10 Things About…Makeup Brushes

The secret to a flawless face of makeup lies in the makeup brushes. Professional makeup artists alike agree that makeup brushes are the most important tools in every person’s makeup collection. Investing in the right brushes and caring for them makes all the difference when applying makeup. Makeup brushes come in various sizes, shapes, and types – each uniquely designed with a specific purpose for creating a flawless finish.

  1.  Benefits of Synthetic Bristles – Synthetic brushes are composed of man-made, hypoallergenic materials, like nylon, taklon, and other fibers and are great to use with liquid or cream products, such as foundation and concealer. Unlike natural bristles, synthetic fibers do not trap products; these brushes generously deposit makeup onto the skin, creating a full and smooth finish. These long-lasting and quick-drying bristles also pair perfectly when shimmer is applied to the eyelids.

2.  Benefits of Natural Bristles – Made from various types of bristles, natural brushes are very durable. They are ideal for powder products, shadows, bronzers, and highlight. Natural bristles have excellent pick-up and building properties. Blending is effortless and creates a natural look with the free-moving bristles.

3.  Dense vs. Fluffy – There are dense and fluffy brushes made for both the eyes and face. A dense brush deposits more product for a dramatic look while a fluffy brush is used to achieve a smoother, more natural application. For example, to create a sultry, smoky eye, use a dense brush on the lower eyelash line. For daytime makeup, try a fluffy brush along the lower line to create a more natural look. This theory also applies to facial applications. Shorter bristles are best used to achieve full coverage, while longer bristles are perfect for a sweep of color, like powder and blush.

4.  Blending – Blending is fundamental to the application process and the number one key for achieving a flawless look. Whether it is eye shadow, foundation, bronzer, or blush, blending applies to every product and every look. The secret to landing a beautiful shadow finish is to master the art of blending. For example, a natural blending brush is ideal for depositing shadow along the crease of the eye. The blending comes in the back and forth motion.

5.  Bronzing and Blush – Depending on the desired look, both natural and synthetic brushes can be used for bronzer and blush application. Use natural bristles to achieve soft and buildable coverage of the product. Choose a synthetic brush to apply more product at a time. For beginners, it is best to begin bronzing with natural bristles.

6.  Contour Brushes – Contouring is one of the most popular trends in the cosmetic industry. Mastering this look may seem daunting, but with the right brushes, it will quickly become one of the easiest and most fun steps in the makeup process. Use a flat, dense brush for precise definition and a fluffy, natural brush for a subtle, shadowed contour.

7.  Eyeshadow Application – Professionally line, define, and create the perfect eye with five staple eyeshadow brushes. Blend colors and smooth out harsh lines with a blending brush. Then, use a flat synthetic brush to apply loose or pressed shimmer on the eyelid. For those hard to reach areas, such as the inner and outer corners of the eye, try a pencil brush. Define the eye by using a crease brush to intensify the outer corners of the crease. A smudger brush is great for smoking out and diffusing harsh lines on the crease and eyelash lines.

8.  Highlight Brushes – Highlighting, also known as strobing, is the latest makeup trend that has every makeup professional buzzing. A small, natural fan brush has become essential for creating a smooth and diffused glow that sits directly on the cheekbones. Natural bristles for cheekbone highlight distribute evenly, picking up less product for a gradual build. This brush technique makes it easier to build the highlight, opposed to applying highlight with a dense brush that can leave the cheek with too much product. However, a synthetic brush is just right for applying highlight on the inner eye and eyebrow bone.

9.  Brush Care – Caring for and cleaning makeup brushes is essential in makeup application. The best way to prevent breakouts and infections is to maintain a strict maintenance routine. Brushes should be cleaned between each client with a brush cleaner. Simply spray the cleaner onto the bristles and wipe the brush back and forth on a clean paper towel, drying instantly. At the end of the day, a deep clean is necessary to remove all excess makeup. Brush soaps are specially formulated to remove buildup and residue. Use products that do not contain harsh chemicals or alcohol to prevent drying. If natural brushes seem a little dry, use a tiny drop of oil mixed with your soap as a conditioning treatment. To dry, squeeze the brushes lightly to remove excess water. Then, lay the brushes flat on a towel or turn the bristles upside down and hang to dry overnight. Larger brushes may take up to 24 hours to dry.

10.  Brush Care – Caring for and cleaning makeup brushes is essential in makeup application. The best way to prevent breakouts and infections is to maintain a strict maintenance routine. Brushes should be cleaned between each client with a brush cleaner. Simply spray the cleaner onto the bristles and wipe the brush back and forth on a clean paper towel, drying instantly. At the end of the day, a deep clean is necessary to remove all excess makeup. Brush soaps are specially formulated to remove buildup and residue. 

Linda Tawil, co-owner and creative director of Morphe Inc., has been creating quality brushes at an affordable price since 2009. While the brush sets have become iconic among makeup professionals for their distinct look and incredible value, Tawil’s knowledge and insight has helped the brand expand beyond brushes as Morphe offers makeup palettes, eyelash and lip creams for the discerning professional.