Having the right tools to apply makeup and the expertise to use them correctly makes all the difference to the quality of your makeup look. A sturdy set of quality brushes is the key to a flawless face, allowing you precise and even application. We take a look at the top brushes for makeup artists below.
What’s also important for all your makeup brushes are the bristles, longer bristles create softer coverage while shorter bristles allow a fuller application. When choosing brushes, you can either opt for bristles that are synthetic or natural. Synthetic brushes are non-porous which allows them to distribute more product so it’s best to be light-handed, despite this they can be stiff or have a shiny coating which can result in a streaky application. Natural hair brushes are sourced from animals so have cuticles that make them porous, this results in a sheer application but can also be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Just like you’d try countless shades, brands and formulas to find what works best for you and your clients, you may also need to test a variety of makeup brushes. Here are five must-have brushes that you’ll find in any successful makeup artist’s kit.
Stippling Brush
A stippling brush has ends that feel light and feathery due to its two distinct lengths, the bulk of the brush is full fibered and tightly packed with longer fibres interspersed. Also called a duo-fibre brush, it’s perfect for creating the base of your client’s look as it eases the application of product onto the skin, while its light fibres leave the skin flawless to achieve an airbrush effect.
It’s great for layering different levels of liquid and cream products such as primer, foundation and blush. If you press too hard, the longer bristles will spread and leave streak marks so it’s best to work the product into your clients skin in circular motions.
Blending Sponge
Alright, who hasn’t heard of a blending sponge? They’re great because they can be used wet for liquid foundation or dry to set powders, giving a flawless finish either way.
To use with liquid foundation, run the sponge under warm water and squeeze to remove excess liquid. The water helps keep the sponge from absorbing any product while making foundation appear supple and smooth by connecting the makeup to the skin in a natural way. Because of their rounded shape, sponges won’t leave behind any lines or stray bristles. Our tip is to also use the edge of the blending sponge in soft dabbing motions for delicate work.
Concealer Brush
A concealer brush is ideal for all sorts of creams and liquids, melting them into your clients skin flawlessly. Think of them as small-scale foundation brushes, used for applying a small amount of product to the desired area and then lightly dabbing onto your skin until it blends with your foundation. These brushes are the perfect shape for correcting acne spots, achieving an even complexion and covering broken capillaries or discolouration. An insider’s secret is to also use this brush for sharpening eye lines and cleaning up messy areas of makeup such as feathered lipstick edges.
Powder Brush
The primary function of a powder brush is to dust your face with loose or compact powder, you won’t find a makeup set without one! It’s generally a thick full-fibred brush that’s large and fluffy with a domed shape to evenly disperse products.
A good powder brush will allow you to set and touch up your makeup without moving any of the other present makeup on your skin. This makes it well suited for carving cheekbones, colouring apples of cheeks and applying highlighter, just make sure you tap off excess product from the brush before applying!
Winged Liner Brush
This will likely be one of the smallest brushes in your kit, either tapered with a pointed tip or flattened and straight. It’s best for precision and achieving symmetrical looks such as fuller lash lines or sharp cat eyes due to its dense bristles that are slightly angled. Because this brush is designed to follow the natural crease of the eye, you can use it with gel or liquid liners to paint individual hair strokes on your clients eyebrows that mimic the look of microblading. You might need to experiment with multiple brushes to find one that allows you to create even and fine lines so you can achieve the desired shape and effect your client wants.
Your makeup is only as good as the brushes in your kit, if you’d like to discover the secrets behind applying the perfect pro makeup look, you can read about our online Certificate In Advanced Makeup Artistry or get in touch with us for an obligation-free 15-minute chat.