We are constantly using makeup brushes to highlight and contour our faces. That's why it's vital to keep them clean and disinfected.

According to Korean makeup artists cleaning beauty tools once a month isn't enough. It's recommended to wash them more often to prevent bacteria and dirt from buildup, resulting in breakouts and infections.

Here is what you need to learn about cleaning your makeup tools.

When to Clean Your Makeup Tools

Korean makeup artists recommend washing your beauty tools once a week. Since most of us use makeup brushes every day, it's imperative to keep them sanitized to prevent skin issues.

For people with oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin, it's best to wash them twice weekly or even daily, depending on your skin type.

Keep in mind that if you're sharing beauty tools, it's vital to wash them thoroughly before and after each makeup application.

Korean makeup professionals who constantly contour, paint, and highlight different faces always clean their tools before a new customer. Additionally, they always have three or more sets of their preferred brushes with them.

Suppose you're using a foundation like MOONSHOT Micro Setting Fit Cushion SPF50+ PA+++. In that case, it's vital to keep the sponge clean after every use. A dirty and wet cushion is the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, causing breakouts.

After each use, it's also wise to wash sponges and brushes used with liquid beauty products like concealers and foundations. Allow them to air dry so they're ready for the next application.

Makeup artists recommend washing once or twice weekly brushes used with powders, such as blushes like ETUDE HOUSE Lovely Cookie Blusher.

4 Easy Steps to Wash Your Makeup Brushes

Follow these four steps to wash your makeup brushes effectively.

1. Apply a drop of shampoo into a glass full of warm water
2. Gently move the beauty brushes in the water and with your fingers remove the buildup makeup product from the bristles.
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and cautiously press the strands in a towel to squeeze the water out
4. Place the makeup brushes on a flat surface to dry

If you don't have a brush cleaner shampoo, you can use your favorite face cleanser, such as SULWHASOO Gentle Cleansing Foam. You can also use makeup-cleansing wipes to clean each brush when you're short in time.

It's also possible to use a dishwashing soap for emergency occasions. When using dishwashing soap, make sure to remove all the cleanser to prevent skin irritation.

Cleaning your beauty tools take less than a minute, but you might need to wait a couple of hours to air-dry.

Please note it's not a brilliant idea to place your beauty tools in the washing machine as the heat can remove the glue that keeps the brush together. So follow the above recommendations to make your makeup brushes last longer.

Lastly, if you want to disinfect your makeup brushes, you can rub or spray alcohol at least once every thirty days. If you're a makeup professional, it's imperative to sanitize your tools between customers.

Know When to Replace Your Makeup Tools

You can safely use typical microbial-resistant makeup sponges and cushions for approximately four months. Remember to clean them at least once a week to prevent bacteria from forming.

One of the primary benefits of cleaning and sanitizing your makeup brushes is that they last longer. But it's imperative not to ignore the signs that tell you they're no longer in good shape.

Replace your makeup brushes once the bristles start to fall. If your beauty tools lose their form, it's time to throw them away.

According to Korean makeup artists, using the proper tools is as vital as using top-quality makeup products. If the brushes become too tense or flatten, they can't perform an adequate job.

Remember, beauty tools like sponges and brushes invite bacteria, dead skin cells, and dirt. It's suggested to be attentive about replacing them often. A terrific method to remind yourself to renew is to change your beauty tools every four months, as soon as the season changes.

Finally, make sure to store your beauty tools properly. Avoid keeping them crowded in a makeup bag for a long time. Having a makeup organiser is all you require to keep your makeup tools in good shape.