MAKEUP BRUSHES DECODED - PLUS 4 YOU NEED!

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The Makeup aisle can be daunting, especially when it comes to the HUGE variety of brushes and applicators available to us these days. It seems as though there is always a new gizmo or gadget promising flawless results and more ease than ever before- but knowing a few key basics will go a long way to helping you decipher those buzz words. So lets dive into what you need to know about your makeup brushes and how you can let THEM do the work for you. [video here]

Two key factors for identifying the purpose of a makeup brush: DENSITY and CUT

  • DENSITY is the amount a bristles packed into the head of the brush.

    • A more dense brush will feel firmer to the touch and will have less drag on the skin. These brushes are best for spreading liquid and cream product through buffing or tapping.

    • A less or loose density brush will be better for swiping or swirling powder products because the brushes will glide and bend over the skin without tugging.

  • CUT is the shape in which the bristles are cut after they've been glued into the head of the brush.

    • Common cuts are flat, round, domed, angled, pencil, and paddle. By analyzing the shape of the brush we can determine what part of the face it will fit best in, and what type of blend it will produce.

So knowing this, you'll want to look at your collection and determine if you are using your brushes to the fullest potential, or if you are missing a couple that could make application quicker and more efficient.

Here are a few unique favorites of mine- that may be missing from your collection... They each serve a unique purpose and make my routine far more efficient.

  • bdelium face blending brush This is a large flat brush with a sharp edge to the cut... making it ideal for creating precise lines used for adding bronzer and contour

  • Luxie 207 angled shading brush This brush is unique in that it is full and fluffy but still cut at an angle so it fits perfectly into the crease of the eye and you can almost use it as a stamp to create symmetry on both eyes

  • Real Techniques Filtered Cheek Brush Most blush brushes are quite full and fluffy, which will spread the product further- but this brush is cut much smaller to give you a precise control over where your color goes

  • It Cosmetics Essential Concealer Brush This brush is the perfect 'spatula' shape... making it ideal for scooping up creams and putties and then pressing them into the pores on the skin