stained, clean it. Stains on bristles might impact makeup color and quality.
HOW OFTEN TO CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH
How often you clean your eyebrow brush depends on how often you use it, what beauty items you are using with it, and where to be specific, you store your eyebrow brushes. To avoid bacteria, grease, and debris on the bristles, It’s recommended to clean your brush after each use.
However, you may need to clean some brushes more often, such as spoolie brushes used to sculpt eyebrows. Spoolie brushes directly touch the skin and hair around the eyes, making them more contaminated.
Here is a recommended cleaning schedule for different types of eyebrow brushes:
- Spoolie Brush: After every use
- Precision Brush: Every 2-3 uses
- Tapered Brush: Every 2-3 uses
- Rounded Brush: Every 2-3 uses
- Angled Brush: Every 2-3 uses
- Straight Brush: Every 2-3 uses
- Dual-Ended Brush: Every 2-3 uses
- Paddle Brush: Every 2-3 uses
- Powder Brush: Every 1-2 weeks
- Fan Brush: Every 1-2 weeks
These are general guidelines; adjust your cleaning frequency according to your usage and preferences.
HOW TO CLEAN EYEBROW BRUSH
Clean your eyebrow brush in a few easy steps. These are some popular ways to clean your eyebrow brush, along with the materials and instructions.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH USING BRUSH CLEANER SOLUTION
Brush cleaners break down makeup residue and sanitize brush bristles, making them ideal eyebrow brush cleaners.
- THINGS YOU NEED –
- Brush cleaner solution
- A clean cloth or paper towel
- A small bowl or cup
- Water
- STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW –
1st STEP – First, pour some brush cleaner solution into a small bowl or cup.
2nd STEP – Then, Dip your eyebrow brush into the solution, making sure to coat the bristles thoroughly.
3rd STEP – Gently swirl the brush in the solution for a few seconds to help break down any remaining makeup.
4th STEP – Rinse the brush under warm water, using your fingers to massage the bristles, and remove any remaining residue gently.
5th STEP – Pat the brush dry with a clean cloth or paper towel, reshaping the bristles as needed.
6th STEP – Finally, leave the brush to air dry completely before using it again.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH USING OLIVE OIL or BABY SHAMPOO
Olive oil or baby shampoo can help to break down makeup residue and dirt on your eyebrow brush, leaving it clean and soft.
- THINGS YOU NEED –
- Some baby shampoo or Olive oil
- A paper towel or clean cloth
- Water
- A small cup or bowl
- STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW –
1st STEP – Fill a bowl or cup with olive oil or baby shampoo.
2nd STEP – Next, coat your eyebrow brush thoroughly with the solution.
3rd STEP – To remove makeup, gently swirl the brush in the solution.
4th STEP – Gently rub the bristles under warm water to remove any residue.
5th STEP – Dry the brush and reshape the bristles with a clean cloth or paper towel.
6th STEP – Finally, let the brush dry in the air thoroughly before using it.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH USING WARM WATER
Warm water can help loosen up makeup residue and dirt on your eyebrow brush, making removing it easier.
- THINGS YOU NEED –
- Warm water
- A clean cloth or paper towel
- STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW –
1st STEP – First, hold your eyebrow brush under running warm water and let the water pour over the bristles.
2nd STEP – To remove makeup, gently massage the bristles using your fingers.
3rd STEP – Rinse the brush under running water thoroughly.
4th STEP – Dry the brush and reshape the bristles with a clean cloth or paper towel.
5th STEP – Finally, before using, let the brush dry thoroughly.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH USING BRUSH VINEGAR SOLUTION
Vinegar solution disinfects and dissolves makeup residue on eyebrow brushes.
- THINGS YOU NEED –
- White vinegar
- Small bowl or cup
- Clean towel or paper towel
- STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW –
1st STEP – First, combine equal amounts of white vinegar and water in a small bowl or cup.
2nd STEP – Then, coat the brush with the solution.
3rd STEP – Next, work the solution into the bristles by massaging them.
4th STEP – Rinse the brush under running water to eliminate all vinegar solution.
5th STEP – Use your fingers to squeeze the brush to get rid of any extra water.
6th STEP – Finally, before using it again, lay the brush flat on a towel or paper towel to dry.
HOW TO CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH USING SOAP & WATER
Soap removes grime, grease, and makeup from eyebrow brush bristles. It kills brush bacteria and germs.
- THINGS YOU NEED –
- Mild soap or baby shampoo
- Warm water
- Clean towel or paper towel
- STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW –
1st STEP – Using warm water, wet your eyebrow brush. The brush bristles might be damaged by hot water.
2nd STEP – Apply a small amount of mild soap or baby shampoo to the bristles of the brush.
3rd STEP – Carefully massage the brush bristles with soap to remove grime, oil, and makeup.
4th STEP – Next, rinse the brush thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap.
