the best travel makeup brushes

Top 10 Travel Makeup Brush Sets

These makeup brush sets are the internet's top picks for traveling.

Packing for a trip always has the potential to create more anxiety than it should, especially if you’re a makeup fanatic. Besides making sure the size of each product doesn’t go above TSA guidelines, deciding what to bring in the first place can be daunting. Some things are non-negotiable and others need to be replaced with airplane-friendly versions of themselves. Makeup brushes certainly fit the bill. For one, they make all the difference when it comes to application because while using your fingers is time-efficient, it can get messy very quickly. Still, quality makeup brushes are major must-haves that you won’t want to leave behind in a hotel or airport bathroom. In this case, investing in a travel makeup brush set means you can keep your trusty everyday tools safe and sound at home.

They also make dependable companions for other places, like your work desk, backpack, or glove compartment. You never know when a last-minute occasion will pop up, and that’s just too much pressure for one brush set. There are no rigid rules for choosing a travel makeup brush set—simply find a combination that best suits your routine. A simple, no-makeup-makeup look only needs a few brushes, while an elaborate beat, with, say, a smoky eye, requires multiple eye tools.

We’ve found some of the best-rated sets out there, and they satisfy a spectrum of makeup needs. From space-conscious minis to boldly designed, Instagram-ready tools, these travel makeup brush sets are as fashionable as they are functional.

How We Found The Best Travel Makeup Brush Sets

As always, this roundup was created with the help of our proprietary algorithm, which identifies our top picks using data from word-of-mouth recommendations, expert reviews, best-seller lists, and more. Keep reading to discover each standout.

Next up, check out the 10 Best Makeup Brushes .  Opening image: sephora.com

January 26, 2022

Product Expert: Georgia Jones

The Rankings

More Than Magic Brush And Bag Set

Overall Score

13 User Reviews

Best Seller

Industry Recognition

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

WHO IT'S FOR: If you're a makeup novice who's practicing an everyday, low-maintenance look, consider this ultra-cute and affordable set.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes a powder brush, eyeshadow brush, blending brush, and an angled brush. 

Moda Brush Total Face 7pc Travel Sized Makeup Brush Set With Travel Flip Case

54 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: If you want to perfect your smokey eyes and arches, this seven-piece set has you covered.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes a powder brush, foundation brush, angled eyeshadow brush, smoky eye brush, pointed lip brush, and travel-friendly case. 

More Colors

E.l.f. Cosmetics 11pc Brush Collection

796 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: Look to this kit when you want to go all out for special occasions—think your BFF's wedding.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes a large powder brush, tapered foundation brush, tapered eye crease brush, tapered flat concealer brush, soft rounded eyeshadow brush, angled eyeliner brush, and an eyebrow brush.

IT Brushes for Ulta Your Superheroes Full-Size Travel Brush Set

200 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: From last-minute date nights to Youtube tutorials, this high-quality brush set is perfect for anyone in need of the basics.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes a large face powder brush, dense foundation brush, narrow crease brush, flat concealer brush, rounded eyeshadow brush, and an angled eyeliner/eyebrow brush.

nordstrom.com

Sigma Beauty Multitask Brush Set

9 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: Want to save space and maximize a small brush collection? Meet your match.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes a detail blending brush, eye shading brush, tapered face brush, large angled contour brush, and a multitasker brush.

walmart.com

Real Techniques Travel Essentials Makeup Brush Set With 2 In 1 Case & Stand

126 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: For those who are all about the five-minute makeup look, this three-pack of brushes couldn't be more perfect.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes a foundation brush, shadow brush, multitasking brush, and a case that can also function as a brush stand.

bkbeauty.com

BK Beauty Travel Brush Set With Pouch

103 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: If you want a skin- and animal-friendly approach to makeup on the go, look no further than this beautiful brush set.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW:  This set includes a foundation brush, flat blush brush, defined crease brush, shader brush, and pencil blender brush, all made with vegan fibers.

sephora.com

Sephora Collection Deluxe Brush Set

73 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: The beauty influencer who's all about the details will definitely appreciate this all-inclusive brush set.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes 10 brushes: five for the face, four for the eyes, and one for the brows.

Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set

17501 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: If you're a makeup fanatic on a budget, Real Techniques has you covered with this set.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes four everyday brushes, along with a makeup sponge and sponge case.

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Mini Brush Set

29 User Reviews

WHO IT'S FOR: If you like to blend fashion and function, Charlotte Tilbury has you covered with this gorgeous makeup brush set.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW: This set includes four mini brushes: face powder, eye smudger, eye blender, and precision, all inside a stylish clutch case.

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• Makeup Tools & Techniques

The 7 Best Makeup Brushes for Seamless Makeup Application Every Time

Pro makeup artists weigh in.

Byrdie / Joy Kim

Beauty lovers know that makeup brushes are an integral part of any makeup kit. Sure, there's a lot you can do with your fingers and a blending sponge , but when it comes to achieving a full beat, brushes are where it's at. Different types of makeup call for different brushes, so things can get very confusing if you're not a pro MUA.

Whether it's time to replace your old makeup brushes or you want try a new tool, we've got you covered. To help you find the best options (and there are a lot) for your unique beauty routine, we researched the top-rated makeup brushes and tested 14 of them, evaluating each tool's bristle density, material quality, efficacy, and results after use. Then, we tapped three professional makeup artists to approve our picks and share their tips on how to pick the best brushes for your needs.

Let's get into it—these are the very best makeup brushes you can buy online.

Which Makeup Brushes Do You Need?

If you’ve got a full collection of makeup brushes and know how to use each one correctly, we salute you. Most of us, though, could use a few pointers on which brushes to buy. Makeup brushes are specifically made to target certain areas of the face, so using the wrong brush can throw off your look. From large, fluffy brushes that distribute powder across the face to contour brushes designed to define, there are more than a dozen brush types. Not sure which ones you need? We’ve compiled a complete guide to makeup brushes and tips on how to use them. If you just want a quality set of basic brushes, check out our list of the very best affordable makeup brush sets .

• Why Trust Byrdie?

Best Overall

Lune+aster foundation brush.

Dense yet soft

Sturdy handle

Smooth results

Easy to clean

Could be larger

Bristle Material: Synthetic | Shape: Round/angled | Density: Very dense | Intended Use: Liquid, cream, or powder foundation | Coverage: Full | Vegan: Yes

Of all the brushes we tested, this one from Lune+Aster was our favorite. Designed for applying liquid, cream, or powder foundation , the brush is round with a sloped head (which allowed Julia to get into all the contours of her face) while the short, thick handle offered her a solid grip. This brush has synthetic bristles, which makeup artist Nick Lujan prefers. "In addition to being vegan-friendly, they're often more durable and hygienic," he explains.

Byrdie / Tamara Staples

Julia | Lune+Aster Foundation Brush Tester

"The angled bristles made this brush easy to get around my nose and under my eyes, and the short, thick handle felt great in my hand."

Best Budget

E.l.f. cosmetics buffing foundation brush.

Some products stain bristles

Bristle Material: Synthetic | Shape: Round/tapered | Density: Dense | Intended Use: Foundation, concealer, buffing | Coverage: Medium | Vegan: Yes

E.l.f. makes some really excellent budget beauty tools, and this makeup brush is no exception. The round, tapered shape is designed for foundation and concealer, but it also works for contouring and buffing powder products. While Julia prefers a slightly larger head, she said the medium size makes it versatile enough to use around the eyes and nose. She loved the soft-to-the-touch synthetic bristles, too.

Julia | E.l.f. Buffing Foundation Brush Tester

"I could apply my foundation effortlessly and quickly without streaks or blotches."

Best Splurge

It cosmetics heavenly luxe buffing foundation brush #6.

High-quality handle

Some reviewers note bristle fallout

Bristle Material: Synthetic | Shape: Round/flat | Density: Very dense | Intended Use: Liquid or powder foundation, buffing | Coverage: Full | Vegan: Yes

If you're willing to invest in a high-quality makeup brush, look no further than IT Cosmetics. This luxurious flat-top features dense synthetic bristles that feel soft against the skin. The unique head does an incredible job of picking up and buffing out pressed and loose powders, but you can also use it for applying and blending liquid foundation. Our tester said that when used with foundation, this brush left her with a smooth, streak-free complexion. She also liked how the weight of the handle felt in her hand.

Stacey | It Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6

"The flat top shape of the brush head was perfect. It was able to cover a lot of ground and it only took a few swipes to be fully blended across the entire left side of my face. The hourglass-shaped grip is comfortable and easy to hold, and the bristles feel soft and light on my skin."

Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush

Excellent coverage

User-friendly

Large handle

Slightly stiff

Bristle Material: Synthetic | Shape: Oval | Density: Medium | Intended Use: Liquid foundation, applying, buffing | Coverage: Full | Vegan: Yes

The best oval brush we tried was the Real Techniques Blend + Blur. Designed for applying and buffing liquid foundation, it has a large head with dense bristles. Though the fibers are slightly stiff, Britney said they're still plenty soft. Since the bristles are on the side rather than the end, the shape is more reminiscent of a toothbrush than a paintbrush. As Britney notes, this makes it easy to use when blending out liquids and creams, while the large size offers incredible coverage. Cleaning the dense bristles took a little more elbow grease than other brushes, but nothing too excessive.

Britney | Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush Tester

" I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to build up even coverage where I wanted it."

Best for Contouring

Mac 170 synthetic rounded slant brush.

Bristle Material: Synthetic | Shape: Round/angled | Density: Medium | Intended Use: Foundation, contour, blending, buffing | Coverage: Medium | Vegan: Yes

While it's technically designed for foundation, this brush was a stand-out for contouring. While it's slightly too large for the under-eye area, the round, angled shape allowed Julia to reach around all the curves and corners of her face. Julia said her makeup went on super smooth and melted into her skin as she buffed it out, leaving her with a bright, even-toned complexion.

Julia | MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush Tester

"I could see myself using this brush every day. The head is thick and a little bit slanted, which helps get the product into the contours of my face for full coverage. It sucks up a lot of foundation, so it'd probably be better to apply the foundation to your face first then blend it in with the brush."

Best Cruelty-Free

Tarte foundcealer foundation brush.

Comfortable grip

Vegan-friendly

Smooth application

Too large for under-eye area

Bristle Material: Synthetic | Shape: Round/tapered | Density: Very dense | Intended Use: Foundation, concealer | Coverage: Medium to full | Vegan: Yes

This cruelty-free tool features vegan-friendly synthetic bristles and a round, tapered head. Though the finely cut fibers are somewhat short, Elizabeth said they're exceptionally soft and fluffy. This brush features multiple bristle lengths, which makes it easy to blend liquids and creams. Elizabeth loved how smoothly her foundation buffed into her skin and appreciated the comfortable feel of the sturdy handle.

Elizabeth | Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush Tester

"The dense bristles are great for blending in liquid foundation and giving the skin a nice natural finish."

Best Portable

Bareminerals smoothing foundation brush.

Packable size

Not ideal for beginners

Bristle Material: Synthetic | Shape: Domed | Density: Less dense | Intended Use: Foundation, tinted moisturizer, diffusing, contouring, stippling | Coverage: Medium | Vegan: Yes

This makeup brush from bareMinerals is smaller than average, making it ideal for travel and on-the-go use. And thanks to the versatile design, it might be the only tool you need to pack. Perfect for applying, blending, contouring, stippling, and diffusing creams or powders, Julia liked that the multi-length synthetic fibers aren't super densely packed. While it seemed to make things streaky at first, Julia found that sweeping and tapping motions offer a stunningly smooth finish. Since it wasn't the most intuitive, this might not be the best option for beginners—but once you get the hang of it, you're golden.

Best for Creams

Monika blunder hybrid cream brush.

Monika Blunder

Layers product well

Provides an even finish

Multipurpose

Bristle Material:  Synthetic |  Shape:  Round/tapered   |  Intended Use:  Cream foundation, blush, bronzer |  Vegan:  Yes

There's a definite learning curve to using a brush to apply cream products, but this multipurpose brush by Monika Blunder makes it a cinch. Using a lighter touch with this brush will yield an ethereal, diffused finish, while applying pressure helps to blend out cream bronzers and blushes to airbrushed makeup perfection. We love that it's soft on the skin yet dense enough to blend out product. Use it to buff away lines and streaks easily even when you're layering products. And the small size allows for precise application, especially on the cheekbones, under the eyes, and on the sides of the nose.

What to Look for in a Makeup Brush

• Quality and material: Some makeup brushes can cost a pretty penny, but that’s because it can be quite the process to make a quality brush. Consider the sturdiness of the handle and how soft the bristles feel against your skin—these are both factors that will affect how long the brush lasts and the standard of your makeup application. It might feel luxurious to have a fluffy makeup brush sourced from the finest animal hair or fur, but it’s not the most sustainable or cruelty-free option. Synthetic brushes have come a long way, and there are plenty of options to consider that are both earth- and wallet-friendly. It’s also important to inquire whether or not a brand conducts animal testing. So, if you want to be kind to animals, cruelty-free is the way to go.
• Application: All brushes are not created equal. In fact, they are usually designed with very specific uses in mind, and it’s important to use brushes for their intended use. If you’re new to the makeup world and you’re not quite sure where to start, makeup artist Tamekia Geer recommends beginning with a foundation brush, powder brush, and a blush brush . A flat and a creased eyeshadow brush are also good tools to have on hand.
• Bristle density: Another important feature to consider is the brush's density. Typically, the denser, or more closely packed the bristles are, the fuller the coverage the brush will help provide. Dense brushes are considered ideal for building up foundation to full coverage, while less dense brushes are ideal for achieving light to medium coverage, such as when you're applying setting powder, bronzer , or blush .

To clean makeup brushes , Greer recommends using an antibacterial bar soap . You can also use a cleansing agent designed specifically for makeup brushes (you can find our favorites here ).

For all brushes (and especially any brushes used for cream products), Greer recommends cleaning brushes once a week to prevent possible skin breakouts and buildup on your brushes. "The cleaner they are, the better the application and the longer your brushes last," she adds.

As long as your makeup brushes are kept dry and clean, feel free to find creative ways to store them. Try a marble or ceramic jar for an aesthetically pleasing option, or if you prefer to tuck your tools away or take them with you on the go, opt for a brush roll.

Why Trust Byrdie

Theresa Holland is a commerce writer and editor specializing in beauty. For this story, she interviewed three makeup artists to gather product recommendations and insight into the various types of brushes. Before landing on her final picks, she considered the size, shape, material, bristles, handle, and price of dozens of products. From this list, Theresa is fond of Makeup By Mario, EcoTools, Real Techniques, Wet n Wild, e.l.f., bareMinerals, and IT Cosmetics. For this story, she consulted:

• Nick Lujan is a makeup artist and the director of artistry and education at Kevyn Aucoin.
• Tamekia Geer is a makeup artist at TamGee Artistry Studio.

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How To Pick & Pack The Best Travel Friendly Makeup Brushes

08 dec how to pick & pack the best travel friendly makeup brushes.

So, you’ve got your travel size makeup and your skincare packed onboard for an in-flight pamper, but your makeup brushes are a mess. Well, here’s a solution.

The makeup you pack for your holiday will only get you so far if you don’t have the tools to apply it. Whether you want a sun kissed beachy glow on the Mykonos shores, or a brown smoky eye in the Ibiza clubs, knowing which makeup brushes to travel with can be a bit of a hassle. But we’ve got you covered.

From singular portable makeup brushes, to travel brush sets, we’ve found the best travel friendly makeup brushes. These tools will have your makeup looking effortless on the go, and your makeup bags looking orderly. Read on!

Learn How To Pick Travel Friendly Makeup Brushes:

• Find Retractable Travel Makeup Brushes
• Look out for Multi-Tasking Makeup Brushes
• Try Mini Makeup Travel Brush Sets
• Get A Travel Makeup Case To Protect Your Brushes
• Importance Of Packing Your Makeup Brushes Properly

1. Purchase Retractable Brushes

If you are not able to purchase a makeup case with pockets and separators, then opt for retractable brushes. These are great if you want to avoid your makeup brushes touching and spreading germs and bacteria.

Retractable Face Brush

Nude by nature.

The Nude By Nature Retractable Brush is a perfect face brush for travel . You can use this multi purpose brush for your bronzer, setting powder or blush, because its bristles are dense which to help apply as much product as you desire. Additionally, this brush comes with a cap, therefore limiting the chance of the brush grabbing onto dust or bacteria in your bag.

Retractable Lip Brush

Bobbi brown.

This Bobbi Brown retractable lip brush makes applying your favourite lipstick a piece of cake. Its fine, flat hairs gives you clean precision.

Its small enough to throw in your bag, so you can touch up on-the-go, and you have peace of mind knowing it won’t get dirty whilst you travel.

Portable & Concealer Brush 150

Fenty beauty.

This portable Fenty brush is every contour lovers dream. The bristles are soft synthetic, making it gentle on the skin, and are cut to ensure precision and even blending. It’s multi-purpose use as a concealer brush makes it perfect to touch up and hide any imperfections on the go. Moreover, its magnetic cap ensures that your makeup brush is protected and easy to travel with , ready to conceal away your jetlag and chisel out your cheekbones.

2. Look For Multi-Tasking Travel Brushes

Why have one brush when you can have two or three!

Double-Ended Complexion Brush

The Hourglass brush is a great 2 in 1. With its high-grade synthetic fibers, this dual ended brush gives you flawless application. It’s secured with brush caps, keeping it hygienic in your luggage. The smaller brush end is perfect to conceal under your eyes and the larger brush is perfect to buff in foundation and powder to achieve that perfect base wherever you are!

T-Kit 3-in-1 Brush Set

Trinny london.

A three in one stackable brush set for defining lips, brows and eyes. With cruelty-free synthetic, quick drying fibers, this portable brush kit needs to be in your travel makeup kit when you need to pack light. They also all stack together quickly with a magnet fit, making it quick to apply and go!

Retractable Dual-Ended Eyeshadow Brush

This eyeshadow brush the ultimate on-the-go tool. Featuring dual retractable ends with a cap so you know the powder wont litter all over your cosmetic bag. Apply both creams and powder eyeshadow and even use it for concealer if you wish.

The soft and silky bristles will last forever with proper care and washing, a worthy investment for the regular jetsetter.

3. Try A Mini Makeup Brush Set

Mini kits are usually smaller versions of their large sized counterparts but made from the same materials.

A hot tip: Store them in your carry on luggage so they’re a bit more protected & you can also freshen up on a long-haul flight if you need.

Voyager Travel Brush Set

This mini travel brush set is perfect for your travel bag. Whether you want to get glam’d before you hop off your flight, or have limited room in your luggage, you’ll be prepared for anything. It comes with four soft brushes; a concealer brush, two eye shadow brushes and a brow or liner brush.

It’s perfect for touch ups throughout the day and to blend your makeup seamlessly! The small brush handles gives you more control of your application and it even comes in a mini travel case.

Most-Wanted Brush Set

With a combination of face and eye brushes that were made to be easier to hold, these brushes can create that flawless foundation appearance and softened eye look for any occasion.

This set includes a blending brush, a pencil brush, a tapered blending brush, a tapered highlighter brush and flat kabuki foundation brush. A brush for every step of your makeup routine.

4. Buy a Separate Case to House Your Travel Makeup Brushes

Purchasing a good makeup case that has separate compartments will ensure your makeup brushes stay clean throughout your travels. Firstly, make sure they are cleaned prior, so that they start off fresh. Allow them to dry before packing (this could take a day) because water can cause damage to the end of the brush it it seeps through. It can loosen bristles and build bacteria, making you worse off than where you started.

4-Way Professional Travel Makeup Bag

If you’re a makeup lover, then this travel makeup case is large enough to store everything you own. This sturdy case has a handy brush holder compartment that is dirt-resistant and water-resistant, making it hygienic and easy to clean.

Your brushes will remain protected with a covering and the brush slots are made to withstand turbulence. If you’re headed for a 6 month holiday, you can store your whole life in this travel case!

Jet Set Vanity Bag

Mecca cosmetica.

This brush bag is the perfect size to store your brushes and other essential travel products. You can store your makeup brushes protectively on one side, and store skincare in the zipped pouch.

This is a jet setters dream, as the same suggests, as it keeps all your items separated and clean.

Why Is It Important To Store Makeup Brushes Properly When Travelling?

Protecting and properly storing your makeup brushes when travelling is important, as they can get dirty amongst the dust and junk at the bottom of your bag.

Dirty makeup brushes can lead to clogged pores, premature aging and can cause breakouts from different bacteria build up on your brushes.

Try not to throw your brushes in with your makeup, store them separately in a different bag, preferably one with slots so that you can separate your brushes individually so bacteria doesn’t transfer between brushes. Make sure to clean them often to improve its longevity!

Keeping your makeup brushes clean when travelling can be easy once you’ve picked the right products.

If you want to make sure your makeup brushes make it to the other side, it all comes down to maintaining and caring for them as you would your makeup products. Regularly cleaning your makeup brushes will improve their life, as it avoids a build up of bacteria, which can ultimately damage your brushes.

