How to Select the Right Makeup Brush

If you've ever gone to the cosmetics counter at your local department store, you've probably seen hundreds of different brushes. Use the right makeup brush and you can copy the sophisticated, playful and dramatic looks you find in fashion magazines. Brushes are also great for those who can't stand the look of heavy makeup. All you have to do is brush on a nice mineral foundation, add some light blush and tweeze your brows and you've got a natural look that lasts all day.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Set the tone for your entire look by using the right foundation brush. Rather than using your fingertips or a sponge, apply liquid makeup evenly with a stiff and densely packed brush. Select a wide (about 1/2 inch), slightly angled brush for getting into the creases under your nose.

2. Select a big brush for powder. Test the bristles by running your hand directly across the top. If bristles come out, you need to spend a little more money on a better-quality brush. Look for a powder brush made out of natural hair whenever possible.

3. Get a big blush brush. Look for a brush with a slight angle, a flat head and a shorter handle than your powder brush. If you want to save money, select a blush that comes with its own brush. Be prepared to get less coverage from these smaller brushes.

4. Find an eyeshadow brush. The right brush should have full, soft bristles with a head about the size of your index finger. Use this brush to sweep base color across your lids. Splurge and pick up a soft, pencil-shaped brush to apply eyeshadow to the crease of your eyelids.

5. Buy an eyeliner brush. Select a thin brush with firm bristles and a flat head. The key to the eyeliner brush is firm bristles. If you want sharp, concise lines, you've got to find a brush with firm yet soft bristles.

6. Get an angled eyebrow brush. Look for one that's roughly the size of your pinkie finger with moderately stiff bristles. Select a separate eyebrow comb for daily grooming and plucking purposes.

7. Choose a portable, retractable lip brush with a head slightly larger than a pencil. Use it to even out lipstick applications and to smudge lip liner.

Tips & Warnings

• Store your makeup brushes away from dust and clean them at least every 3 weeks. Clean foundation and lip brushes more often, as liquid materials tend to hold bacteria.