How Often Should You Replace Your Makeup Brushes?

Your makeup brush is one of the most important tools in your makeup kit. The sheer applications and effectiveness of the brush make it a must-have. But have you ever considered how often you should replace makeup brushes?

While beauty makeup brushes are designed for long-term use, they don't last forever. Over time, even the best brushes lose their effectiveness or collect bacteria. That's why understanding how often you should change your makeup brushes, clean them, and replace them is key to a skin-friendly and hygienic makeup routine.

To learn more about how long do makeup brushes last, and what you can do to increase their life, continue reading.

Takeaways

• Replace makeup brushes every 1-3 years to maintain skin health and hygiene.

• Signs to replace brushes: excessive shedding, poor blending performance, loss of shape, stains and residue, physical damage, skin problems, and uneven makeup application.

• Clean makeup brushes regularly to prevent bacteria buildup and skin issues.

• Use gentle cleaning techniques: lukewarm water, mild soap, and gentle brush cleansers.

• Dry brushes flat to maintain bristle shape and prevent water damage.

• Don't share brushes or use the same brush for multiple products to prevent product contamination and skin issues.

• Choose kid-friendly makeup brushes with soft, synthetic bristles and hypoallergenic materials for sensitive skin.

How Long Do Makeup Brushes Last?

Here’s a very simple and averaged-out answer to “how long do makeup brushes last”—about 1 to 3 years if properly maintained. The lifespan heavily varies based on usage, cleaning habits, and material. Brushes for powders like blush and eyeshadow may last longer than those for liquid products like foundation, which can trap more product and bacteria over time. However, it’s best not to use them after they’ve exceeded their lifespan. This can lead to a subpar experience.

Makeup Brush Lifespan Comparison

What Are the Signs You Should Replace Your Makeup Brushes?

When considering how often you should replace makeup brushes, it’s important to be on the lookout for these major signs. Noticing any of them is a signal that your current makeup brush has outlived its usefulness.

1. Excessive Shedding: Shedding is a sign that the brush has degraded over time. Not only does shedding cause bristles to end up on your face, but it also reduces the brush’s effectiveness.
2. Poor Blending Performance: If a brush no longer provides smooth, even application, it may have lost its softness or density and should be replaced.
3. Loss Of Shape: Over time, brushes may lose their shape, making it difficult to control application and blend accurately.
4. Stains And Residue: Stubborn stains and residue can build up despite thorough cleaning, especially in brushes used for liquid or creamy products.
5. Physical Damage: Cracks in the handle or loose ferrules (the metal part connecting the bristles to the handle) are signs the brush may soon fall apart.
6. Experiencing skin problems: If you notice an increase in skin issues like acne, rashes, or infections, it may be a sign that your makeup brushes are harbouring bacteria. You need to replace these beauty makeup brushes.
7. Makeup isn't applying evenly: If your makeup isn't applying smoothly and evenly, it may be a sign that your brushes are worn out and need to be replaced.

How Dirty Brushes Affect Skin Health ?

Unwashed brushes can become a breeding ground for bacteria, dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Every time you use a dirty brush, you risk transferring that buildup directly onto your face, leading to:

• Acne or clogged pores.

• Skin rashes or irritation.

• Eye infections (especially from dirty eye brushes).

This is even more critical when using kids' makeup brushes, as children's skin is more sensitive and prone to irritation. Cleaning makeup brushes regularly helps maintain healthy skin and prevents unwanted reactions.

Essential Tips to Keep Kids’ Makeup Brushes Clean and Safe

Proper care isn't just for beauty gurus, it's something every makeup user should follow, especially if your child is experimenting with makeup. Here are simple and effective tips for washing makeup brushes and keeping them in top condition:

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your makeup brushes at least once a week, especially for those used with liquids and creams, to remove product buildup, oils, and bacteria.
2. Proper Cleaning Technique: Use lukewarm water and a gentle brush cleanser for washing makeup brushes. Avoid getting water above the ferrule, as this can weaken the glue holding the bristles.
3. Use Appropriate Cleaners: Mild soap or gentle brush shampoos are best for cleansing without damaging bristles. Avoid using alcohol-based cleaners unless necessary for disinfecting.
4. Drying Method: After you wash makeup brushes, reshape the bristles and let the brushes dry flat on a towel. Drying them vertically can cause water to seep into the ferrule, weakening the brush.
5. Replacement Schedule: Replace makeup brushes every 1-3 years, but replace them sooner if any signs of wear or performance issues arise.
   

Conclusion

Your beauty makeup brushes are essential tools that deserve care and maintenance. Now that you know how long makeup brushes last, and how often should you change your makeup brushes (every 1–3 years), you're better prepared to keep your routine safe and your skin glowing. Especially when it comes to children, clean makeup brushes are non-negotiable. Young skin reacts more quickly to bacteria or buildup, making regular cleaning and timely replacement even more important.

That's why Miss Nella makes brushes that are not only safe and fun to use, but also easy to clean and maintain. From soft, non-toxic bristles to kid-friendly designs, Miss Nella offers peace of mind to parents and playful joy to kids. Explore more at our website and make the safest decision for your children.

FAQs

1. How do you clean kids' makeup brushes?

To clean kids' makeup brushes, use a gentle, baby-safe soap and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Lay brushes flat to dry to keep the bristles in shape and prevent damage.

2. Do dirty makeup brushes cause any allergies?

Yes, dirty brushes can harbour bacteria, dust, and allergens, potentially leading to skin irritation, breakouts, or allergic reactions especially on sensitive skin. 

3.  Is it okay to use the same brush for multiple products?

It's not recommended, as mixing products (like powder and cream) on the same brush can affect application quality and increase product buildup, making cleaning and blending more difficult.

4. How can I extend the life of my makeup brushes?

To extend the life of your makeup brushes, clean them regularly and store them upright to maintain bristle shape. Keep brushes in a cool, dry place to prevent bacteria buildup and damage.

5. What happens if I don't replace my makeup brushes regularly?

Old or unclean brushes can harbour bacteria, dirt, and oil, which may lead to skin problems like acne, irritation, or infections, especially on sensitive skin. That's why it is important to replace makeup brushes regularly.

Oren Kohavi

An entrepreneur in London, founder of Miss Nella, and writer with expertise in safe age-appropriate high- quality makeup for kids. With years of research and passion for imaginative play, offering guidance on non-toxic ingredients, child safety standards, and creative beauty kits. My work helps parents confidently explore kid-friendly cosmetics, making self-expression both fun and safe for children.