When travelling, store your brushes in a makeup case that has individual brush slots. This will stop the transmitting of bacteria to each brush.

Do you have any other tips for makeup brushes? Let us know!

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Makeup Brush Sets for Creating the Perfect Looks

Options for makeup experts and beginners alike.

Caring for Your Makeup Brushes

• What to Look for

Best Makeup Brush Sets

Meet the expert.

When it comes to applying an impeccable face of makeup, your brushes are crucial. Think of yourself as a painter and of your face as a pristine canvas: The tools you're using are bound to impact the thickness, saturation, and depth of the colors you apply. That's why, when investing in a makeup brush set, you should pay attention to details like brush types and bristle quality to ensure that you have the best products possible to achieve your ideal look.

But with all the types and brands of makeup brushes on the market, you can easily feel overwhelmed while trying to find the best makeup brush set for you. Thus, I've asked celebrity makeup artist Elaina Badro for her top tips on how to select, use, and care for your makeup brushes. Plus, we've combed the internet to bring you makeup brush sets that are well worth your investment.

Badro reminds us that makeup brushes don't last forever, but you can get more bang (and years) for your buck by investing in premium products.

"Cheap quality makeup brushes barely last due to poor quality bristles and handles," she explains. "They tend to break and shed much more. Quality makeup brushes can last anywhere from two to five years. Some individuals take such good care of their brushes, or barely use them, that I've heard of them lasting for even seven years, although I would opt for new ones by then!"

No matter the quality of your brushes, though, she says that you should learn how to take care of them, especially if you want them to last. "Keeping makeup brushes clean allows for the longevity of the bristles," she says, "especially because it will prevent mold growth as well."

And caring for makeup brushes doesn't just extend their shelf life—it also keeps your skin clean and clear.

"It’s essential to wash makeup your brushes!" stresses Badro. "Opting out from washing your makeup brushes can cause blemishes, allergic reactions, and can even result in an infection." In that vein, she also advises, "To help avoid skin infections, do not share your makeup brushes!"

Cleaning Your Makeup Brushes

When it's high time to clean your brushes, you're going to need to do more than a simple rinse. We asked Badro about the best strategy for thoroughly cleansing makeup brushes, and she delivered.

"Wash your hands first," she begins, and advises that you then "pour mild shampoo into the palm of your hand or into a bowl, then run bristles under lukewarm water." One the brush is soaked, she says to "dip bristles into the shampoo and swirl in a circular motion. Lather repeatedly to ensure that all makeup residue comes off." Be sure to repeat until your water starts running clear!

Once you no longer see pigment coming off of the brush, Badro says, "Rinse the bristles under lukewarm water. Steer clear of immersing the entire brush, as this can cause the adhesive/glue to break down, resulting in the ferrule to disassemble from the bristles and/or handle."

Once you're sure that the brush is clean and that the water is running clear, Badro says, "Squeeze the water out of the bristles. You can also use a paper towel to squeeze out excess water."

Finally, it's time to let dry! "Shape and smooth the bristles with your fingers to make sure they are not bent and/or warped," says Badro. "Lay each brush flat to dry horizontally on a paper towel or towel, ensuring that they are not touching each other. Refrain from placing wet brushes in a vertical container. This can also cause the adhesive/glue to dissolve resulting in the ferrule to disassemble from the bristles and/or handle."

What to Look for In a Makeup Brush Set

When shopping for a makeup brush set, it's important to consider a number of factors. First, shoppers should realistically assess how many makeup brushes they need in their sets. For instance, someone who doesn't wear much makeup or who likes a pared-down routine might not opt for a set with over 10 brushes in it. On the other hand, if you like to blend, contour, and experiment, it may be best to look for a set with more brushes in it so you can achieve the exact look you're going for.

One should also know what kinds of brushes they need. Makeup brushes can be used for the face, eyes, or brows, and you can find collections that focus on one particular part of the face as well as ones intended to meet every need.

Brushes for the Face

If you're in need of brushes for face makeup like foundation, blush, bronzer, and highlighter, there are a few options that Badro says you should start with.

"The best types of makeup brushes to cater to your blush, bronzer, and highlight should be an angled multi-purpose brush," she says. "The angled brush allows you to sculpt and define the facial features." Foundation brushes , meanwhile, are wider, focused less on precision and more on distributing product for an airbushed look.

Brushes for the Eyes

"Eye brushes that are smaller allow for precision, which are ideal for smaller eyes," says Badro—but that doesn't mean that eye makeup brushes are one-size fits-all. There are several types of eye makeup brushes on the market, each of which has a particular use.

"Shader brushes help to pat shadow onto the lid and/or brow bone," Badro explains. Meanwhile, flat tip brushes are made for precision.

"If you have hooded eyes, use flat tip brushes that will allow you to create a 'cut-crease,'" she says. "Typically, the tighter the bristles on the brush, the higher the coverage."

And when it comes to eye makeup, Badro stresses, "It's very important to blend, blend, blend!" Therefore, she says, "Blending brushes are great for the crease of the eye"—this way, your makeup looks soft and smoky rather than jarring.

"The best type of brush for applying foundation depends on what you want the finished look to appear like," says Badro. "For instance, smaller foundation brushes while stippling can help to create more coverage. Duo Fiber Brushes are great to thoroughly blend foundation without leaving harsh  lines." She adds that, to create an "airbrushed" look, users can apply their cream or powder foundation in a circular motion using these brushes.

Pros: expert-approved; soft bristles; good for blending; different sizes allow for application to different parts of the face (i.e., the smaller brush is great for the under-eye area)

Cons: small set

If you love luxury and are in the market for a new set of brushes, Badro recommends checking out Tom Ford’s collection . The brushes are sold separately rather than in pre-curated sets, but that just makes it easier for you to customize your purchase by choosing from their line of 10 premium, synthetic hair options. In particular, Badro recommends including this bronzer brush in your repertoire. "The Tom Ford #05 Bronzer Brush is a bit pricey, but it truly is great for all over bronzy-look," she says. “This is because the bristles are synthetic and allow for a sheer coverage. Less is more when it comes to luxury makeup brushes.”

Pros: expert-approved; luxurious; long-lasting; customizable set; ergonomic handle

Cons: expensive

When it comes to concealing and highlighting in particular, Badro recommends this set of brushes from beloved makeup brand Pat McGrath. “Pat McGrath's ‘Sublime Perfection Brush Duo’ is great for concealer,” says Badro of the set of thin, precision- oriented brushes. “These brushes are wonderful for layering and building makeup.” With their angled design, they’re also made to cater to the unique contours of the face, so you don’t need to worry about getting makeup in places where you hadn't intended.

Pros: expert-approved; precise; great for layering

Cons: some users say the bristles aren't soft

Customer Review: "Bristles are a little prickly but otherwise very well functioning brush. Both brushes are great for concealer and my liquid highlighter." -Pat McGrath

For a complete brush set that includes options for both your face and eyes, consider this vegan, PETA-approved set from Hourglass. It includes a number of their bestsellers, including Badro’s favorite, the Veil Powder Brush. “The ‘Veil Powder Brush’ by Hourglass is a great brush!” she gushes. “Who doesn't love a double sided brush?! Although I suggest throwing it in your bag, as it doesn't stand up on i's own for obvious reasons. The smaller side is great for setting the under-eye area, while the larger side can really be used all-over.”

Pros: includes options for both face and eyes; expert-approved; comes in a carrying case; vegan; cruelty-free

Cons: expensive; large

Customer Review: "The brushes themselves are nice and there is a good variety of them. However, I am not sure why this is marketed as travel size. The bushes are all their usual sizes and the case is nice but certainly not compact in any way." -Sephora

This brush set from Badro’s eponymous brand is a great value, filled with brushes for both the face and eyes, including a number of bestsellers. Highlights include a foundation brush, contour brush, and four unique eye brushes, one of which is the blending eye brush, which Badro calls a top seller. She explains, “The design of the brush was created with functionality in mind—it allows for a seamless blend.” Plus, she adds that the ferrules on these brushes are “made of copper, so overall you have better blending and less shedding!”

Pros: expert-approved; includes both face and eye brushes; big value

Cons: not as many face brushes as eye brushes

This set from Morphe is an incredible value, with 12 premium brushes coming in at under $100. It contains both face and eye brushes, including options for foundation, blush, setting, concealer, bronzing, and more. Some of the brushes are best for powder products while others are intended for cream products, so this is perfect for the makeup aficionado or for anyone who loves experimenting and mixing their routine up. The set even includes a soft blending sponge. 

Pros: includes eye brushes, face brushes, and a blending sponge; long-lasting

Cons: some users find the bristles brittle

Customer Review: "The brushes are the perfect density and softness where my makeup always comes out looking airbrushed on my face! I have had them for a year and they still are in perfect condition." -Ulta

If you love going hard on your eye makeup, this is the set for you. It includes shading, creasing, and defining brushes that work on both powder and liquid eyeshadows, so you can create smoky eyes, contoured lids, or dramatic works of makeup art. Plus, the set includes a fine liner brush for liquid or gel eyeliner, a smudge brush for creating grunge-y and effortless looks, and even a lash separator for banishing pesky mascara clumps.

Pros: affordable; clean; cruelty-free; vegan; sustainable packaging

Cons: some users say the brushes shed easily

Customer Review: “These brushes are a must. The bristles are so soft creating the perfect match for blending. Not to mention the grip they have to be able to motion them back and forth with ease.” -Ulta

This makeup brush set is simple, small, and minimalist, making it perfect for travel, for keeping in your desk at the office, or for stowing away in your purse for emergency touch ups on the go. It includes a foundation brush, powder brush, and eyeshadow brush, all of which are made from soft bristles that are easy to use and to blend with. Plus, the set comes in an adorable makeup bag that you can use to store all your other makeup essentials. 

Pros: small enough for travel; vegan; comes with a carrying case

Cons: doesn't contain as many brushes as other, fuller sets

Customer Review: "I love it, they are a perfect size to keep in your bag, their bristles are soft." -Sephora

This is another great makeup brush set for the makeup enthusiast on the go. It comes in a handy case made from luxurious velvet, and includes four brushes—two for the eyes and two for the face. One brush is designed for applying powder formulas to the face, such as setting powder, and another has a more precise design that’s ideal for applying highlighter, bronzer, or blush. Meanwhile, the eye brushes, one of twitch is for smudging while the other is for blending, are great for creating a myriad of soft, smoky, or monochromatic looks.

Pros: includes both face and eye brushes; comes in a carrying case

Cons: carrying case isn't big enough to fit other brushes; brushes are limited

Customer Review: "I did think this was expensive but I just had to have it and I am not disappointed because I LOVE it. The colour of the pouch is gorgeous, the set looks very classy and the brushes are great. Perfect for people like me who like to travel." -Bloomingdale's

Although I own a lot of beauty products, from skincare to tools to makeup, I do like to keep things as pared down as possible. That means opting for products that have more than one use and therefore save some much-needed space, and a great example is the dual-ended makeup brush. These brushes, unfortunately, can’t be stood up, but they’re great for travel, for consolidating makeup products, and for streamlining one’s makeup routine. This set from Jenny Patinkin includes option for the face, for applying eyeshadow, and even for applying eyeliner and brow products. Plus, they come in a compact, travel-ready case.

Pros: brushes are dual-ended; saves space; large number of bristles on each brush

Cons: brushes can't be stood up

Elaina Badro is a makeup artist from Southern California who has worked with celebrities, fashion brands, and magazines. She founded her eponymous beauty brand to include high-quality tools and skincare, including makeup brushes, and is committed to providing beauty enthusiasts with makeup tips that bring results. She is currently based in California.

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Gabrielle Ulubay is a Beauty Writer at Marie Claire. She has also written about sexual wellness, fashion, culture, and politics both at Marie Claire and for publications like The New York Times, Bustle, and HuffPost Personal. She has worked extensively in the e-commerce and sales spaces since 2020, including two years at Drizly, where she developed an expertise in finding the best, highest quality goods and experiences money can buy. As a film school graduate, she loves all things media and can be found making art when she's not busy writing.

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The Best Makeup Brushes for Every Part of Your Routine

By Devon Abelman , Sarah Han , and Jennifer Hussein

Even if you have the trendiest makeup in your collection, they won't produce the glorious results you're expecting without proper, high-quality tools. And who best to ask about the best makeup brushes on the market than professional makeup artists who spend their entire careers working most closely with an extensive lineup of the best brushes for the face, eyes, lips, and cheekbones?

Below, we've gathered some of the pros' decidedly classic, time-tested picks along with Allure Best of Beauty Award winners at a variety of price points — including affordable picks from Real Techniques and E.L.F. and high-end options from the likes of Merit, Chanel , and Patrick Ta . Whether you're a seasoned makeup pro or budding makeup beginner, this story is the perfect place to start if you're hoping to curate your very own makeup brush set and perfect your makeup looks.

Consider these 21 brushes of all shapes and sizes — soft and fluffy, domed, densely packed, tapered, angled, and precise — to be your best friends when it comes to flawless makeup application and seamless buffing of your products. From there, all that's left to do is showcase all of the stunning looks you create on TikTok . Your breathtaking visuals will be right up there with your favorite content creators and celebrity-trusted makeup artists.

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Beautyblender

Best Sponge: Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge

Ulta Beauty

Sure, Beautyblender's Original Makeup Sponge technically isn't a traditional brush, but it's one of the best makeup applicators on the market — much so that it's a multi-Best of Beauty winner. This latex-free makeup sponge can be used wet or dry to blend a multitude of beauty products, including cream blushes, liquid foundation, and more of your favorite base products. It's basically the Swiss army knife of makeup applicators that leaves your full face looking flawless every time you use it.

Best Foundation: Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush

Bluemercury

No matter which foundation you're currently using, the Allure Best of Beauty-winning Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush is guaranteed to create a seamless, airbrush-like finish. This ultra-soft brush has fluffy bristles made of synthetic fibers that blend like a dream for an even, cake-free finish.

Best Contour: Patrick Ta Major Sculpt Contour Brush

Patrick Ta Beauty

Sculpt your cheekbones to utter perfection with the Allure Best of Beauty-winning Patrick Ta Major Sculpt Contour Brush, which won the honor in 2021 and 2022. It's designed with fanlike, synthetic bristles that create a soft, diffused look sans harsh or obvious lines. "I stamp it on the end of my cheekbones at the hairline and slide it down to the sides of my chin," Patrick Ta previously recommended .

Best paired with the brand's complimentary, Best of Beauty -winning Major Sculpt Creme Contour & Powder Bronzer Duos (of which there are three colorways), this brush is your righthand tool for any and all powder and cream formulas .

Best Multi-Purpose: Nars Yachiyo Kabuki Brush

When it comes to an all-around face blush that's great for setting powder, bronzer, and blush, look no further than the Nars Yachiyo Kabuki Brush. "It's big enough for all-over powdering but small enough for creating a healthy glow with blush," makeup artist Georgina Graham says. Consider this tool the Goldilocks of the makeup world.

By Allure Editors

By Jennifer Hussein

By Annie Blay

Real Techniques

Best Powder: Real Techniques Setting Brush

Makeup artist Susie Sobol reaches for the Real Techniques Setting Brush for more precise application of loose powder, especially for smaller areas of the face under the eyes and around the nose. "I actually never use a big powder brush since it takes shine away from where I like to keep it," she explains.

BareMinerals

Best Bronzer: BareMinerals Supreme Finisher Brush

After being dipped in the right bronzer shade , the Best of Beauty Award-winning BareMinerals Supreme Finisher Brush ensures the warm hue defines your face without any blotchiness or muddiness. You're sure to be left with a seamless, natural-looking glow.

Best Blush: Chanel Blush Brush N°110

Los Angeles-based makeup artist Daphne Chantell del Rosario tells us that her go-to blush brush is Chanel's Blush Brush N°110, which she denotes is "the perfect shape for the apples of your cheeks." This fluffy wonder is ideal for powder and cream formulas for a flushed-from-within look.

Best Highlight: Sigma Beauty F03 High Cheekbone Highlighter Brush

Makeup artist Carissa Ferreri uses Sigma Beauty's Best of Beauty-winning F03 High Cheekbone Highlighter Brush for two main purposes. As its name suggests, it works wonderfully for highlighter, but she also uses it for "contouring the hollows of the cheek and around the perimeter of the face," she explains. “The bristles are both fluffy but firm, making it ideal to deposit color and blend.”

Jane Iredale

Best Precision: Jane Iredale Detail Brush

Ma also counts Jane Iredale's Detail Brush as a staple in her brush collection. The precision tip packs "dense and tiny bristles, making it perfect for spot-concealing ," she says, and synthetic brushes generally work well with cream products, in particular.

It Cosmetics

Best Dual-Ended: IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush #7

Dual-ended brushes are particularly clutch for travel-friendly beauty kits — because why let your brushes take up precious space in your already-stuffed luggage? Henney is a fan of IT Cosmetics' Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush #7, which is equipped with super-soft bristles that "make [foundation and concealer] application a total breeze," she notes.

Anastasia Beverly Hills

Best Brows: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brush #12

The spoolie side of the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brush #12 tames even the coarsest, unruliest brow hairs to help slick them down into defined arches. The angled brush found on the other end of this Best of Beauty Award winner deposits pigment with ease to fill in sparse areas.

Best Eye Shadow: MAC 217 Synthetic Blending Brush

For hooded eyelids , Ma recommends a fluffy brush like MAC's 217 Synthetic Blending Brush, which she says "gives a smooth, seamless blending job." But, as she notes, the brush is still quite slim and small, so it fits perfectly within the defined creases of hooded eyelids.

Best Set: Spectrum x KJH #22

Spectrum Collections

While this particular brush (third from the left) is only available in an 11-piece brush set, it's absolutely worthy of your coins. Florida-based makeup artist Lennie Billy counts Spectrum x KJH #22 among her favorites for graphic liner looks or a classic cat-eye. "I love a fine and soft brush that allows [for easy movement] when drawing lines," both on the finer and thicker ends of the spectrum, she tells Allure.

Laura Mercier

Best Concealer: Laura Mercier Camouflage Powder Brush

Neiman Marcus

"The Laura Mercier Camouflage Powder Brush might be for powder, but I use it for cream," makeup artist Nick Barose states. This flat, oval-shaped brush is akin to the size of your ring finger, but as Barose warns, "you should never use your finger to apply concealer under your eyes [because] it gets floppy and cakey." Long story short, this is a fine alternative.

Sonia Kashuk

Best Lip: Sonia Kashuk Retractable 2-in-1 Lip Makeup Brush

If you desire polished, ultra-clean lines, consider bringing in the assistance of a lip brush to ensure you define your lips to the fullest. Sonia Kashuk's cruelty-free, under-$15 Retractable 2-in-1 Lip Makeup Brush comes with a tapered, precision brush for detailed lip contouring, while the denser, flat-top end finishes the job by shading in your entire lip area with an intense bout of color.

By Lindsay Colameo

By Devon Abelman

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 9 Very Best Makeup Brushes and Makeup-Brush Sets

In this article

• Best overall
• Best less expensive
• Best for complexion
• Best for eyes
• Best travel set

While you can always use your fingers and sponges to apply makeup, the best makeup brushes and makeup-brush sets can be a game changer — especially if your goal is to create a seamless, blended finish. For that reason, I use makeup brushes almost exclusively, which is how I’ve come to try just about every complexion brush out there. What I’ve learned is that good makeup brushes are an investment — cheaper ones tend to shed, so it’s worth being discerning when you’re shopping. With that in mind, I reached out to top makeup artists to find out the brushes they swear by.

Best overall | Best less expensive | Best for complexion | Best less expensive for complexion | Best for eyes | Best for brows and eyeliner | Best blush brush | Best set with a sponge |  Best set for travel

What we’re looking for

“The shape and size of the head is what determines where the brush is meant to be used and what types of products it’s designed to be used with,” says makeup artist Robin Black , the founder of Beauty Is Boring . The handles can vary, too, but a good grip is important. Ulta Beauty Pro Team makeup artist Deney Adam prefers brushes with longer handles for applying eye makeup, for example, since they offer control and precision. “The same applies for powder-based products like blush , eye shadow, and setting power,” he says. “For creamy or liquid-based products, a short handle is the way to go.”

Bristle density

The nicer it feels on your skin , the better it works. “ The softness, density, and quality of the brush hairs is what determines how evenly a product will apply to the skin,” Black says. “It’s important that brushes feel soft and gentle, never prickly or irritating . You can test that quite easily by running the brush over the inside of your forearm in both directions.” The only real exception: Foundation brushes tend to be denser, but they should still feel smooth and comfortable.

Bristle material

Not all makeup-brush bristles are created equal. Natural bristles, made from animal furs or hairs, are known for being supersoft, which allows for better blending. Synthetic brushes are typically made from nylon or other vegan materials, and they’ve come a long way in terms of feel. As a result, it’s mostly a matter of personal preference. “I like using dual-fiber brushes for wet products, like liquid foundations and creams, and traditional ‘natural’ brushes for powder products like blushes and eye shadows,” says makeup artist Jaleesa Jaikaran .

