I am the first to admit that the number of makeup brushes available can be overwhelming. I salute you if you have a complete collection and know how to use each brush correctly, but most of us could benefit from a few pointers on how to make the most of the staples. According to editor Trudi Brewer, here are the latest Pro Series complexion brushes to help you achieve a seamless skin finish.
The best makeup look without good-quality tools won’t produce a seamless result from applying liquid or cream foundations to concealing or finishing with powder. Below are the staples for any beauty bag; whether you're a fan of full-coverage formulas or barely-there tints, there's an art to mastering your brush skills to amp up the results.
Jane Iredale Camouflage Brush, $51
A handy mini-like foundation brush also has a paddle shape, which allows a thin layer of concealer to be applied in tricky areas such as under the eyes or the brow bone and to target areas to cover blemishes.
To use: This tapered paddle-shaped brush is great for applying concealer under the eye area or highlighting under the brow bone. It is also great for touching up makeup that pools into fine lines. I like to tap on the colour and then blend gently.
Your classic foundation brush should be paddle-shaped like this to allow for an all-over-even coverage. The firm, tapered bristles are ideal for liquid or cream makeup formulas, as they were created to hug the curves of the face and deliver a streak-free result.
To use: We like to work from the back of the hand to the face. This helps warm the foundation before you apply it. Use broad strokes for large areas. Then, for those hard-to-reach spots, use the edge of the brush.
This rounded-shaped brush was created to give skin an airbrushed-like finish to the skin. The dense yet fluffy (vegan) bristles allow you to blend any foundation formula and then buff in powder or bronzer. This will be the most versatile makeup brush you own
To use: Makeup artists favour a stippling (dabbing) motion when applying liquid foundation, then buff the skin to finish. When applying powders, use downward strokes.
This silicone brush cleanser's circular ridges help release makeup build-up from the bristles, while the curved handle allows you to hold it under running water. It is the best innovation for keeping your complexion brushes in pristine condition.
To use: Pour a mild shampoo or brush cleanser into the centre of the pad, and then work the cleanser into the bristles using circular movements. Rinse the brushes in warm water, then lay them flat to dry.
Now is your chance if you have not enjoyed the benefits of a tinted moisturiser. This formula offers more than moisture; it’s your tinted colour and SPF 15 protection all in one. Fast drying and never greasy, the best part of the satin finish is it doesn’t settle in lines. Also, it’s stacked with skin-loving ingredients, like titanium dioxide for UV protection, algae and elderflower extracts, jojoba and sunflower seed oils, shea butter, white tea, grapefruit, lavender oil, and pomegranate extracts. At the same time, natural iron oxides add a tint of blendable colour. There are seven shades I am wearing: Medium Dark.
To use: The creamy consistency of this tinted moisturiser finish is super-natural, so you don’t need to be heavy-handed to achieve a medium coverage. Start the application by dotting the colour onto the cheeks, nose, and chin, and then blend outwards to achieve a seamless result.
Discover this new collection from Jane Iredale.