One Reddit user is giving the internet an all-too-real reminder of how important it is to regularly wash your makeup brushes.

Things are definitely not always as they appear — for example, how clean your makeup brushes actually are. With the naked eye, your beauty brushes might look totally fine, but one Reddit user used a powerful camera lens to prove how important a regular wash schedule truly is.

Many of us brush aside the significance of cleaning our brushes on the reg, but user GarlicPopTart's pictures show us that not only can the tools become a serious breeding ground for acne-causing and skin-irritating bacteria, but it happens a lot quicker than we think. Above, we can see a photo of a powder brush after three weeks of being used and below, a blush brush after only two weeks! Yuck!

Most beauty experts recommend cleaning your brushes at least once a week, and though it might seem excessive, these photos show that it's totally necessary. Check out this foundation brush after only five days since being cleaned…

…and this eyeshadow brush after only four days!

Convinced, but not sure what the proper brush cleaning techniques are? We've got tips on how to get your brushes spick and span and ready to work!

Step 1: Rinse

Make sure to use lukewarm water. Try to not get any moisture above the bristles where it meets the handle or it could loosen the glue!

Step 2: Cleanse

While you can totally go out and buy some brush cleaner, it's definitely possible to get a good wash with materials you already have. We like to use a bar of soap and massage the brush against it. This will be sure to get deep into the bristles to get all of the hidden gunk.

Step 3: Rinse again

To get all of the soap out, once again rinse your brushes with lukewarm water.

Step 4: Lay out to dry

Using a dry cloth or paper towel, lay your brushes out to fully dry. If you're worried about keeping the shape and not flattening any of the bristles, use a table and let them hang off the edge!

Step 5: REPEAT

One week later, don't forget to repeat. May the above photos be a reminder how important it is to keep your makeup brushes clean and beautiful!