Q&A for How to Clean Makeup Brushes with Vinegar

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Should you wash makeup brushes with shampoo?

Joseph Harwood
Beauty, DEI & Social Media Expert
Joseph (JoJo) Harwood is a Beauty, DEI & Social Media Expert, Artist, CEO of Joseph Hartwood Ltd, and Creative Director of Team Baron Group. With over 15 years of experience, they specialize in all aspects of beauty, digital media production, and supporting diversity and inclusion efforts in businesses. JoJo has pioneered YouTube content and branding, with over 100 million views on their YouTube tutorial content and was the first and only winner of Simon Cowell's You Generation Competition. They studied an MSc in Cosmetic Science from the London College of Fashion, combining a technical understanding of cosmetics with beauty expertise.

Joseph Harwood

Beauty, DEI & Social Media Expert

Expert Answer

That's not a good idea—shampoos today are formulated to cover your hair in silicone, so you're essentially putting that silicone on your makeup brushes as well. You're better off buying cleaners that are designed for makeup brushes specifically.

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Question

What else can I use besides vinegar?

Tymia Yvette
Makeup & Lash Artist
Tymia Yvette is a Makeup and Lash Artist and the founder of Tymia Yvette Beauty LLC, a makeup artistry and lash extension company focused on customized beauty services based in Baltimore, Maryland. Trained by MAC Cosmetics, Tymia's work has been featured in the Bravo A-List Awards 2008, the BET Honors Award Show in 2011, 2012, and 2013, the Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week 2011, 2012, and 2013, and the White House Correspondent's Dinner in 2014. She has also provided makeup and lash services for the Betsy Royal Casting Agency and the Baltimore Raven's cheerleading squad from 2010 to 2012. Her clients include Terrence Howard, Torrey Smith, Lester Holt, Adrienne Lofton, and Natasha Hastings. She has been awarded WeddingWire's Couple's Choice Award in 2017, 2018, and 2019.

Tymia Yvette

Makeup & Lash Artist

Expert Answer

You can clean makeup brushes and tools with alcohol or brush cleanser, which should actually be more effective options than vinegar.

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Question

Will it work if it's dirty with blood?

Community Answer

Yes, vinegar can remove blood stains.

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Does it remove bacteria from an eye infection?

Community Answer

Maybe, but I wouldn't risk it. I suggest you just buy a new brush.

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If I don't have vinegar, what else can work?

Community Answer

You can use strong shampoo with a little bit of water.

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