A few times a year, I liked to dedicate some time to cleaning up and maintaining my beauty gear. It’s very important to not only have the best products and tools, but also to get rid of old products and keep everything clean.
If you haven’t been doing it enough or not at all, don’t worry. Now is the perfect time to start. Here’s the schedule that you should be following:
#1. Clean Your Makeup Brushes– I only use my foundation brushes and sponges once before putting them to the side to clean. If I’m in a pinch, I use Ecotools Makeup Brush Cleansing Cloths ($6.99). Otherwise, I clean my foundation brushes and sponges once a week. I also invest in plenty of this specific brush so I always have plenty on hand.
Some of my favorites are the Motive Foundation Brush ($19.95), IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Dual Foundation ($48.00), and Circa Beauty Brush Foundation ($12.00).
All my non-foundation brushes I clean once a month. Not cleaning them on schedule will cause breakouts or infections.
While you’re at it, don’t forget your eyelash curler.
#2. Throw Out Old Products– I hear from women all the time about how long they keep products because they love it or they were expensive. Please don’t do this. I realize a lot of products are an investment but you have to throw out products when they’re old or expired.
Mascara and eyeliners are the biggest culprits. You should throw out any that is older than three months.
Lipstick and lip liner lasts longer; you needn’t get rid of those after a year.
Most everything else lasts 12-18 months and that includes concealer, lip-gloss, powders and cream shadows/blushes.
#3. Clean Your Hair Tools– When was the last time you cleaned your hairbrush and comb? This is something so easy that people sometimes never do. Start by using a comb to get the hair out of the brush then clean with shampoo. Sometimes I add a little antibacterial soap to the mix as well.
Hair irons need to be wiped down if you’re using heat protector or hairspray. Make sure the tools are cold and not plugged in. I put a little alcohol on a circular cotton pad and I wipe to clear the gunk.
Don’t forget your hair dryer! Take the grate off and use a toothpick to get the dust and hair out then clean it under hot water. After it dries, put it back on and you’re back in business.
By making these changes, you’ll notice a big difference in how your tools work and how your skin feels.
