Beginner makeup brushes kit on a white background | Image: Supplied
The Essential Face Brush Trio
Trust me, you don't need a hundred brushes to create a stunning look. Start with these three must-haves:
- Foundation Brush: Look for a densely packed, synthetic brush that's flat and slightly rounded. Real Techniques Expert Face Brush is a great and affordable option. It buffs foundation seamlessly for a flawless finish. I personally love how well it blends my liquid foundation.
- Powder Brush: A large, fluffy brush made from natural or synthetic fibers is perfect for setting your makeup. Consider the EcoTools Bamboo Powder Brush; it's super soft and distributes powder evenly. I always find that using a powder brush makes my makeup look less cakey.
- Blush Brush: Opt for an angled or rounded brush with soft bristles, preferably natural hair, for a perfect blush application. The Sonia Kashuk Angled Blush Brush is a good pick and won't break the bank. I find an angled brush works best to apply blush precisely to the apples of my cheeks.
Foundation, powder and blush brush side by side | Image: Supplied
Eye Makeup: Keep it Simple (for now!)
Your eyes deserve some love too, but keep it straightforward at first:
- Eyeshadow Brush: A versatile, fluffy blending brush is your best friend. Use it to blend eyeshadow shades seamlessly. Look for a softer, more rounded design; Sigma E25 Blending Brush is a good example. Don't stress over the bristles being too soft; that's what helps blend smoothly.
- Angled Eyeliner Brush: This one is for precision. Use this to apply eyeliner or gel. For applying eyeliner, you want something a bit more stiff. I think the MAC 266 Small Angle Brush does the job perfectly. Practice makes perfect, my friend. Don't get discouraged if your first few attempts aren't stellar. You'll get there!
Avoid buying a huge collection of specialized brushes until you've mastered the basics. That little tip saved me SO much money!
Eyeshadow and eyeliner brush close-up | Image: Supplied
Brush Care: Don't Forget this Crucial Step
You've invested in amazing brushes – treat them well! Clean your brushes regularly to prevent bacteria build-up and maintain their quality. You can buy a brush cleaning mat, or simply use your hand and some mild cleanser. I use baby shampoo, which is super gentle. Remember, clean brushes equal happy skin!
Cleaning makeup brushes | Image: Supplied
Finding Your Perfect Fit
Don't be afraid to experiment! What works for me might not work for you. Different brushes will have different bristle types, shapes, and density. The key is to find what feels comfortable in your hand and delivers the best results for your unique makeup style. Have fun with it! Makeup should be enjoyable; dont make it a chore. You got this.
