New Year, New You

LR - Make up brush blog.jpg

This month, I'm going to share some tips for looking after your make up brushes and make up bag:

  • Make up bag - when was the last time you emptied this out? Go on, tip everything out and throw anything with a missing lid etc
  • Wash it - don't be tempted to just put everything back in. Put your bag in the washing machine on a delicate or woollens wash, and dry naturally, making sure it is completely dry before putting anything in it - or mould will breed. Of course, you could always treat yourself to a new bag too... 
  • Clean the cosmetics - and now wipe all your make up with a damp cloth, so everything is lovely and clean.
  • Be ruthless - if you come across make up you haven't used for a long time, then it's time to throw it away. Any mascara more than 6 months old definitely needs to go.If you need help with this, check out my salon service for this month.
  • Brushes - again throw away any where there are bristles missing, or the top is loose, or you just shy away from using it.
  • Wash your brushes - ideally every 2-3 weeks. There are a number of options:
    - Use a dedicated brush cleaner such as Real Techniques: Cleansing Brush Gel
    - Baby's easy rinse foaming shampoo such as Johnsons
    - Soap - you can use ordinary hand soap, but be sure to rinse very thoroughly
    - Brush wipes - these are ideal on the move but not for a thorough clean - try Superdrug
    If you struggle to get out tricky cosmetics such as gel eyeliner, try the Real Techniques Cleansing Palette tool - it has different size nodules for you to work the brushes into.
  • Dry your brushes - when you've finished rinsing, reshape your brushes so the bristles are all smooth and facing in the same direction. Leave them to dry naturally, but avoid putting over heat, as it can dry out the glue in the brushes, making bristles fall out. 
  • Invest - and when it comes to brushes it is worth investing in these. You do get what you pay for, and there are some fabulous choices, dependent on your preference for natural or artificial bristles, and what feels comfortable for your hand - long or stubby handles etc. Buy one or two of a new range, rather than going all in, before testing them.
Nicky Parker