Makeup geeks (like myself) love acquiring new toys. (For me, I have the privilege of writing these tools off on my taxes. It’s one of the perks of my makeup business!) Problem is, you can get overwhelmed with all the brush choices out there. Skip the funky, mystery brushes, no matter who manufactures them. Stick with these 10 brushes!
Packing Eye Shadow Brush: This brush tip has a flat shape with dense fibers that you can use to pack the shadow onto your lid. This is the best method for building up more intense color. The brush tip is perfect for adding a touch of highlighter beneath the eyebrow too.
Blending Brush: You’ll identify this brush by its dome shape bristles! The fluffy tip allows you to get the color precisely in the crease. This brush also doubles as a concealer brush.
Smoky Pencil Brush: The sultry smoky eye isn’t going anywhere. You need this brush’s full, tapered tip which is ideal for smudging damp eyeshadow or eyeliner. It’s also small enough to use on the inner corners of the eyes.
Brow Brush: This shaping brush looks like a clean mascara brush with stiff bristles. Some swanky brow brushes fit easily in a purse too.
Eyeliner Tool: You can’t beat a good eyeliner tool. It has a tiny brush or a sponge tip (or both) that you use to drag, define and blend the eyeliner. It’s a must have for a dramatic eyeliner look.
Foundation Brush: Whether you are applying cream or powder foundation a brush is an awesome tool for covering your skin. It has a large brush head but the brushes are flat and distribute the product evenly for better coverage.
Kabuki Brush: If you use mineral powder blush or foundation, you must have a kabuki. This short, stubby brush rests right on the face, delivering powder evenly across your face, jaw and neck, even into tiny creases–all without caking.
Concealer Brush: Like a foundation brush, this type of tool delivers product to the skin in a controlled way. The brush tip is usually rounded and flat for perfect product delivery.
Blush Brush: Fat and soft, the blush brush works beautifully under the cheekbone and on the apples of your cheeks. It is one of the tools you will need to clean frequently to keep oils from building up.
Lip Brush: From the small retractable version to the fine-tipped lip brush, this precise tool puts the color right where you want it.
There are tons of bristles and handle varieties out there. Brushes can be made from animal hair or synthetic bristles. (Don’t panic-they just get a haircut.) Brush handles can be also be made from a variety of products like wood, plastic, even porcelain.
