If you ask a group of beauty enthusiasts whether they wash their makeup brushes on a frequent basis, I can guarantee that the loud response would be a ”yes”.  However, if you ask them how and when they clean their makeup brushes, you’ll probably get a wide range of different answers. 

It is no surprise that cleaning brushes and sponges is a typical annoyance for beauty enthusiasts, but utilising one of the finest cosmetic brush cleaners can make the procedure a bit less troublesome. The harsh reality is that unclean brushes and sponges may rapidly become a breeding ground for germs, sebum, debris, and other grime, all of which can be transmitted onto your face on a regular basis. 

Read on for our list of the best makeup brush cleaners in Malaysia to keep your go-to makeup brushes squeaky clean.

Source: Dids on Pexels

Why do we need to clean our makeup brushes?

Cleaning your brushes is critical for the health of your skin and the effectiveness of your brushes. The harsh reality is that filthy brushes and sponges may soon become a fertile ground for germs, oil, dead skin cells, and other gunk (especially since we live in the humid weather of Malaysia). 

Every time you apply a product, all of that sebum and debris will be transferred onto your skin, as well as into the product. Furthermore, filthy brushes just do not perform very well on skin, because built-up products and pigments on filthy brushes can render your makeup looking clumpy and discoloured. Hence, using clean makeup brushes will provide you with the best makeup application possible.

How often should we clean your makeup brushes?  

It is determined by how commonly you use the brush and the type of product you are using. Cream and liquid based formulations pick up and retain extra oil and grime than powder-based products. 

As a rough guide, we recommend cleaning your face brushes at the minimum of once per week and other brushes such as eye makeup, highlighter, and so on every two to three weeks. Washing your makeup equipment on a regular basis may appear onerous, but it is essential for the finest possible application and prevents any skin troubles at bay.

Source: EVG Kowalievska on Pexels

The best way to clean makeup brushes

So, how to clean the makeup brushes? Following the correct steps are equally important as cleaning the makeup brushes to ensure that they are in good condition.

  1. Firstly, hold the makeup brushes with their bristles facing down and wet the bristles with lukewarm water. You need to avoid cleaning them using hot water and always make sure that the water does not come into contact with the brush handles to prevent them from damage.
  2. Pour a small amount of cleanser on a cleansing pad or your palm. 
  3. Lather the soap and gently massage the makeup brushes.
  4. Then, rinse the bristles and squeeze them with a towel to remove excess water
  5. Mould the bristles to their original shape
  6. You can lay the makeup brushes on a towel to dry them out, but make sure to leave the bristles hanging on the edge of a table to ensure air circulation. 
  7. Need a quick dry? Simply use a fan to expedite the process.

Best makeup brush cleaners in Malaysia

1. Breena Beauty, Clean Me Antibacterial Makeup Brush & Sponge Cleanser

Local makeup brand, Breena Beauty’s Sponge & Brush Cleanser helps to remove makeup leftovers, filth, buildup, dirt, germs, and grease from your sponges and cosmetic brushes. It eliminates all forms of makeup while refreshing, cleansing, and preserving the sponge and brush from bacteria. It does not generate a lot of froth, making it easy to rinse off.

Why we love it:

  • Does not produce excessive foam
  • Gentle on brush and sponges
  • Super affordable

Price: RM 8.00

Where to buy: Breena Beauty

2. MAC Cosmetics, Brush Cleanser

The MAC Cosmetics Brush Cleanser, which has 4.5 star reviews on Sephora, is an all-purpose cosmetic brush cleanser that washes, disinfects, and refreshes the brushes. It also has a lovely aroma and a quick drying time. Its composition will thoroughly remove any remaining makeup and grease. Although it is fairly expensive, just a few drops are required to clean the brushes.

Why we love it:

  • Easy to use
  • Pleasant scent
  • Short drying time

Price: RM 71.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. Sephora Collection, Daily Makeup Brush Cleaner

The Sephora Collection Daily Makeup Brush Cleaner is next on the list. If you’re searching for an inexpensive and simple makeup brush cleanser, the Sephora Collection Daily Makeup Brush Cleaner is a liquid spray cleanser that doesn’t require rinsing. It also dries quickly, making it the ideal makeup brush cleaner.

Why we love it:

  • No rinsing required
  • Affordable 
  • Spray cleaner

Price: RM 38.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

4. Sigma Beauty, Sigma Spa Brush Cleaning Mat

Sigma Beauty Sigma Spa Brush Cleaning Mat has seven distinct textures that clean cosmetics brushes efficiently. This hands-free scrubbing mat is simple to use and has suction cups to keep the scrubbing mat in place.

Why we love it:

  • Easy to use
  • Features seven different textures
  • Suitable for eye and makeup brushes

Price: RM 149.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

5. Beauty Blender, Liquid Blender Cleanser

This cosmetics brush cleaner claims to protect against 99.9% of hazardous bacteria for 24 hours after cleaning.  It is made from coconut and ethical palm oils, making it suitable for daily use. At the same time, it will remove stubborn makeup and filth while preserving the brush’s natural state.

Why we love it:

  • Recommended for cleaning beauty blender and sponges
  • Won’t mess the quality of the makeup sponge or brush
  • A little goes a long way

Price: Starts from RM 79.00 

Where to buy: Sephora 

6. Clinique, Makeup Brush Cleanser

This cleaning spray is well loved by many for cleansing brushes swiftly and softly. Simply spray the bristles and clean with a cloth or cotton pad. It’s great for small brushes that need a fast refresh, but it might not be enough for that heavy foundation brush.

Why we love it:

  • Recommended by many 
  • Smells lovely 
  • Has a light texture

Price: Starts from RM 90.00 

Where to buy: Lazada

7. MakeUp For Ever, Brush Instant Cleanser

Makeup For Ever’s makeup brush cleaning is perfect for synthetic fibre and natural hair makeup brushes, and it requires no rinsing. The brush dries fast and may be used again right away. Makeup Brushes should be cleaned on a regular basis for extended use and optimal makeup effects.

Why we love it:

  • Offers an alcohol-free formulation
  • Perfect for ‘’quick cleaning’’  
  • Fast and effective

Price: Starts from RM 94.00 

Where to buy: Zalora

For more beauty infos, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Also, visit our Insider Mall to shop and get rewarded!