It took me a long time to realize that I could have all of the best makeup in the world, and still not apply it well without the right tools. Recently I’ve revamped my makeup tools and brush collection and figured it was about time to share it with you all. These are the must have tools for every makeup wearer, whether you are a beginner or a pro!

Buffing Brush

We could go back and forth about whether it’s necessary to have a foundation brush to first apply the product. Usually I use my figures to dab liquid foundation all over my face. Sometimes I take a flat brush like this one from NYX to wipe the foundation on to my face. The purpose of using a brush is to get an even “streak free” application but honestly, sometimes I feel like I lose some product to the brush.

Regardless of how you get the foundation on to your face, your coverage will only be as flawless as the brush you use to blend it in! When I initially started wearing makeup at 17, I would blend my foundation in with my fingers. While I’m sure some pros can get away with doing this, you’re better off using a brush. My favorites for blending and buffing out foundation are the ELF Cosmetics Powder Brush ($4) and the NYX Pro Multi Purpose Buffing Brush ($17). 

Pro Tips:

1. The best foundation blending brushes may not actually be created for foundation. For example, the ELF “powder brush” wasn’t, but the shape of the brush actually makes it suitable for buffing. Keep an open mind and be creative when searching for the right brush.
2. Slow and steady wins the race. Take some time when you are blending out your foundation. I’ve found that when I rush, my makeup doesn’t look as seamless. It might feel like a bit of an arm workout at some points, but in the end it’ll be worth it!

Makeup Sponge

This one is a given and it probably doesn’t need much of an explanation. In fact, some people prefer to blend out their foundation with a makeup sponge which is totally fine. For me, I prefer to blend out concealers and even apply setting powders with a makeup sponge. Why? The sponges can get into those hard to reach crevices, like under your eye, much better than a brush can. My favorite is also a cult-favorite, the Beauty Blender ($20), but I know some people also swear by the Real Techniques sponge ($5) as a more affordable option. If you don’t have a makeup sponge in your collection already, you absolutely should go get one.

Pro Tips:

1. This goes for all makeup tools but especially your sponges: you’ve got to clean them regularly. I finally invested in the beauty blender cleanser because I had a feeling that leftover makeup residue on the sponges was causing breakouts. It’s completely life changing when you can clean your brush and make it look and feel as good as new.
2. If the instructions tell you to wet the sponge or make it damp, really soak the sponge in water. I usually give it a few squeezes under water until I feel the beauty blender expand. That’s how you’ll get optimal blending results.

Powder Brush

If you haven’t already noticed, the theme of my first two products has been blend, blend, blend! This one is no different. Once you leave the realm of cream and liquid products, you typically want to apply some powder to ensure either a matte look or simply that the makeup lasts long enough. A solid powder brush will help you blend those setting powders in so you’re not left with harsh lines where you applied it. Powder brushes are big and fluffy so that they can move around the powder (obviously) for a well set look. While the first powder brush I purchased and used for years was the Sigma F30 ($30), I’ve recently been obsessed with the Real Techniques 401 Brush.

Pro Tip:

1. No matter how well you blend that powder, you can still end up with a cakey look with flashback if it’s not the right one for your skin tone. Check out my list of best setting powders for women of color!
2. The baking trend was very popular for sometime and while I still bake, I leave the powder on for much less time and I apply less. A little goes a long way with powders and you definitely don’t need to go for the ghostly matte look all the time.

Blending Brush (Eye)

Of course there has got to be room for an eye makeup tool on this list because it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t talk about my love for eyeshadow. While I have plenty of eye makeup brushes, I don’t want to overwhelm any of the beginners who may be reading this. I love a good shadow brush to shade on the lid, but the reality is it’s not a necessity. For years I got away with using my finger to apply shadows to my lid and sometimes I still need to, especially when I’m dealing with Colourpop products or metallic shadows. However if there is any eye brush you truly need to have it’s a blending brush. Yes, essentially every brush on this list has to do with blending but that’s the whole point of brushes–a seamless look! My favorites are all from Morphe and honestly there are too many I could list. I’ll leave you with one, the Morphe M441, as it’s been a repeat purchase of mine.

Pro Tip:

1. If you’re confused about the eye brush world and what to purchase, try getting a set of eye brushes from morphe or anywhere else you’re comfortable with. Sets tend to be more cost effective, and they usually with the essentials and instructions on how to use them. With a little bit of practice you’ll get more creative and confident in using eye brushes!

Final Thoughts

Well that’s a wrap! I wanted to keep this list short and sweet because after this, you can really get creative with the types of brushes you want to use…or don’t. I hope you found this read helpful! If you’ve got any makeup tools that you swear by, comment below!

“I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings.” Hosea 6:6 

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