My Weapons Of Choice - A Makeup Brush Overview
Brushes, Sponges, Fingertips - Oh my!
Ask anyone what they prefer to apply their makeup with and you will always get a different answer!
I tend to use all three and for very different reasons but here is the quickest breakdown of each:
Sponges
Similar to using a brush, sponges are known for their blended out, flawless finish. The best tip for using sponges is to get it wet before you use it if using it for foundation application. This will prevent the sponge from sucking up excess product AND provide a sheer-like, buildable finish. DON'T wet the sponge if you are using it to bake powder onto your skin. Use a dry sponge for maximum efficacy.
L'Oréal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Concealer Blender
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, 2 Sponges in Each Pack
Vera Mona Cake and Bake Beauty Sponge
Fingertips
Using your fingers to apply makeup is just as effective as using a brush or sponge. The warmth of your fingertips makes for more blendability—but be careful because you’re going to get more of a concentrated application. For colorful eye shadow and cream blushes, your fingertips will give you the best color payoff. If you’re going to use your fingers, be gentle! Always use a tapping motion with your ring finger because it will put the least amount of pressure on the skin.
Brushes
If you follow me, you know that brushes are my weapon of choice and are known for their precision and blendability. Whether you’re using powder or cream, brushes are versatile enough to get the job done. Tip: It’s important to start with a small amount of product and build up to your desired look. With a brush you tend to get a more concentrated amount of product and color, so blending it all out is essential. Here's a quick rundown of my favorites:
1: DUO FIBER BRUSH SET
DUO FIBER BRUSH SET: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2IWEJGP
These brushes are part of my everyday routine because they give me the best of both worlds. Made up of two types of fibers in each brush, these allow me to pick up makeup/color with the sheer light fibers at the tip and the dense dark fibers at the base help to blend. These are the best brushes to use to slowly build color from light to intense.
2: CORE COLLECTION SET
CORE COLLECTION SET: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2HWD4TD
This set is a great set for full-face application, especially if you aren't going to invest in more brushes right away. These have almost 2,000 positive reviews on Amazon and are $10 cheaper than Ulta. The small detailer brush is great for small concealer application while the pointed foundation brush is great for concealer under the eyes and on the t-zone. The buffing brush is great for overall foundation application, and the contour brush is just that - for contouring!
3: SETTING BRUSH
SETTING BRUSH: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2HNB3BM
This is the perfect brush for highlighter along the cheekbones, brow bones, cupid's bow, and the bridge of the nose. It's also ideal for bronzer application or undereye concealer. A lot of people do use this brush for foundation application but I find it too small for this. Each brush head made by Real Techniques is custom-cut to the perfect shape, allowing for precise application from dense coverage to a soft, delicate finish - so whatever you use this brush for, it's sure to get the job done!
4: BLUSH BRUSH
Real Techniques Blush Brush With Synthetic Bristles and Aluminum Ferrules, For Setting, Highlighting, Blending, Applying Blush: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2GYV7NU
No need to shy away from bright pigments with this brush! This blush brush expertly picks up vibrant colors and allows you to apply the color with ease and blend out to a seamless finish.
5: SIGMA E35 BLENDER
Sigma Beauty E35, Tapered Blending: http://amzn.to/2wFDDWF
This brush is similar to the duo up above but the bristles are a bit more firm and I prefer this brush when working ShadowSense into my crease.
6: EXPERT FACE BRUSH
EXPERT FACE BRUSH: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2HWIUER
This patented brush is Real Techniques #1 best-selling brush. This brush is ultra firm and broad for perfectly buffed foundation and an airbrushed finish - Ideal for cream and liquid foundations
7: STIPPLING BRUSH
STIPPLING BRUSH: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2GYUXWE
A stippling brush is used for – you guessed it – stippling AKA lightly patting the brush surface in an even pattern across the entire face for maximum coverage. This brush can be used to apply foundation, blush, bronzer, powder and highlighters. It works especially well when used to apply liquid and cream products. It doesn't allow product to pool or collect in large pores and gives a full-coverage finish.
8: LASH & BROW GROOMER
Lash Brow Groomer: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2GYW67N
A lot of people will swear that their mascara makes all the difference but I can tell you from years of experience, 50% of how your lashes look depends on combing them out in between applying layers. It removes the clumps, separates the lashes, and keeps them straight. It will keep each application clean and allow you to build on top of each layer.
9: STARTER SET
STARTER SET: HTTP://AMZN.TO/2HNB9CD
Just starting out and don't know where to begin? This starter set has everything you need to get started:
- Deluxe crease brush: soft, oversized design for effortless contouring
- Base shadow brush: apply a smooth, flawless foundation of color
- Accent brush: designed for precision detailing, spotlighting, highlighting, and smudging
- Fine liner brush: the ultimate tool for precision application of liquid or cream eyeliner
- Brow brush: distinctive shape easily defines eyebrows
Want more info on brushes or other tools? Leave a question or comment below!
XOXO KATIE