Best overall makeup-brush set

Usage: Full face | Bristle density: Miscellaneous | Bristle material: Synthetic

This trio of brushes is all you need for a full face since each one is super-versatile. “They’re hardworking, multitasking, and luxurious-feeling synthetic brushes that make seamless makeup application easy,” says Black, who particularly likes using the Tulip Blending Brush to create a soft-focus lip look. “I find myself throwing them into my bag for touch-ups as well as using them in the studio.” Personally, I started using the Hybrid Face Brush with Monika Blunder’s creamy foundation — a winner if you’re looking for buildable coverage with a lightweight feel — but I’ve since tried it with all sorts of foundations, including liquid. It’s soft, so it takes a little longer than my dense foundation brushes, but I’ve found that it’s worth the extra time. The angled brush is designed for buffing, so it works for both cream foundations and bronzer alike. And the Tulip Blending Brush can be used for everything from blending eye shadow to concealing zits or, to Black’s point, applying lip color.

Best (less expensive) makeup-brush set

Full face | Miscellaneous | Synthetic

I’ve owned this set of EcoTools brushes for years and won’t ever toss them. (A 4.7-star rating and more than 400 reviews on Target.com don’t lie, either.) They’re cruelty free and vegan, they feel supersoft, and I love the little storage case that keeps them from getting lost in my drawers . The five brushes are versatile enough to cover a full face of makeup, and their long, generous handles are lightweight, making them easy to pack. Best of all, the bristle fallout is still minimal after what might be a decade of using them, which is impressive considering the price.

Best makeup brush for complexion

Complexion | Very dense | Synthetic

Although it’s a relative splurge, three of our experts rave about Tom Ford’s foundation brushes, largely because you get what you pay for. “I love that they’re well made,” says makeup artist Nick Barose , who notes that the weighty handles are designed for comfort and control. Makeup artist Tobi Henney appreciates their ability to blend beautifully so you’re not left with any obvious streaks. And their bristles are synthetic, Black says, “but you would never know given their ultraluxurious feel.” And though the bristles are white, Black says they’re surprisingly easy to keep clean “even after hot-pink lipstick, electric-blue eye shadow , orange blush, and other pigments I’ve used them with.”

Best (less expensive) makeup brush for complexion

Complexion | Dense | Synthetic

Whether you’re short on storage space or just don’t want to deal with swapping out multiple brushes every morning, this dual-ended tool comes in handy. “The big, wide side is perfect for blending and buffing foundation all over,” Barose says. “The smaller side is perfect for more detailed work like under the eyes and small spots .” It’s ideal if you find yourself using both foundation and concealer on a regular basis, and the ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold no matter how you’re wielding it.

Best makeup brush for eyes

Eyes | Less dense | Synthetic

It’s not makeup artist Bobbi Brown ’s first rodeo — she sold her eponymous line to Estée Lauder before starting Jones Road Beauty — so it’s no surprise that her new line would feature great brushes. This one has enough density to blend eye shadow and eliminate any lines, but it’s still gentle and fluffy. “Because of its synthetic fibers, I can use both cream formulas and powder eye shadows with this brush,” says makeup artist Daniel Martin . Bonus: You can also use it for buffing out concealer around the eyes because it’s that soft, Martin says. (Just remember to clean it in between.)

As a more affordable alternative, we named the EcoTools Eye Enhancing Duo Set one of the best-rated brush sets at Ulta in a previous version of this story. One reviewer calls the beginner-friendly duo “definitely the softest brushes I own,” while another says the double-sided brushes are “all you need to … blend, pack, smear shimmers, and put on some liner.”

Best makeup brush for brows and eyeliner

Eyes | Very dense | Hybrid

Anytime you need to create fine, precise lines — for filling in brow hairs or achieving an ultrathin swoop of eyeliner — consider a painting brush. This small one isn’t a dedicated makeup brush, but Martin swears by it. “This has been my favorite angle brush for brows and eyeliner for almost 20 years, and you get it at the art store,” he says. “It’s the best!” Clocking in at $6, it’s also the most affordable option on our list.

Best makeup brush for blush

Complexion | Less dense | Natural

A good blush brush has to be able to shift between blush and bronzer with ease. It also shouldn’t leave streaks, which is a telltale sign your “natural flush” actually came from a cheek palette. That’s where this brush is especially helpful. “I love the slightly pointed oval shape that allows you to create seamless application on the cheeks without blotchiness,” Barose says. I use it to dust blush just below my eyes at the center of my cheeks, which (per a makeup artist) looks more realistic because that’s where the sun hits. Then I tap off excess product and dip it into bronzer , which I brush in a “3” shape around my forehead, down the side of my face and beneath my cheekbones, and just under my jawline.

Best makeup-brush set with sponge

Jaikaran points to this set as being high quality with a relatively budget-friendly price. While it features a more basic lineup of brushes — a short-bristled foundation brush, a small crease brush for eye makeup , a fluffy powder brush, and a smaller setting brush — this configuration offers a ton of versatility. On top of that, “what’s great about this set is that you also get a beauty sponge, which also comes in handy for makeup application,” Jaikaran says. In fact, this very sponge was deemed “so much better than the original beauty blender” by Strategist beauty writer Rio Viera-Newton. Not surprisingly, it has nearly 1,000 five-star reviews at Ulta with customers calling out both the value and softness.

In a previous version of this story, a different set from the brand emerged as a reader favorite for applying foundation, bronzer, highlighter , and concealer. The Real Techniques Flawless Base Set , which features four brushes and a matching holder, also offers seamless application and versatility for the price.

Best makeup-brush travel set

Morphe is known for its makeup brush sets, which offer a ton of value. “They are the best quality brush for their price point,” Adam says. Low-quality brushes tend to shed or break easily, but here the synthetic bristles are firmly anchored into the ferrule, the metal sleeve that joins the bristles and handle together. The shorter handles (and included carrying case ) make them a good option for travel. And with six different uses ranging from complexion to eye, this set guarantees you’ll be covered wherever your trip may take you.

Additional reporting by Deanna Pai

Some more makeup brushes and sets we’ve written about

Our experts

• Deney Adam , makeup artist and Ulta Beauty Pro Team member • Nick Barose , makeup artist • Robin Black , makeup artist and founder of Beauty Is Boring • Tobi Henney , makeup artist • Jaleesa Jaikaran , makeup artist • Daniel Martin , makeup artist • Rio Viera-Newton , Strategist beauty writer

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best women’s jeans , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , ultra-flattering pants , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

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Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The best face brushes

The best eye & brow brushes, natural hair versus synthetic brushes, the 9 best makeup brushes of 2024, according to experts.

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The key to any flawless makeup look is a well-crafted makeup brush. A good brush is durable, distributes pigment evenly, and blends seamlessly without irritating the skin or causing patchiness. While different brushes are intended for different purposes, there aren't technically any hard and fast rules. The most important thing is to find what works for you and invest in quality brushes — and most of the time, bristle softness is a major indicator of quality.

Aside from feeling luxurious, the softest brushes will also help your makeup to look its best. "Whether they are natural hair or synthetic, you want something that feels soft to touch against the eyes and face — this will be key to blending," says makeup artist and Stila Global Beauty Director Charlie Riddle . "Any brush that is more coarse will make your makeup look more textured and difficult to blend."

When choosing brushes, it's also helpful to consider how often you'll use them. If you typically use makeup brushes daily or travel with them regularly, it is worth it to invest in high-quality ones. "I always look for quality because I wash them so often," says Los Angeles-based makeup artist Tarryn Feldman .

Our top picks for the best makeup brushes, according to makeup artists:

This multitasking tool features a large fluffy brush on one end and a smaller, more precise brush on the other.

This multitasking tool features a large fluffy brush on one end and a smaller, more precise brush on the other. "I love dual ended brushes," says Riddle. "Not only are you getting two for one but this is great for buffing on a light foundation or cream products. I love to apply concealer or highlighter with the smaller end."

It is so soft and perfect for applying powders. Every product goes on effortlessly with this brush.

If you're going to treat yourself to one luxury makeup brush, make it this one. "Definitely a splurge but worth it," Riddle says of the fluffy face brush. "It is so soft and perfect for applying powders. Every product goes on effortlessly with this brush."

Celebrity makeup artist Jamie Dorman recommends this brush due to its ultra-soft fibers that allow for flawless foundation application.

Celebrity makeup artist Jamie Dorman recommends this brush due to its ultra-soft fibers that allow for flawless foundation application. "Its gentle bristles make for a glowing, skin-like finish," she says.

The double-sided nature of this brush makes it suitable for both liquid or cream blush as well as other face products.

The double-sided nature of this brush makes it suitable for both liquid or cream blush as well as other face products. "The sponge end stipples on the product and the brush end can blend the edges and apply a powder blush on top for longevity," Dorman explains.

The fluffy tapered end is ideal for diffusing liquid or powder highlighter as well as precise powder application.

If you're a highlighter fanatic, this brush will make a great addition to your collection. The fluffy tapered end is ideal for diffusing liquid or powder highlighter as well as precise powder application, Dorman says.

The fluffy powder brush is perfect for diffused, natural-looking bronzer application.

The fluffy powder brush is perfect for diffused, natural-looking bronzer application. "Its soft edges prevent harsh lines and its tapered tip allows precise product placement," says Dorman.

Every makeup collection needs a brow brush, and a double-sided one like this pick from Senna is ideal.

Every makeup collection needs a brow brush, and a double-sided one like this pick from Senna is ideal. Dorman loves how the dense angled brush side is fine enough to create hair-like strokes while the spoolie side is great for blending out harsh lines.

This is the perfect brush if you have small eyes, not much lid space, or need a precisely placed crease shade.

Not all eyeshadow brushes are created equal. "[This] is the perfect brush if you have small eyes, not much lid space, or need a precisely placed crease shade," Dorman says. "The edges blend the placed line as you apply it."

This brush works for blending harsh shadow, applying a wash of color, or for applying lipstick like a stain.

A staple among makeup artists and enthusiasts alike, the MAC 217 is what Dorman calls "the perfect shadow blending brush." She continues: "This brush works for blending harsh shadow, applying a wash of color, or for applying lipstick like a stain. It is one of the most versatile brushes in my kit."

Makeup brush bristles are available in three main categories: natural, synthetic, or a blend of the two. If you adhere to a vegan lifestyle, prefer vegan products, or have any allergies to animal hair that's used in natural brushes, you'll want to stick with synthetic brushes. These are typically made from nylon, polyester, and other synthetic fibers.

Both natural and synthetic brushes can be beneficial for different reasons. "Anything natural hair is amazing for blending; eyes, blush, powder." Riddle explains. "Synthetics are great for applying primers, foundations, concealers, contour. I wouldn't say one is better than the other — it really depends on the specific use of the brush."

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Experts On the Best Makeup Brushes for Every Task

By Janelle Okwodu and Iman Balagam

Edited by Kiana Murden

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When it comes to finding the best makeup brushes, consumers are spoiled for choice. Thanks to the internet and the plethora of beauty companies in existence, there are thousands of options on the market. All that variety can be overwhelming, but thankfully experts can demystify the process. Here, a guide to everything you’ve ever wanted to know about makeup brushes, from the tools every beginner should test out to how to clean and maintain your investments.

Our Top Picks

• The Starter Kit : Sigma Beauty Essential Kit , $160
• The Contour Brush : MAC 187S Synthetic Duo Fibre , $46
• The Foundation Brush : Saie The Base Brush , $26
• The Highlighter Brush : Fenty Cheek Hugging Brush 120 , $24
• The Blush Brush : Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Blush Brush , $23
• The Eyeshadow Essential : Chanel Eyeshadow Brush N°200 , $46
• The Blending Brush : Chantecaille Buff And Blur Brush , $53
• The Cruelty-Free : Westman Atelier Blender Brush , $125
• The Powder Brush : Surratt Beauty Face Brush , $260
• The Complete Makeup Brush Set : Hourglass Vegan Brush Collection , $650

The Perfect Starter Kit 

Unless you’re a dedicated collector, professional makeup artist, or beauty junkie, you don’t need to have many brushes. According to the experts, only a handful are necessary. “I think there are five essentials, maybe six if you factor in a concealer brush,” says makeup artist Troy Surratt, whose eponymous brand includes a lineup of ultra-luxury brushes handmade in Kumano, Japan . The trick to keeping things simple is finding tools that multi-task. “A good starter kit would be a medium density face brush that can be used in a multitude of ways,” says Surratt. “That can be used for powder, bronzer, powder foundation, and even blush.”

After investing in a powder brush, Surrat suggests a petite face brush and three dedicated to eyeshadow. “You’ll want to have a fluffy brush that can lay color on the lid, a smaller one that is more of a pencil shape, and then a domed brush for adding color to the eye’s crease or definition to the lash line.” The final essential? A well-designed lip brush for perfecting your pout. “Some people are great at just swiping on their lipstick straight out of the tube, but the lip brush gives you that added precision,” says Surratt. “You’re able to create a sharper lip line and work the color into the texture of the lips, which results in a longer wearing, indelible look.”

Vegan Brush Collection

NET-A-PORTER

NEIMAN MARCUS

With so many different brushes on the market, sometimes it’s best to opt for a brush kit from a trusted brand like Hourglass. We love this one because it comes with 17 (!) super-soft vegan brushes, each with weighted handles designed for your face, cheeks, and eyes.

Sigma Beauty

Essential Kit

If you’re in search of an upgrade for your makeup brushes, Sigma’s 12 Beauty Essentials Kit eliminates the guesswork when shopping for brushes. This comprehensive set includes everything you could ever need, from a vegan foundation brush and large powder brush to precise brushes for applying concealer, lipstick, and more.

For Foundation 

Few aspects of makeup application are as important as foundation . Creating a smooth, even base is essential, but there are multiple methods to achieve perfection. The best brushes for the task are often made from synthetic fibers, as they play well with cream and liquid formulas and are easy to wash.

While it is tempting to spread the product around on your face and hope for the best, makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes recommends priming the brush to achieve a seamless finish. “Instead of just squirting out the product and using your foundation brush to place it directly onto your face, you can work the product into the brush itself,” says Hughes. “When everything is merged with the brush’s bristles, your application is much smoother, and blending it all out is much quicker because you aren’t just depositing a blob of color directly onto the skin.”

Hughes knows a thing or two about skin; with the work she does for celebrities like Ashley Graham and Rosie Huntington-Whitely and in her stylized Instagram selfies , she’s able to make each person’s complexion seem naturally flawless, the product of great genes rather than layers of product. Her tools of choice include a range of shapes, from the classic paddle style to bristle-packed domed brushes perfect for buffing.

The Base Brush

The problem with base brushes is that oftentimes they soak up all of your foundation (which isn’t cheap!). Saie’s Base Brush, on the other hand, is super dense and designed to distribute product evenly across the skin without any wastage.

Number 3 Foundation Brush

This angled foundation brush is a game-changer for those who view brushes as tools for painting their faces rather than just for blending. It’s made of synthetic vegan bristles and won’t absorb your foundation—just remember to use a brush cleaner regularly to prevent product buildup.

For Powder 

Though powder is the final touch of most makeup looks, it’s the first brush worth considering. A good powder brush can enhance the entire application process and, if selected wisely, can be used to also apply products like bronzer , highlighter , and even blush . Given their importance, powder brushes tend to be one of the more expensive items within a collection. If you’re going to invest in one type of tool, they’re usually the safest bet.

The realities of your daily beauty routine are something to keep in mind while choosing. Fans of full glam will want something different than makeup minimalists. “The lighter and fluffier the hairs are, the softer and more natural the application will be,” says Surratt. “The denser hairs offer more opaque coverage. I always test by running my thumb over the brush head to see how densely packed the hairs are, and if it is packed tightly, it’s going to deposit a lot of product onto the skin.”

Oversized powder brushes are usually the first option that comes to mind, but bigger isn’t always better. Targeted product application can be as effective, especially for those who prefer to keep their complexions dewy.“More often than not, I find myself using a large eyeshadow brush to set makeup with,” says Hughes. “Under the eyes, around the nose, around the mouth, it works beautifully and gives me the utmost precision. The bigger brushes serve a purpose, but I’ve found that you can do more with the smaller ones.”

Surratt Beauty

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

This Surratt Beauty brush is far from your average makeup tool; it’s akin to a fine work of art, as stated by the brand, which adheres to the Japanese philosophy of Monozukuri (craftsmanship) in designing all its products. Although a bit of a splurge, it’s carefully assembled by a skilled artisan using hand-tied natural fibers.

Veil Powder Brush

If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only have one makeup brush, we’d recommend a powder brush for its versatility. This ultra-soft synthetic one from Hourglass takes it a step further with its dual-ended design featuring a large rounded side and a small tapered side.

For Concealer 

Everyone has something they’re eager to put a little concealer on, but the makeup bag MVP is best when it’s paired with the right brush. If you’re looking to cover circles under the eye , a small, somewhat dense brush with soft fibers or hairs is ideal for working with the delicate area. Pimples can be hidden using a small detail brush to cover the offending blemish without spreading product around. Given the amount of different issues concealer can be used to address, don’t be afraid to utilize a brush that isn’t labeled specifically for that task. “If you’ve got an eyeshadow brush that works great under your eyes or a lip brush that is the right shape for detail concealer work , then just use it,” says Hughes. “There are absolutely no rules!”

Tsutsu Fude Concealer Brush

Just a few pats with this cylindrical-shaped brush are all you need to cover any blemishes and imperfections. An added bonus is that the brush is quite tiny, so it doesn’t take up much space in your makeup pouch.

Real Techniques

Expert Liquid and Cream Concealer Makeup Brush

At under $10, there’s almost no reason not to try out this brush. Like all Real Techniques brushes, the affordable price doesn’t mean they skimp on quality—it’s soft, durable, and made from dense, rounded bristles to effectively conceal any dark spots and spot treat.

For Blending

The allure of a sculpted, contoured look is impossible to resist, but achieving the effect takes practice. It isn’t enough to play with light and shadow to create contrast; you have to blend the products. Hindsight is 20/20, and it’s easy to spot unblended contour in photographs or on Instagram, but such mistakes are easily avoidable. If your contour product is powder-based, use a light hand and a fluffy fan brush that leaves an error-proof finish. Cream contour is all about precision and a detail brush that doesn’t let you make thick, harsh lines. No matter what you choose, be sure to buff everything in so that it merges with any foundation, blush, or highlighter.

Brush No. 1 Tapered Blending Brush

Merit is known for perfecting the art of the no-makeup makeup, so naturally, its tapered blending brush is great at ensuring your makeup blends into skin properly. No harsh lines or obvious contours on their account, that’s for sure!

Chantecaille

Buff And Blur Brush

BLOOMINGDALE'S

The best blending brush ensures that your skin looks airbrushed when used in conjunction with your favorite foundation. This one from Chantecaille achieves just that with its oversized flat top, which both buffs and blurs.

For Complexion Perfecting

Turns out, makeup brushes aren’t the only means of perfecting your complexion. If you want your base to look like a second skin, consider the acclaimed Beautyblender or MAC’s sponges to gently buff away product streaks. When it comes to setting, Laura Mercier’s Velour Puff expertly places the brand’s loose setting powder, while Beautyblender’s Pocket Puff is great for setting and baking to ensure long wear.

Beautyblender

We’d be surprised if you’ve somehow made it this far in life without ever picking up a Beautyblender. It’s undoubtedly one of the best sponges on the market, guaranteeing an even, smooth blend every single time.

Fenty Beauty

Precision Makeup Sponge 100

FENTY BEAUTY

While we can’t count on Rihanna to release new music anytime soon, we can certainly rely on her to deliver quality beauty products. This makeup sponge is three-sided, featuring a slanted edge for stippling, a mini-moon edge for concealing, and a rounded edge to buff the face. The best part is that it pairs effortlessly with cream, powder, and liquid products.

Laura Mercier

Velour Puff

For fans of setting powder, this velour puff really helps you seal the deal—it was designed to be paired with the brand’s iconic translucent powder, after all. Its large size is great for powdering your entire face quickly, as well as for baking underneath the eyes.

Power Pocket Puff Dual-Sided Powder Puff for Setting and Baking

The rumors are true; there’s a new Beautyblender in town. Unlike the OG, which works best when damp, this one is meant to be kept dry. It’s a dual-textured puff designed for use with powders to set, blur, and bake makeup. There’s even a little finger band for easy application.

The wealth of blush formulations on the market means that more than one brush can be devoted to the category. On social media and YouTube tutorials, the focus is always on pigment, but those high-impact powder blushers need to be applied with care. A good rule of thumb is the brighter the hue; the wispier and softer the brush should be. Are you swiping on neon orange or magenta? Opt for a flexible and feathery tool, like the Surrat Cheek brush. Applying a nude beige or light tint? Go for the dense Tom Ford Cheek Brush to make the most of the neutral. Liquid and cream blushes can be applied with your fingers, but if you require a blush brush designed specially for those formulations, opt for a multi-purpose synthetic like Koyudo’s Maikko, which is excellent for applying and blending out liquids.

