Makeup Brushes 101

Just like any other artist, makeup enthusiasts need the right tools in their kit to paint a beautiful face. If you've been wondering about what different brushes do or which you really need, keep reading.

I will be using MAC brushes as an example because they are awesome; easily obtainable; and I like their numbering system. There are a vast selection of brushes to choose from like Crown Brush, Sigma Brushes, billybBEAUTY brushes and Sonia Kashuk just to name a few. So research to find which brushes are best for you.

Face Brushes

150 Large Powder Brush: Full and dense for dusting loose or pressed powder on face or body.
187 Duo Fiber Brush:  A large full circular brush used for lightweight application and blending of face powder or pigments. This brush is also excellent for applying liquid makeup. It leaves the finish seamless and flawless.
190 Foundation Brush: A foundation brush designed to create a smooth, even finish, flawless look. Blends liquid and cream foundations like a charm.
129 Powder/Blush Brush: All-purpose for blush or face powder. This brush is particularly good for blush application because its smaller so your able to concentrate on the apples of your cheeks better.
168 Large Angled Contour Brush: This brush can be used to contour the face or for applying blush.

Eye Brushes

239 Eye Shader Brush: Soft and dense to shade or blend eye shadow or emollient-based products.

252 Large Shader Brush:  Soft but firm bristles for shading with eye shadow or emollient-based products.

266 Small Angle Brush: For creating sharp, precise lines or filling in the brows.
217 Blending Brush: Used for eyeshadow application and blending.
224 Tapered Blending Brush: For controlled eye shadow application and blending
210 Precise Eyeliner Brush: For precision lining of eye area or body detailing/design.