how do makeup artists clean brushes between clients

Makeup artists have mastered the art of enhancing beauty through the stroke of their brushes. These brushes are their beloved tools that create stunning looks, but have you ever wondered how makeup artists keep them clean and impeccable between clients? It's crucial for both hygiene and performance reasons to maintain clean brushes. In this article, we will explore the various techniques and methods employed by professional makeup artists to ensure their brushes are always ready for the next client.

1. Importance of Clean Brushes

2. Basic Cleaning Techniques

3. Deep Cleaning Methods and Products

4. Makeup Artist's DIY Brush Cleaner

5. Storing and Drying Brushes

1. Importance of Clean Brushes

Before diving into the intricacies of brush cleaning techniques, it's essential to understand why keeping brushes clean is so important for makeup artists. Unclean brushes carry residual makeup, oils, and dead skin cells that can lead to acne breakouts, infections, and even skin irritations. Additionally, dirty brushes hinder the application process, resulting in uneven makeup distribution and undesirable outcomes. Maintaining clean brushes not only ensures the client's skin health but also plays a significant role in delivering flawless makeup application.

2. Basic Cleaning Techniques

Makeup artists employ some simple and quick cleaning techniques to remove excess product from the brushes between clients. One commonly used method includes spraying brush cleanser onto a tissue or a microfiber cloth and gently swirling the brush over it until all pigment residues are absorbed. The advantage of this technique is that it is fast, effective, and does not require water.

Another frequently used method is spot cleaning with a makeup brush cleaner. These cleaners come in a spray or liquid form that helps dissolve product buildup on brushes. Makeup artists use these cleaners by spritzing them directly onto the brush or onto a tissue/cloth, followed by gently wiping the brush in circular motions. Spot cleaning is ideal for quick touch-ups during makeup application, between clients or when using different shades.

3. Deep Cleaning Methods and Products

Deep cleaning is the process of thoroughly removing all product buildup, dirt, and bacteria from brushes. Makeup artists usually perform deep cleaning at the end of the day or when switching between clients with different makeup preferences. There are several deep cleaning methods, and artists often choose based on personal preference and available resources.

One common technique involves using mild clarifying or baby shampoos mixed with warm water. Makeup artists create a lather in the palm of their hand or small cleaning bowls and then swirl each brush gently in the mixture. They rinse the brushes under lukewarm water, repeatedly swirling them until the water runs clear. Afterward, brushes are gently squeezed to remove excess water, reshaped, and left to air dry on a clean towel.

Another popular method is using a brush cleansing mat or glove. These textured silicone mats or gloves have different surface patterns that effectively agitate the bristles of the brush, dislodging product buildup efficiently. Makeup artists apply a small amount of brush cleanser or shampoo onto the mat or glove, wet the brush, and then swirl it over the textured surface. This deep cleansing method provides a thorough clean and is particularly useful for denser brushes or brushes with stubborn product residues.

4. Makeup Artist's DIY Brush Cleaner

Sometimes, professional makeup artists like to create their own brush cleaners using easily accessible ingredients. One common DIY cleaner comprises equal parts of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. This homemade solution effectively eliminates bacteria, dries quickly, and evaporates without leaving residue. Makeup artists mix the solution and pour it into a spray bottle. After spraying the solution onto a tissue or cloth, they swivel the brush in circular motions until it's clean. This DIY option is especially handy for makeup artists who prefer alcohol-based cleaners.

5. Storing and Drying Brushes

Proper storage and drying of brushes are equally crucial to maintaining their hygiene. Makeup artists often place their cleaned and reshaped brushes on a brush holder or drying rack to air dry naturally. It's essential to avoid storing brushes vertically while damp, as water can seep into the handle and loosen the glue holding the bristles together.

For travel or immediate reuse, makeup artists often place their brushes in brush rolls or cases designed to keep them well-separated and protected. These storage solutions prevent bacteria transfer, maintain bristle shape, and ensure the longevity of the brushes.

In conclusion, the art of clean brushes is an indispensable part of a makeup artist's routine. Proper cleaning techniques, both basic and deep, play an essential role in ensuring optimal makeup application and maintaining the overall hygiene standards. By adhering to these techniques, makeup artists can guarantee the longevity and performance of their beloved brushes while delivering stunning looks to their clients.