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Should Washed Makeup Brushes Dry Upright?

AAD recommends drying them flat, with the tips extending past the counter edge.

Adult woman reviewing a plain care card beside a makeup brush laid flat on a towel.
In this article
  1. What position does AAD recommend?
  2. Why avoid drying them upright?
  3. How does this fit into brush care?

What position does AAD recommend?

After washing, squeeze excess moisture from the brushes with a clean, dry paper towel. Lay them flat on a towel, with their tips hanging over the edge of the counter.1

Why avoid drying them upright?

AAD explains that water can run down an upright brush and loosen the glue joining the brush head to its handle. A cup that holds brushes between uses is therefore different from the drying position AAD describes.1

How does this fit into brush care?

AAD recommends washing makeup brushes every seven to ten days and not sharing them. If you suspect your makeup is causing breakouts or skin irritation, arrange a dermatologist appointment.1

Skin, Head to Toe includes a Skin Log and visit script. Use them to organize observations and questions you want to discuss with your clinician. Explore the skin playbook.

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.

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Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.

Sources

The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.

  1. American Academy of DermatologyHow to clean your makeup brushes (opens in a new tab)abc

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