Makeup brushes are essential tools for applying products smoothly and achieving a flawless look. However, if not cleaned regularly, they can become breeding grounds for bacteria, dirt, and leftover makeup residue, potentially leading to skin problems such as acne or rashes.
According to dermatologists, cleaning your makeup brushes every 7-10 days is crucial to maintaining healthy skin and extending the life of your brushes. In this blog, we will provide a detailed guide on how to properly clean your makeup brushes and showcase the top 10 makeup brush kits for this autumn, including product details such as materials, benefits, and prices.
How to Properly Clean Makeup Brushes
Dirty makeup brushes can harbor bacteria, old makeup, and skin oils, which may cause breakouts and skin irritation. Cleaning your brushes correctly is essential for both hygiene and ensuring smooth, even makeup application. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Rinse Brush Tips
Start by rinsing only the tips of your brushes under lukewarm water. Avoid wetting the area where the brush head meets the handle, as this can loosen the glue over time. This step removes the majority of leftover product and preps the brush for washing.
2. Prepare Soapy Water
In a small bowl, mix lukewarm water with 1-2 teaspoons of a gentle shampoo or a dedicated brush cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps that can dry out bristles. Some people prefer using baby shampoo or a sulfate-free clarifying shampoo to ensure softness.
3. Lather and Clean
Swirl each brush tip in the soapy water, or gently massage the brush against the palm of your hand. This helps break up any remaining makeup and product build-up. Be sure to work the product thoroughly into the bristles without being too rough.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
Once you’ve cleaned the brush, rinse the bristles under running water until all soap is removed, and the water runs clear. Leaving soap in the brush can irritate when the brush comes into contact with your skin.
5. Dry the Brushes
Squeeze out excess water using a clean paper towel. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bristles. Lay the brushes flat on a towel with the bristles hanging off the edge to air dry. Never dry brushes upright as water can seep into the ferrule (the metal part), loosening the glue.
6. Maintenance Tips
To prolong the life of your brushes, avoid sharing them with others, as this can transfer bacteria. Regular cleaning also prevents the build-up of harmful substances that can affect the performance of the brush.
Cleaning your makeup brushes frequently will not only help protect your skin but also ensure that your makeup products apply smoothly and last longer on your face.
Related: One Red Lipstick, Seven Halloween Makeup Looks to Try This Year
Top 10 Makeup Brush Kits for This Autumn
When investing in a makeup brush kit, it’s essential to choose high-quality tools that suit your makeup routine. We’ve rounded up the top makeup brush kits for this autumn, featuring a range of materials, brush types, and price points to suit every need.
1. Real Techniques Au Naturale Brush Kit – 9 Piece Set
- Price: £23.95
- Materials: Synthetic bristles
- Benefits: This affordable kit includes nine essential brushes for both face and eyes, perfect for beginners and pros alike. The set covers everything from powder application to precise eyeliner, ensuring a complete makeup routine.
- Why You’ll Love It: Real Techniques is known for its high-quality synthetic bristles that are soft on the skin and easy to clean, making them an excellent option for daily use.
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2. Sigma Essential Brush Kit
- Price: £157.80
- Materials: Synthetic fibers
- Benefits: This premium 12-piece kit includes a variety of brushes for both face and eyes, offering professional-grade tools for blending, shading, and contouring.
- Why You’ll Love It: Sigma’s brushes are highly durable, offering long-lasting quality for frequent use. Their synthetic fibers mimic natural hair, providing a soft feel while being cruelty-free.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Sigma Beauty >>>> HERE <<<<
3. Morphe Eye Obsessed 12-Piece Eye Brush Collection + Bag
- Price: £29
- Materials: Mixed synthetic and natural bristles
- Benefits: Specializing in eye makeup, this kit offers 12 brushes designed for precise blending, packing color, and smudging.
