Which makeup brush is best?
A makeup brush is the most valuable and underestimated item in your beauty bag. This one small tool holds the power to help flawlessly execute a smoky eye or make your rosy cheeks look like a bad sunburn. One way to ensure your contour is always on point is to invest in a quality makeup brush.
If you’re looking for a complete makeup brush set that can handle anything from a natural makeup look to full glam, Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush Set is a good choice.
What to know before you buy a makeup brush
Types of makeup brushes
There are many brush types, including essential makeup brushes for your everyday look and specialty brushes for specific makeup looks.
Essential makeup brushes
- Foundation brush: for applying liquid or cream foundation
- Powder brush: for applying loose powder all over the face
- Concealer brush: for blending in liquid or cream concealer
- Blush brush: for applying blush to the cheeks
- Fluffy eyeshadow brush: for blending eyeshadow
Specialty makeup brushes
- Kabuki brush: for multiple uses, based on user preference
- Stippling brush: for stippling foundation
- Contour brush: for applying concentrated contour
- Fan brush: for lightly applying highlighter
- Eyeliner brush: for applying powder or gel eyeliner
- Lip brush: for applying lipstick
- Extra eye brushes: for creating specific eye looks
Makeup set vs. single brush
Before choosing a makeup brush, it’s essential to decide whether you need a single brush for a specific purpose or a complete set. If you’re a beginner starting from scratch, a makeup set may be beneficial to help you learn about all the types of makeup brushes and figure out which ones you like best. Plus, a set will ensure all your makeup brushes match.
Opt for a single brush if you’re a professional makeup artist who only needs to replace a single brush in their set or if you only use one type of makeup brush.
What to look for in a quality makeup brush
Makeup brush bristles
There are two types of makeup brush bristles: natural and synthetic.
Natural brush bristles are made using animal hair, including goats and horses. They have many advantages, including being softer, absorbing excess oil from the skin and giving a more even application. However, they’re expensive, tend to shed or break down faster and may not be cruelty-free.
Synthetic brush bristles are much more common. In addition to being less expensive than natural bristles, makeup brushes with synthetic bristles last longer, don’t soak up product and leave behind fewer streaks.
Handle
Makeup brush handles can be made of many materials, from wood to plastic to metal. While the handle isn’t quite as crucial as the bristles, it’s important to find a handle that’s balanced and feels comfortable in your hand. Handle length is also key to a precise makeup look, as it is instrumental for precision, control and whether you have a light or heavy touch.
Double-ended
Whether you’re looking for a travel makeup brush or love the idea of “less is more,” a double-ended makeup brush is a smart choice. You can find these dual applicators with assorted brush types, including powder, foundation, concealer and more.
How much you can expect to spend on makeup brushes
The cost of makeup brushes varies widely depending on the type of bristles, handle material and number of brushes in a set. You can expect to spend between $10-$100 on makeup brushes.
Makeup brush FAQ
How long do makeup brushes last?
A. If a makeup brush is high-quality and taken care of, it can last for years. However, even with frequent washing, makeup brushes can hold bacteria and should be replaced often. How often you should replace a makeup brush varies on use and cleanliness, but most agree it should be replaced as soon as three months and no longer than one year.
Do I need to wash my makeup brushes?
A. Yes. Makeup brushes can grow and transfer bacteria and should be washed frequently to avoid breakouts and infections. The frequency in which you wash your brush depends on how often you use it. If you use a makeup brush every day, makeup artists and dermatologists recommend washing it at least once a week.
What’s the best makeup brush to buy?
Top makeup brush for the money
Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush Set
What you need to know: Those looking for an affordable yet quality set of makeup brushes will be impressed with this makeup brush set.
What you’ll love: This set includes brushes for blush, foundation, shadow, highlighter and concealer, plus a makeup sponge. The brushes are cruelty-free, vegan-friendly and come in multiple colors.
What you should consider: Users may notice a few bristles falling out, especially after washing.
Worth checking out
Bs-Mall 14-Piece Synthetic Makeup Brush Set
What you need to know: This makeup brush set is affordable and includes 14 brushes to cover all your makeup needs.
What you’ll love: With 14 brushes, there are a variety of shapes and sizes to suit every face type. The synthetic bristles are soft and dense, while the thick handle is made of wood and easy to hold.
What you should consider: A few users noticed a slight chemical smell that went away after washing.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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