How often should you clean makeup brushes?
For concealer and foundation brushes, at least once a week to prevent a buildup of product. And because these brushes are used on your face, the cleaner, the better. Brushes that are used around the eyes should be cleaned at least twice a month, while all others can be washed once a month.
How do you do it?
The best and most thorough method for cleaning your makeup brushes requires only water and either a gentle soap or brush cleanser. Using plain soap and water can dry out the brush's bristles, especially if they're made of natural hair. [Editor's Note: Try one part baby shampoo to four parts water.] Wet the bristles with lukewarm water, place a drop of cleanser into the palm of your hand, and gently massage the tips of the bristles in your palm. Always remember to keep the base of the brush head away from soap and water. The bristles are glued to the base, and water and detergent can cause the glue to disintegrate and the bristles to come loose and shed.
Rinse the bristles, squeeze out the excess moisture with a clean towel, reshape the brush head, and let the brush dry with its bristles hanging off the edge of a counter. This allows the brush head to dry into a perfect shape. Never let your brushes dry on a towel—the bristles can become mildewed.
How do you know when a brush is just kaput?
When the bristles start to fray, shed, or lose their shape. I can't emphasize enough that the right tools are as important in getting the look you want as the actual makeup itself. If your brushes become too pinched or squashed, then they simply will not be up to the job.