In this last series of brushes, I give you the lowdown on the eye brushes that you really must have. When it comes to the eyes, smooth brushes should not move the skin the least. As we get older, our skin surrounding the eyes tend to droop and you need a good brush that will apply powder or cream based shadows evenly.
One secret in testing a good brush is its effectivity in blending your product with the least amount of strokes.
Eyeshadow brushes
Eye Shadow Blending Brushes
I began with one brush and now I have 4 of these. This is my most used and loved brush. I use this for cream based shadows to create an eye shadow socket and to also blend the harsh lines on the eyelid when you use a dark color on the eye. It’s foolproof and this cleans up and softens the hard edges of your application.
I also use this to blend and buff in the concealer to give it an airbrush effect. You can also use it apply a wash of color to the entire eye perfect for Asian eye shapes.
The pointed blending brushes are for more defined crease work, apply or blend powder along the lower lash line or wherever you want to apply any product in a precise or small detailed area.
Oval or semi rounded Eye brush
These are the brushes you pick up when you want to apply your first wash of color on the entire eye area. They can also be used to blend. Another tip is using this upside down when applying a dark color on the upper lash line to give it intensity and that smoky look. Best for powdered products.
Lash line Smudger
Best used for blending and smudging Kohl pencils or gel eyeliners on the upper and lower lash lines. Best for a smokey look
Eyeliner Brushes
These are the only ones you need. Best used for applying a medium to thick eyeliner a la Audrey Hepburn, while the bent eyeliner brush is for perfecting your cat eye and giving you the flick that everyone is crazy about. I also use the brush on the left for the brows when I need to create hair like strands on the eyebrows and for point concealing in the areas of the face.
Angled Brush
The Angled end is also used for gel eyeliners for a feline flick. I use this for the eyebrows when I use a cream based eyebrow gel. The fine angle is already your template for the right flick. Use this also to perfect your red lipstick by dipping it in foundation and tracing along the outer edges to give it a sharp clean edge.
Brow Brush or Spoolie
Used for combing the eyebrows. This also blends the shadow on your brows when applied too much. By brushing and moving the color around, it diffuses the color for a more natural looking brow.
Lip Brush
I know you can use the lipstick bullet directly on your lips but when applying a dark or strong color like red or hot pink, its best to use a lip brush for precision control. Usually made of synthetic fibers, application will perfect the edges for that sharp edge.
Eyelash Curler
You need to curl your lashes with this gadget. Simply because it is a pushup bra for the lashes. Need I say more?
Now that you have the essential brush collection, store them in a clear container or jars then fill them with your brushes categorised under Face, Eyes and Lips or synthetic and natural hair. You’ll have everything within reach.
Want to get the full tutorial on how to use these brushes properly? Join my Basic Makeup Workshop this November 19 at Costa Coffee! You can still sign up here: Basic Makeup Workshop, Nov 19, with Memory Crafters at Costa Coffee
really? these are the essentials when it comes to brushes? omg i only have an angled brush. Hahaha. I am now in the time of my life that I see to it I have done my make up well before going out. This list got me absolutely saying this is a must read. Thanks for this!
Thanks Aika, the essentials are really 5-7 brushes, it seems like it’s an arsenal but I wanted to share options to the types and kinds of brushes that you can select according to your preference.
My mom bought me a set of make up brushes and I only got to use three from all those. I love how you described each brush according to its use. Plus, you gave a sample on its best usage. I do think I can start experimenting now on using the rest of the brushes that’s just stored.
Thank you Me An. I hope you can experiment and try to use other brushes and see what works with you.
I have the complete set of all the brushes you need but use only one. I can’t understand how to do the blending and what not so I enjoy having one shade on my eyes. I’m a noob that way. Learned a lot from this post though I am a little overwhelmed.
Hi Kathy yes As they say the struggle is real. The fun part of applying makeup is the experimenting aspect and seeing what works for you. Start with applying 1 shade of eyeshadow and when your confidence builds, try to layer your colors gradually and see what effect you like, it should open your eyes and make them feel larger and defined.