Makeup brushes are an essential part of makeup tools. Whether it's a foundation brush, eyeshadow brush, blush brush, or other types of brushes, their quality and cleanliness directly affect the makeup results.

However, many people often neglect the maintenance and cleaning of makeup brushes, which can shorten their lifespan, decrease their effectiveness, and even have negative effects on skin health.

Below, we'll discuss how to properly maintain makeup brushes in detail from three aspects: cleaning, storage, and replacement.

1. Cleaning

Makeup brushes collect skin oils, makeup residue, bacteria, and dust, so regular cleaning is very important. Generally, it is recommended to clean makeup brushes once a week, but the specific frequency can be adjusted based on usage. If you use makeup brushes daily, it's best to clean them weekly; if the frequency of use is lower, cleaning them every two weeks or monthly is acceptable.

2. Preservation

The way makeup brushes are preserved also significantly affects their lifespan. Proper preservation can prevent bristles from deforming, dust collection, and bacteria growth. So, what are the best ways to store brushes?

-Avoid Humid Environments: Makeup brushes should be stored in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms or other humid environments, as moisture can lead to bacterial growth and sticky brush handles.

-Use Brush Covers or Holders: Storing brushes in a brush cover or dedicated brush holder can prevent bristle deformation and avoid dust accumulation.

-Regular Sorting and Inspection: Regularly check your makeup brushes to ensure that the bristles are not broken and the handles are not loose or cracked. The brushes should be replaced or repaired promptly.

3. Replacement

Although makeup brushes are not "cosmetics" in the traditional sense, they do have a certain lifespan. Even with proper cleaning and maintenance to extend their use, makeup brushes will eventually need replacement due to wear and tear. The lifespan of makeup brushes is affected by the following factors:

-Bristle Material: Natural hair and synthetic fibres each have their pros and cons. Brushes made of natural hair are generally softer and fluffier than those made of synthetic fibres, making them suitable for powder products but also more prone to wear and shedding. Synthetic fibre brushes are more durable and easier to clean, making them ideal for liquid and cream products.

-Frequency of Use: Brushes that are used frequently will wear out faster and require more frequent replacement. For makeup brushes used daily, such as foundation brushes or blush brushes, it is recommended to replace them every 6 to 12 months.

-Cleaning Frequency and Method: Proper cleaning methods and frequency can extend the lifespan of makeup brushes, but over-cleaning or using inappropriate cleaners may accelerate the ageing and shedding of bristles.

Signs that indicate it's time to replace a makeup brush:

-Severe Bristle Shedding: If the bristles shed heavily during cleaning or use, it indicates that the brush has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced.

-Deformation: If the bristles have become deformed and cannot return to their original shape, you should consider replacing the brush. A deformed brush will affect makeup application and make it difficult to apply products precisely.

-Odour: If the brush still has an odour after cleaning, it could indicate that bacteria have grown inside the brush, and it should be replaced immediately.

4. Do Makeup Brushes "Expire"?

Makeup brushes do not have a fixed expiration date, as they are not cosmetics or food. However, makeup brushes that are not cleaned regularly can harbour bacteria, which may cause skin problems such as acne, allergies, and other skin infections. In this sense, makeup brushes do indeed "expire," especially when they become damaged, are difficult to clean thoroughly, or start to negatively affect the skin.

Cleaning, storing, and replacing makeup brushes are key steps to ensure their good condition and effectiveness. Regular cleaning and proper storage of makeup brushes not only extend their lifespan but also reduce the risk of skin problems.

While makeup brushes do not have a fixed expiration date, they should be replaced promptly when they show obvious damage or pose a threat to skin health. By mastering the correct maintenance methods, you can keep your makeup brushes in the best condition for daily use.