Make-Up Brushes Are Like Kitchen Knives...

I'm passionate about decent make-up brushes. A good-quality brush will make cheap eye shadow go on like silk and allow drug store blush to pass for Dior.  Make-up brushes are like kitchen knives: while they're often expensive, you'll keep coming back to your favorite few.

Immediately throw away those small brushes that come with make-up (they are always useless) and instead shop for separate make-up tools from a brand that specializes in them. Be prepared to invest - cheap brushes are rarely properly weighted, giving you less control; and the bristles are often flat-edged rather than domed, making blending IMPOSSIBLE.

I'm never without foundation, blush, eye shadow, liner and slanted brow brushes.  I use synthetic bristles for anything waxy or liquid (concealer & highlighter) and natural bristles for powdery products (eye shadow & blush).  It may look and sound like a whole lot of brushes but like anything else, you have to use the right tool for the job.

Brush hygiene is also important. I clean my brushes every few days if not daily with the M.A.C Brush Cleaner.  I poured the liquid into a travel size spray bottle I bought at Target and at the end of each makeup application, I spritz the tip of the brush and wipe it off on a paper towel.  For a more thorough cleaning, I use a gentle shampoo (do not condition – you'll over-soften the bristles, losing precision), then reshape before lying flat on a clean towel to dry.  Do this every 4-6 weeks and it will keep your brushes looking new and performing flawlessly.

Here are my top 5 Favorite Makeup Brushes that EVERY girl should NOT be without...

M.A.C 224 Tapered Blending Brush, $30

  #1  M.A.C  224 Tapered Blending Brush, $30 

I LOOOOOOVVVEE this brush!    It blends the crease line absolutely perfectly while gently  shaping the eye.  I NEVER use this brush to deposit color, only to blend. 

              M.A.C  134 Large Powder Brush, $52

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#2  M.A.C  134 Large Powder Brush, $52

With its extra large, wide dense paddle, the chiseled head provides control when highlighting the cheekbones.  The newest brush in my collection, contouring has never been more easy.

      

       #3  Sephora Collection Pro Gel Eyeliner Brush, $16

Perfect for gel or cream eyeliners, I use this brush to apply eyeliner in smooth, continuous lines. The handle is comfortable to hold and easy to control. The cat eye has never been easier to achieve.

*For a consistently flawless gel liner application, replace your pot about every 6months or when it starts to go on cakey. 

 

      #4  Sephora Collection Classic Rounded Crease Brush #13, $17

This is my FAVORITE brush!!!  The tapered top fits perfectly in the contours of your crease line and the slightly elongated shape creates well-blended results. The brush even allows you to fill in your creases with your eyes open. Brilliant!

 

    #5  MAKE UP FOREVER HD Brush 30N, $38

Its nylon bristles will not leave marks or residue but will leave your complexion with a flawless finish.

Make up application should be fun and not a dreaded task.  Have fun with it, always remember to blend and rock that gorgeous face!

Bisous et calin (Hugs & kisses)

-N