Brush Up!
Mason O'Donnell
| 13-03-2025
· Fashion Team
We've all been there—standing in front of a makeup brush aisle, feeling completely overwhelmed by the variety. Whether we're makeup enthusiasts or professionals, choosing the right brush can be tricky. But don't worry!
We've got you covered with everything you need to know. Bookmark this guide because next time you shop for makeup brushes, you'll feel confident about your choices!

Quality Over Quantity

First things first—when it comes to makeup brushes, we don't need an excessive collection to get the job done. It's not about having dozens of brushes; it's about having the right brushes. In fact, even professional makeup artists often use fewer brushes than you might think. We sometimes even use our fingers to apply makeup for quicker and more effective results. So, don't feel pressured to own every brush you see in tutorials. We only need the essentials that work best for us!

Avoid Buying Brush Sets

It's tempting to grab a brush set when it's neatly organized in a case, but here's a truth we've learned the hard way: Brush sets often come with many brushes you won't actually use. These sets typically include brushes that aren't in high demand and don't perform well individually. Trust us—save your money and choose brushes that serve a clear purpose in your routine.

Know Which Brush Does What

We're here to help you pick the right tools for the job. A huge part of choosing the right brushes is understanding what each brush is for. It's not about blindly buying brushes others recommend but knowing which ones suit your makeup style. Let's dive into the most popular types of brushes that you'll need:
• Stippling Brush: Ideal for buffing liquid or cream foundation with small, circular strokes.
• Foundation Brush: Great for applying liquid foundation with sweeping motions.
• Powder Brush: A fluffy brush perfect for setting powder.
• Blending Brush: Small and fluffy, this brush is for blending eyeshadow seamlessly.
These are just a few examples, and while there are many other brushes out there, these are the basics we need to master our makeup look.

Essential Brushes for Beginners

If we're just starting with makeup, it's easy to get caught up in purchasing a whole set. But we don't need all the brushes right away. For beginners, here's what we really need:
• A foundation brush or a quality beauty sponge
• A blush or contour brush (like a setting brush)
• An eyeshadow brush
• An eyeliner brush
• An eyebrow brush
With just these five, we can create a polished makeup look without overwhelming our kit.

How to Care for Your Brushes?

Once we invest in good brushes, maintaining them is key to longevity. Regular cleaning is essential to avoid buildup and to keep the bristles soft. We recommend using mild cleansers—baby shampoo works wonders! If you use makeup sponges, a special cleanser designed for them will keep them in great condition.
By taking proper care of our brushes, we ensure they last longer and perform at their best. Clean brushes mean better application and healthier skin.