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MAKEUP BRUSHES 101: ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR BEGINNERS

Writer's picture: Katrina  HaeuslerKatrina Haeusler

Pro's may cary lots of makeup brushes but for the humble beginner it can be incredibly overwhelming
Pro's may cary lots of makeup brushes but for the humble beginner it can be incredibly overwhelming


Welcome to MAKEUP BRUSHES 101: ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR BEGINNERS class has begun!


Understanding which makeup brushes to use can be confusing for those new to makeup.


Having the right tools can transform your makeup application, making it easier to achieve a flawless look.


Makeup brushes come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed for specific purposes.


Navigating this variety can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you'll find your go-to brushes in no time.


In this blog post, I’ll provide you with a list of essential makeup brushes, tips on cleaning and maintaining them, and a guide to choosing the right brush materials for beginners.



CONTENT

WHY BRUSHES AND NOT FINGERS OR SPONGES?

WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL MAKEUP BRUSHES FOR BEGINNERS?

BRUSH TYPES AND MATERIALS: WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?


WHY BRUSHES AND NOT FINGERS OR SPONGES?


Although, it feels like everyone is using beauty sponges (even some professional makeup artists), you should probably toss yours in the bin.


For some time now, it has been common knowledge these reusable sponges grow mould and bacteria and are unable to be properly cleaned.


Personally, when clients ask if I recommend hands, sponges or brushes, I say, always brushes and when brushes aren't available fingers, never reusable sponges.


A hand holds a moldy pink beauty blender. Text reads "MOLDY 🤢 BEAUTY BLENDERS." Background is blurred with framed art visible.
A quick Google search will show hundreds of images of mouldy beauty sponges.

Queensland is a sub-tropical climate which has moisture in the air all year round, and throw in the most popular location for makeup (the bathroom) also known as the most humid part of your house there is a very high chance your beauty sponge is getting mouldy and rife with bacteria.


Brushes can be cleaned well and dried thoroughly.


Hands can be cleaned well.


Beauty sponges can't.


For the beauty sponge lover's, I recommend using disposable beauty sponges.


These are one use only.


Hand holding a cut beauty blender with mold inside, on a geometric patterned background. Text reads: "cutting my beauty blender to see there's mold."
There are lots of videos of people cutting open beauty sponges to show the mould inside.


WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL MAKEUP BRUSHES FOR BEGINNERS?


A beginner’s makeup kit should include a few key brushes that are versatile and easy to use.


Here are Four essential brushes you should start with:


Black makeup brush with soft bristles. Gold accents and "fleek" text on the handle. White background, sleek and elegant design.
Fleek Foundation Brush

#1 - FOUNDATION BRUSH


A good foundation brush is essential for creating a smooth base.


  • Look for a flat or rounded brush to apply liquid foundation evenly.

  • This should be the biggest brush you own.

  • Use a stippling technique for an airbrushed finish.



    A black makeup brush with soft bristles is shown against a white background. The brush has a sleek, tapered handle.
    Eyeshadow brush

#2 - EYESHADOW BLENDING BRUSH


This brush is your best friend for flawless eye looks.


  • A fluffy, dome-shaped brush helps blend eyeshadow seamlessly.

  • This is a small brush, the size of a thumb nail.

  • It’s perfect for softening harsh lines and adding depth to your eyes.


    Makeup brush with a black handle and bristles, set against a white background, no text or patterns, minimalist and neutral design.
    Eyebrow brush

#3 - ANGLED BRUSH FOR BROWS AND LINER


An angled brush is a versatile tool for defining your brows and applying eyeliner.


  • This is a very small brush, the size of a pinky nail.

  • It doubles as a liner brush for precision with gel or cream eyeliner.

  • Small and easy to control, it’s a must-have for beginners.

  • When this brush looses its shape or splays out (a very common problem with all flat brushes), use some paw paw cream or oil to help shape the brush. I also, find pressing the brush under something like a book to help also.


