There are two types of people in the world – those of whom own far too many brushes than required, and those of whom apply everything using their fingers or just that one brush (yikes, that’s an invitation for acne, BTW). IOHO, picking a few correct brushes is the trick to efficient makeup artistry. All you need in your vanity are game-changing brushes – the motto really is quality > quantity. Here’s a quick and easy guide on which brushes are worth the buy and how to use them correctly.
Kabuki Brush
You can easily recognise a Kabuki brush by its short handle and dense, dome-shaped bristles. This brush can be used to apply foundation and body makeup too but is best used to apply fine powders or mineral foundations to achieve a full-coverage finish. You can use the bristles to pick up product and with slight pressure, work it across your face.
Foundation Brush
While a lot of people prefer using sponges to apply foundation, foundation brushes are better for powder or mineral foundation. Since foundation brushes have flat, pinched bristles, it aids the effortless application of the product. To prevent stark makeup lines, apply your foundation in even strokes, starting in your T-zone and slowly working your way out.
Concealer Brush
Concealer brushes work wonders in targeting specific, smaller areas. Remember, try patting/tapping before blending to make sure the product remains saturated where you need it.
Powder & Blush Brush
Blush and powder brushes are similar enough to kill both birds with one stone while making sure you don’t end up mixing the products. You can use the fluffy bristles to pick up fine powder and tap (not blow off) the excess before dusting it lightly on your face.
Highlighter Brush
The shape of your highlighter brush determines how diffused or opaque your highlighter looks after application. Apply your highlighter by lightly sweeping and blending the product on your cheekbones, brow bones, cupid’s bow and shoulder blades before using a setting spray to enhance the look.
Eyeshadow Shading + Blending Brush
As easy as it is to just use your fingers, they won’t allow for an even, opaque layer of pigment on your lids. Start by first patting the colour on your lid and then use a blending brush for a diffused, seamless look.
Pencil Brush
If there’s one brush that is super versatile, it’s definitely this one. It comes in handy for so many things owing to its stiff, dense bristles and can help you cover smaller corners effortlessly. Smudging eyeliner or eyeshadow in the lash line or applying darker pigments can be made easy with this wonder wand.
Eyebrow Brush
A dual-ended brow brush has flat, blunt, angled bristles that helps you draw individual brow hairs and a spoolie that helps you comb through. You can also use it to de-clump your eyelashes after using mascara. A must-have for perfectly drawn, filled and shaped brows.
Lip Brush
Don’t be mistaken – lip brushes aren’t just for professionals. The tip of lip brushes are smaller so that they can be used to line your lips to avoid harsh lines of a lip liner. You can also angle the brush down to use it to fill in lipstick precisely and neatly while also shading and avoiding lumps.