Pro Secrets to Makeup Brushes
Tools are so important, and it's the first step in creating your signature makeup routine.
Today, I want to talk about makeup brushes. Ever feel like some brushes just work better or last longer than others? Picking the right ones can seriously elevate your makeup routine, so here’s the breakdown of synthetic vs. natural hair brushes, plus some professional brush maintenance tips.
Synthetic vs. Natural Hair Brushes
Synthetic Brushes: Made from fibers like nylon or polyester, these are perfect for liquid or cream products like foundation and concealer. They’re super easy to clean, cruelty-free, and don’t soak up too much product.
Natural Hair Brushes: These are made from animal hair and are amazing for powder products like eyeshadow or setting powder. They grab pigment beautifully and blend like a pro. The trade-off? They take a little more effort to keep clean, and they obviously aren’t vegan.
What Makes Some Brushes More Expensive?
Ever wonder why one brush can cost $5 and another $50? Here’s why:
Materials: High-end brushes often use premium natural hairs or innovative synthetic fibers that mimic natural hair. These materials are softer, last longer, and perform better.
Craftsmanship: Expensive brushes are usually handmade, with attention to detail, like perfectly shaped bristles and durable handles. Mass-produced brushes tend to skimp on this.
Durability: Higher-quality brushes are designed to last, even with regular cleaning. Cheaper ones may shed bristles or break after a few washes.
Brand Name: Let’s be real—sometimes you’re paying for the name, but luxury brands often have a reputation for quality.
While you don’t always need to splurge, a well-made brush is an investment that can make your makeup routine so much easier.
My Favorite Picks
Luxury Option: I love my Tom Ford brushes. They’re definitely a splurge, but the quality and precision are worth it. They last forever if you take care of them.
Note: My first Tom Ford brush was a gift in college, and I still own it until this day. I went to college a while ago, lol
Affordable Option: If you’re on a budget, the Jessup 15-Piece Set on Amazon is a great choice. It has all the essentials for the face and eyes and is perfect for building your collection.
Note: I use these every day for work as a TV and film makeup artist. I own so many and have been using them for over 2 years.
Brush Cleaning Tips
Cleaning your brushes is non-negotiable. I wash my personal brushes 1-2 times a week because dirty brushes can wreak havoc on your skin. Plus, clean brushes make your makeup look smoother and more polished.
Here’s my go-to cleaning routine:
Use lukewarm water (NOT hot water—it weakens the glue that holds the bristles).
Add a little Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap to your palm or a brush cleaning mat.
Gently swirl the brush until it’s lathered up. (DO NOT soak and submerge your makeup brushes under water; again, it weakens the glue that holds the bristles).
Rinse under cool water until the soap is completely gone.
Reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat on a towel, or let the bristles hang off the edge of the sink to dry and keep their shape.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Good brushes don’t have to cost a fortune, but they do need to be cleaned regularly to work their best. Whether you’re team synthetic, natural, or a mix of both, taking care of your tools makes all the difference. Happy blending!
Your big (or lil) sis,
Tiffany