Paying attention to the density of the hairs and the shape allows for maximum control of color payoff. “You want to be able to pick up saturated color in the center of the brush and have the shorter bristles around it diffuse that color,” says Surratt, who conceived the pom-pom design of his blush brush by considering the way it would fit against the apple of a person’s cheek. “The tool should always fit the size and shape of the area that you’re using it for.”

Rare Beauty

Soft Pinch Blush Brush

Sure, you could use your fingers to apply your makeup, but you could also opt for a brush designed to mimic fingertips, like this angled one from Rare Beauty. It’s super soft, hits the apples of your cheeks perfectly, and pairs nicely with both liquid and powder blush.

Les Pinceaux de Chanel Blush Brush N°110

When in doubt, Chanel it out. This super-soft tapered blush brush is worth the investment, as it’s of such high quality that it will last you for years to come. It feels great on your skin, is the ideal size for your cheekbones, and picks up all the pigment, so you won’t be wasting any product.

For Contour & Baked Gelée

Makeup technology is continuously evolving, and one of the newer categories is baked gelée products. While many traditional eyeshadows, blushes, and pressed powders are made by taking dry pigments and mixing them with binders and filler ingredients like kaolin clay or mica, bake gelée formulas are creams that are heated in a special oven until they form a solid. This process gives them a distinctive marbled look and hybrid texture that is soft to the touch without being moist.

The product category—capable of delivering high shine, bold color, and a subtle blurring effect—has attracted plenty of passionate fans. “They all look so velvety and beautiful even on very dry skin; they are my absolute favorite,” says Swiss entrepreneur Sonia G , whose handmade brush line ranks among the world’s best. “I prefer to use natural brushes with them since the structure of the bristle gives the brush more strength to pick up this type of formula, to blend them, or to work the application more efficiently onto the skin.”

Sonia recommends using brushes that are medium density and aren’t floppy. “Depending on the pigmentation of the product, a firm brush that moves smoothly and with discipline will apply and diffuse them more effortlessly,” she explains. “If you feel that you need to press very hard to get enough product onto the brush, this may end up damaging your brush as the bristles will weaken and break, so pick up a denser or firmer brush.”

Perfecting Buff Brush

This brush might be small, but don’t let its cute appearance fool you; it’s sturdy. The bristles are tightly packed together, making it easy to buff and blend both cream and liquid products.

Sculpt Brush

For a contour that could cut glass, you’re going to need an angled sculpting brush. Chantecaille’s is one of our favorites because it’s cruelty-free, with soft synthetic fibers that provide a defined effect every time.

For Highlighter 

The days of highlighters that can be seen from space are over, but the appeal of sparkle endures. The best brushes for the task will provide both lit from within glow and the aforementioned blinding flash, depending on how they are used. A small fan brush is a classic choice; its cheek hugging shape, making it ideal for dusting on powders, but it’s far from the only option. Stippling brushes that utilize duo fibers (a mix of natural and synthetic) also work well, mainly when covering a larger surface area like the shoulders or collarbone. At the same time, longer tapered options target areas like the brow bone and tip of the nose that need only a hint of shine.

Highlighter Brush

For a highlight that isn’t overtly streaky or patchy, you’re going to need a brush that effortlessly glides along the cheekbones, like this one. It picks up the right amount of product and dusts it enough to give you a subtle glow, avoiding the look of having just dipped your face into glitter.

F03 High Cheekbone Highlighter Brush

If you want a highlight brush that does more than just dusting a bit of sparkle onto your skin, Sigma’s High Cheekbone Highlighter Brush is your go-to. It’s denser than some of the fluffy brushes on the market, allowing you to create a strong highlight on the skin.

For Eyeshadow Laydown 

If you have one eyeshadow brush within your arsenal, it is likely a paddle-style laydown tool. Excellent for packing product onto the lid or sweeping on a single shade for a one-and-done look, these workhorses are tried and true favorites. Materials vary and serve different specialties. Natural hair options include goat, which is excellent for distributing color, and squirrel, which is softer and better for light application of brighter shades. Synthetic fibers are wonderful for the creams and liquid formulations currently flooding the market—and just about everything else.

Many people—including legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath—use their fingers to apply and blend metallic and glittery eyeshadow. The technique works wonderfully, but brush companies have found ways to mimic it. Ultra-dense eyeshadow brushes allow you to achieve the same effect without getting your hands dirty.

Les Pinceaux de Chanel Retractable Dual-Ended Eyeshadow Brush N°200

Dual-ended eyeshadow brushes are our favorite because, at times, you want to mix shades without worrying about getting things mixed up. The bristles glide easily across the eyelid, are retractable, and come with caps, making them perfect for travel.

No. 3 All-Over Eyeshadow Brush

Made from synthetic bristles, this round-topped eyeshadow brush is excellent for both powder eyeshadow and cream shadows (which can often be more difficult to blend out). It feels luxe on the eyelids, doesn’t tug, and carries a good amount of pigment.

For Tapered Blending

Smokey eyes are a classic, and the best way to achieve them is through tapered blending brushes. These tools feature longer hairs and extend color in the eye’s crease or combine shades on the lid. Instead of relying on a single color, a good blending brush allows you to mix and create an ombre effect or take that one richly pigmented eyeshadow you have sitting at the bottom of your makeup bag and smoke it out for a beautiful monochromatic look.

The right tapered brush can elevate your makeup game. “I think that they’re game-changers, and they’re not just good for a smokey eye,” says Surratt. “I have three sizes; the large one I use for powdering around the nose or to sweep a medium tone shade across the whole lid. The medium and small versions are perfect for shading and incorporating darker colors to your eyeshadow look to add depth.”

Tapered Blending Brush 210

This synthetic bristle brush was designed specifically for blending eyeshadow into the contour and crease area of the eyelid. It’s just the right amount of fluffy and tapered, promising a perfect smokey eye every time.

M506 Tapered Mini Blender Brush

While this brush may be mini, it’s ideal for perfectionists. Its small size allows you to be more precise and thoughtful with your application, enabling you to build upon your pigment rather than smudging everything together in one large swoop.

Bobbi Brown

Ultra Fine Eyeliner Brush

Applying eyeliner can be tricky, especially if you prefer gel or pressed powder liner, but this thin, finely tapered brush has your back. Made of synthetic bristles, it glides easily and can even be dipped in water for wet lining.

MAC Cosmetics

212 Flat Definer

Eyeshadow lovers need at least one flat-topped eyeshadow brush in their kit. That way, all it takes is one swipe to achieve the sharp lines you're looking for.

Eyebrows frame the entire face, and grooming them can be a multi-step process. Still, there is plenty that can be accomplished with a single brush. If your brows are sparse, a stiff angled option allows you to fill in large sections with a powder or gel to fake a bushy brow, while models with thinner tips let you draw on individual hairs and target any bald patches. Extra-wide angled brushes allow for lightning-fast application.

Those already blessed with thick Brooke Shields -esque brows can benefit from a domed eyebrow brush used to place highlighter or the smallest amount of concealer directly onto the brow bone to add a little definition. There is also the good ol’ fashioned spoolie, which serves to brush hairs up or add in a bit of wax to achieve the “feathered” brow looks that’s dominated Instagram and TikTok.

Anastasia Beverly Hills

Brush 12 Precision Brow Brush

Informally known as the queen of brows, Miss Anastasia wouldn’t disappoint you with just any old brow brush. No, this one is dual-sided, with angled synthetic bristles on one side to fill in any gaps and a spoolie on the other to brush and blend everything together.

Les Pinceaux de Chanel Dual-Ended Brow Brush N°207

Another twofer, this dual-ended brush works great with both cream and powder brow formulas. The angled edge helps to draw precise lines, and the spoolie makes everything look natural and blended.

Natural vs. Synthetic 

One of the most important things to consider when selecting a makeup brush is the quality and type of hair it is made of. Many natural options include Saikoho goat, gray squirrel, silver fox, and even Kolinsky sable. Each type of material serves a different purpose, and it varies in terms of softness.

Increasingly, brands are using synthetic materials like Taklon and Micro Crystal fiber that mimics the functionality of natural hair. “The technology behind synthetic hair brushes is so incredible [and] I can achieve a beautiful, refined application on myself and my clients working with them,” explains Gucci Westman , whose Westman Atelier range is handmade by Japanese artisans using cruelty-free nylon bristles and sustainably sourced birchwood from an FSC-certified forest. “Synthetic brush fibers can be shaped more like virgin hair [which] results in a soft feel and smooth application. The quality can so closely mimic natural ones that it can be hard to tell any difference upon the skin.”

The prevalence of synthetic materials is likely to increase as time progresses. Just as many fashion brands have committed to going cruelty-free with their ready-to-wear cosmetics, beauty houses are moving in a similar direction. To ensure that your purchases align with your ethics, be sure to check each tool you purchase and find out precisely what it’s made from.

The Art of Fude 

The very best makeup brushes come directly from Japan, where there is a rich history of brush making—there, artisanal brushes are called fude. Originally stemming from calligraphy, the handmade brushes produced in places like Kumano in Hiroshima prefecture are exquisitely crafted art pieces. “There are more than 100 brush workshops of various sizes in the area,” explains Fude Beauty CEO Takuya Fujiyama, who witnessed the region’s shift from manufacturing writing tools to creating beauty essentials. “The craft evolved from the traditional craft of calligraphy brush making, [so when] holding a Fude makeup brush, you hold centuries of craftsmanship.”

Japanese brands like Shaquda, Chikuhodo, Koyudo, and Bisyodo are prized among makeup artists and collectors, who value the softness and unique touches like lacquered handles and hand-painted floral embellishments. The attention to detail is what separates the brushes from the competition; purchasing a fude tool is an investment intended to last a lifetime. Some rarer creations have price tags that can run into the hundreds and are (usually) reserved for a display case rather than daily use. “They are entirely handmade, including the sorting of bristles to ensure only the finest quality are selected to hand-bundling the bristles into various shapes,” says Fujiyama. “Bristles are left uncut to take advantage of the fine natural tips—this is what gives them the difference in softness, product pick-up, and smooth application.” Why splurge on the fancy option? It’s all about elevating your makeup moments from routine to ritual. “It’s about more than the functionality,” says Osahiro Maruyama of artisan brush company Shaquda , whose all-wood Ubu line has won awards for innovation in design. “The designs can connect to your interiors or style. They’re brushes that are beautiful even when they’re just resting on your table [because] it enhances the experience you have while getting ready each day. ”

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The 9 Best Makeup Cases for Travel in 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our picks fit all of your favorite accessories and stand up to drops and shakes.

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

If you wear even a small amount of makeup, you likely own some form of a makeup bag to use while traveling. But if your go-to makeup bag is hard to see into, has a janky zipper, or is just a plastic bag, it’s time for an upgrade. Lucky for you, we thoroughly tested 26 popular makeup bags in our New York City studio to find out which ones are actually worth traveling with. 

Over the course of five months of tests both in our New York City lab and during our real travels, we stuffed each makeup case to the brim with cosmetics, packed them into luggage, and threw them around the room (yes, really). And when all was said and done, there were 9 makeup cases we liked enough to permanently add to our luggage collections and recommend to you. Based on factors like quality, capacity, design, portability, value, and ease of use, here are our 9 favorite makeup bags and cosmetic cases.

Best Overall

Béis the cosmetic case.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

It’s durable, capacious, and nice to look at — plus, it has a large built-in mirror.

We feel it could benefit from interior straps to hold products down.

Reliable, stylish, and compact yet spacious, it’s no wonder this easy-to-pack cosmetic case from luggage brand Béis impressed us the most. The main compartment opens and closes smoothly, while a center compartment for brushes and other smaller items can be removed in a snap. There are even multiple additional pockets, pouches, and subtle slots in the bag, so there’s truly a place for everything. We also noticed that, because the interior of the case is so roomy, it’s incredibly easy to see every item inside when fully opened. And speaking of the interior, the bag actually boasts a large attached mirror on the inside, which comes in handy for in-transit makeup application. 

During our five months of tests, the PU leather and hardware worked together to create efficient padding that kept the contents of the case safe and intact through bumps and drops — not to mention, the bag itself still looked good through the wear and tear. On many occasions, we tossed this case in a duffel before going through airport security and boarding a flight, and it still looks good as new. Though $68 may feel a bit pricey for a makeup bag, we felt this case’s thoughtful design and durable construction is worth it. You can grab the case in eight colors ranging from beige to berry.  

The Details: 9.5 x 4 x 7 inches | PU leather, nylon, PVC, poly | Zipper closure

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best for Organization

Relavel travel makeup case.

It’s one of the roomiest bags on our list and it’s lightweight.

It does take up a bit of space in your luggage.

While this case is on the larger side, we felt that ended up being more helpful than hurtful while traveling. We could fit pretty much everything in this thing: a whopping seven palettes, a whole brush collection, two foundation bottles, five toiletry bottles, over 15 lipsticks, an eyelash curler, hair spray, and a travel-sized moisturizer bottle, to be exact. Despite its size, the train case actually remains quite lightweight as well as organized thanks to its adjustable dividers and stretchable pouches on the inside. During our five-month test, we even ended up using this for both makeup and toiletries, since it provides plenty of space.

The interior additionally features layers of protective foam-like material that expertly keeps makeup bottles from cracking. We also found that both the interior and exterior of this case are easy to clean, should a spill or outdoor drop occur. Because it’s a little big, though, we’d recommend packing this case in a carry-on suitcase or even checked luggage rather than a tote or backpack. You can pick this case up in 20 different colors and prints. 

The Details: 10.3 x 9 x 3.7 inches | Nylon | Zipper closure

Best Compact

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

• Capacity 4 /5

It’s the tiniest bag on our list, but it still fits a lot — plus, it’s easy to flatten when packing or storing.

It does, of course, fit less makeup than the larger bags on our list.

If you prefer to travel with something more compact, Dagne Dover’s Mila Toiletry Organizer is the best tiny makeup bag we tried. Though it’s by far the smallest pick on our list, we were surprised at just how much it could actually hold. Not only do plenty of palettes, lipsticks, and other essential cosmetics fit inside, but so do full-size makeup brushes. It comes with a removable mini divider set that helps hold items in place, though we liked how much more we could fit in the organizer if we skipped using the dividers. Because it fit so well in the palm of our hands, we had a good time whipping it across the room during our tests — and after being pelted against the wall and floor multiple times, we were amazed to find the organizer still looked fantastic and its contents barely budged. Even when wedged into an absolutely-stuffed-to-the-brim suitcase during our five-month test, the inside is so well-padded that all of our items remained protected and secure. We decided it’s the ultimate makeup bag for shorter trips since it takes up such little space and is super soft and squishable for easy packing. 

The Details: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | Polyester, zinc alloy | Zipper closure

Best Budget

Narwey travel makeup bag.

• Design 2 /5

It’s spacious, easy-to-clean, and more affordable than any other makeup bag on our list.

It could use a little extra padding for protection against drops.

There was something about this bag that just made us feel like we could easily access everything inside — there were no hidden pockets, no tight openings, and no unnecessary flaps that covered up the contents (other than one to protect makeup brushes, but it’s see-through). The zipper opening is easy to maneuver and appears to be well-made, while the canvas frame feels sturdy and protective. The bag got a bit dirty during our tests, but it cleaned up beautifully with minimal effort. We especially loved just how much it could fit: multiple brushes in each of its eight brush pockets, three palettes, three eyeliners, four lipsticks, a mascara, and a lash curler. Perhaps that’s why we were so shocked to discover the bag doesn’t take up much space in our luggage, and it is a fraction of what many other bags on our list cost. 

The Details: 9 x 6.7 x 3.5 inches | Canvas | Zipper closure

lululemon Go Getter Pouch

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Design 4 /5

It’s sleek, water-repellant, and capable of holding way more than you’d expect given its compact size. 

After five months of testing, it is showing makeup stains.

The feature we found most interesting about this bag is that, when empty, it appears very thin and compact. However, once stuffed with makeup, it actually holds a crazy amount of stuff, including larger items like perfumes, dry shampoos, lotions, and creams. We love the pouch’s nylon construction, which looks sleek and allows dirt and liquids to slide right off. The bag’s lack of padding keeps it lightweight and flexible; we wouldn’t recommend keeping any glass bottles or jars in it, but it’s also not likely to tear, stretch, or snag (that’s lululemon for you!). Because there’s no true framing, the bag is easy to flatten or mold to any space or suitcase. While there is a small exterior zip pocket and an interior mesh one, the pouch really has no built-in organization — though we don’t think that’s a deal-breaker. Get it in gray sage or black.

The Details: 8.7 x 3.3 x 6.3 inches | Polyester, nylon | Zipper closure

Best Train Case

Leatherology train case.

Leatherology

The leather exterior is soft to the touch and the interior is deceptively roomy.

During our five-month test, we found the tall design to be awkward for packing.

Easy to clean and pack, we’re obsessed with this cute and compact train case from ultra-reliable Leatherology. It zips open in a way that allows you to see everything inside, plus there are interior pockets of all sizes to help keep everything organized. Though we felt it was slightly flimsy when we first picked it up, we quickly realized it’s sturdier than it looks, and only becomes more so when filled with makeup. Its subtle padding is also no joke, as it completely protected the contents while being thrown around, shaken, and dropped. The exterior leather is soft and supple, the interior lining is high quality, and the main compartment is deep and spacious despite its overall compact size. If you’re looking for a smaller makeup bag that’ll still fit more than just the essentials, we recommend this train case in one of 14 available colors. 

The Details: 7.5 x 5 x 5.2 inches | Leather, nickel | Zipper closure

Best Hanging

Boacay hanging travel toiletry bag.

• Quality 4 /5
• Capacity 3.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

It holds so many products, and it folds up nicely and easily. 

Even when folded, it takes up more space than most makeup bags on our list.

Travel hanging organizers are a whole different ball game — and once you use one, you may never go back. This one opens up into four large sections, each with a transparent, zippered sleeve to store (and easily see) your makeup and toiletries. Two of the sections have straps to hold products in place, and a hook on the top section allows you to hang the bag anywhere. During our tests, we discovered the bag is sturdy and easy to clean in addition to being large enough for different types of products, from makeup brushes to hairspray.  Even when we packed it to the brim, it still folded up with minimal effort and kept our makeup in place during drop tests. While it’s relatively thin, it is somewhat long and space-consuming, so we’d probably only pack this in a checked bag rather than a carry-on, or use the makeup bag itself as a personal item. Throughout our five months of testing, we did notice that bottles can easily slip out of the plastic pockets if the case is hung up without first zipping the pockets.

The Details: 11.4 x 3.8 x 7.5 inches | Zipper closure

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

During our five months of tests, all stains and smudges were easily cleaned to keep the case looking new.

It doesn’t have organization features or particularly thick cushioning.

Upon testing, this stood out for two reasons: it comes with not one, but two luxe pouches, and the interior is lined with the same soft leather featured on the exterior. We appreciated how wide both bags open, despite their top-zip construction, making it easy to see everything inside. The larger of the two bags is so spacious, we were able to fit an impressive amount of makeup inside — in fact, we felt we realistically probably wouldn’t even need the smaller bag for makeup, and could instead use it for small toiletries or loan it to a travel companion. There aren’t any dividers or straps inside these bags, so the products inside may shift in-transit if not packed to the brim. Still, we loved the set because it’s one of the nicest-looking options we tried (plus, it comes in 14 gorgeous colors). 

The Details: 12 x 7 x 3.5 inches (large), 8 x 5 x 2.5 inches (small) | Leather | Zipper closure

Best Splurge

Cuyana travel beauty case.

• Quality 4.5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5

It has a pocket for everything and will hold up through years of travel.

It’s on the heavier side and the most expensive bag on our list. 

If you’re looking for something that does it all and is built to last, consider Cuyana’s Travel Beauty Case. It’s the most expensive option on our list, but after putting it to the test, we believe it’s worth the hefty price tag. The zipper glides smoothly when opening and closing it, the construction is super sturdy, it’s not bulky, it’s packed with pockets as well as a removable pouch, dirt and scuffs are easy to wipe off — we could truly go on and on about this case. But let’s go back to the interior: Though the case is on the smaller side, it boasts plenty of slots for products, including a dedicated pocket and four straps for makeup brushes, a leather flap to protect contents, a small removable pouch for your tiniest cosmetics, and an additional elastic pocket. We felt the leather was quite stiff, which prompted us to get a little rougher with it during our drop and shake tests. Sure enough, it effectively protected the many palettes, lipsticks, tools, and more we placed inside. Even after five months of using the case during our travels, it still looks good as new and has protected all of our items.

The Details: 10.2 x 6.2 x 3.1 inches | Leather | Zipper closure

Other Makeup Bags We Liked

Several other makeup bags almost made our list, but were cut due to issues revealed during testing.

Béis The Hanging Cosmetic Case : This bag is super sturdy, protective, and well made. However, the actual makeup section of this multi-paneled case managed to feel both bulky and too small to fit all our makeup products. 

