Essential Makeup Brushes, articles, fashion beauty

Essential Makeup Brushes

by Mariève Inoue
published July 18, 2012

rating: (18 Ratings)

Sometimes, the difference between a look that is so-so and one that’s flawless lies in your makeup application. Although using your fingers can be great for certain products, others go on more easily or more precisely with a brush. Or sometimes, a brush versus a finger can simply create a different final result. Need some guidance through the different types of makeup brushes out there? We’ve got four that make a good base in your makeup case.

Powder brush / Blush brush

What to use it with: Powder or mineral powder foundation (pressed or loose), translucent powder, powder blush or even bronzer.

Special characteristics: An end that is round and fluffy, and with bristles that are not too dense.

Why it’s essential: There is no other way to ensure a blotch-free application of anything powdered. A good brush will help powder formulas to go on evenly.

We like: Benefit White Bluff Puff, $28 at Murale and Sephora.

Crease brush

What to use it with: Eye shadow.

Special characteristics: Usually relatively long bristles, that are semi-firm, creating a bit of a rounded shape that ends in a point.

Why it’s essential: There is no better way to blend your two hues of eye shadow at the crease of your eye lid than with a crease brush. An essential for creating the smoky eye look. Just dip in a dark eye shadow and sweep back and forth at the crease of your lid and you’re done!

We like: Sephora Collection Professionnel Platinum Natural Crease Brush #10, $26 at Sephora

Lip brush

What to use it with: Lipstick or lip gloss.

Special characteristics: Bristles that are semi-firm, and pretty flat. Sometimes the bristles are rectangular, but some may end in a point for more precise application.

Why it’s essential: Going for a look that is edgy rather than soft and romantic? Then you’ll need lips that are lined with precision. Great for blending your lipstick with your lip liner, or for working a bit of clear gloss into the middle of your bottom lip for maximum pout power!

We like: M·A·C 318 Retractable Lip Brush, $22.50 at M·A·C counters

Eyeliner brush

What to use it with: Cream, gel or powder eyeliner.

Special characteristics: Bristles that are usually short, and firm, to give maximum control over application.

Why it’s essential: Out of eyeliner? Just whip out your handy eyeliner brush, dip it in some water and sweep it over some dark eye shadow to line your eyes with. Problem solved! You can also use this brush to define your eye brows with some brow powder.

We like: Lise Watier Eyeliner Brush, $18 at Lise Watier counters

1. Powder / Blush: Benefit Bronzing Brush

2. Crease: Sephora Collection Professionnel Platinum Natural Crease Brush #10

3. Lips: M·A·C 318 Retractable Lip Brush

4. Eyeliner: Lise Watier Eyeliner Brush

Tag(s): beauty, makeup, brushes, guide

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nucleii
September 13, 2010 at 10:04 pm

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3 others heart this

you switched the MAC and Lise Watier's photo. Beside that, I think that you choices are good
kuffspro
October 2, 2010 at 3:09 pm

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For years I have used sponges/wedges to apply foundation...then I was convinced to try (and purchased) a foundation brush...I can't live without it now! There is no streaking and my makeup has a more flawless look. There is also greater control with the brush, I find the wedges tend to "soak up" some of the foundation and you don't get an even application like you do with the brush.

about the author

Mariève Inoue
Editor in Chief

Follow Mariève on Twitter: @glittermess