Tools · 4 min read
Which brush does what: a make-up brush guide
Foundation, powder, blush, contour, eyeshadow and liner brushes explained, plus how to wash and dry your brushes so they last.
The right brush makes make-up quicker and more even. You do not need dozens: a handful of shapes covers almost everything.
Face
- Foundation brush: a dense, flat-topped or buffing brush. Work in small circles for an airbrushed finish.
- Powder brush: large and fluffy, for a light veil of setting powder.
- Blush brush: medium, rounded or slightly angled, for soft placement on the cheeks.
- Contour brush: angled to sit under the cheekbone.
- Highlighter brush: a small tapered or fan brush for precise glow.
Eyes, brows and lips
- Flat shader brush: packs eyeshadow onto the lid.
- Blending brush: soft and domed, for diffusing colour in the crease.
- Angled liner brush: for gel liner or for pressing shadow along the lash line.
- Spoolie and angled brow brush: to brush brows into shape and fill sparse areas.
- Lip brush: for a sharp edge with red or deep shades.
Keep them clean
Wash brushes used with creams and liquids weekly, and powder brushes every couple of weeks. Swirl the bristles in lukewarm water with a gentle soap or brush cleanser, rinse until the water runs clear, squeeze out the water, reshape, and dry them flat or bristles down so water does not loosen the glue.