Away The Cosmetics Bag : We liked the sleek, minimalist design; a unique interior that features makeup storage with a clear zippered divider; and five heavy-duty makeup brush slots on the opposite side. But during tests, it fit considerably less makeup than many others on our list and it didn’t keep products very secure.

Vera Bradley Women's Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Cosmetic Makeup Organizer Set : This set proved to be spacious, easy to clean, and convenient thanks to two transparent side panels on the larger of the two bags. Still, we feel the design is very basic and it lacks organization features, straps, and pockets.

To thoroughly and accurately test each of the 26 makeup cases in our lab, we filled them with various props (including four makeup brushes, two makeup palettes, one bottle of foundation, one eyelash curler, one mascara, one lipstick, four pre-filled toiletry bottles, and one hairspray) to see how much they could truly hold. We then placed the filled makeup bags into both a half-packed backpack and carry-on luggage, making note of how much space each bag took up. Next, we took the makeup bags out of the luggage and dropped them, shook them, and tossed them in the air to test how much the contents inside moved or if there was any damage. 

Throughout our tests, we rated each makeup bag based on ease of use, quality, capacity, design, portability, and value. The makeup bags included in this article are the picks that scored highest in each category. Testers will continue using the bags and collecting insights for six months following our initial tests.

Tips for Buying a Makeup Bag for Travel

Decide how much space you need.

If you like to wear a full face of makeup on your travels, you should seek out a larger makeup bag with built-in organization (think pockets, brush straps, dividers, and removable pouches). If you’re more of a mascara-and-go kind of person, a super roomy cosmetic case is unnecessary — it’ll just take up extra space in your luggage, and your few makeup products inside will likely move around too much, increasing their chances of breaking.

Prioritize organizational features

While a makeup case with one large, main compartment might sound sufficient, you may want to reconsider. If you plan on packing multiple types of products (like palettes, brushes, bottles, and tubes), a makeup bag with organizational features, such as a train case , will come in handy more than you’d think. As explained above, bags with extra slots, pockets, straps, and compartments help you keep track of all your cosmetics and do your makeup quickly. 

Determine the best material

Before buying a makeup bag, think about potential travel mishaps that could occur. Are you prone to spills? Do you tend to overpack? What if your luggage takes a beating in the cargo hold? Keeping that in mind, choose a cosmetic case material that works for you. Leather and nylon handle makeup spills and dirt well, while cases made of neoprene or mesh will keep your luggage lightweight. It’s hard to completely avoid scuffs and scratches, but materials such as polyester and high-quality leather hold up better than others. And if you’re someone who hates rummaging through a dark makeup bag? Go for a clear material or a bag that opens like a clamshell so you can easily see all of its contents. 

It’s important not to overstuff or understuff your makeup bag. Overstuffing can cause spills and stretching/ripping of the makeup bag itself, while understuffing allows your makeup bag’s contents to move around more, increasing their chances of breaking. It’s also wise to take special care of more delicate items like brushes and glass bottles. Brushes should be strapped down and covered by a flap if possible, and you shouldn’t have to bend the bristles to make them fit. If your cosmetic case has smaller interior pockets or slots, keep glass bottles in there — if not, stand them up straight rather than laying them down, and pack other products around them to keep them from sliding around. 

Yes — just keep TSA liquid rules in mind. Like any other liquid container, makeup containers (like liquid foundation bottles, moisturizer tubes, etc.) should not exceed 3.4 fluid ounces each. If your liquid makeup goes over that limit, you’ll have to store it in your checked luggage.

Use a wet cloth, a wipe, or even an antibacterial spray and a paper towel to wipe your makeup bag clean. Just make sure you’re not using anything with bleach!

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin used her extensive knowledge of makeup bags, makeup products, and traveling, as well as the T+L team’s extensive makeup bag tests, to compile a list of the best options on the market. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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Home » Shopping

7 Best Travel Makeup Brushes Of 2024

Brush your way to flawless beauty and stay ever-ready anytime, anywhere.

Barbara Ritzman is a beauty and skin care specialist and the founder of Barbie's Beauty Bits. With over 16 years of hands-on experience as a beauty editor, she has collaborated with a multitude of makeup, skin care, and cosmetic brands. Bar... read full bio

Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a ce... read full bio

Rajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from th... read full bio

Srijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in ... read full bio

Image: StyleCraze Design Team

The best makeup brush set can revolutionize your makeup game. Building the perfect makeup look requires different sizes and shapes of brushes for each part of your face and item in your makeup kit. These brushes are your best friend whether you want a bridal look or an everyday no-makeup look. The right tools give you an edge to get the most natural-looking and smooth finish post makeup. A good set of brushes go a long way to prevent a cakey look by helping the makeup spread evenly with ease. So, for your next vacation and upcoming statement-making events, we have curated a list of some magical makeup brushes to bring you the look of your dreams. Check out our list of the 7 best travel makeup brushes that can fit in any bag. These travel brushes are carefully selected after going through several reviews they have received from users online.

In This Article

1. Best Professional Finish: Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set

The Real Technique makeup brush set is a set of versatile miniature makeup brushes suitable for different makeup strokes. These Real Technique brushes are highly recommended and used by professional makeup artists like Katie Jane Hughes. It comes with a travel sponge blender that complements the eyeshadow brush , powder brush, and concealer brush. This makeup artist-approved set has everything you need to achieve a professional makeup look and flawless application. The bristles are smooth and allow precise strokes to make your look flawless. The sponge is designed with a revolutionary latex-free foam technology that blends products evenly and gives you an enhanced finish. Check out this honest video review to understand the benefits and a tester’s experience of using this travel-friendly vegan brush set in detail.

• Cruelty-free

2. Best Environment-Friendly: EcoTools Makeup Brush Set

The EcoTools makeup brush set is environmentally friendly and is made from high-quality materials. It has revolutionized sustainable beauty by adding a reusable makeup tray and completely avoiding cruelty towards animals. The product includes a set of five vegan makeup brushes that can be used to apply liquid, creams, foundation, blush, and eyeshadow powders . They are handcrafted and have beautiful bamboo handles . The bristles are made from synthetic Taklon material. The set also includes a unique and beautiful protective brush case that helps in better organization and reduces clutter while stylish. Take a look at this video review to learn more about this product and the reviewer’s experience with it.

• Comes with a storage case
• Reusable beauty tray
• Handcrafted
• Eco-friendly
• Lightweight

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 19,081 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

3. Best Soft: Matto Makeup Brushes

The Matto makeup brush set has a unique design with cotton soft bristles. It feels incredibly amazing on the skin. The bristles are dense and 100% cruelty-free. Even after multiple uses and cleaning, it does not shed bristles which makes this product highly durable. The natural brushes have beautifully designed real bamboo handles with a touch of shiny golden color. The nine brushes that come with this set are perfect for all kinds of makeup applications, as each of these has bristles that are hand-cut to suit all your needs. These quality brushes can be used in different areas of application. The brush set has the best buffing brushes for travel that help you build a flattering, dreamy look that elevates your glamor on statement-making events. This video review will give you all the details you need to know about this product through a tester’s experience of using it.

• Ultra-soft bristles
• Free of chemical smell
• No shedding
• Hygienic bristles
• Easy to clean

4. Best Ergonomic Design: DUcare Makeup Brushes

The DUcare makeup brush set has the ability to give you a natural-looking no-makeup look as it allows the makeup to blend evenly and perfectly. This budget-friendly set is ergonomically designed and is FSC-certified. It contains a flat angles foundation brush that is suitable to apply multiple makeup products to different facial features. The vegan brushes work well for all skin types and are handcrafted by the best artists.

• Safe for sensitive skin
• FSC-certified handles

5. Best All-In-One: Hiuzar Portable Makeup Brush Organizer

The Hiuzar portable makeup brush organizer is a marvelous set of brushes. The bristles of the brushes are made from good quality nylon fabric and are easy to clean. These multifunctional travel brushes can be used for makeup applications for different facial features, as they are designed to reach every corner of your face with ease. They look unique and beautiful. Moreover, the set comes with a great storage unit that is well structured to encapsulate all your brushes in a neat and organized manner , making it ideal for you to carry for your next vacation.

• Well-organized storage
• Smart and unique design
• High-quality nylon
• Easy to maintain
• Might retain excessive makeup residue

6. Best Long-Lasting: Zzihan Mini Makeup Brushes Set

The Zzihan mini makeup brush set comes with bristles that are made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials. They are soft to touch. But if you have sensitive skin, you might want to test it out before committing to it. The handles are made of highly durable material. The set also includes a bonus travel case. It is a smartly designed storage unit for all your brushes, with dual-ended makeup brushes, making it more travel-friendly than ever. It is a cost-effective set of makeup brushes that encompass all your makeup application needs.

• Pocket-friendly
• Silky and soft bristles
• Ergonomic design
• May cause allergy if sensitive to animal hair

7. Best Cruelty-Free: SHANY I love Bamboo – 7pc Petite Pro Bamboo Brush Set

The SHANY I Love Bamboo brush set is an exceptionally well-designed set of makeup brushes that also includes a kabuki travel brush. The set includes brushes for foundations, including powder foundation, and are sleek and ergonomic and come along with a classy and elegant brush holder. The bristles are smooth as silk and are safe for sensitive skin. For all animal lovers and environmentalists, this PETA-certified set of makeup brushes is a great option as it is free from animal testing, so you can go guilt-free and environmentally-safe with this set.

• Elegant design and brush holder
• Soft bristles
• Unpleasant smell

To buy the best makeup brushes that you can carry along with you as you travel, you will need to understand all the factors that make a good set of makeup brushes. The guide below will help you narrow down your perfect professional travel brush set. Read on!

What To Consider Before Buying Travel-Friendly Makeup Brushes

• Quality : The materials that make the brushes must be of high quality. It should not retain dust or product and must be easy to clean. It should be soft and gentle on your skin but deliver precise strokes. Make sure to check reviews from users of the product online who have tested it.
• Design : Consider the shape, size, texture, and density of its bristles. Ensure to see that the bristles are soft to touch, and yet, stay firm while applying makeup. A long, thick handle is usually more ergonomic.
• Maintenance : The maintenance of the brushes is just as important as their performance. Only those brushes that are easy to clean and retain their shape for a long time can deliver precise application of a fine layer of makeup. Do read the care instructions carefully to keep your brushes viable longer.
• Cruelty-Free : Products that are made cruelty-free are not just safe for the animals and the environment. They are made with gentle material that makes it safer for your skin as well.

Infographic: How To Clean Makeup Brushes The Right Way

Unclean makeup brushes are filled with bacteria and dirt that can cause skin infections, acne, and breakouts. Therefore, clean makeup brushes are a must for maintaining healthy skin. Check out the infographic below to learn about a few tips and tricks to clean your brushes the right way.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

With the best on-the-go makeup brushes, you can apply your makeup effortlessly and glam up your look flawlessly. The right type of brush will prevent a cakey finish, which won’t crack over time. It will ensure that your face looks glossy and less powdery by evenly spreading a refined layer of makeup. The Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set is perfect for beginners for different makeup applications. Those who seek an eco-friendly and sustainable option may consider the EcoTools Makeup Brush Set . This listicle contains some of the choicest sets of makeup brushes that will add immense value to your makeup drawer. The wholesome sets of makeup brushes are compact enough to carry them in your purses anywhere you go.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The writer of this post, Srijani Roy, is a makeup and fashion enthusiast. She ensures to deliver research-driven content after gaining information from reading several product reviews through e-commerce websites. She curated the list of best travel makeup brushes from expert-reviewed recommendations to make the application of makeup flawless and smooth for you. She has also suggested a buying guide that will help you understand the kind of product you need as per your requirements.

• Fact-checker

Barbara Ritzman Beauty Specialist

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Best 28 Travel Makeup Options: Pack These in Your Travel Makeup Bag

Nasreen Stump

You may have your beauty routine perfected. You’ve found your favorite products, you’re brand loyal and you know what works. Heading on a trip though? That can change everything. Beauty products may only be optimal for specific climates. We’re here to run you through the very best travel makeup products to add to your makeup collection. And of course we’ll share travel size options that are TSA-friendly.

If you’ve ever stood in the beauty aisle at a major drugstore you know how overwhelming all of the choices can be. We’ve rounded up the ones that work well for travel, have great ratings and that we buy again and again. Most of these items can be found on Amazon. Don’t forget to put together multiple makeup items in one order and click Subscribe and Save for sizable discounts!

1. e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Skin Daily Moisturizer

E.l.f. is a fantastic easily accessible brand that can be found in most drugstores. When you’re traveling, especially by air, your skin can suffer. It’s super important to practice good skincare and lock in extra moisture whenever possible.

Why e.l.f. Holy Hydrations! is the Best Travel Moisturizer

• TSA-friendly 2.6 oz size (larger ones are available if traveling by car)
• Very lightweight and perfect for your nighttime routine
• Aloe vera and jojoba ingredients are soothing to dry or sunburnt skin
• Great for sensitive skin

2. RunnerUp: CeraVe Ultralight Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen

If you’ve got sensitive skin or want to make sure you’re getting SPF on your face when you moisturize, CeraVe is a fantastic choice. This gentle formula is the perfect beauty essential to pack in your travel makeup bag.

Why CeraVe Ultralight with Sunscreen is a Must-Have Moisturizer

• SPF 30 protects your face from UVA and UVB rays
• Paraben-free, fragrance-free and noncomedogenic formula
• Not greasy and won’t leave a white residue
• Moisturizes and contains ceramides to promote continued hydration of the skin

3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Primer and Serum

Have you ever spontaneously bought a new primer or foundation and then been disappointed when you used them? Maybe they seemed to react to each other? I know I’ve had this happen. That’s because primers and foundations need to be matched. The ingredients in some gel-based foundations and mattifying formulas may flake on top of certain smoothing primers. Always test your picks together before packing your cosmetic bag for a trip.

Primer can lay down a great base for the best looking makeup however make sure you’re matching your primer to the climate as well. Using a putty-type or gripping primer in a hot destination can cause it to settle into pores and imperfections giving your skin the texture of an orange peel (yuck). We’ll give out two Bests in this category – one for hot climates and one for chillier vacays.

Why Neutrogena Hydro Boost is the Best Primer for Cold Weather

• Pulls double duty as a primer and a serum, saving room in your makeup bag
• Dropper with vial top seals tightly to prevent spills in transit
• Contains hyaluronic acid which moisturizes and gives a light glow
• Perfect for under makeup or on days you want to look healthy, dewy and fresh without makeup

4. e.l.f. Tone Adjusting Primer

This product glides on so smoothly and feels so luxurious that you would never guess that it’s a $10 bargain buy. It’s ideal for neutralizing redness and masking skin imperfections. When visiting a humid climate it’s pretty common to have minor skin flair ups or redness. The green tones will make you picture perfect despite what the sun is attempting to do to you!

Why e.l.f. Tone Adjusting Primer is the Best Primer for Hot Climates

• Good for both dry and oily skin
• Can be used as a base with no makeup on top just to even redness
• A little goes a long way! One pump is enough.
• e.l.f. as a brand has a fair trade certified factory, produces vegan products and is certified cruelty-free
• Slightly smaller travel size is available but we love that the larger size is also under 3.4 oz

5. Bonus: Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer

While you don’t need an eyelid primer, it is a good idea if you’ll be wearing eye shadow. This primer is the superglue of the makeup world. It essentially coats your eyelid so that shadow sticks to it and doesn’t move. Looking for a version with no shimmer? This Too Faced option  has a natural finish but is applied with a wand.

Why Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Shadow Primer is the Best Primer for Times You Might Cry

• Locks down your eye shadow – trust me it isn’t going anywhere
• A must if your plans include shimmery eyeshadow- you don’t want glitter in your eyeball
• Expecting a proposal? Heading to a big emotional event? Or going to be in the cold with watery eyes? This one step will save your eye makeup appearance in photos.
• Don’t want to do full eye makeup? Use a bit by itself, it will give lids a neutral shimmer  
• Fantastic for mature or oily skin to keep shadows from settling into creases in an obvious way

6. Ecotools Retractable Makeup Brush  and Eye Enhancing Set

When traveling there are two “categories” of makeup brushes that I bring with me. I take a shadow brush and angled brush to do eye shadow and liner. I also carry a large fluffy brush for powder and blush. Over the years I’ve discovered that finding the perfect travel version of each in the same set is not likely. Finding the best one individually though? Easy. These brushes work well with a huge variety of makeup. Just be sure to clean them both regularly.

Why These Two Ecotools are the Perfect Travel Makeup Brush Combo

• Soft cruelty-free bristles on the retractable makeup brush
• Retractable bristles with a cover ensure that the brush stays intact and clean during travel
• Eye enhancing set comes with two brushes that are perfect for lining and shadow
• Having two lets you bring one and save one as a backup for later
• Bristles stay in place and don’t shed on all brushes

7. RunnerUp: 4-in-1 Physicians Formula Makeup Brush

If you want one brush that does it all the 4-in-1 Physicians Formula Makeup Brush is a great pick. Personally, I like having a full handle to hold onto but this brush is one I’ll occasionally make an exception for when space is tight.

Why Physicians Formula 4-in-1 Makeup Brush is our RunnerUp

• The softest synthetic bristles ever that won’t fall out
• Easy screw-on, screw-off sections last longer than ones that snap on and off
• Great price point
• Brushes don’t have covers so grab a  silicone container  to carry it in, especially if it will be in your purse

8. Catrice HD Liquid Coverage Foundation

Surely I’m not the only one who seeks out makeup produced in countries with more stringent regulations than the US? This Italian-made liquid foundation adheres to EU cosmetic regulations, ensuring that more than 1,500 banned ingredients aren’t utilized. By contrast, the US only bans 11 ingredients!

Why Catrice HD Liquid Coverage is A Favorite for Travel

• Vial and dropper screws on tight preventing leaking during adventures
• Long-lasting with a finish that’s matte but looks airbrushed
• Since you only need a few drops the container lasts a long time
• 23 colors available

Read More:   How Many Ounces Can You Bring on a Plane

9. Laura Geller Baked Balance-n-Brighten Powder Foundation

Powder foundation can be a great option for travel. You don’t have to fit it into your liquids bag if you aren’t checking luggage and you don’t need to worry about the item oozing out after air pressure impacts it. This pigmented mineral-based powder allows you to build to the level of coverage that you desire.

Why Laura Geller Baked Balance-n-Brighten is Our RunnerUp Foundation

• Apply with different brushes to get different coverage levels ( kabuki for light,  dense  for more coverage)
• Light, silky feel for a no-makeup makeup look
• Runs a bit darker in almost every shade we’ve seen so order a shade lighter than your normal foundation
• Fantastic for people who don’t want to pack concealer and are looking for a color balancing foundation

Makeup Tip:  Compacts can be messy if they get banged around during travel breaking the powder. Put a  foam applicator  (or several cotton rounds ) between the cover and the powder to fill the space and prevent breakage. You can also put them into small squeeze purses to protect them more. We love  these ones , which are also great for earbuds and jewelry.

10. Mally Beauty Plush Pen Brightening Concealer Stick

Concealer is one of those makeup items that either makes or breaks your look. There are so many cheap concealers out there that actually impact your final look negatively! If you’re going to use concealer spend a little more for a quality formula. It will pay off in the long run.

Why Mally Beauty Brightening Concealer Stick is the Best Travel Concealer

• Sponge-like applicator tip won’t tug on delicate under eye area like a wand applicator
• Ideal for those with olive, yellow or warm undertones
• Perfect travel size
• Amazing at concealing under eye circles and giving you an awake look, even when you’re not

11. RunnerUp: Tarte Creaseless Undereye Concealer

If your skin tone veers closer to neutral or cool, the Tarte Creaseless Undereye Concealer is a better choice. The formula changed in the last couple of years and is thicker. You don’t need much but I’d recommend dabbing it on your finger to swipe on versus using the applicator.

Why Tarte Creaseless Undereye Concealer is Also a Favorite

• Heavy coverage for problematic undereye circles
• Formula creates a dewy appearance giving a youthful and refreshed look
• Lasts a surprisingly long time because you need so little

12. Rimmel London Natural Bronzer

Looking for a sun-kissed head start? Rimmel London’s Natural Bronzer is a great, affordable bronzer to have on standby.

Why Rimmel London Natural Bronzer is our Favorite

• Natural-looking shades that work for most skin tones

13. Han Skincare 3-in-1 Multistick

This product can pull triple duty in your travel makeup kit as blush, lip color and eye color. Sticks are a great option for blush because they’re easy to pack.

Why Han Skincare 3-in-1 Multistick is the Best Blush for Travel

• 8 shades available
• Darker shades can also be used for contouring
• Cruelty-free, vegan and made in the USA
• Smooth texture
• Lasts for a long time – a little goes a long way

14. RunnerUp: Covergirl Instant Cheekbones Contouring Blush Palette

If you’re looking for options or contouring from your blush, this Covergirl palette is a great choice. Pair it with one of our makeup brush recommendations. 

