Acrylic brush prep 🫶

Okay, so you've prepped your new acrylic brush perfectly, just like I showed you! But what about keeping it in tip-top shape after every single application? Trust me, proper ongoing care is just as crucial for making your investment last and ensuring flawless acrylic sets every time. I've learned a few key guidelines over the years that have saved my brushes from early retirement, and I'm excited to share them with you! Daily Cleaning After Every Use: Your Brush's Best Friend This is perhaps the most important rule! I always make sure to gently wipe off any excess product from the bristles on a lint-free wipe as I'm working. The second I'm done with a set, my brush goes straight into a small dish of fresh monomer for a quick, thorough clean. Swirl it gently, press it against the bottom of the dish, and use a lint-free wipe to gently squeeze out any remaining liquid and product. Never, ever let acrylic dry on the brush – that's a surefire way to ruin it quickly! Avoid using harsh solvents like pure acetone for daily cleaning, as they can dry out and damage the natural bristles over time, making them brittle and prone to splitting. Occasional Deep Cleaning: When You Need a Little Extra Help Sometimes, even with diligent daily cleaning, you might notice a little build-up near the ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles). For this, a very gentle and quick dip in pure acetone can help, but you have to be super careful! I only dip the very tip of the bristles for a few seconds, just enough to dissolve the stubborn residue, then immediately rinse and reshape the brush with monomer. Too much acetone, and your precious bristles will dry out and become stiff. It’s a delicate balance, so use this method sparingly and with extreme caution. Reshaping and Conditioning: Maintaining Flexibility and Form After every clean, whether it's a daily rinse or a deeper treatment, I always take the time to reshape my brush to its original point. If you prefer your brushes crimped, like my Krylx Size 12, make sure to gently push the bristles back into that beautiful crimped shape. This maintains its integrity and sharp edge. Then, just like when we initially prepped it, a tiny drop of cuticle oil or a specialized brush conditioner rubbed into the bristles helps keep them conditioned and flexible. This prevents them from splitting, keeps them soft and smooth, and ensures they're ready for your next client or personal application. Proper Storage: Protecting Your Investment Where and how you keep your brush also makes a huge difference in its longevity. I always store mine flat or upright with the bristles protected, either in a dedicated brush case or with a brush guard. You want to avoid anything that can bend or damage the bristles when it's not in use. Dust, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures are also enemies that can degrade the bristles or loosen the ferrule over time. A cool, dry, and dark place is ideal. Knowing When to Say Goodbye: Signs of Wear Even with the best care, brushes don't last forever. Quality brushes, like the Krylx ones I use, will last a long time with proper care, but eventually, they will show signs of wear. If your bristles start to splay permanently, become stiff and inflexible even after conditioning, or if you notice product getting trapped deep inside that you can't remove, it might be time for a new one. Investing in quality brushes and then caring for them diligently means you'll get the most out of them before needing a replacement. Remember, a well-cared-for brush isn't just about saving money; it's about achieving beautiful, smooth acrylic applications every single time!