Brush Business: Face

When I started doing my makeup seriously, I discovered that makeup brushes are often more important than the makeup itself. Tools for application can make all of the difference when applying cosmetics to your face. Unfortunately, these tools can often become pretty pricey and it is next to impossible to discern which brushes you need without becoming overwhelmed. Well, I am here to help demystify what brushes do and which are the most important to keep in your kit.

First and foremost, there are two categories of brushes: natural and synthetic. I personally use a mixture of synthetic and natural brushes as I don't think there is a huge difference between the two. Either way, if it is relevant to you, synthetic brushes are made of man-made fibers and are best for non-powder products. On the other hand, natural brushes are made of actual hair (not always cruelty free) and work best with powder based products. Pricing is relatively similar and one isn't going to run your any more than it's counterpart. 

So, let's talk about what you need for your face.

Concealer brush

This does exactly as its name suggests. A concealer brush works with powder or cream based concealer and spot correcting products. The flat head of this brush allows direct and precise application to trouble spots. It also lightly blends to keep spot correction areas look less obvious. 

Stippling brush

This brush applies foundation products to your face without making it appear to be just setting on top of your skin. The rough top of this brush blends makeup into your skin rather than smearing it around on the surface. If you are looking for full coverage, this would be the foundation brush to go with.

Foundation brush

This standard foundation brush lightly and smoothly applies foundation to the face. This brush allows for a more natural application while still preventing makeup from looking caked on. 

Angled brush

Angled brushes are great for contouring as it relates to the use of blush and/or bronzer. The angled shape drags along application and slightly mutes colors at the site of application. It is also perfectly sized to keep you from looking like a clown as a result of heavy blush streaks. 

Fan brush

I personally do not use a fan brush, but some people swear by them. They are usually used for blushes and prevent a hard looking application. Blush colors look light and rosy rather than like hot pink splotches on your skin. 

Kabuki brush

These brushes are going to be the largest in your kit. They are used to blend the mix of powders (blush, highlighter, setting powder, bronzer) etc. This will be one of the last brushes you use on your face as you are completing your look. It blurs any of the inevitable hard lines on your face and keeps everything looking smooth.

Every one of these brushes comes in larger and smaller versions of what is shown. This can be confusing, but just think of what size is going to work best for you and what type of makeup you apply.
Sephora has a magnificent collection of brushes to choose from and can fulfill all of your needs.


Up next I'll be writing about what brushes you need for your eye makeup application.