Why Covergirl Instant Cheekbones is our RunnerUp Blush

• Dermatologist tested to be safe for sensitive skin
• Blendable formula
• 3 complementary shades

15. L’Oreal Paris Lash Paradise Mascara

Years ago I was told I had long lashes and “wasn’t I lucky that I’d never have to worry about mascara!” Well, I didn’t wear mascara until my late 20s and that’s when I learned that mascara isn’t all about long lashes. It’s about looking awake! Mascara has been in my makeup bag ever since so that I look like I’m bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. The best mascaras provide a lift and definition to your eyes without clumpy, raccoon-like side effects.

Why Lash Paradise by L’Oreal Paris is the Best Travel Mascara

• Doesn’t flake or clump
• Washable formulas are great for travel so you don’t have to pack heavy-duty cleansers
• Water fun on the list? Pick a waterproof option of Lash Paradise.
• Goes on incredibly smoothly and doesn’t require extra brushing or fussing

16. RunnerUp: e.l.f. Clear Brow and Lash Mascara

If you’re headed to an off-the-beaten-path destination or a super-humid destination sometimes mascara is more work than it’s worth. Humidity and sweat combine to make mascara fight to stay in place. Don’t have black smudged eyes in photos. When you want to look put together but not worry about looking like a bandit in photos, turn to clear mascara.

Why We Love e.l.f. Clear Brow and Lash Mascara

• Clear formula defines eyelashes but doesn’t smudge
• 2-sided wand allows you to also have brow gel available
• 100% cruelty-free and vegan
• Super affordable price point

17. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Precision Felt Eyeliner

When it comes to eyeliner, you want a product that’s easy to use, hard to smudge and that lasts. This L’Oreal Paris eyeliner checks all of those boxes. It might be just me but if I’m going to lose or ruin a product on a getaway, it’s eyeliner. The price point on this one makes it a good pick to keep several colors (or backups) on hand.

Why L’Oreal Infallible Grip Precision Felt is the Best Eyeliner

• 4 Star and above rating by 92% of purchasers
• Waterproof formula
• Pointy felt tip gives you a precise application
• Comes in black, brown, grey, green and blue
• Good for sensitive eyes/skin

18. RunnerUp: Covergirl Perfect Point Plus Eyeliner

In travel, anything that saves space or eliminates another item is a win for us. Covergirl has been around forever. For many of us, it might even be the first brand we ever used. Their Perfect Point Plus eyeliner comes with a smudge stick on one end for those smoky eye looks on the go!

Why We Also Love Covergirl Perfect Point Plus Eyeliner

• Self-sharpening design eliminates the need to pack an eyeliner pencil sharpener
• Five color options
• Blendable formula can create both precise and smoky looks
• Super easy to apply

19. Revlon Illuminance Creme Eye Shadow Palette

Eye shadow is always one of the trickier travel makeup items, especially if you’re a traveler who loves variety. If you’ve got eye shadow palettes at home where you use only one or two colors, the space they take up can seem like a waste. In addition, the makeup cases on traditional palettes can bust open and leave a mess. Cream eye shadow can be a great choice for travel!

Why We Love Revlon Illuminance Creme Eye Shadow

• Pocket-sized and easy to pack
• Ophthalmologist-tested and good for sensitive eyes and skin
• Eight great color options including shimmer, neutral and bold
• Buildable pigmented shades- just add more layers for more saturated results
• All palettes contain a mirror

20. RunnerUp:  Sephora Golden Hour Eye Shadow Palette

Sephora palettes can be a great travel option. They’re constantly putting out new color options and themed palettes. One of the other great things is that they aren’t hard plastics they’re less prone to shatter and leave you with a powdery mess. You can pop them into a ziplock bag for safekeeping.

Why We Love Sephora Eye Shadow Palettes

• Great mix of matte, shimmer and metallic shadows in one palette
• Perfect size for travel
• 6 shades to choose from
• Palette slides in and out of heavy cardboard case

Read More:   22 Best Travel Eye Shadow Palettes

21. Rimmel Stay Glossy Lip Gloss

As a huge fan of lip gloss, I’ve tried hundreds over the years. While I prefer a tube of lip oil in my daily life, they aren’t ideal for travel. Tubes pressurize on flights and when you open them they start uncontrollably oozing. It’s not a headache you want to deal with. Wanded lip glosses are great for travel and this Rimmel one is the best of the bunch.

Why Rimmel Stay Glossy is the Best Travel Lip Gloss

• Wide range of color choices that look good on many skin tones
• Stays on for 6 hours with no touch-ups
• The wet look is great for when you want to give the impression that you did your makeup without wearing a full face
• When choosing a color, assume it’s slightly lighter than pictured

22. NYX Professional Butter Gloss in Sugar Glass

If you’re looking for the perfect clear gloss this is it! Most of us have used NYX for years. With its affordable price point, you can keep one in every cosmetic case and makeup bag you have so you’re always ready for your next trip.

Why NYX Professional Butter Gloss is the Best Clear Lip Gloss

• Smooth formula that isn’t sticky
• Cruelty-free company
• Super light scent and no harsh taste if you accidentally lick your lips
• Sheer colors are also available

23. Aquaphor Lip Repair Lip Balm

Yes, we’ve got lip gloss and lip balm on the packing list! Did you know your lips can sunburn? Whether you’re in a hot climate or a cold one, sore lips are never fun on a vacation! We swear by Aquaphor for quick relief.

Why Aquaphor Lip Repair is a Must-Have for Travelers

• Seals in moisture and provides long-lasting relief
• Slanted tip provides easy application
• #1 dermatologist recommended lip brand

24. Beauty Bakerie Flour Setting Powder

Y’all I didn’t even have to think about what my favorite setting powder was. It is Beauty Bakerie Flour powder hands down. Their translucent powder sits on top of a made-up face locking all of your hard work in like nothing else I’ve found. It’s smooth and works every time. You only need a little bit so splurge!

Why Beauty Bakerie Flour is the Best Setting Powder

• Lightweight and super smooth
• Adorable themed packaging
• Matte finish kicks your look up a notch
• Vegan paraben-free ingredients
• Wide range of powders available to match all skin tones
• Black-owned business

25. Skindavia- The Makeup Finishing Spray 16+ Hour Setting Spray

Setting spray is a makeup must-have for me. Honestly, I don’t know how I lived for so long without it. My first exposure to it was when it came in a Beauty Bakerie mystery box I ordered. Living in Texas the humidity would melt my face off on some days. Not when I locked it all in with setting spray though! Unfortunately, they discontinued theirs so I’ve had to test out other brands to find a replacement.

The best setting sprays use an even fine mist. You don’t want one wet spot on a cheek and no spray on your forehead. A lot of travel sizes have pump sprayers vs pressurized so be sure to “practice” before your trip.

Why Skindavia Makeup Finishing Spray is the Best Travel Setting Spray

• Used by makeup artists to lock in looks for long days and nights
• Great for all climates – moisturizing helps on ski trips and oil control helps with hot and humid spots
• Doesn’t settle into wrinkles and imperfections like some setting sprays
• Convenient travel size

Makeup Tip: Tropical getaway  in a super humid climate? Spray after applying your foundation, concealer and contouring. Let it dry. Complete the rest of your makeup and spray it again. It will keep your makeup in place all day and night!

26. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Towelettes

An important part of a makeup routine is removing your makeup at the end of the day. However, makeup-removing wipes are usually packaged in a way that is anything but travel-friendly. They are bulky, have flaps that don’t actually reseal and sometimes leak liquid. For quick trips where you only need three or four wipes, bringing a big full-size pack seems like overkill. These individually packaged wipes are perfect to keep on hand for trips as they come up.

Why Neutrogena Makeup Remover Towelettes are Perfect for Travel

• Individual packages make it easy to pack only what you need for the trip, saving space
• Wipes remove even waterproof and water-resistant makeup
• Ophthalmologist, dermatologist and allergist tested
• Compostable
• Full-sized wipe

27. RunnerUp: Juno & Co Exfoliating Face Wash

If you have never tried a powder-to-foam cleanser as a part of your skincare product routine, you’ve been missing out! The first time I saw a powder-to-foam product was when one showed up in a subscription box. You shake a little powder into your hand, add some water and lather it into a creamy foam. It’s perfect for travel. You can dose out a little bit into travel containers  based on how long you’ll be gone.

Why Juno & Co Exfoliating Face Wash is the RunnerUp Makeup Remover

• Removes makeup, cleanses and exfoliates at the same time
• Hypoallergenic and great for sensitive skin
• Leaves skin feeling clean and fresh
• Great for travel since it doesn’t have to go in your toiletry bag of liquid products

28. Majestic Bombay Fine Point & Slant Tweezer Set

Tweezers are a must-have for any trip. Whether you need to tame some eyebrows or pull out a splinter, they’re good to have with you. You may think that all tweezers are created equal, but they’re not. A lot of the generic drugstore ones don’t get the best grip on hair. We have a favorite set that locks onto any hair they find.

Why Majestic Bombay is our Favorite Tweezer Set

• Set comes with slant tweezers and point tweezers
• One of the best pair of point tweezers we’ve found, super accurate
• Fun bright colors available

Picking the Best Travel Makeup For Your Style

Makeup is a deeply personal decision. Different people like different looks, have different skin tones, have aversions to different textures or have different skin needs. In the long run, you are the one who needs to be happy with your choices. Hopefully, this list gets you started as you pack the carry-on for your next adventure. Happy travels!

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The 20 Best Makeup Brushes That Professionals Swear By

By Rachel Dube

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether you apply makeup every day or only on special occasions, a trusty set of makeup brushes should always be on hand. Shopping for the best makeup brushes, however, may feel like a complicated process while browsing through page after page of online beauty retailers—especially with the many, many different types of brushes available. But selecting the perfect brush doesn’t have to be complicated.

When looking for the best makeup brush set, there are a few things to keep in mind. Chief among what to remember is to find quality brushes that are best suited for your needs. For example, if you’re someone who uses full-face foundation and bronzer on the daily, you’ll need different brushes from someone who only applies a bit of eyeshadow and concealer. Another factor to consider is the amount of space in your makeup storage for brush kits. Someone with lots of space can purchase multiple different brushes and brush sets, whereas someone with less may want to consider snagging brushes with multiple uses.

In short: There are a ton of options out there for you to choose from, with different features among each of them. A brush can differ in what type of application it’s best for, between its bristles, brush head, versatility, and price points. Some will give you an airbrushed finish while others are meant to leave you with just the right amount of setting powder and so on.

Regardless of which you select, it should be something you’ll be comfortable using day after day. A good brush collection, brush cleaner, and a makeup bag for your brushes will help extend the life of your brushes and help achieve the makeup look you want. And even though shopping for high-quality makeup brushes may seem daunting, there’s no need to fret—especially when you can follow the advice of professionals. Below, find a range of expert-approved makeup brushes for every type of makeup application. And to make the process of finding the best ones a bit less overwhelming we sourced them from top beauty retailers like Sephora, Ulta, Amazon, Nordstrom, and more.

Best Brush for Prepping Skin

For better makeup application, prepping your skin is essential. Makeup prep brushes will help you apply the necessary serums, moisturizers , or primers.

It Cosmetics Heavenly Skin Perfecting Brush

Your makeup routine begins with prep and Emma Willis , Mane Addict stylist, dubs this one from IT Cosmetics her absolute favorite. “Not only does this brush look pretty—it also has nourishing skin benefits infused in its bristles,” she tells SELF. “I love using it to apply skin prep, which for me usually consists of a serum mixed with an illuminating moisturizer blended into the skin, and this brush works wonders.”

Best Brush for Foundation

When looking for a foundation brush make sure to grab one for the type of foundation that you use—whether that’s liquid, cream, tint, or powder.

Real Techniques Setting Brush

For a foundation application that’s soft and precise, pick up this face brush from Real Techniques. “I love this brush because it’s small and fluffy,” Lindsay Kastuk , a bridal, commercial, and editorial makeup artist based in New York City, shares with SELF. “It applies foundation so softly and precisely, which is perfect for a light and natural foundation application.”

Make Up For Ever 106 Medium Foundation Brush

Willis adores using this brush for applying cream and liquid foundation onto the skin easily and quickly. It has a tapered head and flat, wide bristles for accurately applying and blending foundation.

Best Brush for Concealer

Whether you have high-end concealer or drugstore concealer , you don’t want to waste any product. Using the right concealer brush is key for precision since concealer tends to target the small areas of your face.

Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Concealer Brush

When selecting a concealer brush, it’s best to select one with a smaller, more precise shape like the half-moon of this one from Hourglass Cosmetics. This one specifically is a top pick of Brittany Lo , professional makeup artist and founder of Beautini and Beia, because it gently applies concealer and leaves an airbrush finish thanks to its soft bristles. “The bristles are so soft and it’s one of my absolute favorites for applying concealer to the skin,” she tells SELF.

Make Up For Ever 144 Precision Highlighter & Concealer Brush

Make Up For Ever’s 144 brush is another favorite of Lo’s for applying concealer. “For more control and precision, this brush is a great option for concealers,” she explains to SELF. “It allows you to pinpoint and cover blemishes and redness on the face while keeping coverage light, which is especially important since concealer can be thick.”

Sephora Collection Pro Concealer Brush #71

This brush is so uniquely tapered that it almost mimics your fingertips for concealer application, Willis tells SELF. “It leaves a soft smooth finish and has dual sides: one to place and smooth and the other to sheer out and blend,” she says. “It’s definitely one of my kit staples.”

Monika Blunder Call Your Buff Angled Brush

The popular angled makeup brush provides precision and easy concealing. Monika Blunder , celebrity makeup artist and founder of Monika Blunder Beauty, considers this contouring brush to be a powerhouse for cream complexion products. It makes quick work of foundation, concealer, cream contour, and cream blush, blending them seamlessly with a cohesive finish, she tells SELF.

Best Brush for Powder Blush

There’s nothing like finishing up a look with a bit of blush . In order to avoid two heavy red spots on the apple of your cheeks look for a blush brush that will evenly distribute the blush powder.

Gloriest Blush Brush

“Truth be told, there is some trial and error when it comes to ordering brushes online because you can’t feel the bristles before purchasing,” explains Lo. She considers this Gloriest brush one of her go-tos. “The bristles are super soft so it doesn’t irritate your skin, it has an affordable price, and allows you to build your blush without it looking blotchy.”

e.l.f. Cosmetics Blush Brush

“This brush comes at a wonderful price point and has lasted me such a long time,” Kastuk tells SELF. “It applies powder blush as lightly as a real hairbrush would and is the perfect size to use on the cheeks.”

Sephora Collection Pro Blush Brush #96

If you’re looking for a blush that’s great for both powder and blush, Lo recommends using this one from Sephora Collection. “The tapered, dome-shaped bristles allow the brush to be applied and blended evenly,” she tells SELF. “I mostly use this brush with powder but it can easily be used for cream blush as well.”

Best Brush for Cream Blush

Cream blush will give you that beautiful dewy look and a buffing dense brush helps with any hard lines from the cream blush.

Sephora Collection Pro Blush Brush #99

Lo recommends this blush brush for seamlessly applying cream blushes. “This brush is dense enough to apply cream blush while still being light and fluffy to allow the blush to apply lightly and build onto the skin.”

Best Brush for Highlighter

Gone are the days of the fan brush, instead fluffy angled brushes make a great highlighter brush . 

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Brush

This double-ended brush is a two-for-one brush, says Lo. “One side is for blush and the other size is for highlighter,” she tells SELF. “I like the size of both brushes on this because they allow you to apply blush or highlighter in a focused area while not being overly dense or applying too much product.”

Surratt Artistique Highlight Brush

Willis loves using this cheek brush to dust highlighters all over the high points of the face or add a flush of color to the cheeks. “This is one of my absolute favorite brushes since it has hand-tied natural fibers that make it feel ultra-soft to the touch.”

Best Brushes for Bronzer

For a bronzer brush look for round, densely-packed buffing brushes.

Hourglass Veil Powder Brush

This bronzer brush is another one of Blunder’s favorites: “It’s been in my kit since it came out,” she says. “It’s dual-ended and perfect for applying blush and bronzer.”

Luxie 530 Flat Top Kabuki Rose Gold Brush

The Luxie 530 Flat Top Kabuki Brush is a new favorite of Willis—but equally as amazing as old favorites and it comes in a beautiful rose gold color. “I’ve been using it a LOT to apply cream bronzers to the face, neck, and décolletage prior to foundation.”

Best Brushes for Eyeshadow

With the right eyeshadow brush you can lay down pigments and blend beautifully for a perfect eye makeup look every time.

Mac Cosmetics 217S Synthetic Blending Brush

For a brush that’s perfect for creating almost any eye makeup look, Blunder recommends using this one from Mac Cosmetics. “It’s soft and densely packed without being too stiff.”

Makeup by Mario E 4 Makeup Brush

Makeup by Mario comes from the celebrity makeup artist behind the looks of Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Chrissy Teigen, and others, so it’s no surprise that one of its brushes is a favorite of consumers and Blunder. “This brush is great for eyeshadow and creating a cut crease, but I also love it for applying concealer before I go in to blend it out,” she tells SELF.

Monika Blunder Tulip Blending Brush

If you’re looking for an eyeshadow brush that can double as a lip brush this blending brush is for you. Blunder dubs this brush as the most versatile one in her kit. “This little densely packed pencil brush is great for everything from eyeshadow to concealer and (my favorite) for lips.”

Best Brush for Eyebrows

If you’re using an eyebrow pencil then an eyebrow brush should be able to give you a natural finish, whether that means filling in your eyebrows or creating an arched look.

Bdellium Tools Golden Triangle 716 Smoky Liner Brush

When choosing an eyebrow brush to fill in the sparse area of your brows, Katsuk likes to opt for one with incredibly small bristles that almost mimics drawing hair strokes. “It’s the best for filling in your brows and making them look more natural,” she says.

Best Brush for Self-Tanning

For the perfect fake tan you’ll want a brush that will distribute self-tanner in all the nooks and crannies of your face or body.

La Mer The Powder Brush

Although one might not think of grabbing makeup brushes for self-tanner application, Willis highly recommends it. “I use this La Mer brush to apply self-tanners to the face and body,” she tells SELF. “I just love the airbrush finish instead of a mitt and the synthetic bristles of this brush make it soft with just the right amount of sturdiness for control.”

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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The 19 Best Makeup Brushes of 2024 for a Flawless Finish Every Time

It's the most important tool in your box.

In This Article

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• Our top picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Joy Kim

You can have the most skin-like foundations, creamiest liquid blushes , and buttery eyeshadows, but they’ll do you little good without the proper tools. For beginners, celebrity makeup artist Mary Phillips suggests following a simple guideline. “I look for a thicker, denser brush when I need to pack on color, and a lighter, wispier brush when trying to diffuse and blend.”

Whether you’re a makeup newbie or a seasoned pro, an amazing brush  always  makes all the difference — after all, what would the Mona Lisa look like if da Vinci had opted to finger-paint it? To ensure you choose a superior brush that will last for years, we tested the bestselling picks celebrity makeup artists use to create a flawless look.

Best Overall

It cosmetics heavenly luxe complexion brush.

The ultra-plush, dense bristles make blending a breeze.

Double-sided brushes tend to be harder to store and keep hygienic.

I own four of this makeup brush, and keep one in my work bag at all times for on-the-go touch ups. The bristles are densely packed but luxuriously soft, making for a seamless application that feels great on skin. And while its intended use is applying foundation and concealer, the brush is also great for buffing in cream bronzer , liquid contour, and blush. The result is a flawless but natural-looking base. In a real pinch, you can even use the concealer brush for shadow application, making it a true one-and-done tool.

For those who prioritize multifunctionality and quality, this is a no-brainer, but we also have to admit that while the dual-sided design is genius, it’s not the easiest to store.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Double-ended dome | Intended Use: Foundation, concealer | Vegan: Yes

Best Budget

Real techniques makeup setting facial powder makeup brush.

Ulta Beauty

This multitasking brush is equal parts affordable and effective. 

It may shed over time if not cared for properly.

Celeb makeup artist Alexx Mayo is a fan of Real Techniques in general: “An artist’s tools are just as important as the product itself, and I really love the Real Techniques brushes,” he says. “There’s such a big variety, and at such an affordable price.”

Makeup artist Daniel Martin , who famously did Meghan Markle’s makeup for her royal wedding, agrees. Beyond the price (which is so good), Martin counts this brush’s versatility as a major selling point — it plays nicely with creams, powders, and liquid foundations alike. And while some have complained about shedding over time, we’ve had no problems in the year-plus we’ve owned the brush.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Tapered dome | Intended Use: Setting powder, powder highlight, cream highlight | Vegan: Yes

Best Liquid Foundation Brush

Hourglass ambient soft glow foundation brush.

The unique shape and custom bristles are intended to mimic the control of fingertips with all the luxuries of a brush.

The size is smaller than your average foundation brush, meaning application will likely take more time.

The Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush, and its unique custom shape meant to mimic the delicate and precise control of your fingertips. At first glance, this brush looks deceptively small for applying foundation — the head of bristles is roughly the same size as a quarter. Luckily, what it lacks in size it makes up for in seamless application, flawless precision, and a skin-like finish without getting your hands dirty.

