The Danger of Dirty Brushes & Sponges

How's this for a stat? According to The Huffington Post: Only 61% of women wash their make-up brushes and sponges once a month; whilst 22% have never cleaned them at all. Where do you fall?

We should actually be cleaning our personal brushes and sponges every 7-10 days, not just once a month. Professional Make Up Artists should be cleaning their brushes after every use, ready for each new client. 

Dirty brushes carry dirt, grime, and bacteria that can wreak havoc on your skin, aggravating problem areas and compromising your complexion. Here are three dangers you can avoid by giving your brushes a regular clean, using the Bailey G Solid Make-Up Brush Cleaner.

Clogged Pores:

Every time you glide your makeup brush across your skin, it unintentionally deposits dirt and debris, like dead skin cells and bacteria, which then penetrates your pores and leads to clogging and congestion. The bristles of your brushes can accumulate layers of old makeup over weeks or even months, creating a buildup of unpleasant residue. As you continue to use these brushes, the deposited dirt and debris settle onto your skin, seeping into your pores and exacerbating the problem. This accumulation obstructs the natural flow of your skin's oils, resulting in a lacklustre and dry complexion, and blemishes and breakouts.

Irritated Areas:

Dirty brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria. Using a brush filled with dirt and bacteria on your face can introduce an excessive amount of unfamiliar microbes to your skin. These unfamiliar organisms can induce a stress response in your body, leading to inflammation and exacerbating existing problem areas. Dirty make-up brushes can cause an infection, such as a fungal infection, E. coli, or a staph infection, which can be very serious. Additionally, leftover makeup can stiffen the bristles of your brushes, further irritating your already sensitive skin. 

Damaged Tools:

Neglecting to clean your makeup brushes regularly leads to a buildup that accelerates their deterioration. The accumulation of grime and residue causes the fine bristles of your beloved brush to clump together and lose their original shape. Consequently, when you apply makeup with these brushes, the result is an uneven and streaky appearance, far from the natural, flawless look you desire. As you attempt to correct the imperfections by layering more liquid or powder foundation, your complexion can end up looking cakey instead of smooth.