- Why You’ll Love It: Morphe’s affordable and extensive range of eye brushes makes it perfect for makeup lovers who enjoy experimenting with different eye looks.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Morphe >>>> HERE <<<<
4. Hourglass Vegan Travel Brush Set
- Price: £325
- Materials: Synthetic bristles
- Benefits: This luxurious travel kit includes seven essential brushes for face and eyes, all housed in a sleek travel case. The brushes are soft and dense, making them ideal for high-performance makeup application.
- Why You’ll Love It: Hourglass is known for its commitment to vegan and cruelty-free products, and this set offers top-tier quality for those who value sustainability in beauty.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Hourglass Cosmetics >>>> HERE <<<<
5. Bobbi Brown x Harrods Make-Up Brush Set
- Price: £145
- Materials: Synthetic fibers
- Benefits: A high-end brush set designed for flawless face and eye makeup, including brushes for powder, concealer, liner, and blush. The set comes in a chic carrying case.
- Why You’ll Love It: Bobbi Brown’s brushes are crafted for precision and performance, making them a go-to for achieving a polished, professional makeup look.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Bobbi Brown >>>> HERE <<<<
6. Zoeva The Artist Brush Set
- Price: £150
- Materials: Synthetic bristles
- Benefits: Featuring 15 brushes, this set is a must-have for makeup enthusiasts who need tools for both face and eyes. The collection includes brushes for foundation, concealer, blush, and eyeshadow.
- Why You’ll Love It: Zoeva’s brushes offer premium quality at a mid-range price, and they come in a sleek pouch for easy storage and travel.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Zoeva >>>> HERE <<<<
7. Vieve The Full Expression 14-Brush Set
- Price: £250
- Materials: Synthetic bristles
- Benefits: A comprehensive 14-brush set that includes tools for highlighting, blush, eyeshadow, lips, and brows.
- Why You’ll Love It: This set is perfect for creating versatile makeup looks, and the synthetic bristles are soft yet firm enough for detailed work.
8. SPECTRUM COLLECTION Sculpt Brush & Tube Bag
- Price: £195
- Materials: Synthetic fibers
- Benefits: With 30 brushes and a stylish bag, this collection covers all your makeup needs, from foundation and contouring to detailed eye work.
- Why You’ll Love It: The SPECTRUM collection offers great variety and quality for professional makeup artists or makeup lovers looking to upgrade their kit.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Spectrum Collections >>>> HERE <<<<
9. SEPHORA COLLECTION The Face Brush Set
- Price: £34.99
- Materials: Synthetic fibers
- Benefits: This five-piece face brush set includes tools for foundation, powder, blush, and bronzer, making it ideal for anyone focused on achieving a flawless base.
- Why You’ll Love It: The SEPHORA COLLECTION is known for its high-quality brushes at an affordable price, making it a great option for everyday makeup users.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Sephora >>>> HERE <<<<
10. BOBBI BROWN x Harrods Make-Up Brush Set
- Price: £145
- Materials: Synthetic fibers
- Benefits: Another luxurious offering from Bobbi Brown, this set of seven brushes includes everything needed for a complete makeup routine, from face powder to eyeliner.
- Why You’ll Love It: With its chic design and top-notch performance, this set is perfect for anyone looking to invest in high-quality makeup tools.
Check out other available hot promo coupons at Harrods >>>> HERE <<<<
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your makeup brushes is a crucial step in maintaining healthy skin and ensuring flawless makeup application. By following the proper cleaning techniques and investing in high-quality brushes, you can protect your skin from bacteria and achieve beautiful makeup results. This autumn, treat yourself to one of these top makeup brush kits, all of which offer excellent quality, performance, and durability.
For those who are new to makeup or looking to upgrade their tools, our curated selection covers a range of prices and styles, ensuring that everyone can find a set that suits their needs. From the affordable Real Techniques set to the luxurious Hourglass Vegan Travel Kit, these options will help you achieve professional-level makeup application while caring for your skin and brushes.