The densely packed bristles and unique shape lends itself to getting hard-to-reach spots like the nasolabial folds. The bristles are soft, but not so soft that they simply move product on top of the skin, and allow for streak-free application whether you’re stippling, blending, or pushing the product into the skin.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Custom angled | Intended Use: Liquid, stick, and cream foundation | Vegan: Yes

Best Highlight Brush

Makeup by mario ef 2 makeup brush.

Thin dome is perfect for ultra-precise application and blending.

Some may find it too small for applying highlight.

I've been using fluffy eyeshadow brushes to apply highlighter for years, and was excited to learn that Mario Dedivanovic (as in the Mario of Makeup by Mario , known for being a staple on Kim Kardashian’s glam team) does the same. This brush is ever-so-slightly stiff to help with precise application, but fluffy enough that it easily blends product into the skin. This is the ideal highlighter brush for complete control over where the product lands. It gives a seamless buff, too.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Thin, fluffy dome | Intended Use: Eyeshadow, highlight | Vegan: Yes

Best Splurge

Westman atelier liquid blender brush.

The ultimate in terms of luxury, this brush is handmade by artisans in Japan and specially designed by a celeb makeup artist.

It’s an incredibly short brush and can easily get lost when stored with other brushes.

If you want to splurge, then we say really splurge. Crafted with cherry wood sourced from Japan and handmade, cruelty-free polyester bristles, this liquid blender brush from Westman Atelier is as luxe as they come. It smoothes product quickly and evenly, leaving a seamless finish on the skin in just a few swipes. Similar in shape to a kabuki brush, with slightly denser, shorter bristles, it makes second skin-like coverage so easy to achieve, it’s nearly fool-proof.

Though densely packed and stiff, the bristles are still soft to the touch and feel plush — not rough — on the skin. The rounded head is ideal for really pressing product into the skin, while the dense bristles ensure streak-free application. Plus, the soft edges of the brush are ideal for hard-to-reach spots like the sides of the nose and under eyes.

Bristle Type: Polyester | Shape: Compact round | Intended Use: Blending liquid makeup | Vegan: Yes

Best Powder Foundation Brush

E.l.f. flawless face brush.

e.l.f. Cosmetics

This brush is dual-sided — the flat side allows for seamless all over application, while the skinny side provides more targeted placement. 

The bristles fall out over time.

Powder foundation seems like the easiest to apply (movies made us believe we could get a flawless application with a flick of the wrist). But we still struggled to achieve the smooth, even these formulas promise, and after putting up with subpar brushes that left us with a patchy complexion, we struck gold with this affordable tool. 

This foundation brush picks up the ideal amount of product with a quick swirl in the compact, and blends it out like magic. The beauty is in the duality — the fluffy brush has two sides: a flat edge that allows for seamless, all over application, and a skinny edge that provides more targeted application. I use the former to buff out an even layer of foundation all over, and the latter to build up extra coverage where we need it most. The one thing that could improve, though, is the bristle quality: Over time the synthetic fibers fall out, but that typically happens after a few years of use.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Fluffy with flat and skinny ides | Intended Use: Powder foundations, bronzers and blush | Vegan: Yes

Best Concealer Brush

Dior backstage concealer brush no. 13.

Bloomingdale's

The flat, tapered “cat’s tongue” tip is ideal for precision application and smooth blending.

It requires more work to blend in and perfect coverage than larger concealer brushes.

Flat with a tapered “cat’s tongue” shape and rounded tip, the brush is ideal for pinpointing imperfections and gives professional results with a smooth, blended layer of concealer. Best of all, the flat edge makes the brush a great multitasker — stipple on concealer under the eyes or pat in some powder in those hard-to-reach spots. And yes, it works with liquids, creams, and powders alike.

Because this brush is so great for precision, it does require more work and attention to blend to perfection, especially when we apply makeup to dry skin , than larger concealer brushes. But if you’re looking for flawless coverage, it’s going to take time no matter what. And with this brush, the result really is flawless.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Tapered “cat’s tongue” tip | Intended Use: Cream and liquid concealer | Vegan: Unclear

Best Powder Contour Brush

Sephora pro contour brush #79.

The cylindrical, tapered bristles allow for strategic placement, and they sculpt and blend to perfection.

It’s too big to use on the nose and some prefer a denser brush for cream contour.

When I use the powder formula in our contour palettes , I often go back and forth between preferring densely packed brushes and light, fluffy brushes. While I find that both work, denser, shorter brushes allow for a quick buff with minimal effort, whereas looser, fluffier bristles need a bit more work but leave behind soft, buildable layers.

This contour brush was a bit intimidating for us at first; it’s even softer and smaller than what we usually use for contour, but trust us when we say that it completely changes the game. The tapered, fluffy bristles give us a contour that’s simultaneously softly diffused and precisely defined. It makes getting defined cheekbones a breeze and it doubles as a fabulous highlight brush.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: long, tapered cylindrical | Intended Use: Powder contour | Vegan: Yes

Best Cream Contour Brush

Sephora collection pro foundation brush #64.

Densely packed bristles of various lengths apply and blend contour smoothly, leaving behind buildable coverage.

Because the brush is dense, the resulting contour is more full coverage than subtle.

For those who can’t fathom buffing out your cream contour with a fluffy brush, this foundation brush from Sephora is a stellar alternative. The brush features bristles of varying lengths to keep product from settling into pores, which is genius and really does deliver a smooth finish. Despite being densely packed, the bristles are still soft to the touch and cover up texture and irritation flawlessly. The brush applies product in a slightly mottled fashion that quickly blends in with circular motions.

Best of all, it never moves any product underneath the contour. If you’re looking for a more subtle contour, though, you may want to use another brush because the end result when using this is pretty full coverage. 

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Short dome | Intended Use: Foundation | Vegan: Yes

Best Bronzer Brush

Real techniques ultra plush blush cheek makeup brush.

The large, domed shape is perfect for all-over application and leaves a smooth finish.

The bristles can get slightly scratchy over time.

Yes, this is technically a blush brush, but we found that its large brush head and fluffy shape work far better when applying bronzer. The soft, thin bristles glide bronzer across the face for an even, non-streaky finish, and diffuses product in a way that imparts a natural, light tan that’s never, ever patchy. The brush starts to feel slightly scratchy with continued use, but it still picks up the perfect amount of product and has kept its shape surprisingly well.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Tapered dome | Intended Use: Powder blush | Vegan: Yes

Best Powder Blush Brush

Mykitco my blush & powder.

The bristles are somehow both dense and soft, making it ideal for blending out blushes.

The natural fibers aren’t great for blending cream or liquid blush.

Phillips swears by MyKitCo brushes — and when Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber’s go-to makeup artist says a beauty brand is good, you listen. According to Phillips, this brush is the “perfect size and softness for applying blush to the apples of the cheeks.” The bristles are expertly bundled to create some density while maintaining its soft fluffy shape, which is hard to find. And it happens to apply blush with impressive precision. Keep in mind: Save this for your powder products since natural bristles are not always good for cream or liquid products.

Bristle Type: Natural | Shape: Plush dome | Intended Use: Blush, powder | Vegan: No

Best Cream Blush Brush

Real techniques tapered cheek face makeup brush.

The precision brush head allows for buildable, targeted coverage.

The lighter bristles get easily stained with blush.

This Real Techniques brush works slightly better with liquids and creams as its small, tapered bristles precisely apply a pop of color for a natural flush that’s buildable without looking cakey. The bristles are simultaneously dense and soft, which is ideal for cream blush placement — plus, the handle has a nice weight to it, giving you more control when applying. Just know that if you use a highly pigmented blush, it may stain the bristles — so be sure to wash after every use.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Small, tapered dome | Intended Use: Liquid, cream, or powder blush, contour, and highlighter | Vegan: Yes

Best Multifunctional Brush

Mac 240 synthetic large tapered blending brush.

MAC Cosmetics

The fluffy tapered head applies and softly blends product in one foul swoop.

Its multifunctionality is a double-edged sword: Colors can get muddy and blend together within the brush if you don’t wash after each use.

This larger tapered brush plays nicely with liquids and cream, but does its best work applying powders and blending soft washes of product to the eyes and face. It’s ideal for sweeping or swirling product, especially a light coat of powder in shinier spots like under the eyes and along the T-zone. The bristles are expertly engineered to be breakage-resistant and feature non-porous fibers that make cleaning the brush easier. (Just be sure you wash it after each use to ensure pigments don’t become muddied).

The soft, fluffy fibers and perfectly medium-sized brush head make it incredibly versatile, a key attribute Martin says he looks for in his brushes — add a wash of color to the eyes, buff a darker shade into the crease for some contrast, apply highlighter and contour with precision, or lay down setting powder under your eyes. The brush’s fluffiness makes it easy to pick up the right amount of product, and it makes blending a breeze.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Fluffy tapered dome | Intended Use: Powder eye shadow, powder highlighter | Vegan: Yes

Best Eyeshadow Blending Brush

Hourglass no. 4 crease brush.

Hourglass Cosmetics

The weighted handle provides extra control for easy blending.

Because this is less tapered and stiffer than most blending brushes, using it might not be the easiest for novices.

Hourglass brushes are luxe, thoughtfully designed, and super soft. This brush is fluffy and soft but has a rigidity to it that you don’t traditionally see in blending brushes. The unique, longer shape paired with the weighted handle and stiffer base allow for control and precision, while the fluffier top and flexible bristles create a soft blend that eschews harsh lines.

The brush’s shape and length make it great for sculpting the eyes and buffing out color without creating a muddy mess. Sephora beauty director David Razzano says a great blending brush is an absolute necessity for eye makeup, and this one certainly fits the bill. That said, there is a bit of a learning curve when using it, especially if you’re a makeup beginner. But with practice, anyone can be a blending pro in no time.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Medium, straight dome | Intended Use: Eyeshadow crease | Vegan: Yes

Best Eyeshadow Shading Brush

Makeup by mario e 5 makeup brush.

Makeup By Mario

It’s perfect for a quick and easy sweep of all-over lid color.

The white base is stylish but gets dirty very easily.

If you take a one-and-done approach to eyeshadow, let us introduce you to your new best friend. The fluffier bristle shape allows us to quickly sweep a wash of color over our eyes or blend out any edges on the shadows we've laid down. Plus, the shape fits snugly into the crease of the eye and creates a beautiful accentuation of its shape. Additionally, the wide, tapered shape picks up color easily and blends out shadow like a dream. And, the custom blend of synthetic and vegan fibers makes for a super soft, fluffy head.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Wide tapered | Intended Use: All-over lid color | Vegan: Yes

Best Eyeshadow Smudger Brush

Charlotte tilbury eye liner brush.

Charlotte Tilbury 

The precise tip allows for targeted, contained smudging.

The pencil tip can tug at the eyelids.

I love the look of smudged liquid eyeliner , but you need the right tools to nail the look. This brush features an incredibly small head with dense fiber bristles that perfectly lays down and buffs out shadow along the lash line. We like to dip the brush in a matte hue and run it along our lower and upper lash lines.

The tiny tip allows for precise, targeted application of shadow, which can be difficult to achieve with thicker brushes. And thanks to the sturdy bristles, you can use the tip to create finer lines and graphic effects, or simply rock a soft liner look. Somehow the brush still feels light and luxurious at the same time. Just be sure to glide it lightly around the eye area, otherwise it can uncomfortably tug.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Pencil | Intended Use: Eye liner, blending on the lash line | Vegan: Yes

Best Eyeliner Brush

Mac 208 synthetic angled brow brush.

The brush’s flat edge is perfect for stamping on a thin layer of eyeliner.

The bristles are slightly longer than traditional liner brushes, which makes it more difficult to control.

Upper lash liner is a dangerous game: Make one wrong move and suddenly your liner went from subtle to full-on graphic. This brush’s flat, angled head makes it easy to stamp on color and ensure a thin, consistent line from inner corner to outer wing. Plus, the sharp tip and edges make for flawless, precise wings. Thanks to the thin, flat shape, you can customize your liner width to your liking, and the stiff bristles stay taught on the eye. The brush is ideal for both gel shadow liners, too.

It definitely takes some practice to get used to this brush shape compared to your average flat-edged liner brush, particularly because of the longer bristles. That being said, with some practice, you can create far thinner and precise lines.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Flat angled | Intended Use: Brows | Vegan: Yes

Best Eyebrow Brush

Joey healy duo brow brush.

The thin liner brush picks up product easily and is great for creating a subtle wash of color on the brow.

The double-sided feature makes hygienic storage difficult.

This brush is a staple in our routine. While the angled liner brush is thin enough to make hair-like strokes with cream and gel formulas, we prefer to dip it in a powder and use it to fill in a light wash of color on our brow. It helps fill in any spots or gaps, and the spoolie ensures optimal distribution of color. Plus, it sweeps our brows into place without scratching the skin beneath it.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: Angled liner | Intended Use: Cream, powder, and gel eyebrow formulas | Vegan: Yes

Spectrum KJH 11 Piece Edit Brush Set

Spectrum Collections

This set has you covered with all the essentials you need (and at an incredibly high quality to boot).

The set is a pared-back version of the original 25-piece brush set, which is less than ideal for more advanced makeup connoisseurs.

This set by celebrity and editorial makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes is impeccable. It’s beautifully designed and is as functional as it is luxurious. The bristles are soft and fluffy and remain that way even after countless washes. The brushes are generally smaller than traditional makeup brushes and feature longer bristles that give an airy, almost watercolor-like quality to the application process and an airbrush-like effect to makeup (rather than something more full coverage-looking).

The collaboration truly excels with its eye brushes, which account for eight out of the 11 included. The selection goes far beyond traditional eyeshadow brushes, though, including petite accent brushes and variously sized fine pencil-type brushes. Phillips, who works with Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, and Jennifer Lopez, says they’re mainstays in her own collection. Our only complaint is that the other 14 brushes from the original set are no longer available.

Bristle Type: Synthetic | Shape: N/A | Intended Use: Full face | Vegan: Yes

• Bristle Type: Makeup brush bristles often fall into two categories: natural (hair) and synthetic. Synthetic bristles are more common these days, and Martin much prefers them, but natural bristles do offer a softness sometimes harder to recreate with synthetic fibers. Even within the general category of synthetic bristles, brands use different processes to make them, resulting in a range of textures and softness. Razzano explains that fluffy, loose bristles apply products in soft layers, while shorter bristles apply a heavier application of color. As bristle density increases, it’s easier to buff in product. Sensitive skin types or those allergic to animal products should avoid natural hair bristles.
• Makeup Goals: Your own makeup skills, daily needs, goals, and budget should factor into which brushes you purchase. For example, someone who doesn’t fuss much with eyeshadow might only need a single eye brush, while those new to makeup or looking to start a collection should consider brush sets. If you’re a seasoned pro, consider investing in high-quality brushes that cost a bit more but will last a lifetime.
• Shape: The shape of both your face and your brush will determine how easy (or difficult) it will be to apply your products. Larger brushes tend to offer less control and precision, but smaller brushes lengthen the overall makeup application process.

How many makeup brushes do I need?

“When you are first starting out you don’t need a ton of brushes to get great results,” shares Mayo. “You'll want something you can apply and buff foundation in with, a blush brush, a small powder brush, a fluffy eye brush for blending, and something precise for detail work around the eye.”

Meanwhile, Razzano suggests people have around six makeup brushes total: Three to four complexion brushes (for foundation, concealer, powder, and then one for bronzer and/or blush) and at least two brushes for eyes (a flatter shadow brush and a fluffy blending brush).  

How do I clean makeup brushes?

While there are soaps made specifically for washing brushes (more on that later), Martin says he simply uses Dawn dish detergent and a silicone makeup pad. Wet the bristles and gently massage the soap in using the mat to get rid of built-up makeup. Rinse and allow your brushes to lay flat to dry before the next use.

How often should I wash my makeup brushes?

You’re won't like this answer, but almost all our experts wash their brushes after every single use. At the end of the day, the better you care for your makeup brushes, the longer they’ll last and the better they’ll perform.

“If you’re only using your brushes on yourself, I would say a biweekly clean is a great way to ensure your brushes are free from buildup and bacteria,” says Mayo. “Plus, a clean brush gives you a much better application.” Alternatively, Razzano suggests using a no-rinse cleanser after each use (which really does take mere seconds), followed by a deep clean two to three times a month.

Danielle Cohen is a freelance beauty writer and editor with more than five years of experience reporting on the beauty industry and testing products. As a member of InStyle’s commerce team, she swatches, sprays, and samples countless beauty products. For this story, she researched and tested dozens of beauty brushes, read reviews, and consulted celebrity makeup artists Mary Phillips, Alexx Mayo, Daniel Martin, and David Razzano.

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25 Best Makeup Brush Sets for a Flawless Application

Whether you're new to the makeup game or a seasoned pro, these best-selling kits will help you achieve gorgeous results.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Understandably, deciding on the right brushes can be confusing since there are options galore, in all different shapes and sizes, available on the market. Fortunately, we've got you covered with 25 of the best makeup sets for all your glam needs. Whether you're looking to upgrade your makeup set up or you want to pick up a sweet gift for the beauty lover in your life, these picks are the way to go for a foolproof flawless look.

Best Overall

Sigma beauty essential kit.

e.l.f. 19-Piece Makeup Brush Set & Roll

Best for Eyes

Morphe eye obsessed brush collection.

Hourglass Vegan Brush Collection

Best Travel Set

It brushes for ulta your superheroes full-size travel makeup brush set.

Best Set With Sponge

Real techniques real techniques everyday essentials.

Best on Amazon

Bs-mall 14 piece brush set.

Most Ethical

Westman atelier the brush collection.

Best Eco-Conscious Set

Ecotools ecotools makeup brush set.

Best All-in-One

Colour pop ultimate brush roll.

This 12-piece set from Sigma has everything you need to create a stunning makeup look at home.

"These brushes are so buttery soft even after washing," raves a reviewer. "They apply and blend eyeshadow and powder like a dream, I’m highly impressed with how easy and seamlessly they work to blend. A great set with everyday brushes."

e.l.f. 19-Piece Makeup Brush Set & Roll

Those new to the makeup game will love this bundle since it comes stocked with professional-quality tools at an affordable price.

"I am beyond satisfied with my choice in buying these," says a shopper. "The sheet that explains each brush and its use was perfect, and it encouraged me to experiment more. Another good thing, I regularly wash these brushes and the texture of them has not changed after a few washes."

Whether you love rocking a killer smokey eye or prefer a more natural-looking glam, these brushes won't disappoint. The bundle comes with a range of high-quality fluffy brushes for blending on the lids and creases, as well as angled options for defining brows.

"I love these eye brushes," writes a reviewer. "They make putting on my eye makeup a breeze! They are of very good quality... I'm so glad that I purchased this specific kit. It had all the brushes I need."

If you're willing to invest in high-quality makeup brushes, make sure it's this set. This Hourglass kit includes 17 brushes made of PETA-approved Taklon bristles that come enclosed in a chic vegan-leather case. Key tools include the brand's best-selling dual-ended brushes for effortless application and the versatile Ambient Lightening Edit that can be used with powder, cream, and liquid formulas.

"These were packaged so beautifully and work so beautifully," reports a reviewer. "They are not just some crappy brushes with a brand name stuck to them. They are amazing and you absolutely get what you pay for here."

Planning a fun getaway? Consider this compact bundle of oh-so-soft foundation, concealer, crease, eyeliner, and eyeshadow staples your new travel companion.

"I love this set," writes a reviewer, noting that it "replaced all my high end makeup brushes. Excellent quality and they clean well."

With this everyday bundle, you get the best of both worlds: four spectacular brushes and a sponge for a flawless, airbrushed finish.

"These are durable, lightweight and are good for most types of makeup," writes one fan. "Each item is a multi-tasker, which for me, is essential."

Coming in at just under $10 with over 108,000 Amazon reviews and nearly a five-star rating, this set is a no-brainer for novices and enthusiasts.

"If you are looking for a complete, everyday makeup brush set, I HIGHLY recommend this one, especially if you're a beginner wanting to learn all the little brush functions without spending a fortune to play around with techniques," says a reviewer. "I was pleased to receive the brushes in their own travel case and individually wrapped. The bristles are soft enough for a smooth application and firm enough not to leave streaks, which is always desirable."

Leave it to celebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman to come up with a luxurious selection of sustainably made brushes that can be used with all formulas. A blender brush, a powder brush, and a lip brush are among the standouts in the set.

"I am very happy with the way the brushes perform and how aesthetically pleasing they are," raves a reviewer. "Also brushes are easy to clean/ maintain."

Want to simplify your makeup routine? These eco-friendly makeup brushes perform beautifully and are also densely packed with high-quality synthetic hairs that never shed.

One Amazon shopper also "loved that they are inexpensive but durable."

ColourPop's collection of face, cheek, and eye-defining staples will cover all your makeup bases. And the fact that it's priced at less than $40? That makes it all the more worth it.

"Perfect brush set all around!" raves a fan. "Ideal size, perfect weight/feel while working with them. Picks up the right amount of shadow/pigment. I'm also obsessed with the color of these brushes! So gorgeous!"

