JACKS beauty line Brush Soap und Make-up Pinsel
JACKS beauty line Brush Soap und Make-up Pinsel

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Cleaning Make-up Brushes: Instructions and Tips

Optimal cleaning is the foundation for well-maintained Make-up brushes and essential for their longevity. Additionally, regular deep cleaning of the brush hairs ensures better performance of the brushes and prevents skin impurities. In this article, you will learn how to hygienically clean and care for your brushes.

by Julia Döll – last updated on 12. February 2026

Why Make-up Brush Cleaning Is Important

Hygiene is the foundation for beautiful and even skin when dealing with Make-up and our skin in general. The reason is simple: we use our Make-up brushes to apply, for example, foundation. Small product residues remain trapped in the brush hairs. Additionally, microscopic skin flakes come off our face during application, which also end up in the brush. This leads to bacteria and germs, which we then spread on our skin during the next application. And this is where the danger lies, as these bacteria can cause small inflammations on our skin, which appear as pimples and blemishes.

How often should you clean Make-up brushes?

To keep your Make-up brushes hygienically clean and preserve their soft bristles for a long time, we recommend regular cleaning. It's best to mark an appointment in your calendar, for example every Sunday, or keep the Brush Soap within reach so you are reminded regularly.

What do I need for a gentle Make-up brushes cleaning?

To properly clean your Make-up brushes, you only need a few carefully selected tools. For gentle cleaning, you should use products and materials that do not damage the bristles and extend the lifespan of your brushes. You should have the following ready:

  • Mild cleanser: Gentle brush cleaners or a mild shampoo are especially suitable for brushes. A solid brush soap with gentle ingredients is particularly practical. It thoroughly removes Make-up residue, cares for the bristles, and is especially economical.
  • Lukewarm water: Hot water can loosen the glue points of the brushes and permanently damage the bristles.
  • Clean towel or paper towels: For gently patting the brushes dry after cleaning.
  • Optional: Silicone brush cleaning mat: It makes thorough cleaning easier by gently loosening dirt from the bristles.

With these simple aids, you can ensure that your Make-up brushes are cleaned gently, thoroughly, and hygienically.

Step-by-step guide: How to properly clean Make-up brushes

Step 1: Moisten brushes

Hold your Make-up brush with the bristles facing down under lukewarm water – not under hot water, as this could loosen the glue. Make sure only the bristles get wet – the brush handle should stay as dry as possible to avoid loosening the glue bond.

Step 2: Moisten brushes with soap

Gently move the damp brush head in circular motions over the solid soap until a soft lather forms.

Step 3: Deep cleaning with the silicone pad

Rub the soaped brushes in circular motions over the textured surface of the removable silicone pad in the lid. This deeply removes Make-up residue and dirt from the brush hairs.

Schritt 1-3 für die richtige Make-up Pinsel Reinigung (Mobile)
Schritt 1-3 für die richtige Make-up Pinsel Reinigung

Step 4: Check the foam and repeat if necessary

Check if there are still Make-up residues visible in the foam. If necessary, repeat the process until the foam remains clear.

Step 5: Rinse and let dry

Rinse the brushes under running water until no soap residue remains. Gently squeeze out excess water from the brush hairs and shape them slightly. Then lay the brush flat on a towel and let it air dry.

Do not dry your brush on the radiator or with a hairdryer – this damages the brush hairs. Also, make sure not to store your brushes damp in closed bags, as this can lead to mold.

Step 6: Clean the soap and silicone pad

Rinse the soap and the removable silicone pad under running water and let them air dry. This keeps your brush cleaning soap hygienically clean and ready to use.

Beauty expert tip: Squeeze your brush at the front. If soap is still visible, continue rinsing it under running water until no soap remains.

Important: Let your brush rest for a few hours until the brush hair is completely dry.

Done! Your brushes are now ready for the next use.

Schritt 4-6 für die richtige Make-up Pinsel Reinigung (Mobile)
Schritt 4-6 für die richtige Make-up Pinsel Reinigung

We hope this post has helped you and supports you in your daily beauty routine.

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