ARE YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES RUINING YOUR LOOKS ?

08-16-14 | Posted by Nancy Weinberg Simon

Nothing beats having great tools at your disposal. Brushes make it easy toÂ apply your makeup and get flawless results, but if you’reÂ not cleaning themÂ regularly you can wind up withÂ a lot more than you bargained for.

Jeanine Downie, M.D., board certified dermatologist and director of Image Dermatology P.C. in Montclair, NJ,Â recommends “cleaning your brushes at least once every two weeksâ€”more often if you have oily skinâ€”to prevent dirt and bacteria getting on your face, which can block pores and may causeÂ acne breakouts.” She also says “bacteria around the eyes can lead to stys and eyelash shedding.” Not the look you were going for!

TO CLEAN YOUR BRUSHES PROPERLY
- Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and some babyÂ shampoo.
- Gently swirl your makeup brush(es) in the bowl, avoiding the part of the brush where the handle meets the head.
- Rinse the brush tip under running water. Repeat steps 2 and 3Â until the water runs clear.
- Gently squeeze out the excess water with a clean towel and reshape the brush head.
- To prevent mildew and misshapen bristles, air-dry by letting the brushÂ hang off the edge of a counter.
ANTI-MICROBIAL BRUSHÂ PICKS

Whether you prefer natural or synthetic brushes keep in mind thatÂ cutting-edge antimicrobial technology can minimize the growth of harmful bacteria and keep brushes fresher for longer, plus they're appropriate for even the most sensitive skin. You'll still want to wash them just as often to keep them hygienicÂ but think of it as a little added insurance against acne and less lush lashes.

VMV Hypoallergenics Skintelligent Beauty Brushes ($15-$32 per brush)
Sephora Collection Deluxe Antibacterial Brush Set ($60 for 7 piece set)
Clinique The Brush Collection ($17 - $35 per brush)