Let’s talk about a little hack that’s been making waves in the makeup world – using micellar water to clean your beloved makeup brushes. We all know how crucial it is to keep those brushes clean, right? But the question remains: is micellar water up to the task? Can it really help you achieve that squeaky-clean feel your brushes deserve? Buckle up as we dive into the world of brush care and explore whether this trend is a hit or a miss.
Table of Contents
The Lowdown on Micellar Water
First things first, let’s get to know our star player: micellar water. You might be used to seeing it in your skincare routine to gently cleanse your face, but did you know it’s been making its way into the beauty world in unexpected ways?
Micellar water is essentially a mixture of purified water, hydrating ingredients, and tiny oil molecules called micelles. These micelles are like magnets that attract dirt, makeup, and impurities, lifting them off the skin.
Brush Cleaning Basics
Before we delve into the micellar magic, let’s quickly refresh our memories on why cleaning your makeup brushes is essential. Over time, brushes accumulate makeup residue, oil, and bacteria, which not only affects their performance but also poses a risk to your skin health. Regularly cleaning your brushes helps prevent breakouts, ensures true color application, and extends the life of your precious tools.
Micellar Water and Brush Cleaning: A Match Made in Heaven?
So, can micellar water step up to the plate and become your brushes’ BFF? The answer is a cautious yes. Micellar water can indeed be used to clean makeup brushes, but there are some important points to keep in mind.
1. Suitable for Light Cleaning: Micellar water is excellent for light cleaning and quick touch-ups. If you’ve used your brush for powder-based products like blush, bronzer, or eyeshadow, micellar water can help remove excess pigment and keep your brushes looking clean between deep washes.
2. Not Ideal for Heavy Buildup: However, if your brush has been soaked in heavy-duty products like foundation, concealer, or creamy textures, micellar water might not be potent enough to thoroughly cleanse them. For these brushes, you’ll still need to resort to a more robust cleaning method.
3. The Cleaning Process:
a. Pour a small amount of micellar water into a shallow dish.
b. Swirl your brush gently in the micellar water. You’ll see the makeup starting to dissolve and transfer onto the water.
c. After a few gentle swirls, rinse the brush under lukewarm water to remove the micellar water and dissolved makeup.
d. Gently squeeze the brush bristles to remove excess water.
e. Reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat to dry. It’s essential to let them air dry completely before using them again.
4. Choosing the Right Micellar Water: When picking a micellar water for brush cleaning, opt for a gentle, fragrance-free formula. Remember, your brushes will come in contact with your skin, so avoid any potential irritants.
5. Frequency of Use: If you’re using micellar water to clean your brushes, it’s still important to give them a thorough deep clean with brush shampoo or soap at least once a week, especially for brushes that come into direct contact with your face.
6. Environmentally-Friendly Consideration: While micellar water is a handy tool, it’s worth noting that disposable cotton pads can add to environmental waste. If you’re conscious of this, consider using reusable cloth or silicone brush cleaning tools for a more eco-friendly approach.
In Conclusion: Micellar Water as a Brush Cleaning Buddy
So, there you have it, folks! Micellar water can indeed play a role in keeping your makeup brushes clean, especially for lighter makeup residues. It’s an effective and convenient way to give your brushes a quick refresh between more thorough washes. Just remember that while micellar water can be a trusty sidekick in your brush cleaning routine, it’s not a replacement for regular deep cleaning with proper brush cleansers.
In the ever-evolving world of beauty hacks, using micellar water to clean your makeup brushes is a practical solution, but like any trend, it’s essential to understand its limitations. So go ahead and give it a try, but don’t forget the tried-and-true methods of deep cleaning to keep your brushes in top-notch condition. Your skin and your makeup game will thank you for it!
Rebecca is a licensed aesthetician and certified laser technician with almost 15 years experience in the dermatology. Her life-long passion is making people look good and happy.