Growing up, I participated in many kinds of dance. Between recitals and competitions, I learned how to do a variety of makeup looks at a very young age. From applying false eyelashes and rhinestones to smokey eyes and red lips to natural foundation and soft blush, I've tried it all.
At first, this was extremely difficult. One eye always seemed to turn out darker than the other or my blush looked clownish. However, over the years I've learned that makeup application heavily relies on a few things: practice, products and tools.
I have quite a few product recommendations and reviews here. As well as some instructional/practice videos here, but in terms of tools I don't have as much information.
This post will break down what each makeup brush is used for and how to use them. Here we go!
All brushes by Christian Dior
Both the Kabuki and Powder brushes are used for all over face powder or bronzer. The difference is that Kabuki brushes tend to be denser, so they are better for applying loose mineral powders. However, I like to use mine for blending. After I apply my foundation, powder and blush, I go back with a kabuki brush and buff over everything so there are no harsh lines. Powder brushes are much fluffier and are good for picking up pigment from dense compact powders. Blush brushes are great for applying highly pigmented blush or bronzer. The angled shape picks up on your cheekbones to give you the most naturally flattering flush.
For foundation application, brush choice is more straightforward. If you use a full coverage powder type foundation, use a Heavy Powder brush. If you use a cream compact for foundation, use a Cream Foundation brush. And if you use liquid foundation (which is what I use), use a Liquid Foundation brush.
A Lash brush is great for grooming lashes and taming brows or blending out filled-in brows. Before you apply mascara, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler A smudger is great for blending out eyeshadow or winging out liner for smokey eyes. Use a medium shadow brush for applying color on the lid and in the crease. Use a large shadow brush to blend everything together or to add a wash of color across the entire lid. Finally, use a liner brush to apply liquid or powder eyeliner.
Blend all of your makeup together with a blending sponge. This is particularly effective for liquid or cream foundation/blush. However, the drawback of sponges is that they are difficult to clean.
Finally, use a lip brush for applying lipstick either from a bullet or palette and try out a little concealor brush to conceal any imperfections with a heavy cream or liquid formula.
xoxo