One of the more asked questions I receive in my studio is “what make-up brushes do I need”?
A walk through the cosmetics section of any department store and you will find brushes sold in packs, lots of different sized handles and brushes, some natural hair, some synthetic, some sponges, and when you trial new products the consultants will use a variety of brushes. All very confusing.
But the simple truth is professional make up artists work with many models on the same day. That’s many different skin types, make-up types (creams, liquids, powders), and make-up styles. You’re just working on you, so your tool kit doesn’t need the volume or complexity of a professional to get a professional look.
For a daily routine, a minimum of about four brushes is all you will need: a powder brush, blush brush, eye shadow brush and an eyebrow brush and comb - which can also be used for eyelashes.
Contouring and foundation brushes are not necessary for an everyday make-up application, you will achieve the smoothest application of foundation with your fingers, and contouring is not for every make-up style or every face.
As I mentioned, the type of make-up you use will dictate what kind of brush bristles you need - natural hair or synthetic.
Natural hair contains a cuticle which will hold the make-up, so are best for powders. You may find when you are apply a powdered eye-colour that colour is falling onto your cheek, if so, you’ve probably the wrong brush and it’s likely to have synthetic bristles. This prevents you from achieving the truest colour result. But this doesn’t mean synthetic bristles are a bad thing.
If you are applying liquids or creams, the natural hair cuticles will work against what you are trying to achieve. Cream and liquid will get caught in the cuticle and not transfer well onto your skin, working against the colour and preventing that flawless finish you want.
Also keep in mind the quality of the brush, this will give you improved results over cheap brushes. A budget of approximately $150 should get you the brushes you need.
Don’t forget these are a part of your style regime you use everyday, so you want quality that will last. You wouldn’t expect a cheap dress that you wear everyday to last you more than a few months - so invest in quality. And take care of your investment, brushes are easy to maintain with washing them in water with a little diluted shampoo.
If you would like advice on what brushes will work best for you, just ask at your next appointment.
Until next month!