Tools of the Trade

If you are as serious about makeup as we are, then you're equally serious about your tools. Our beauty looks would not be complete without professional quality brushes to enhance precision and to insure a perfect blend. Over the years, I have collected a great deal of brushes (lost a few, some have been “borrowed”, and some have seen better days). Nevertheless, I have cherished each and every one.

Brushes are the most important part of any beauty makeup application; therefore they are the biggest investment. The cost of a professional makeup brush can range between $15 and $65, but worth every penny. In most cases the lifespan of your makeup brushes is up to the user. If properly cared for, they can last as long as your makeup career.

Brushes exist to make makeup application easier. So don’t make it difficult by choosing brush shapes and sizes that are challenging for you to work with. Be sure to take into consideration the purpose for the brush and how it feels in your hands.

Here are a few more tips when shopping for brushes:

1. Purchase brushes separately. Brush sets can be very general and may not include the brushes you need, so get what you want.
2. Natural vs. Synthetic. Natural fibers are better for blending. Synthetic fibers are great for foundation and cream products.
3. Size matters. Smaller brushes are best used for eyes and lips where precision is important. Larger brushes work well for the face for products such as powder, bronzer, and blush.
4. Soft vs. Firm. The softer the brush, the better it blends. Softer bristles also allow you to control the amount of color you apply. The opposite can be said for brushes with firmer bristles. Firmer brushes tend to pick up more product and apply product heavier for a more intense color payoff.

We are a huge fans of MAC brushes. MAC offers a great selection for our needs and the brushes are very durable. Some of my faves are:

                                                                               
#138 Pointed Face Brush ($52)   #224 Crease Brush ($29)            #210 Liner Brush($18)    #231 Small Shader($18)
     Great for face                          Essential for blending               Master of precision       Use for smoky eyes
                                                             eye shadow

Need to buy your tools in bulk? Try the Crown Brush Company . They have an endless supply of brush styles and colors at a great price.

Going Green! Nvey Eco’s earth friendly brushes look and feel great. The cool factor is that the brush bristles are man-made which makes them 100% cruelty free and the corn resin brush handles are ready for composting.

If you need help making brush choices, please leave a comment below. We would love to help you build your toolbox.

-J