I have to admit, actually using makeup brushes other than for bronzer is fairly new to me. I had always used my fingers to apply everything from concealer to eye shadow and finally got on the brush wagon when I realized using my fingers in my makeup wasn’t exactly the most hygienic way to apply it. However, I have super sensitive skin that is particularly sensitive to chemicals (I can’t wear perfume because it irritates my skin!) so when it comes to keeping my brushes clean and sanitized I go all-natural!
I love that three simple ingredients can cleanse and sanitize my brushes. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic, lavender oil naturally kills bacteria, and the white vinegar’s acidity helps to break down makeup stuck in the brushes!
Ingredients:
1 Cup White Vinegar
1 Tablespoon Tea Tree Oil
5-10 Drops Lavender Essential Oil
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a jar, stir to mix well.
2. Dip each makeup brush in the mixture and swirl them around, making sure to keep the handle end up to avoid liquid seeping up into the handle.
3. Rinse brush, dab on a microfiber towel (I used paper towels for the pictures) and repeat until makeup brush dabs clean.
4. Smooth brush bristles into their natural shape and let brushes dry on a towel.
Now, I do have to admit if you don’t like the scent of tea tree oil (I do!) you might want to have an extra set of brushes for until the scent dissipates or add a dab of castile soap to the mixture so it doesn’t smell as strong!
You can head to a store like Pharmaca (especially the gorgeous new store here in Denver!) to test out the different brands of tea tree oil to find the one that works best for you.
What do you use to clean your brushes? Let me know in the comments below!
