What Bacteria Lives In Your Makeup Brushes?

 How Much Bacteria Lives on Your Makeup Brushes (and How to Prevent It)

Did you know your makeup brushes could be a breeding ground for bacteria? Without regular cleaning, they can harbor thousands—if not millions—of harmful microbes. Here’s everything you need to know about how bacteria accumulate and what you can do to protect your skin.

How Makeup Brushes Harbor Bacteria

1. Old Makeup Residue

Makeup left on your brushes creates a sticky surface where bacteria thrive.

2. Moisture

Storing brushes in humid environments (like your bathroom) encourages bacterial growth.

3. Skin Oils and Dead Skin Cells

Every time you use a brush, it collects oils and dead cells, creating the perfect environment for germs.

4. Infrequent Cleaning

Dirty brushes used for weeks (or months!) without washing can become loaded with bacteria, including harmful ones like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.

5. Improper Storage

Storing brushes uncovered or in makeup bags exposes them to airborne bacteria and dust.

The Health Risks of Dirty Makeup Brushes

• Breakouts: Dirty brushes can clog pores, leading to acne.

• Skin Irritation: Bacteria buildup can cause redness and irritation.

• Infections: Brushes contaminated with harmful bacteria can spread pink eye, staph infections, or fungal issues.

Though there can be other factors that lead to acne breakouts, keeping your brushes clean helps keep the skin clean from transferring the germs back on to your face. 

How to Keep Your Brushes Clean and Bacteria-Free

1. Wash Your Brushes Regularly

• Face brushes (foundation, blush, powder): Once a week.

• Eye brushes: Every two weeks.

• Use a gentle cleanser like baby shampoo or a dedicated brush cleaner.

2. Sanitize Between Uses

• Use a quick-drying disinfectant spray to keep brushes fresh.

3. Store Them Properly

• Avoid humid areas like bathrooms. Keep brushes in a clean, dry, and covered container to protect them from airborne germs.

4. Avoid Sharing Brushes

• Sharing makeup brushes can transfer bacteria, increasing the risk of infections.

5. Replace Old Brushes

• Over time, brushes can become worn and impossible to fully clean. Replace them every 6–12 months.

Why Regular Cleaning Matters

A dirty makeup brush isn’t just gross—it can harm your skin and in this economy it can shorten the lifespan of your favorite products. By making brush care a regular part of your routine, you’ll ensure healthier skin and a cleaner makeup application, hence my reminders on twitter ;).

If you haven’t cleaned your brushes in a while, now’s the perfect time to start! Play some of your fave songs, get your brush cleaners, and let’s scrub those brushes!