How Long Should Makeup Brushes Last?

This is a sponsored article from SustainabilityTracker.com member Adorn Cosmetics.

How to care for your makeup brushes & how long do they last?

Makeup brushes are an essential part of any beauty routine, but did you know that how you care for them can impact not only their performance but also their lifespan? 

Properly maintaining your makeup brushes and finding sustainable ways to repurpose them can ensure they serve you well for years while reducing waste. Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your makeup brushes, when to replace them, and how to give them a second life.

How Long Do Makeup Brushes Last?

Makeup brushes can last anywhere from one year to a decade, depending on their quality and how well they’re maintained. On average, most makeup brushes must be replaced every two to five years. However, due to wear and tear, makeup brushes used frequently for foundation or concealer may need replacing every six to 12 months.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Makeup Brushes

Even with proper care, all makeup brushes will eventually reach the end of their usable life. 

Here are some key signs that it’s time to replace yours:

1. Bristles are falling out or feel stiff: Loose or stiff bristles can compromise application and are a clear wear indicator. If the brush is relatively new, stiff bristles can mean that the makeup brush needs a thorough cleaning to remove all built-up makeup.
2. The makeup brush looks worn out. Frayed bristles and a misshapen appearance mean the brush has lost its effectiveness and could even damage your skin.
3. The brush smells bad: Persistent odours, even after cleaning, can indicate trapped bacteria or product build-up.
4. Your makeup doesn’t apply well: An old makeup brush may cause uneven or patchy results.
5. You’re breaking out: Old brushes can harbour bacteria, contributing to skin issues like breakouts.

How to Get Your Makeup Brushes to Last Longer

Taking good care of your brushes can significantly extend their lifespan, saving you money and reducing waste.

Here’s how to keep them in tip-top shape:

1. Wash your makeup brushes regularly: Clean them at least once a week with a gentle brush cleanser or mild soap to remove product build-up and bacteria. Dry them upside down to prevent the glue holding the bristles in place from deteriorating and, in turn, falling out.
2. Wipe down after each use: Use a makeup brush cleaning solution like our Natural Brush Cleaner to lightly sanitise and remove surface product residue.
3. Store them properly: Keep your makeup brushes away from dust, dirt, and humidity.

Sustainable Solutions for Reusing Old Makeup Brushes

When your makeup brushes are no longer suitable for makeup application, don’t toss them out!

Here are some creative and sustainable ways to repurpose them:

1. Arts and crafts: You can use old makeup brushes to paint, glue, or even stain wood projects.
2. Dusting: Small brushes are perfect for cleaning delicate items like keyboards, camera lenses, or jewellery.
3. Gardening and cleaning: Use brushes to dust plant leaves or clean hard-to-reach areas in your home.
4. Nail art: Fine-tipped brushes are ideal for creating intricate nail designs.

A Final Word

Caring for your Adorn makeup brushes is about more than just keeping them clean. It’s about prolonging their usability, ensuring flawless application, and reducing environmental impact. By washing and storing them properly, replacing them only when necessary, and finding sustainable ways to reuse them, you can make your beauty routine effective and eco-friendly.

Ready to refresh your makeup brush collection? Explore Adorns’ range of vegan, cruelty-free makeup brushes designed to last and crafted with sustainability in mind.

Learn All Things Skincare & Makeup HERE.

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This is an article from a SustainabilityTracker.com Member. The views and opinions we express here don’t necessarily reflect our organisation.