Makeup brushes are the unsung heroes of every flawless look. A great brush helps foundation glide on effortlessly, blends eyeshadow to perfection, and sculpts cheekbones with precision. But like any tool, makeup brushes don’t last forever.
So, how often should you replace your makeup brushes? The answer depends on a few factors: how often you use them, how well you take care of them, and most importantly their quality.
So why do some brushes last for years, while others start falling apart within months? Let’s talk about how long makeup brushes typically last, the warning signs that it’s time to replace them, and how you can extend their lifespan with the right care.
How Long Do Makeup Brushes Usually Last?
Makeup brushes don’t have an expiration date, but they do have a natural lifespan.
Professional-quality brushes, like Smith Cosmetics brushes, are designed to withstand years of use when properly cared for.
Lower-quality brushes tend to break down within a few months due to shedding, fraying, or losing their shape.
The type of brush and how often you use it also play a major role in longevity.
General Lifespan of Makeup Brushes
Brush Type |
How Long They Last (on Average) |
Foundation & Concealer Brushes |
6 months – 2 years |
Powder & Blush Brushes |
1 – 3 years |
Eyeshadow Brushes |
1 – 3 years |
Lip Brushes |
6 months – 1 year |
Brow & Eyeliner Brushes |
6 months – 2 years |
These are just averages; high-quality brushes can last much longer, sometimes even a decade, if well maintained.
Why Professional Brushes Last Longer
If you invest in high-quality, professional makeup brushes, you’ll notice they don’t fall apart like cheaper alternatives.
They are designed for frequent use. Pro brushes are crafted for makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts who use them, and wash them daily.
They are made with premium materials. High-end synthetic and natural fibers can maintain their softness, density, and shape over time.
Better construction, Gives you ferrules (the metal part that holds the brush head in place) that are securely crimped to the brush handle and prevent the dreaded handle wiggle,, handles that are built for balance and durability, and brush fibers that are well secured within the ferrule to prevent shedding
They are built to withstand regular washing. Unlike budget brushes that degrade quickly with frequent washing, pro brushes are designed to be washed regularly and hold their shape and softness even with frequent cleansing.
Professional makeup brushes are an investment but the longevity of these brushes will actually make them more cost-effective in the long run, and remember price does not always equal quality, do your research and make sure you are purchasing a truly well-made brush.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Makeup Brushes
Even the best makeup brushes won’t last forever. Here’s how to tell when to retire and replace your tools.
1. Fraying or Shedding Bristles
Bristles should stay intact and maintain their original shape. A brush is past its prime if it starts shedding onto your face or looking frayed.
2. Loss of Shape
A brush that once had a defined shape but now looks misshapen or splayed will no longer apply makeup as originally designed.
3. Stiff or Scratchy Bristles
Soft, high-quality bristles should remain smooth and flexible. If your brush feels rough on the skin or has become stiff over time, the fibers are likely breaking down.
4. Persistent Product Buildup
If no amount of washing restores your brush to its original condition, product buildup may be permanently affecting its performance.
5. Strange Smell or Discoloration
A musty or unpleasant smell, along with darkened or stained bristles, can indicate bacterial growth. This is a sign it’s time to let the brush go.
Add stop motion video of brushes going into smithfolio plates here?
Other Considerations: When to Replace Even High-Quality Brushes
Even the best brushes will eventually wear out with years of use. Brushes that are frequently exposed to liquid or cream products, like foundation brushes, will need replacing sooner than powder brushes.
If you regularly deep clean your brushes, the bristles may naturally weaken over time. This is why the way you clean and store them matters just as much as the quality of the brush itself.
How to Make Your Brushes Last Longer
- Clean your makeup brushes regularly. Liquid and cream brushes should be washed at least once a week, while powder brushes can go two to three weeks between washes. regularly cleaning your brushes will keep them in top shape and prevent product buildup.
- Use gentle cleansers. Harsh soaps can strip the bristles of their softness and flexibility and even digrade the glue holding bristles inside the ferrule. A mild, brush-friendly cleanser will preserve their quality.
Dry them correctly. Always lay brushes flat to dry, preferably with the bristles hanging off the edge of a counter. Drying them upright can cause water to seep into the ferrule, loosening the glue that holds the bristles in place.
Store them properly. Brushes left loose in a makeup bag can get crushed, bent, or contaminated with bacteria. A structured storage system, like the Smithfolio shown below, keeps them protected
Final Thoughts
How often should you replace makeup brushes? It depends on the quality of your brushes, how often you use them, and how well you care for them.
Professional brushes can last for years, but all brushes will eventually show signs of wear. Keep an eye out for fraying, stiffness, and product buildup—when in doubt, it’s time for an upgrade.
