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ELLE Edit: 10 Of The Best Make-Up Brush Cleaners
Plus, exactly how to disinfect your kit like a pro
Ask a room of beauty editors whether they clean their make-up brushes every month and, of course, you’ll hear nothing but a resounding 'yes'. (Some of us might be lying, but we'll never admit it.) Ask us how we clean their favourite tools, however, and you’ll likely receive a bunch of different responses.
While techniques may vary, what we do know is that cleaning your make-up brushes is a dull yet important job. 'Product build-up on brushes can cause skin problems and infections, and can also clog up the bristles and make application really hard,' says make-up artist Mira Parmar. 'Washing your brushes regularly keeps them hygienic, ensuring they last as long as possible, and helps you to achieve flawless looks too.'
The best way to clean your make-up brushes
Yes, keeping make-up brushes free from oil and bacteria is non-negotiable, but there are many ways to approach the task. Some swear by a tried-and-tested cleansing liquid, while others prefer a travel-friendly solid balm. Pump-action bottles are loved for their fast and easy appeal, while the latest make-up brush cleaning machines (what a time to be alive) will do a satisfyingly thorough job of that foundation brush you've been using since last summer.
To get the best results from your makeup brush cleaner, take a few tips from the pros. When rinsing your brushes, be sure to hold them downwards to avoid water seeping into the ferrule (the metal section at the base of the bristles). If this section becomes damp, you might end up with shedding strands. Once your brush is thoroughly cleansed, gently squeeze out excess moisture with a clean towel, before re-forming the bristles into their original shape and letting them air-dry – the best approach is to leave them hanging off the edge of a counter.
In our time, we’ve tested millions (possibly) of make-up brush cleaners, so we’re pretty well versed in which ones really hit the mark. Here, discover the ones we purchase on repeat.
The 10 best make-up brush cleaners
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