DIY: How to clean makeup brushes

Makeup without brushes is like coffee without a creamer or paper without a pen. While you can use your fingers to apply foundation or eyeshadow, flawless blending can only be achieved by using brushes.

Depending on the brand, makeup brushes can be quite pricey. Ergo, utmost care is of prime importance.

Brush  cleaners and shampoos are sold in drugstores and specialty stores. They clean, disinfect and prolong the life of your brushes. For reference, MAC is sold at  $12/ 233ml), Essence of Beauty at $5.99/4.2 oz, e.l.f at $3/8.5 oz

Do you know that you can use regular household items to clean your brushes? Here are simple ways you can try:

1. Baby shampoo or gentle face cleanser like Cetaphil. Mix 1 cup of warm water and 2-3 squirts of shampoo.  Baby shampoo is gentle to bristles, needless to day.

2. Dishwashing liquid. Mix 1 cup warm water with 2 tbsps of dishwashing liquid. This is effective especially in cleaning oil-based makeups.

3. Almond oil or olive oil + shampoo (or dishwashing liquid). Mix 3-4 tbsps of almond or olive oil and 2-3 squirts of shampoo or dishwashing liquid. Dip your brush in the mixture and swirl it in your palm. The almond or olive oil makes the bristles soft.

Regardless of the items you use, consider the following methods when cleaning your brushes:

1. Hold brushes head down under warm running water. Don't submerge your brushes in water.

2. When drying, use a clean towel to absorb excess water. Lay your brushes flat on paper towel or terry cloth to air dry. Don't use hair dryer or you risk destroying the bristles.

Let them air-dry, overnight at the most

Depending on how often you apply makeup, once a week cleaning is hygienic enough for your brushes. Recurring breakouts? Time to clean and disinfect your tools ladies!

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Caught Winkie hugging her toy monkey a.k.a Ebola in deep sleep