How to Clean Makeup Brushes Naturally

Learning how to clean makeup brushes naturally is one of the simplest yet most transformative ways to care for your skin and extend the life of your beauty tools.

Makeup brushes collect oils, product residue, and bacteria over time, which can lead to breakouts or dull, uneven makeup application. By using gentle, natural methods, you can keep your brushes soft, clean, and hygienic—without harsh chemicals or synthetic fragrances.

Let’s explore a nurturing step-by-step guide to naturally clean your makeup brushes using Adorn’s gentle, eco-conscious formulas.

Why Cleaning Makeup Brushes Matters

Regularly cleaning your brushes isn’t just about hygiene it’s about skin health and makeup performance. When left unwashed, brushes can trap sebum, dust, and old makeup that transfer back onto your skin, clogging pores and causing irritation. Over time, this buildup can dull your complexion and even compromise the effectiveness of your skincare and makeup routine. Learning how to clean makeup brushes naturally ensures that every application feels fresh, smooth, and kind to your skin.

Choose a Gentle, Natural Brush Cleaner

The first step in mastering how to clean makeup brushes naturally is selecting a cleanser that’s effective yet gentle on both the bristles and your skin. Natural Makeup Brush Cleaner is formulated with Witch Hazel, a natural antibacterial ingredient that disinfects without drying out brush fibres. Unlike alcohol-based cleaners, it leaves your brushes conditioned and fresh with every clean.

Shop: Natural Makeup Brush Cleaner

Witch Hazel is particularly effective at breaking down oil and residue while keeping bristles soft. Its anti-inflammatory properties also mean you won’t transfer irritants back to your skin. This quick-drying spray is perfect for both deep cleans and mid-week touch-ups.

Gather Your Essentials

Before you begin, set up your cleaning station. You’ll need:

• A small bowl
• Lukewarm water
• A clean towel
• Your Natural Makeup Brush Cleaner
• Your favourite brushes like those in the 15 Piece Makeup Brush Set

Creating a calm, organised space helps make the process feel like part of your self-care ritual rather than a chore.

Rinse and Prep Your Makeup Brushes

Start by rinsing the brush bristles under lukewarm running water. Hold them with the bristles pointing downward to prevent water from seeping into the ferrule (the metal section), which can loosen glue over time. Avoid using hot water it can damage the bristles and affect the shape of your brush.

Once rinsed, gently swirl the brush in a bowl with a small amount of your natural cleaner diluted with water. The Witch Hazel in the formula will break down product buildup while keeping the fibres nourished and resilient.

For a Deep Clean with Care

Massage the bristles gently using your fingers or a textured cleaning mat, working the cleanser through the brush. This step lifts trapped pigments and oils without the need for synthetic soaps or harsh detergents. The key to how to clean makeup brushes naturally is using minimal friction. Your goal is to cleanse and preserve the softness of the brush fibres.

Once the water runs clear, rinse again under lukewarm water until all residue is removed. Gently squeeze out excess water using a clean towel, being careful not to tug or twist the bristles.

Reshape and Dry Flat

After cleaning, reshape your brushes while they’re still damp. Lay them flat on a towel with the bristles hanging slightly off the edge of a counter to allow airflow. Avoid drying them upright, as water can seep into the ferrule and cause shedding or damage.

This simple but crucial drying technique helps maintain the integrity and longevity of your brushes, ensuring they stay fluffy, soft, and in perfect condition for your next makeup application.

Quick Clean Between Uses

If you’re short on time, a few sprays of Adorn’s Natural Makeup Brush Cleaner between makeup applications can help keep your brushes fresh and sanitised. Simply mist the bristles, gently wipe with a tissue or microfibre cloth, and let dry for a minute before use. This technique removes surface oils and pigment, reducing bacteria build-up between deep cleans.

Caring for Your 15 Piece Makeup Brush Set

Your tools are just as important as your products. The 15 Piece Makeup Brush Set from Adorn features cruelty-free synthetic bristles that mimic the softness of natural hair while offering superior performance. Regular cleaning ensures each brush continues to deliver smooth, even application while protecting your skin from congestion or irritation.

Adorn’s brushes are designed for longevity. They’re vegan, eco-conscious, and made to work harmoniously with both liquid and powder formulas. By keeping them clean and well-maintained, you not only extend their lifespan but also ensure every makeup look feels fresh and flawless.

The Skin Connection: Why Clean Brushes Matter for Sensitive Skin

Clean brushes mean happier skin. For those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, dirty brushes can reintroduce bacteria and excess oil, leading to flare-ups. Learning how to clean makeup brushes naturally is essential for anyone seeking a healthy complexion and irritation-free finish.

Using a natural antibacterial like Witch Hazel ensures that your routine remains gentle and effective. Over time, you’ll notice fewer breakouts, improved skin clarity, and smoother makeup application.

How Often Should You Clean Your Makeup Brushes?

Ideally, brushes used for foundation, concealer, and cream products should be cleaned once a week, while powder brushes can be cleaned every two weeks. Eye brushes used with darker pigments benefit from more frequent cleaning to prevent colour transfer.

Make this a ritual set aside 15 minutes once a week to give your brushes a little spa session.

Extra Tips for Naturally Clean Brushes

• Always use lukewarm water to preserve the glue and shape of your brushes.
• Store brushes upright once completely dry to maintain bristle shape.
• Use your Natural Makeup Brush Cleaner as an on-the-go refresher during shoots or travel.
• Be consistent, routine cleaning leads to better skin and smoother makeup application.

Once you understand how to clean makeup brushes naturally, it becomes less of a task and more of a beauty ritual. It’s a small, nurturing step that connects you to your self-care routine and keeps your skin looking and feeling its best. Using natural products like Adorn’s Witch Hazel-infused Makeup Brush Cleaner ensures your brushes are clean, conditioned, and ready for every flawless application.