Makeup brushes come in all shapes and sizes, and unless you are a trained makeup artist, it can be tricky to know how to use them all correctly. Not only do they all look different, but there is also the bristle length and density to think about too! So, if there are a few brushes in your set that are causing you confusion or you want to learn about a new brush to achieve your desired look, read on.
Face Brushes
When it comes to applying makeup, your face is your canvas! Get up to speed with all the brushes you will need to create everything from contoured cheeks to a flawless base.
Foundation brush
Often broad and flat, a foundation brush is used to evenly blend liquid foundation. Apply your foundation directly to the skin and use the brush to buff it in, paying particular attention to the creases either side of your nose.
Powder brush
A big, fluffy, and often rounded brush, this is ideal for evenly applying powder or mineral foundation all over the face.
Kabuki brush
A large, densely packed round brush used for applying powder, including bronzers and blushes, to the face and body for a flawless, full-coverage finish.
Contour brush
A smaller, fluffy brush with an angled tip used for applying bronzer and contour powders in the hollow of the cheeks. Use sweeping strokes under the cheekbones, over the temples and along the jawline to define the face.
Blusher brush
A smaller, fluffy tapered brush that is ideal for adding a rosy tint to your cheeks. Swirl the brush into your powder, tap of any excess and then swirl onto the apples of your cheeks.
Fan brush
The clue is in the name for this one! This brush looks just like a fan with flared out bristles. This brush is a useful one to have in your kit as it has numerous uses including sweeping away any fall out from powder products and to apply highlighter, blusher, or contour.
Eye and Lip Brushes
Whether you want to master an eyeliner flick, create a sexy smokey eye, or perfect a strikingly bold lip, you need to give these brushes a go.
Eyeshadow brush
Apply your eyeshadow with precision with this small, tapered brush. All you need to do it swirl the brush in either a cream or powder eyeshadow and start creating a masterpiece!
Blending brush
Soften harsher lines and edges created by your eyeshadow brush with the bigger, fluffier blending brush. Perfect for creating an elegant and professional look.
Angled eyeliner brush
Apply your gel eyeliner or create a more detailed look with your eyeshadow using the small, angled eyeliner brush. Remember to turn the brush the right way for each eye to create a seamless line along your lashes.
Lip brush
With small bristles and a squared-off top, create a defined line around your lips. Once you have done this, you will be left with an outline to fill in to create a look as bold or as subtle as you like. Apply your lipstick directly to the brush and remember to wipe off any excess before application.
Brow brush
If your brow hairs are a little sparse or you would like the shape to be more defined, then a brow brush is for you. The small angled brush is packed with dense bristles so you can apply small, defined strokes with gel or powder products to create beautiful brows.
Makeup brushes you need and how to use them
Words: Emily Venables
Makeup brushes come in all shapes and sizes, and unless you are a trained makeup artist, it can be tricky to know how to use them all correctly. Not only do they all look different, but there is also the bristle length and density to think about too! So, if there are a few brushes in your set that are causing you confusion or you want to learn about a new brush to achieve your desired look, read on.
Face Brushes
When it comes to applying makeup, your face is your canvas! Get up to speed with all the brushes you will need to create everything from contoured cheeks to a flawless base.
Foundation brush
Often broad and flat, a foundation brush is used to evenly blend liquid foundation. Apply your foundation directly to the skin and use the brush to buff it in, paying particular attention to the creases either side of your nose.
Powder brush
A big, fluffy, and often rounded brush, this is ideal for evenly applying powder or mineral foundation all over the face.
Kabuki brush
A large, densely packed round brush used for applying powder, including bronzers and blushes, to the face and body for a flawless, full-coverage finish.
Contour brush
A smaller, fluffy brush with an angled tip used for applying bronzer and contour powders in the hollow of the cheeks. Use sweeping strokes under the cheekbones, over the temples and along the jawline to define the face.
Blusher brush
A smaller, fluffy tapered brush that is ideal for adding a rosy tint to your cheeks. Swirl the brush into your powder, tap of any excess and then swirl onto the apples of your cheeks.
Fan brush
The clue is in the name for this one! This brush looks just like a fan with flared out bristles. This brush is a useful one to have in your kit as it has numerous uses including sweeping away any fall out from powder products and to apply highlighter, blusher, or contour.
Eye and Lip Brushes
Whether you want to master an eyeliner flick, create a sexy smokey eye, or perfect a strikingly bold lip, you need to give these brushes a go.
Eyeshadow brush
Apply your eyeshadow with precision with this small, tapered brush. All you need to do it swirl the brush in either a cream or powder eyeshadow and start creating a masterpiece!
Blending brush
Soften harsher lines and edges created by your eyeshadow brush with the bigger, fluffier blending brush. Perfect for creating an elegant and professional look.
Angled eyeliner brush
Apply your gel eyeliner or create a more detailed look with your eyeshadow using the small, angled eyeliner brush. Remember to turn the brush the right way for each eye to create a seamless line along your lashes.
Lip brush
With small bristles and a squared-off top, create a defined line around your lips. Once you have done this, you will be left with an outline to fill in to create a look as bold or as subtle as you like. Apply your lipstick directly to the brush and remember to wipe off any excess before application.
Brow brush
If your brow hairs are a little sparse or you would like the shape to be more defined, then a brow brush is for you. The small angled brush is packed with dense bristles so you can apply small, defined strokes with gel or powder products to create beautiful brows.
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