Face Brushes

Wanted to give you all the lo-down on brushes for foundation and powder.

So here are a few tips and things to look for.

With all types of foundations, remember to start at the center of your face (where you typically need the most coverage) and work the product outwards to the perimeter. Also, the best companion tool for brushes is your fingers so don’t forget to blend with them as you use your brushes. And please don’t forget your neck!

Foundation (Liquid): You’ll want a synthetic, densely-packed flat but wide brush to effortlessly cover more space when you’re in a hurry in the mornings. Look for ones with nylon or Taklon bristles for the smoothest application.

Foundation (Cream): If you use a cream foundation, you’ll want a 100% natural bristle brush so it deposits less product as you swirl it all over, giving you a flawless airbrushed effect. Natural bristles are critical for building coverage without streaking.

Foundation (Mineral Powder): This can be a synthetic or natural bristle powder brush, but look for one with a plump shape designed for the swirling motion we do when applying minerals.

Concealer (Undereye): I love a flat synthetic concealer brush for covering dark circles because you can really “lay down” the product by using the side of the brush. The other component to look for is a tapered edge because this helps you avoid clumping during application. The synthetic bristles will pick up less product so your coverage will last longer (the thicker you apply it, the more likely it will crease and cake).

Concealer (Blemishes): Look for a pointed and tapered concealer brush made of synthetic bristles so you can apply it precisely on top of any kind of blemish (pimple, scar, broken capillary, etc.) without touching the surrounding skin. Practice mini-swirling motions gently on top of the blemish then lightly blend the perimeters with your ring finger.

Powder (All-over): Look for a big, fluffy natural bristle powder brush for situations when you’re going to be on camera (college TV channel, YouTube, your friend’s music video) or photographed under brutal lights (yearbook photos, weddings, sorority formals).

Powder (T-Zone): Use an eyeshadow blending brush made with natural hair bristles as a powder brush just for the areas that tend to shine: between your brows, around and on the tip of your nose, your upper lip and your chin. This allows the rest of your face to glow and breathe.

Hope this helps!