5th STEP – Squeeze excess water from the brush bristles without tugging or pulling.
6th STEP – Carefully realign the brush bristles with your fingers.
7th STEP – Finally, air dry the brush on paper towels. Avoid contacting surfaces with the bristles to avoid deforming them.
HOW TO STORE YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH
Proper eyebrow brush storage keeps it clean and in good shape. Here are some tips to help you store your brush correctly:
PROPER BRUSH STORAGE TIPS
- USING A BRUSH HOLDER or ORGANIZER – Brush holders are useful for organizing and accessing brushes. It can also prevent bristle and handle damage from brushes left out.
- STORING BRUSHES UPRIGHT – To protect bristles, store brushes upright. This keeps the brush head dry and prevents mold and bacteria growth.
- KEEPING BRUSHES SEPARATE – Avoid storing different types of brushes together, as this can cause damage to the bristles or handle. It is best to keep each brush type in its own holder or compartment.
- KEEPING BRUSHES COVERED – Keeping different brushes together might damage the bristles or handle. Each brush type should have its own holder.
AVOIDING COMMON STORAGE MISTAKES
- LEAVING THE BRUSH IN A DAMP or HUMID ENVIRONMENT: Moisture damages bristles, and handles and promotes mold and bacteria growth. Keep brushes out of bathrooms and other damp places.
- STORING THE BRUSH IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT or HEAT: Heat and sunlight can brittle bristles and ruin the handle. Keep brushes out of direct sunshine and heat.
- SHARING BRUSHES WITH OTHERS – Sharing brushes spreads infectious bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Avoid sharing brushes.
TRAVELING WITH YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH
- HOW TO PACK AND PROTECT YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH WHEN TRAVELING – Traveling with your brush requires protection. To protect the bristles, put them in a case or wrap them in tissue paper.
- TIPS FOR CLEANING YOUR BRUSH WHILE ON THE GO – Even when traveling, keep your brush clean. Travel with a travel-size brush cleaning or baby shampoo. A tiny plastic bag can protect your brush from dust and dirt when not in use.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH
As bristles tear, shed, or lose shape, replace your brush. After several months of frequent use, this usually happens. Replace your brush if you see the damage.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY EYEBROW BRUSH?
Replace your eyebrow brush every 3–6 months or when the bristles fray, shed, or lose shape. If you can see the damage, you should buy a new brush.
CAN I CLEAN MY EYEBROW BRUSH WITH JUST WATER?
Water doesn’t deep clean brushes but can remove some makeup and debris. Use brush cleaner or shampoo to effectively deep clean your brush.
HOW TO DEEP CLEAN YOUR EYEBROW BRUSH
Deep cleaning Your brush removes tenacious makeup, grime, and oils over time. A mild shampoo and conditioner can deep clean your brush. Here are the steps to deep clean your brush:
- THINGS YOU NEED –
- Gentle cleanser or shampoo
- Conditioner
- Warm water
- Towel
- STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW –
1st STEP – Wet the bristles of your brush under warm running water.
2nd STEP – Put a little shampoo or cleaner on the bristles, avoiding the handle.
3rd STEP – Next, use your fingertips to lather the bristles.
4th STEP – Then, Rinse your brush thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap.
5th STEP – Now, use your fingers to massage conditioner into the bristles.
6th STEP – Rinse the brush again under warm water to remove all conditioner.
7th STEP – Squeeze excess water from the brush and realign the bristles.
8th STEP – Finally, before using it again, lay your brush flat on a clean cloth to dry.
HOW DO I CLEAN A SPOOLIE BRUSH?
Spoolie brushes are used to groom and shape eyebrows, and they can be easily cleaned with the following steps:
- THINGS YOU NEED –
- Brush cleaner or gentle shampoo
- Warm water
- Towel
- STEPS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW –
1st STEP – Wet the bristles of your spoolie brush under warm running water.
2nd STEP – Use a tiny bit of brush cleaning or shampoo.
3rd STEP – Use your fingers to lather the cleanser.
4th STEP – Rinse the brush with warm water to remove all cleaner.
5th STEP – Squeeze excess water from the brush and realign the bristles.
6th STEP – Before using it again, lay the brush flat on a clean cloth to dry.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Finally, cleaning your eyebrow brush is vital for healthy skin and flawless makeup. Use the correct tools and cleaning methods to prevent bacteria growth and maintain your brushes. Proper cleaning and storage can prolong brush life and save money. If possible, before every usage, clean your brushes carefully and let them dry. Understanding when to change brushes can also prevent skin irritation and other health issues.
Hope this eyebrow brush cleaning and storage guide has helped you to a great extent. See our other eyebrow makeup blog topics, like how to brush your eyebrows properly. Subscribe to our weekly email since this can keep you up to date on various helpful makeup tips and tricks. And finally, share this blog with friends and family to also inform them of the right way of cleaning their eyebrow brushes. Thanks for visiting!