How Often Should You Replace Your Makeup Brushes?

Your makeup brush is one of the most important tools in your makeup kit. The sheer applications and effectiveness of the brush make it a must-have! But have you ever considered how often you should replace makeup brushes? Unfortunately, these brushes are notorious in the longevity department. You may find yourself replacing them very often. 

To learn more about how long do makeup brushes last, and what you can do to increase their life, continue reading! 

How Long Do Makeup Brushes Last?

Here’s a very simple and averaged-out answer to “how long do makeup brushes last”—about 1 to 3 years if properly maintained. The lifespan heavily varies based on usage, cleaning habits, and material. Brushes for powders like blush and eyeshadow may last longer than those for liquid products like foundation, which can trap more product and bacteria over time. However, it’s best not to use them after they’ve exceeded their lifespan. This can lead to a subpar experience!

What Are the Signs You Should Replace Your Makeup Brushes?

When considering how often you should replace makeup brushes, it’s important to be on the lookout for these major signs. Noticing any of them is a signal that your current makeup brush has outlived its usefulness.

1. Excessive Shedding: Shedding is a sign that the brush has degraded over time. Not only does shedding cause bristles to end up on your face, but it also reduces the brush’s effectiveness.
2. Poor Blending Performance: If a brush no longer provides smooth, even application, it may have lost its softness or density and should be replaced.
3. Loss Of Shape: Over time, brushes may lose their shape, making it difficult to control application and blend accurately.
4. Stains And Residue: Stubborn stains and residue can build up despite thorough cleaning, especially in brushes used for liquid or creamy products.
5. Physical Damage: Cracks in the handle or loose ferrules (the metal part connecting the bristles to the handle) are signs the brush may soon fall apart.

How To Care for Beauty Makeup Brushes?

Understanding how often to clean makeup brushes is as important as understanding how to effectively clean them! Remember, makeup brushes are delicate by design - this is how they allow for quality makeup application. Cleaning them must be equally delicate and purposeful. Here’s what you need to know…

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your makeup brushes at least once a week, especially for those used with liquids and creams, to remove product buildup, oils, and bacteria.
2. Proper Cleaning Technique: Use lukewarm water and a gentle brush cleanser. Avoid getting water above the ferrule, as this can weaken the glue holding the bristles.
3. Use Appropriate Cleaners: Mild soap or gentle brush shampoos are best for cleansing without damaging bristles. Avoid using alcohol-based cleaners unless necessary for disinfecting.
4. Drying Method: After washing, reshape the bristles and let the brushes dry flat on a towel. Drying them vertically can cause water to seep into the ferrule, weakening the brush.
5. Replacement Schedule: Replacing your makeup brushes every 1-3 years is generally recommended, but replace them sooner if any signs of wear or performance issues arise.

Conclusion

Makeup is an artform. To effectively apply makeup, and to reap the benefits of quality application, it’s essential to keep your makeup brushes in a high-performing state. This is why it’s absolutely important to consider how often makeup brushes should be replaced, which is, every 1 to 3 years! This practice is especially important for kids’ makeup brushes, which can harbour bacteria and potentially cause skin reactions.

This is precisely where Miss Nella comes in! The experts at Miss Nella have focused on developing fully kid-friendly and non-toxic makeup products. They realize the nuanced needs that both kids and parents have from makeup. As such, their products are tested to be safe for use with kids, and sensitive skin as a whole. Purchasing a new makeup brush from Miss Nella is thus one of the best and safest decisions you can make!

FAQs

1. How do you clean kids' makeup brushes?

Use a gentle, baby-safe soap and rinse with lukewarm water. Dry flat to maintain the bristles’ shape!

2. Do dirty makeup brushes cause any allergies?

Yes, dirty brushes can harbour bacteria, dust, and allergens that may lead to skin irritations or allergic reactions.

3. How to wash makeup brushes at home?

Use a gentle soap or brush cleanser, rinse under lukewarm water, and let them dry flat. Avoid soaking the ferrule to protect the brush structure.

4. How can I extend the life of my makeup brushes?

Clean brushes regularly, store them upright to avoid bending bristles, and keep them in a cool, dry area to avoid bacteria growth.

5. What should I look for when buying new makeup brushes for kids?

Look for brushes with soft, synthetic bristles and hypoallergenic materials designed for sensitive skin, such as Miss Nella's kid-friendly line.