Let’s talk makeup brushes. When I talk to people about issues they’re having with makeup application, I always like to ask about what brush they’re using. Usually, I find that they are using the wrong brush. Two of the most common issues I’ve come across are people not knowing which brushes should be used with different consistencies of foundation, and using eye brushes that are too large.
An artist is only as good as their tools. A good set of brushes can take your makeup game to the next level. I’m sharing my MUST-HAVE brushes and how I like to use them. If I had to, I could live the rest of my life with only these makeup brushes.
It’s also really important to take care of your brushes so that they last longer and don’t carry bacteria in them. See how to care for your brushes in this post.
Blush Brush
Your standard blush brush. Everyone needs one. You can also use this to apply bronzer.
Pictured: Morphe (part of a set)
Blending Brush
This is the perfect blending brush. I use this to wipe away powder from baking, blend blush, highlight, bronzer. You name it. When I’m done with my makeup, before I apply setting spray, I will take this and gently buff my face in circular motions to make sure everything is blended. I’ve even used this to apply some cream products like blush and CC creams.
Pictured: MAC
Foundation Brush
I typically use a beauty blender for liquid foundations, but anytime I’m using something thicker like a cream or stick, I use this brush. This is also great for blending out cream contours.
Pictured: Real Techniques
Fan Brush
Use it for highlighting. It’s the perfect size for the tops of your cheekbones. I also use this on my collar bones and shoulders when applying highlighter.
Pictured: Morphe
Setting Brush
My everything brush. This brush can do no wrong. I actually have three of them. Day-to-day I mainly use it for applying setting powder under my eyes or removing it. You can also use it for a dramatic cheekbone contour or contouring your collarbones. I’ve also used this to apply highlighter.
Pictured: Real Techniques
Contour Brush
The brush is super soft and the perfect size for getting into the hollows of your cheekbones.
Pictured: ELF
Other ones I like: MAC
Flat Shader Brush
This is what you use to pack eyeshadow onto your lid. The surface area on this brush is designed to apply lots of shadow, rather than blending it.
Pictured: Morphe
Other ones I like: MAC
Blending Brush
If I could only have one blending brush forever it would be this. There are so many dupes out there for the MAC 217, but IMO, none do it like the OG. It’s the perfect size and density to both apply shadow to your crease and blend it out. I can also use this under my eye to blend out smokier looks.
Pictured: MAC
Blending Brush
There are also a lot of dupes out there for the MAC 224, but again, if I had to pick one, it would be the OG. This brush is great for blending on any shadow. I particularly use this to blend out my crease after using the MAC 217.
Pictured: MAC
Concealer Brush
This brush is great for spot correcting any blemishes or discoloration. Because it’s a synthetic brush, it works great with thick creamy concealers.
Pictured: Real Techniques
Blending Brush
Confusing I know, but I swear all the blending brushes do something different. This one is similar to the MAC 217, but it is smaller and a little less dense. It’s good for getting into your crease. Also, for blending out your outer corner.
Pictured: Morphe
Pencil Brush
These are great for adding a dark shadow to the outer V and applying shadow to the lower lash line. This one in particular is great because it’s a little more dense than some others I have, which give you more control on where you’re applying the shadow.
Pictured: MAC
Similar options: Morphe | Morphe
Eyeliner Brush
Because this brush is so tiny, it’s perfect to give you a nice sharp wing.
Pictured: Morphe
Eyelash and Brow Brush
I can’t find my exact brush online anymore, but you should have any brush that looks like this in your collection. I like the metal side for combing through my lashes.
Eyebrow Brush
This brush is the perfect size for your brows, even if you have small ones. I’ve used other eyebrow brushes, only to find that the shape is great, but it’s bigger than my brow and makes a mess.
Pictured: Anastasia Beverly Hills
Powder Brush
*I forgot to add this to the photo because it was in my gym bag, but it’s definitely a must!*
I mostly use this brush to apply all over bronzer. You can also use to apply blush or to help blend out. I really like the shape and density of this one.
My favorite: Crown Brush
xx,
Nicole