Bobbi Brown Blush Brush
£42.00
Flawless finish: our edit of the best make-up brushes
Your ultimate guide to the only soft-bristled tools you’ll ever need
The right make-up brushes are your fast track to a glowing, flawless finish. But, with so many styles to choose from, which should you go for? And can they multitask, or is it worth investing in specific ones?
Harriet Saloway, John Lewis Partner and Junior Make-Up Buyer, shares her expert edit of the only skin-sweeping tools you need to make your cosmetics look their best, whether long-lasting base or precise eye shadow. Read on to brush up your ideas.
Best make-up brush for blusher
If there’s only one brush in your make-up bag, chances are it’s for blusher. Upgrade with this high-performing cult classic from Bobbi Brown, says Harriet. ‘The luxuriously soft bristles and rounded brush head are expertly designed for seamless and smooth application.’
Best make-up brush for foundation
Wondering if you need a brush for your base? As natural oils in your fingertips can cause an uneven finish, using a stand-out brush will achieve better results than blending by hand. ‘For flawless foundation, try the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Complexion Brush,’ says Harriet. ‘The two-in-one design features a larger, flat-topped head and a smaller, angled one for precise blending. Use both brush heads during application to create a seamless look.’
Best make-up brush for bronzer
For a natural, sun-kissed look you need a versatile brush that works on different areas of your face. Step forward Wayne Goss’ Angled Bronzer Brush. ‘Its unique design ensures maximum product pick-up, making it perfect for applying bronzer with precision, whether you’re a beginner or a pro,’ says Harriet.
Best make-up brush for concealer
‘The Hourglass Vanish™ Seamless Finish Concealer Brush went viral for a reason,’ says Harriet. ‘The unique half-moon shape allows for controlled application in those hard-to-reach areas, particularly under the eyes. The bristles are the ideal texture and density for seamless blending, and it’s designed for use with both liquid and cream concealer formulas.’
Best make-up brush for eyeshadow
For perfectly applied colour, even in that tricky eye crease, it has to be the NARS 22 Blending Brush. ‘This fluffy brush is expertly designed to blend,’ says Harriet. ‘Crafted from durable synthetic fibres, it effortlessly diffuses eyeshadow and eyeliner pencils.’
NARS 22 Blending Brush
£30.00
Best make-up brush for contouring
To enhance your face contours with precision, Harriet recommends the ultra-smooth MAC 168S Large Angled Contour Brush. ‘This is your must-have for creating a buffed edge,’ she says. ‘It offers a soft-yet-firm application for flawless results when contouring.’
Any other need-to-know tips?
‘Don’t forget to keep your brushes squeaky clean; wash them regularly using warm, soapy water or a make-up brush cleanser and leave them out to dry fully,’ says Harriet. It might be time to sponge-clean your cosmetics bag, too – or treat yourself to a shiny new one.
