How To Clean Your Makeup Brushes

Cleaning makeup brushes is a real schlep and most of the time the stains don't come off. I've read numerous blog posts and watched tons of videos on how to clean makeup brushes however, I could never get my brushes to look brand new. 

I tried something we all have in our homes, Handy Andy, and this worked like a charm. It removes all stains and kills bacteria. I don't know what this product does to the bristles of the brush but if you're like me, not planning to keep your brushes forever, it works just fine. I've cleaned my brushes with Handy Andy for a year now and so far I have not seen any damage. The product doesn't have the best scent so I suggest mixing a shampoo or scented soap to the detergent.

 Step One: Wet brushes with warm water

Step Two: Apply some detergent to a Brush Egg and gently run the brush over in a back and forth motion until the brush is clean. 

Step Three: Rinse the brush until clean and run your brush over a black towel (so there are no stains) to absorb the excess water.

Step Five: Place brushes on the towel and leave to air dry.

Travel Necessities: 12 Beauty Essentials To Pack For Your Holiday

Is it just me or is beauty the most difficult part of packing for the holiday? How do you know which blushes to pack or how many different shades of orange lipstick to throw in? Or what to use when a week in the sun throws you a lemon and you end up with sunburnt lips and steel wool hair... 

So, here's a list of beauty essentials to keep you looking your glowing best for all those holiday selfies.

1.

Dry Shampoo

Holidays are sometimes more of a rush than a time of relaxation which is why this Redken dry shampoo is perfect, it keeps your hair looking clean and shiny when you're running late for hotel breakfast.

2.

Cleanser

When packing a cleanser for a holiday it needs to be two things; gentle enough to soothe distressed skin (due to climate change) and hard-working enough to remove debris. This Dermalogica cleanser is gentle enough for sensitive skin and moisturises as well as cleanses.

3.

Facial Cream

Your skin really takes a beating when travelling, if it's not the plane sucking out every ounce of moisture it's the change in climate. Pack a cream that works for both day and night to save space. This cream absorbs wonderfully and doesn't leave your pores feeling suffocated.

4.

Spf

Please wear sunblock wherever you go! This sunblock has a slight tint which is perfect if you're not in the mood for foundation. It provides an even coverage and doesn't leave your skin looking and feeling oily.

5.

Sunblock

The rest of your body is just as important as your face! Don't forget to lather on the sunblock before sipping on those poolside cocktails.

6.

After - Sun Lotion

And now for some rehabilitation! Even if your skin isn't feeling toasty, give it some relief with this after sun lotion by Eucerin. 

7.

Foundation

Grab a foundation that's light enough for a no-makeup look but thick enough to provide lasting coverage. This Bobbi Brown (Honey) cream compact provides lasting coverage while still keeping your skin looking and feeling hydrated.

8.

Eyeshadow 

Pack an eyeshadow palette instead of individual colours. This Bobbi Brown (Warm Glow) palette is ideal for day and night with it's neutral colours, perfect for a soft bronzed look or a smouldering smokey eye for those nights out. 

9.

Waterproof Mascara

Avoid Racoon eyes after a plunge in the pool with this waterproof mascara by Givenchy. The unique brush provides extra volume and draws the lashes out. A must - have for all lash lovers!

10.

Bronzer / Blush

Pack a bronzer, blush duo like this one from Chanel (Les Beiges Healthy Glow)

which also has an spf in it. It acts as a highlighter, sculpting powder, bronzer and blush which saves you a whole lot of space!

11.

Lipstick Palette

Pack a lipstick palette instead of all your lipsticks which will save space and prevent loss. Choose a palette with a few bright colours as well as a neutral colour for different looks. 

12.

Nail Polish

Don't forget about your nails! Go crazy with colour this summer with this one from Topshop in 'Clique'. 

What are your travel beauty essentials?