Farnoush photographed by Ziga Mihelcic for the June issue of Vogue Arabia
Granted that cleaning your makeup brushes is far from the most exciting item on your beauty list. OK, it irrevocably falls into the ‘boring’ category of chores. Buying a new-season lipstick is way more Instagrammable than dipping your brushes in hot, soapy water (a task with a glamour ranking of zero). However, makeup build-up on brushes gathers bacteria that causes breakouts and clogged pores. As time goes by your blending and bronzing brushes have all sorts of things nestled in-between the bristles that we’d rather not list. Alas, it’s time to do something about it.
While some beauty geeks will stick to the recommended weekly brush cleaning process, some mere mortals put it off and then wonder why their skincare regime isn’t tip-top. Make it your New Year’s resolution to review all of your pamper products on your dressing table and clean each makeup tool in your arsenal. Here Vogue.me lists three techniques to get the job done effectively.
#1: The Cleaning Solution
Go-To Product: Mac Brush Cleaner, AED/SAR 59.
How to Use: Coat the brushes in the solution and then wipe the brush on clean towel until it leaves no traces of makeup.
Benefits: Conditions, cleans, disinfects, fragrances, and pro-longs the life of your brushes.
Beauty Desk Notes: The minimalistic bottle of millennial pink hue makes this a product that you don’t necessarily have to stash in your boudoir cupboard – it will look cool amongst your Aesop and Malin+Goetz goodies.
Clarins Foundation Brush, Clinique Buff Brush, and Laura Mercier Smudge Brush. Sephora Polish Up Cleansing Pad, Mii’s Cleanse and Condition Brush Balm, and Mac Brush Cleanser.
#2: The Texture Pad
Go-To Product: Sephora Collection Polish Up Cleansing Pad, AED/SAR 51
How to Use: Apply clean warm water and a cleanser to your brushes. Fit the pad onto your hand (2-3 fingers can fit into the allocated section) and move the bristles through the sillicone sections. There are two different textures to use for face and eye makeup brushes. Repeat until brushes leave no traces of makeup. Clean the pad afterwards.
Benefits: Thoroughly cleans all bristles on small and large brushes. Easy to use. Satisfying to do too!
Beauty Desk Notes: Yes, you’ll have to clean the pad too but this technique ensures you get a thorough clean on all of your brushes, no matter what shape or size they are.
#3: The Balm
Go-To Product: Mii’s Cleanse and Condition Balm, AED/SAR 59
How to Use: Swirl your brushes directly into the balm in circular motions and watch the brush get cleaner, and cleaner as makeup gets lifted away. Wipe the brush afterwards with a clean towel until it leaves no traces of product. Voila!
Benefits: Typically speaking these balms are comprised of natural oils. In Mii’s case, shea butter and coconut oil and solidified into a balm. The formula leaves your brushes clean, conditioned, and super smooth.
Beauty Desk Notes: This product is a half-way point between a gentle shampoo and a classic bar of soap, but for your brushes.
To complete your beauty renaissance, consult the beauty desk’s curation of water-resistant foundations that are perfect for the Middle Eastern climate:
Waterproof Foundation/Concealer
A multitasking formula that can be used as a full-coverage foundation or concealer, which withstands heat and humidity while letting your skin breathe.
US:82
AED/SAR:301
Water Blend Face & Body Foundation
This lighter-than-air, waterproof foundation provides sheer, dewy coverage for a flawless summer glow.
US:43
AED/SAR:158
Cashmere Foundation
This water-resistant product has an SPF of 20, meaning there are anti-aging benefits to be reaped.
US:70
AED/SAR:257
The Sensual Skin Enhancer
A concealer, foundation, and highlighter in one, this hardworking formula will streamline your makeup bag and beauty routine.
US:48
AED/SAR:176
Sports BB Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ WetForce
Featuring WetForce technology, this SPF BB cream becomes more effective when in contact with water and sweat.
US:52
AED/SAR:191
Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation
This moisture-repelling formula is oil-free, which means it will provide long-lasting makeup without clogging your pores.
US:33
AED/SAR:120
Lock-It Foundation
This highly-pigmented foundation comes in over 25 shades to suit every skin tone.
US:48
AED/SAR:175
All Nighter Waterproof Longwear Liquid Foundation
This matte, waterproof product is ideal for those with oily skin. Highly pigmented, only a single pump is necessary for flawless coverage.
US:51
AED/SAR:188
Le Teint Encre de Peau
This foundation absorbs four times its weight in oil, which means you can leave the blotting paper at home.
US:73
AED/SAR:270
Related Read: 5 expert makeup ideas that nail tomorrow’s trends
