Frequently asked questions
What are the different types of facial cleansing brushes?
Most facial cleansing brushes are electric devices made with silicone bristles that use sonic vibrations or pulsations to loosen makeup, oil, and buildup. Dermatologists often recommend silicone because it’s soft, nonporous, and generally less abrasive than traditional nylon bristles, making it gentler on the skin barrier. Electric brushes may also offer multiple intensity levels, exfoliating or massage modes, and other customizable settings. There are also manual cleansing brushes, which typically use soft synthetic bristles and rely on circular hand motions rather than vibrations to cleanse and gently exfoliate the skin.
How to choose a facial cleansing brush
Start by considering your skin type and how much exfoliation you want. Silicone brushes tend to be softer and less abrasive than traditional nylon bristles (in our list, we only recommend silicone), while adjustable intensity settings give you more control over how vigorous your cleanse feels. You may also want to consider the size and shape of the brush head, especially if you want to reach smaller areas around the nose and eyes, as well as whether you prefer an electric or manual model.
Those with very sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin should be especially mindful of over-exfoliating. Dr. Engelman says people with conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis, or eczema should use facial cleansing brushes with extra caution. Our pick for sensitive skin from Tata Harper is a smart choice, as it doesn’t exfoliate and allows your hand to control its pressure.
How do you use a facial cleansing brush?
Apply a gentle, nonabrasive facial cleanser to damp skin or directly to the brush, then move it over your face in small, circular motions using light pressure. Pressing too hard can irritate or damage the skin barrier. “Focus on areas prone to oil and congestion, like the forehead, nose, and chin, but be very cautious around sensitive areas like the eyes,” says Dr. Rambhia. Always follow your device’s instructions, including its recommendations for frequency of use.
How do you clean a facial cleansing brush?
Rinse your facial cleansing brush thoroughly after every use to remove cleanser, makeup, oil, and other residue, then let it air-dry completely. For a deeper clean, wash the bristles or silicone surface with mild soap and warm water, taking care not to submerge any part of an electric device that isn’t waterproof. Devices with removable brush heads may also need periodic replacement, so check the manufacturer’s care instructions for your specific device.
How we tested
We tested 10 facial cleansing brushes, evaluating how easy they were to use, how they felt on the skin (anything overly abrasive or rough was a hard no), and how clean and smooth our skin looked and felt afterward. We paid close attention to the material and texture of the bristles, how well they lathered facial cleanser, and how effectively they cleared away makeup, sunscreen, oil, and other buildup. We also considered how easy each brush was to maneuver around areas like the nose and eyes, along with practical features such as waterproofing, multiple intensity settings, battery life, and additional cleansing or massage modes.
Meet the experts
- Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon in New York City
- Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City
- Pooja Rambhia, MD, a New Jersey–based dermatologist at UnionDerm
- Ariel Ostad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist
