The Major Beauty Mistake That Could Be Sabotaging Your Skin

By Samantha Netkin

Updated on 5/14/2016 at 9:00 AM

POPSUGAR Photography
POPSUGAR Photography
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I have to admit, I'm guilty of going weeks and even months without sanitizing my makeup brushes. This seemingly trivial beauty best practice gets lost in the hustle and bustle of life, but realizing what could happen to your skin as a result is all the convincing you'll need to start making this step a priority in your routine. Fact is: with enough time and use, cosmetics brushes begin accumulating oil, dirt, bacteria, and (of course) makeup.

Neglecting to clean your brushes can cause breakouts, rashes, and streaky makeup applications — let's just say, it isn't pretty. "Not only should you be washing your brushes weekly, but for foundation brushes I would recommend doing more of a deep clean," said Shawn Fisher, Japonesque's national makeup artist. "Foundation brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria, so if you have sensitive skin or are prone to breakouts, make cleaning them part of your facial cleansing regimen at night."

If you've invested in quality (read: pricey) brushes, then throwing them away after a few months would be devastating. The solution to this problem is simple: buy a cleanser that is made for beauty tools. While in the past baby shampoo and water was historically the preferred cleaning method, this product category will get the job done best. "Professional brush cleansers are specifically formulated to break down makeup residue, eliminate bacteria, condition brushes, and increase their longevity," Fisher added.

Read on to shop our favorites!

Japonesque Makeup Brush Cleanser

Japonesque Makeup Brush Cleanser

Not only does this product cleanse to perfection, but the rose water scent is also reminiscent of the refreshing facial sprays we can't get enough of right now.

Japonesque Makeup Brush Cleanser ($14)

Sephora Collection Dry Clean Instant Dry Brush Cleaner Spray

Sephora Collection Dry Clean Instant Dry Brush Cleaner Spray

This product just launched, and it is already a hit. Spray the alcohol-free formula onto your tools, and with no drying time, your brushes will be ready for immediate use. It doesn't get much easier.

Sephora Collection Dry Clean Instant Dry Brush Cleaner Spray ($14)

Sonia Kashuk Brush and Sponge Cleanser

Sonia Kashuk Brush and Sponge Cleanser

At under $10, this cleanser is a steal and gentle enough to keep natural or synthetic hairs in tip-top shape.

Sonia Kashuk Brush and Sponge Cleanser ($7)

Make Up For Ever Instant Brush Cleanser

Make Up For Ever Instant Brush Cleanser

I personally am a huge fan of Make Up For Ever. Since I use its Ultra HD foundation, this product was the perfect complement to my foundation brush, which hadn't been cleaned in well over a month. After using this cleanser, my brush felt as fresh and soft as it did when I first got it.

Make Up For Ever Instant Brush Cleanser ($12)

Laura Mercier Brush Cleanser

Laura Mercier Brush Cleanser

The size of this product alone was enough to seal the deal. The 8.4 ounces will last months and the formula quickly evaporates without leaving a residue on the brushes.

Laura Mercier Brush Cleanser ($18)

Bobbi Brown Conditioning Brush Cleanser

Bobbi Brown Conditioning Brush Cleanser

This cleanser stands out from the crowd because it's more of a gel than a liquid. A little goes a long way (all you need is a tiny drop) for the product to work its magic.

Bobbi Brown Conditioning Brush Cleanser ($17)

Christian Dior Brush Cleanser

Christian Dior Brush Cleanser

Although on the pricier side, this product is worth the investment. The quick-drying, antibacterial formula guarantees to prolong the life of your tools and give you a flawless makeup application.

Christian Dior Brush Cleanser ($20)

Estée Lauder Makeup Brush Cleanser

Estée Lauder Makeup Brush Cleanser

Unlike many liquid cleansers, this product can be sprayed directly onto your tools. It quickly rinses makeup from blush to shadow and leaves brush bristles feeling soft.

Estée Lauder Makeup Brush Cleanser ($18)