Thinking about replacing your makeup brushes when they make your foundation look all botched up? How about cleaning your makeup tools first?

Sure enough, many of us are obsessing over getting our makeup done in record time, as we're managing busy schedules and all. The likes of Kylie Jenner's 10-minute makeup routine appeals to us a lot because it saves us time in front of our vanity mirrors.

With that said, many don't even have time to clean their brushes, opting to replace it instead -- quick and easy.

Do You Need to Clean Those Brushes?

It turns out, makeup brushes have become a mecca to germs, bacteria, dead skin cells, oil and dirt. And we all know that dirt promotes aging.

Under the microscope, makeup brushes have been found to have mites and tiny bugs thriving in them. Fungus, viruses, E. coli, staphylococcus are some organisms that have been discovered on makeup brushes.

Apparently, it is not the lack of skin care or proper face washing that's the problem. Of course, most -- if not all -- of us would wash our faces and even use toners and primers before we put our makeup on. But it is not enough to combat those nasty critters living on our makeup brushes.

What Happens if I Don't Clean My Brushes?

If the lazy bones inside of you is crying in protest with all these recent discoveries about makeup brushes, here's more news that might help move things along:

Apparently, dirty makeup brushes can cause rashes, cracked skin, spots and acne. So while we're blaming our new cosmetics for causing breakouts and rashes on our skin, it might be our makeup brushes that's causing them.

Still, 26 percent of women have not once cleaned their makeup brushes. In worse cases, dirty makeup brushes may even lead to bigger problems like cellulitis.

When Sharing Isn't Caring

Spreading foundation or spreading bacteria? If you're in the habit of letting others borrow your unclean makeup brushes or often get your makeup done using brushes that have previously been used, then you might just be spreading bacteria and all the diseases that potentially come with it.

This is exactly why makeup stylists always clean their brushes right after every use.

Convinced, yet?

Read further on how to clean your makeup brushes.

Makeup Brush 101: Step-by-Step Guide

Here's an easy four-step procedure to cleaning your makeup brushes:

1. Start by running your brushes in hot tap water, then placing them in a bowl of hot soapy water, working up lather.

2. Wash your brushes and make sure there is no trace of soap left.

3. Squeeze the water out, then lay it flat on a towel to dry. Never let it stand as the water can drain into the handle of the applicator.

4. Make sure to dry them properly and store in a cool, dry place. Avoid placing them out in the open especially inside the bathroom.

How Often to Clean Makeup Brush

You should strive to repeat this hygienic process with your makeup brushes at least twice a week. You might also want to use a tool like the Brush Cleaning Mat, which helps save time cleaning your makeup brushes.

You can just swirl your makeup brushes over the cleaning mat after every use.

Final Thoughts

While natural brushes can sound appealing, they are also high maintenance, getting limped if it is not properly cared for.

With that in mind, consider using synthetic brushes if you're looking for a more low-maintenance choice. These can last you anywhere between five to 10 years if you wash it at least twice a week.