Let’s chat about makeup brushes and their uses!

As you know, I’m a Makeup Artist and I teach private makeup lessons and makeup classes in Orange County. The question comes up often during these makeup sessions on what each makeup brush is for and how it should be used. I thought I would share just a few basic makeup brushes that are must haves for every makeup application and perfect to add to your makeup bag. 😉

Makeup brushes can be synthetic, natural, or dual fiber. Synthetic makeup brushes are best used for liquid and cream products such as primer, foundation, concealer, lipstick, and cream blush. Natural makeup brushes are best for powder products such as eyeshadow, powder blush, bronzer, and setting powder. Dual fiber makeup brushes are made up of both synthetic and natural hair. These brushes can be used with powder, liquid, or cream to provide a flawless finish.

Click the links to view each individual makeup brush.

Foundation Brush This brush is used to apply cream or liquid makeup such as primer and foundation. This brush is firm and slightly tapered to provide a smooth and flawless application for your foundation. Try using this brush in a downward motion so that any tiny facial hairs are concealed.

Concealer Brush This is a small and slightly tapered brush, similar to the foundation brush, yet much smaller. With this brush, you are able to conceal small and hard to reach areas of the face, such as around the nose and eyes as well as blemishes. I also like to use this brush to apply eyeshadow base to the lid of the eye.

Eye Shading Brush An eye shading brush is typically soft with very dense bristles and used to provide an even application of eyeshadow to the lid. With this brush, try patting the eyeshadow onto the lid.

Tapered Blending Brush This tapered brush is fluffy, round, and one of my absolute favorites! This brush is best used to blend out eyeshadow in the crease area for a nice finish.

Small Angle Brush This makeup brush can be used for gel, cream, or powder liners to create a precise line.

Large Angled Contour Brush An angled brush is best used to contour the cheek bones and will provide a subtle blend of the product. You can also use this brush to apply powder blush and bronzer. When applying powder blush, sweep upward toward the ear.

Large Powder Brush This is a soft and rounded to buff powder products onto the skin and provides an even application. Try using this brush in circular motions to buff out texture on the skin.

Duo Fibre Brush This brush provides an airbrushed effect and can be used with powder, liquid, or cream products. This brush is a fiber blend with a large flat top.

Now you have it, Makeup Brushes 101 – what each makeup brush is for and its uses. These brushes are basic and essential for every makeup application.

♥ Debra Johnson Makeup Artist Orange County, California

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