When to use a makeup brush
Paige Williams, founder and CEO of P.Louise, says that brushes are the real difference to making your look pop. "If you want thatflawlessblend, that snatched definition, and that next-level glam, brushes are the way forward. Sponges are fab for a dewy base, but when it comes to precision? Brushes win every time," she says.
The expert explains why. “Think about it - with powders, eyeshadows, contouring... you need that control from a brush to get the placementjustright. So a big, fluffy brush for setting powder is essential, and a sculpting brush for chiselled contour is non-negotiable to me. While a sponge will always have a place in our kits, I'd recommend levelling up your makeup game and getting yourself some quality brushes."
How to choose a makeupbrush
Gabriella Elio, founder of Sweed Beauty, says to consider the shape of your brush. “Choose an angled brush to frame the face and give definition, and a round brush to give a softer, diffused look. The shape really matters with what you’re looking to achieve with the brush.”
And makeup artist Sarah-Jane Froom advises to think about the product you're applying and your desired finish. “A denser brush works best for full coverage products like foundation or powder, while a fluffier brush is ideal for lighter, more diffused looks such as blush or eyeshadow. I can't live without my MyKitCo and Zoeva brushes, they take your artistry to the next level and are absolute staples in my kit.”
What size and shape should mymakeup brush be?
The size and shape of your brush should suit the area you're working on, according to Sarah-Jane. "For foundation, a medium-sized, flat, or slightly rounded brush is perfect for blending. For contouring, an angled brush allows for more precision. When it comes to eye makeup, use smaller, precise brushes for detail work, such as eyeliner or crease blending, and larger, fluffier brushes for blending eyeshadow over a wider area," she advises.
Paige adds that it’s all about choosing the right tools for the look you want to create.
“For the best foundation brushes, it’s all about a buffing brush to work the product into the skin flawlessly, which is where the the P.Louise #681 Large Multi-Use Face Brush comes in. Or if you’re after that soft, seamless blend for blush and bronzer, I'm obsessed with the P.Louise #637 - it just melts everything together like a dream. Trust me, the right brushes make all the difference!” she says.
What's the difference betweennatural and synthetic bristles?
“Natural bristles are super soft and classic, but they can shed and come with a higher price tag,” says Paige. “Synthetic brushes are vegan-friendly, more affordable, and perfect for liquid and cream formulas because they won’t soak up all your product, meaning they'll last longer. They're also a dream to clean! But choose what works for you and what makes you feel on cloud nine!"
It's also worth remembering that natural bristles are not suitable for vegans. “Natural bristles are made from animal hair, such as goat, pony, or squirrel, whereas synthetic bristles are created from man-made fibres,” says Sarah-Jane.
How do I know if my makeup brushes are good quality?
“It’s important that the brush isn't too soft and has some density,” says Gabriella. “It’s also essential that the bristles are of a high quality and don't shed, which means a flawless application that doesn’t leave any brush marks behind. A good brush should last for years - just make sure you wash it regularly with a cleanser and lukewarm water.”
Sarah-Jane adds to look for brushes with a sturdy handle that feels well-balanced in your hand. "The ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles) should be smooth and seamless, with no gaps,
ensuring durability over time. Quality brushes maintain their shape and softness even after cleaning, and they should not lose bristles with use."
