Best Ways to Soften Makeup Brushes

Have you ever reached for a makeup brush you hadn't used in a while, only to find the bristles stiff and scratchy? It's a common problem many makeup enthusiasts face, especially if brushes aren't cleaned or stored properly. Don't worry—this doesn't mean your beloved brushes are ruined. With the right care, you can bring them back to their soft, fluffy glory. Here's how.

Why Do Makeup Brushes Become Hard?

Makeup brushes can stiffen for several reasons. Over time, residue from makeup, oils, or dirt can build up, causing bristles to clump together. If you've recently cleaned your brushes but didn't rinse out the soap thoroughly or allowed them to dry incorrectly, this too can make the bristles feel hard and brittle.

Step-by-Step Guide to Soften Makeup Brushes

1.Give Them a Deep Clean

Start by thoroughly cleaning your brushes. Use a gentle brush cleaner or a mild shampoo—baby shampoo works wonders. Here's how:

• Wet the bristles with lukewarm water. Avoid getting water on the ferrule (the metal part) or handle to prevent damage.

• Apply a small amount of cleaner to your palm or a cleaning mat, then swirl the brush around to remove residue.

• Rinse thoroughly under running water, ensuring all soap is washed out.

2.Condition the Bristles

Just like your hair, makeup brushes can benefit from conditioning. After cleaning, apply a small amount of conditioner to the bristles. Leave it on for a few minutes to soften the fibers, then rinse thoroughly.

3.Use Natural Oils

If your brushes are still stiff after cleaning and conditioning, try a drop of natural oil like olive oil or coconut oil. Rub the oil gently into the bristles and rinse again. This method works particularly well for natural hair brushes, which can dry out over time.

4.Reshape and Air Dry

Once the bristles are clean and soft, gently squeeze out excess water using a towel. Reshape the bristles to their original form, then lay the brush flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry. Make sure the bristles hang slightly over the edge of a counter to maintain their shape and allow airflow. Never dry your brushes upright, as water can seep into the handle and weaken the glue.

5.Prevent Future Stiffness

To keep your brushes soft and long-lasting:

• Clean them regularly, ideally once a week if you use them daily.

• Store them in a clean, dry place, preferably in a brush holder to avoid dust and dirt.

• Avoid using harsh soaps or hot water that can dry out the bristles.

Conclusion

There's no need to toss out a stiff makeup brush when you can easily restore its softness with a bit of care. By following these steps and incorporating regular maintenance into your routine, your brushes will stay soft, fluffy, and ready to deliver flawless makeup looks.

If you want to learn how to dry your makeup brushes, click here: The Best Way to Dry Your Makeup Brushes

If you want to learn how to store your makeup brushes, click here: Guide to Storing Your Makeup Brushes