    Black makeup brush with a rounded tip on a white background. The brush handle is sleek and metallic, creating a polished, elegant look.
    Bullet brush

#4 - BULLET BRUSH FOR CONCEALER


A small bullet brush is ideal for the delicate areas near the eyes where concealer is applied.


  • This is a small brush with a round bullet shape.

  • Small and easy to control, it’s a must-have for beginners.

  • Applying concealer with a brush will make a huge difference to the affect.


Four makeup brushes on a white background, one larger brush labeled "fleek" in gold. All brushes are black with sleek handles.
Fleek Brush kit

HOW TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES


Keeping your brushes clean ensures better performance and prevents skin irritation, acne and infection.


Here are three tips for maintaining your makeup brushes:


#1 - WASH YOUR BRUSHES WEEKLY


Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup and keeps your brushes in top shape.


  • Use a gentle brush cleaner or baby shampoo with lukewarm water.

  • Rinse thoroughly and reshape the bristles before air drying.

  • Avoid soaking the handles, as this can loosen the glue.


#2 - STORE BRUSHES PROPERLY


How you store your brushes affects their longevity.


  • Keep them upright in a holder to maintain their shape.

  • Use a brush roll for travel to protect the bristles.

  • Avoid leaving brushes exposed to dust or direct sunlight.


    Makeup brushes in a glittery pink holder against a soft pink background. Brushes have pink bristles and gold handles, creating a glamorous feel.
    Makeup brushes stored in cup when dried

#3 - REPLACE WORN-OUT BRUSHES


Even high-quality brushes need replacement over time.


  • Look for signs like shedding bristles or loss of shape.

  • Investing in durable brushes can save money in the long run.

  • Consider synthetic brushes for affordability and easy maintenance.


    Beige makeup brush with dual ends and cap on white background. "Fleek" text on handle. Minimalist and clean design.
    The Fleek Brush kit comes with caps to protect the brushes during storage

BRUSH TYPES AND MATERIALS: WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?


Brush materials play a significant role in performance and feel.


Here are three popular options to consider:


Two makeup brushes on white fur, labeled "Animal Hair vs. Synthetic" in bold text. Black handles with gold and rose gold ferrules.
Synthetic and Natural Hair brushes are commonly known about but not many people know about a 3rd option, the mixed duo fibre brush

#1. THE BEGINNER'S ESSENTIAL - SYNTHETIC BRUSHES


Ideal for liquid and cream products, synthetic brushes are beginner-friendly and affordable.


HINT: These are the type of brushes we sell because they are the most durable and easy to care for.


  • They are cruelty-free and easy to clean.

  • Great for foundation, concealer, and cream blush.

  • Often made with durable, non-porous fibers.


#2. FOR THE ADVANCED AMATEUR - DUO-FIBER BRUSHES


A hybrid option for multitasking with liquid and powder products.


  • Feature a blend of natural and synthetic bristles.

  • Perfect for blending and achieving a natural finish.

  • Can be more expensive but worth it for versatility.

  • The synthetic fibres can protect the natural fibres from breakage lending these brushes to last longer and not require as much maintenance as natural fibre brushes.


#3. PERFECT FOR PROFESSIONALS - NATURAL BRUSHES


Made from animal hair, these brushes are best for powder products.


  • Known for their softness and ability to pick up product easily.

  • Ideal for eyeshadows, bronzer, and setting powder.

  • Require more care and maintenance compared to synthetic brushes and usually cost the most out of the 3 types of brushes.


As a professional these are a favourite although they require more effort and upkeep and can break very easily. In my personal kit for myself though, I carry a range of synthetic and duo-fibre brushes to reduce maintenance and because these days synthetic bristles are quite high quality.


For natural fibre brushes, I clean the brush with soap very gently, then use a specialty oil based brush conditioner to ensure the bristles don't become dry.


These brushes need to be replaced every 1-2 years even when well cared for as the shape will change dramatically over time from bristle breakage.


WRAP-UP


Choosing the right makeup brushes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few essential tools, regular cleaning habits, and an understanding of brush materials, you can elevate your makeup routine effortlessly.


Ready to build your beginner-friendly brush kit? Check out our recommended brush kit here!

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