Makeup Basics: Brushes

When it comes to makeup, using a good brand is important. However, even the best brand won't look good if you apply it with sponges. My absolute number one tip regarding makeup is to invest in a decent set of brushes. It makes all the difference in the world, particularly in a photo shoot. But for those of us on a tight budget, purchasing a good set can seem a daunting task.

My recommendation is the Sonia Kashuk line available at Target. These brushes are good quality and they last a long time. They're also great on the pocket book. I bought an eight piece set for $20 (pictured above). You can also buy individual pieces to compliment your set, prices ranging from around $8 up to $20. At the Target near my house, they have a white handled set as well as a black and I believe the black handled brushes are higher quality, which means more money. However, I've been using the white handled set for almost three years. Note: brush sets will only last if you take proper care of them, as explained below. Another good brand for a bit more money is Sephora's line.

So, you might be wondering: Why do I need to use makeup brushes? Using brushes as opposed to the sponges that come with your makeup take your look to the next level. A quality brush makes a difference in the way your makeup goes on and stays on. Each brush is designed for a specific type of makeup, giving you better accuracy and precision. Sponge brushes are like kitchen sponges: they harbor bacteria. Not to mention, they get caked with makeup, making that makeup unavailable for use. To a tight wad like myself, this has waste written all over it. Even if you do not decide to use brushes, I ask you to take away one thing from this blog: DO NOT USE YOUR FINGERS TO APPLY MAKEUP! Fingers have their own magnetic fields which push makeup deep into your pores. This is horrible for your face!

After you invest in some good brushes, it is important to take care of them to make them last! A lot of sources will tell you different things but the most basic thing you can do to enhance the lifespan of your brushes is to wash them. Most often I've read using luke warm water works best, drying upside down or at the least horizontal (never right side up, the brushes may not dry correctly). It's best to store them right side up but again, horizontal works fine (never upside down, the brushes may become bent). You can also buy makeup brush cleaner solution which works well.

Good makeup is important to any photo shoot, even ones that require a "natural" look. And the best makeup is applied with a decent set of brushes.

In my opinion, the most important brushes to own are:
-foundation brush
-powder brush
-medium eyeshadow brush
-angled eyeliner brush
-brow brush/lash separator