Health & Beauty Tools: When to Replace Makeup Brushes

Picture this: you’ve been eyeing those new makeup sets from Anastasia Beverly Hills, but your beauty tools have been looking a bit worse for wear. You’re wondering if it’s time for an upgrade. Should you be switching out your beauty tools now or later? Is it necessary at all?

Thankfully, there are definite answers to popular search topics like ‘how often to replace your beauty tools’ – and we’ve narrowed them down for you right here!

The link between beauty tools and skin health

Here’s the lowdown: old or improperly maintained beauty tools can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Yikes!

When your beauty tools aren’t up to par, you’re opening yourself up to potential risks. For instance, continuing to use these tools on your skin could lead to breakouts, irritation, and other skin concerns. Your makeup products could also be contaminated by these tools, which in turn could lead to unwanted reactions within the product container – or worse, after you’ve applied your makeup to your skin.

By ensuring your tools are clean and replaced when needed, you’re looking out for your skin’s health as well. Your beauty tools are the trusty sidekicks to your favourite skincare and makeup. Keeping your tools in tip-top shape ensures that you get the best results every time you use your favourite product.

And let’s be honest, there’s a certain joy in using a fresh, new tool, especially when paired with luxurious products like La Perla or Dior Beauty. It’s like Christmas morning!

Beauty is individual, and everyone deserves the best. A premium beauty routine isn’t just about choosing the right Kiehl’s products, GHD Hair tools, or Olaplex treatments; it’s also about knowing when it’s time to replace or replenish them. 

Recognising the signs of wear and tear

Maintaining your beauty tools is like caring for plants – you’ve got to know when they need water, when they’ve outgrown their pot, and when it’s time to let them go. Similarly, your beauty tools give off signs when they’re past their prime.

Over time, your beauty tools might start to show some wear and tear from regular use. Brushes might lose bristles, sponges might tear, and metal tools could rust. If your beauty blender looks more like a chewed-up toy than an applicator, for example, you’re probably due for a replacement.

It’s not just the look of your beauty tools that changes, either, but the feel of them, too. Damaged or aged tools can be less effective and might even scratch or irritate your skin. The risks skyrocket for beauty tools that need power to work, such as curling irons or hair straighteners. You wouldn’t want a malfunctioning iron anywhere near your hair, much less your face.

And did we mention noises? Certain powered beauty tools have distinct sounds to them; take the trusty blow dryer, for example. If it sounds a little louder than it normally does, you may want to set it aside and air-dry for the day instead.

One of the biggest signs of beauty tools ready to retire, however, is the smell. Tools that are damp or stored in humid places can develop mould or bacteria, causing them to develop an unpleasant or musty smell. Even without that smell, though, there could be buildup and other residues providing sustenance to the mould or bacteria, and you wouldn’t want any of that touching your face.

Essentially, clean and well-maintained beauty tools will look, feel, and generally smell nice when used. If you notice that your tools aren’t performing as they once did, it could be a sign they’re on their way out and that you need to start shopping for their replacements soon.

The lifespan of common beauty tools

Just like your favourite snacks have expiration dates, so do your beauty tools. Here are a few common beauty tools’ lifespans and when you should expect to say goodbye to them

Brushes and applicators

Brushes and applicators help you get that flawless finish and blend to perfection, but they’re not meant to keep going forever. On average, makeup brushes can last anywhere from one to three years, depending on how well you care for them, but they would wear out sooner if you got a lot of use out of them.

Sponges also have a shorter lifespan: if you’re using them daily, consider replacing them every three to four months. Because of their porous nature, sponges are a great breeding ground for bacteria. Now imagine dabbing that into your designer foundation – did a shiver run down your spine?

The signs to look out for are bristles falling out, becoming frayed, or the handle becoming loose, chipped, or wobbly. Sponges that have started to become discoloured, cracked, or brittle are not long for the day as well.

Manual tools

Tweezers, eyelash curlers, and other manual tools might seem like they last long enough to become heirlooms, but unfortunately, they, too, have a lifespan.

For tweezers, if you notice they’re not gripping hairs as effectively or the tips are misaligned, it may be time for a new pair. Similarly, for eyelash curlers, if the pad becomes cracked or the mechanism isn’t as springy, it may be winking at you to give it a good final rest.

We’re not suggesting replacing them purely for being wonky; these tools are entirely manually operated with direct contact with your skin, so there is some risk of pinching. Misaligned parts could scratch your skin or, in the case of eyelash curlers, even scratch your eyeball (a nightmare!). Small breaks in your skin may not seem like much, but it only takes a bit to cause a lot of grief.

Remember, these tools are all about precision, and if they’re not at their best, they won’t give you the results you’re after and may even lead to unhappy accidents.

Electronic beauty gadgets

From facial cleansing brushes to hair straighteners, electronic beauty gadgets have become indispensable. Like other electronics, however, they can wear out over time.

The first sign of this is declining performance. Maybe your hair dryer doesn’t blow as hot, or your facial brush doesn’t rotate as vigorously. Sluggish performance isn’t always just a case for replacing batteries or finding another power strip; it could mean that its parts are wearing out and that it’s time to get a new beauty tool.

Another sign is if they start making unusual noises or, for rechargeable devices, if the charging doesn’t hold as long. When these gadgets start to falter, it’s not just an inconvenience; it can also be a safety hazard. Electric and electronic beauty devices can be electrical or fire hazards when they malfunction, so it’s best not to use them further.

If your trusty electronic tool starts acting up, it might be time for an upgrade. Stop using the tool in the meantime until you’ve found a replacement, not just for your beauty and health but for your safety in general.

The luxury experience: why premium tools last longer

So, now that we’ve answered ‘how often to replace your beauty tools’, you’re ready to replace the ones that need to go. Should you go for premium tools or settle for the more generic ones? It’s simple: premium is the way to go. 

Firstly, premium-quality beauty tools are often made from high-grade materials that are more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Brushes made from high-quality natural hair, for example, will apply makeup more efficiently to the skin and will last longer than cheaper alternatives.

They are also associated with more detailed craftsmanship. High-end beauty tools are typically produced with greater attention to detail, especially for tools with moving or assembled parts. It’s common for these tools to be assembled more meticulously – some even handcrafted – making them more resistant to breaking. As a result, every part, from the handle to the bristles or blades, is made to last. 

Because they’re designed to be more durable, premium tools are generally less likely to be replaced frequently. As a result, they might offer better value in the long run, even if they are initially more expensive.

Beauty tool maintenance isn’t just about keeping your tools looking good; it’s about ensuring they work their best and keep your skin happy and healthy. When your beauty tools are at their best, so is your beauty routine. A little care goes a long way, so give your tools the love they deserve, and they’ll return the favour by helping you look and feel fabulous!

Key Points to Remember

• Your beauty tools are valuable to your beauty journey, but like all good things, they don't last forever. 
• Keep an eye out for physical changes, altered performance, and any unusual smells or residues. 
• When in doubt, it's always better to replace it than risk your skin's health.
• It’s important to recognise the signs of wear and tear on your beauty tools for your personal health and general safety, especially with powered beauty tools.

At Beauty Affairs, we handpick the best in luxury beauty, designed especially for discerning beauty lovers like you. Experience premium quality with a personal touch so you can radiate elegance and confidence at all times.