Listen up, all you make-up fanatics! Your makeup brushes require cleaning just as much as any other utensils that go on your face so, cleaning make-up should be definitely on your to-do list.

Before jumping into why cleaning your brushes is so necessary and why it shouldn’t be taken lightly,  we’re breaking down all you need to know about cleaning your make-up brushes.

The Science Behind Make-Up Brushes

Your make-up brushes offer a perfect home for bacteria build-up if they are not cleaned and stored properly.

First and foremost, your make-up brushes are in full-on contact with your skin. Any bacteria or dust build-up that is lying on the brush is easily transferred onto your skin, leading to breakout and bumps that requires extra attention to get rid of.

Secondly, make-up brushes are designed to hold any product it comes into contact with. The make-up product you use does not entirely blend into your skin. The little that stays on the brush can become the cause for skin irritation, breakouts, and in some cases, infections.

When to Wash Make-Up Brushes

Many artists believe that brushes should be washed once a week but, your usage also defines this number. The idea is that the more you use them, the more chances of it being dirty.

So, if you rarely use your brushes and keep them in a clean environment, you can probably push out a few more days. However, for people doing makeup for a living or those fond of blaming up on the daily, it is necessary to clean brushes often.

Know When to Let Go

Getting rid of makeup brushes can be painful at times, given the fact that you have to invest a hefty amount to get good ones. But, despite the sadness, you need to know when to let go. Makeup brushes have an expiry date as well, but again, that depends upon your usage.

If you use your brushes often, you’ll start to notice them losing their filament or developing an unusual scent – that’s when you know that it’s time to bid them farewell. However, if you use your brushes occasionally or rarely, you do not need to replace them after a few months. With proper care, you can even use them for years.

So what are you waiting for? Grab some baby shampoo and your brushes, and it’s time to clean.