Otis Batterbee Precision Makeup Brush Set

For those who like a "no makeup" makeup look, oval brushes are ideal. This kit with Art Deco-inspired handles works beautifully to blend foundation, concealer, blush, and highlighter for a radiant, natural appearance.

"I'm loving how quickly I can get my makeup done with this shape," raves one user, while another writes: "These brushes have made my makeup routine a breeze."

Rose Inc The Complexion Brush Gift Set

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is known for her stunning glam, and lucky for us, she has her own makeup line for emulating her looks. This set includes four uniquely-shaped, vegan brushes that deliver impeccable coverage to your face, cheekbones, and under eyes with each and every application.

"These are absolutely the most gorgeous brushes," writes a fan. "Light and glorious for any skin type!"

Spectrum Collections KJH 25 Piece Brush Set

Want to take your glams up a notch? This full-face kit in collaboration with celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes includes 25 premium-quality brushes that sweep beautifully across your visage to create the most stunning makeup look. Plus, it comes with a sophisticated case that makes for a chic accent on your vanity.

"They do not disappoint," writes a fan. "A comprehensive set with a brush for any application. I love the small brushes for eye detail. Also love that there are brushes for powder and cream products. Highly recommended."

SEPHORA COLLECTION Complete Brush Set

For newbies, figuring out the right makeup brush to use can feel daunting at first. Sephora's set, however, takes the guesswork of selecting what to use. The seven-piece collection comes with everything you need for creating any look, including a foundation brush, blush brush, concealer brush, and eyeshadow brush.

"I am OBSESSED with these brushes!!!" raves a Sephora reviewer. "The bristles are sooo soft and apply my makeup so beautifully. Plus these brushes are vegan which I LOVE. This is a greater starter kit for beginners. Also very budget friendly!!"

Artis Elite 5 Brush Set in Mirror

This oval brush set will instantly become a makeup bag staple for seasoned makeup pros. The collection includes a range of five different types of brushes that each deliver a flawless finish with all sorts of formulas.

Charlotte Tilbury Magic 4-Piece Mini Brush Set

When you're on the go, reach for this mini-sized Charlotte Tilbury kit, which features a foundation brush for flawless coverage, a powder brush for livening up the cheeks with her cult favorite glow formulas, an eye blender brush for brightening up the lids and creases, plus an eye smudger brush for creating the perfect smokey look.

"The brushes are super soft and blend very well," says a reviewer, noting that it's "perfect if you travel all the time."

Laura Mercier Tools of the Trade Brush Set (Limited Edition)

This limited-edition kit from Laura Mercier will no doubt delight the beauty lover in your life. Housed in a luxurious navy clutch, it includes five pro-quality tools for sculpting, highlighting, defining, and contouring.

MAC Cosmetics Brush with Greatness Mini Brush Travel Kit

The key to nailing a gorgeous holiday glam lies in this chic bundle that includes a pro-quality powder brush, rounded slant brush, blended brush, and angled brow brush.

"Good quality brushes," writes a reviewer. "Perfect for purse or travel. Love the collectible case."

Kevyn Aucoin Making Faces Brush Set

Just in time for the holiday season, Kevyn Aucoin dropped this trio of dual-ended brushes that delivers a snatched jawline and cheekbones.

JENNY PATINKIN Sustainable Luxury Dual-Ended Makeup Brush Set

Makeup artist and best-selling author Jenny Patinkin recently launched her own line of dual-ended makeup brushes that allow you to switch between different brush types without the fuss. Beyond its seamless capabilities, the luxury set is made from recycled material, making it a good purchase for the environment too.

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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Packing for your next trip is a formidable challenge in and of itself. You don't need the added worry of stressing out over which makeup brushes should or shouldn't make the trip with you. That's why investing in the best travel makeup brushes can make packing your bags for your next getaway that much easier.

Travel-friendly makeup brushes need to be convenient, should come in easy-to-pack pouches and kits, and be durable enough that they won't get damaged en route. The key to picking the right travel makeup brushes for you is to find ones that will work with your specific needs. Do you need eye-makeup brushes for an ambitious night-out look you plan to try on your trip? Are you looking for a set that has the most brush options for professional-quality makeup application? Or, are you looking for something low-key that will fit in your already over-stuffed carry-on?

To help make your beauty packing process as streamlined as possible, you'll find the five best sets of travel makeup brushes on this list — ranging from five-piece starter sets for statement eyes to 18-piece hauls made to address every single spot you want it to. Regardless of which pieces you need to bring your vacay selfie to life, the best travel makeup brush sets are here to help make it happen.

Superior quality paired with a stylish design, these bestselling, professional-quality makeup brushes are perfect for travel. With 12-brushes all wrapped into one easy-to-pack rolling case, you'll be able to perfect your foundation, contour your cheekbones, accentuate your eyes, dust on finishing powder, and bring life to your lips without having to sacrifice tons of room in your carry-on. As if the travel-friendly design wasn't enough, these brushes are also friendly to animals, using cruelty-free bristles for a hygienic, gentle take on makeup application.

If you're looking for the most compact option on this list, look no further than this four-in-one makeup brush that gives you access to four brushes in one simple design. The metal brush handle houses two reversible brush heads on either end, including a lip, eyeshadow, eyebrow, and smokey-eye brush. With a sleek design that can be easily stored in even the smallest travel bags, you'll be able to take this brush with you anywhere. One reviewer praises the brush set, saying, "the brush quality is great and I love that the heads of it are reversible making it like I have four different brushes with me." And you won't have to worry about shedding with this brush: the synthetic fibers are soft to the touch and designed to mimic your fingertips for a simple application.

Designed for anyone who's serious about their eye makeup, this travel-friendly makeup brush set includes five brushes to create your eyeshadow base, define your crease, highlight your brow bone, trace killer cat eyes, and sculpt snap-worthy arches. Every brush is patented for its ultra-plush synthetic bristles, streak-free application, and flawless results. Sold in a panoramic carrier, you can lay all of your brushes out flat so that you know what you're working with wherever you travel and can easily fold them up when it's time to go.

Another five-piece travel makeup brush set , only this time it addresses your entire face. All the brushes in this set are 100 percent cruelty-free and feature the highest quality synthetic bristles. Equipped with a foundation brush, powder/blush brush, angled liner brush, eyeshadow brush, and lip brush, all tucked nicely inside of a sealed canister, this set will ensure that your makeup (and your brushes) are on point wherever you go, regardless of how tightly they're stuffed into your carry-on.

Who said you should have to scale back when going on vacation? If rocking your most done-up face is a top priority while out of town, be sure to add this 18-piece makeup brush set to your carry-on. Designed by makeup artists, these PETA-approved brushes feature synthetic and natural hair bristles that are curved for extra-soft color payoff and will ensure you can apply foundation, sculpt, highlight, and accent your cheeks, define your eyes, and so much more. While this brush set is the largest of any on this list, it packs easily with its bristle-protecting easel and pouch.

Elite Daily may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Elite Daily's editorial and sales departments.

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The 21 Best Makeup Brush Sets to Upgrade Any Collection

If you're reading this, it's probably time to buy some new makeup brushes

Ultimately, your makeup look is only as good as the tools you decide to sweep, swirl, and blend products on your face with.

Shop the Best Makeup Brush Sets

Most Popular Makeup Brush Set

Bs-mall makeup brush set.

Best Makeup Brush Set for Travel

Jones road the mini brush kit.

Best New Makeup Brush Set

Hannah martin x ciaté london 24-piece professional brush collection.

Best Every Day Brush Set

Saie the brush collection.

Best Foolproof Makeup Brush Set

Jenny patinkin women's sustainable luxury 6-piece dual-ended makeup brush set.

Best Every Day Makeup Brush Set

Charlotte tilbury magic mini brush set.

Best Makeup Brush Set for Definition

Surratt beauty artistique brush trio.

Best Ergonomic Makeup Brush Set

E.l.f. cosmetics professional brush set.

Best Grippy Makeup Brush Set

Laruce tami professional makeup brush set.

Most Gift-Worthy Makeup Brush Set

Artis black bag bundle 4.

And as an added shopping bonus, many of these tools are available for under $100, which means you're getting a little more bang for your buck. These natural- and synthetic-hair brush bundles are so luxe, we won't blame you if you decide to scoop up a couple sets just for yourself—and put off cleaning your most-loved brushes a little longer.

Here, the best makeup brush sets that can make just about anyone feel like a pro.

Related: The Best Makeup Gift Sets For the Ultimate Beauty Lover

This complete makeup brush bundle—which includes a number of essentials for the face and eyes—has over 125,000 satisfied customer reviews from Amazon shoppers, with nearly a five-star rating. And did we mention the 14-piece set is available for under $10?

Customer review:

"I love this set. If you are looking for a complete, everyday makeup brush set, I highly recommend this one, especially if you're a beginner wanting to learn all the little brush functions without spending a fortune to play around with techniques. I was pleased to receive the brushes in their own travel case and individually wrapped. The bristles are soft enough for a smooth application and firm enough not to leave streaks, which is always desirable." — Latosha R.

You'll find mini versions of Jones Road's blush, detail, eye blending, and eyeliner brushes in this small but might set, which happen to be developed by a makeup legend . The Italian-made bundle also happens to make a great beauty gift for anyone who likes to keep their application simple.

"The Jones Road brushes are the best! And the minis are easy to work with." — Marsha C

Ciaté London collaborated with celebrity makeup artist Hannah Martin to create this limited-edition, professional-level brush set. In addition to buttery vegan hair fibers and FSC-approved wood handles, the set also nicely includes a handsome vegan carrying case.

If you're a fan of Saie's makeup best-sellers, we're betting you'll love applying them with this four-piece brush set from the brand. In addition to essentials for your base makeup and cream or balm products, the set also includes brushes specially designed for your powder, along with a dual-ended option for highlighter, concealer, or bronzer.

Since each of the brushes in this set—which include two for face, one for brows and liner, and more—are dual-ended, it's almost like they're getting two for the price of one.

If you're gifting a friend or family member who isn't one to spend a ton of time crafting their cheek and eye contours, surprise them this streamlined and travel-ready brush set from Charlotte Tilbury.

"This is an absolutely stunning set. Beautiful red velvet case with perfect size brushes." — Candlelover20

This set of three pro-level brushes include staples to define cheek contours, blend out eyeshadow, and emphasize you lash line with ease. And to get the most out of your natural hair brush set, try washing your them once a week with a conditioning shampoo.

Beauty enthusiasts are raving about this ergonomic 12-piece set from e.l.f, with one satisfied customer writing, "Already in love with e.l.f products but their brushes are so freaking amazing! They are soft and great quality, they are very durable, super easy to clean, and helps blend makeup smoothly! Definitely going to buy another set."

This five-piece set of synthetic complexion brushes is perfect for blending out creams and powders, and their signature handle designs ensure they won't accidentally slip out of your fingers mid-swipe.

This ergonomic brush set nicely contains all the essentials—from the makeup brushes themselves to the thoughtful brush cleaning wipes—making it an extra ideal gift for the artist in your circle.

Luxie Beauty Brush Set in Rose Gold (30-Piece)

Take your pick of 30 different brush options in this well-rounded set. And since its zippered carrying case contains a number of compartments for each type—including eye, complexion, blending, and more—you can easily stay organized as you apply your makeup.

Rae Morris Personal 8-Brush Set and Plate

Here's a professional-level brush collection that's made in Japan, and sophisticated enough for of any countertop. The set even includes its own magnetized plate that makes keeping track of your tools a breeze.

It Cosmetics Your Beautiful Basics Airbrush 101

Here's a fluffy, five piece set that's meant to mimic the effect of airbrush makeup, and contains designated brushes for your foundation, concealer, eyeshadow, and powder.

EcoTools Vibes Makeup Brush Set

If you're looking to live more sustainably , consider this best-selling brush set from EcoTools. Not only are the brushes made from recycled aluminum and plastic with bamboo handles, but its bristles also feature rounded edges for easy makeup application.

"Great gift—got these for my friend for Christmas and she loved them! Super soft!" — Mykenzie

Hourglass Cosmetics Vegan Brush Collection (Limited Edition)

Here's an all-inclusive set from the pros at Hourglass that makes it seamless to replicate your favorite TikTok or runway beauty look. In addition to 17 tools to choose from, many of these brushes are dual-ended for added extra blending power.

Real Techniques Eye Shade and Blend Duo Pack

We're betting this is the best $9 you'll ever spend on a set of makeup brushes (and did we mention they're on sale?). Blend your cut crease like an expert with this three piece brush set that's ideal for powder, cream, or liquid-based eyeshadows.

"This is a great set of makeup brushes at an affordable price. It’s amazing the difference that using good brushes makes when applying makeup. The process and the results. These brushes are my second favorite set." — Sally

Tarte Cosmetics Secrets From the Amazon Brush Set

This limited-edition, gilded brush set for eyes and face is almost too pretty to use, and makes applying pigmented blush or well-placed shadow a total breeze.

"Handles are long and easy to hold." — Katy W.

Sigma Beauty Essential Brush Gift Set

Whether you opt for no makeup-makeup or decide to try something a little bolder, this well rounded set from the cosmetics experts at Sigma Beauty has you covered. Not only does it contain tools for foundation, concealer, and powder, but you'll also find a mix of large and small angled options (plus a couple eye specific brushes) to seamlessly complete your next look.

"I love these brushes. So soft and work perfectly. Worth the price—also love the range of brushes in the set! :)" — Lizzie

Westman Atelier Westman Atelier Essential Mini Blending Brush Collection

Makeup icon Gucci Westman created this streamlined set of synthetic brushes that feature domed, pointed, and kabuki-shaped bristles to expertly blend out your makeup.

"I’ve had these brushes for quite some time now and I have to say, they’ve applied my makeup so effortlessly and was able to utilize just these brushes for the entire face. So they will definitely be great for travel as well as they don’t take up too much space in my makeup bag." — liezljoie

Real Techniques Everyday Essentials

Add some variety to your makeup tools with this top-rated brush set—that over 1,100 Ulta customers love—which nicely contains a bonus angled sponge for optimal blending.

"These brushes are amazing and so easy to work with—absolutely a must." — Lexie

Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.

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10 Best Makeup Brushes, According to Professional Makeup Artists

We've got one for all of your needs: powder, eyeshadow, foundation, and more.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Your makeup brushes should conceal imperfections and give all-day, natural-looking coverage, and using the wrong makeup brushes (or worse, your hands) can result in an uneven tone, streaky application, and blemishes peeking through. That's why our Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab experts teamed with professional makeup artists to find the best makeup brushes on the market.

In Lab testing, we collected 381 brushes from 63 brands ranging in price from $2 to $90, and surveyed 1,557 panelists to learn what's most important to consumers when shopping for makeup brushes, including price point, ease of use, feel on skin, and application results. We narrowed down the field to 65 brushes across six categories (eye shadow, foundation, concealer, blush, contour, and powder), obscured brand labels to remove any bias, and had our makeup artists put the brushes to the test to find the best of the best.

In case you're wondering if synthetic or natural makeup brushes are better:

In our tests, all of the top performing brushes were synthetic. Synthetic brushes are the best bet for most people — they're more precise, easier to clean , more versatile, and leave a great finish. Perhaps best of all, they're cruelty-free.

"Natural fiber brushes are usually made from some form of animal hair and are porous, so they trap more product," says Edwin Batista, director of education at Dr. Hauschka . Plus, brushes made with animal hair can be an allergen trigger, and since they're porous, they can only be used with powder products, says Beauty Lab senior chemist, Sabina Wizemann .

Below, are the best makeup brushes and sets you can buy, according to Beauty Lab experts, makeup artists, and reviewers.

EmaxDesign 12 Pieces Makeup Brush Set

This makeup brush set is an insane value. It boasts 12 brushes at under $10, and these brushes have over 5,000 reviews on Amazon and an average 4.6 star rating. That means it has over 4,000 five-star ratings from real users.  "The brushes are soft, and hold the pigment of eyeshadows, highlighters, contours really well," says one reviewer. "They don't hurt your skin ... and they are comfortable hold."

The set comes with brushes for every step of your routine, from eyes to lips to face for cream, liquid, and powder cosmetics.  The bamboo handles aren't too bulky, which makes them travel-friendly, too. 

IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Wand Ball Powder Brush #8

In our lab tests, this IT Cosmetics powder brush earned a rare perfect score   for all attributes, from how easy it was to hold and maneuver to its soft, gentle, yet effective bristles, and its foolproof application. It was the top scorer in  all of our testing.  A favorite of testers and pros alike. "It's the ideal size, shape, and density to cover all areas of the face," one tester said. "It is super soft but is also dense enough." 

MAKE UP FOR EVER 226 Medium Eye Shader Brush

This do-it-all shadow brush earned perfect scores from our testers for depositing makeup. "It's really flat,  excellent for packing on shadow with high pigmentation because of its flat, dense shape." It also got perfect scores for being soft and gentle on skin. Use it to apply cream, liquid, or powder shadow all over the lid.

Morphe Y19 Pointed Blender

Perfect for a smokey eye or blending color into the crease, Morphe brushes are well-loved with good reason. "Their  texture is smooth but can take the beating  I give them as a working makeup artist. I also like how affordable they are," says celebrity makeup artist  Jami Svay . 

This brush "is user friendly," says one tester, because "the bristles are different lengths [so it] can blend out better." For a smokey eye, load it with dark shadow and swipe it back and forth in a "windshield motion" in the crease of the eye. For a natural look,  use this light, fluffy brush to apply shadow over the lid.

Bodyography Concealer Brush

Have under-eye circles or blemishes you need to camouflage? This little concealer brush got perfect scores for being gentle on skin and easy to maneuver, with bristles that are "soft enough to feather [concealer] out" for a natural-looking finish. One tester said that although it's a little small for the under-eye area, it's particularly "excellent for blemishes," since it packs pigment on well, which is the most important quality in a concealer brush. 

Sigma Beauty F10 Powder/Blush Brush

Blush brushes are designed to be more precise than powder brushes, making them ideal for applying color to the cheeks. This Sigma Beauty brush impressed testers for its softness and maneuverability , and it scored well for applying and blending product. Amazon reviewers also love it, noting that "the bristles are soft and pick up plenty of pigment ... without turning my whole cheek pink." Use it by buffing blush on in circles, or by swiping up the cheekbones. 

IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Flat Top Buffing Foundation Brush #6

This brush basically works as well an Instagram filter: The flat-top brush has tightly-packed bristles to help buff any kind of foundation (liquid or powder) into skin for an airbrushed look and a even-toned finish. "Super user friendly, perfect medium density," said one tester. "Bristles are soft and pliable." It was a star in our tests, and it's also one of Ta's personal favorite. "It does a great job of blending foundation seamlessly into the skin."

Sigma Beauty F40 Large Angled Contour Brush

The most user-friendly of all the contour brushes we tested,  this angled brush is perfect for sculpting cheekbones.  Just load it with a dark color and brush into the hollows of your cheeks for an instant lift. The Lab found that even though it works well with creams, it's especially reliable with powder formulas. The best part is that this brush can pinch-hit as an all-over powder brush, and will work as a blush brush. "It’s fluffy and you'll be able to blend well," said one tester.

Want it as part of a set? The  Sigma Beauty Essential Kit  is packed with 12 brushes for face, eyes, and lips, and the case doubles as a brush holder.

Mac 263 Synthetic Small Angle Brush

An angled makeup brush is a multi-functional tool that's an essential part of a well-stocked makeup bag. "You can use it for eyeliner, brows, and applying your lipstick ," says Ta. The tightly packed, stiff bristles on this angled brush make it ideal for precise color with cream and powder products. 

Morphe M401 Large Pointed Powder Brush

Consider this your desert-island brush, as it can be used with many products in many different ways. "An all over powder brush is pretty important to have for loose, pressed, and bronzing face powders," says celebrity makeup artist, Jillian Dempsey . Ta also loves this Morphe brush for its unique design: "Its tulip-shaped tip allows for setting powder to get into all the creases of your face.” That means your makeup will stay put all day long. 

Jessica (she/her) is a deputy editor at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a longtime product tester, reviewer, writer and editor of beauty and lifestyle content. She has over a decade of industry experience, previously as beauty editor at USA Today' s Reviewed where she launched the Beauty vertical and tested hundreds of products and has covered trends for publications like The Boston Globe and The New York Times. You can usually find her sorting through piles of beauty products — and testing the best ones on camera. 

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Travel-Ready Makeup: Brushes, Palettes, Setting Spray & Cases

Take your beauty routine on-the-go with Morphe’s travel-sized makeup and brushes 

When it comes to staying fabulous while traveling, Morphe excels with our travel-sized makeup collection of brushes, eye palettes, and compact makeup cases. Whether you're jetting off on a weekend getaway or embarking on a world tour, these mini-sized beauty essentials are a must-have for any makeup lover on-the-go. Choose from a variety of travel makeup brushes to perfect your look, from flawless foundation brushes to precise eye shadow brushes. The accompanying travel-sized eyeshadow palettes include a stunning array of shades to create endless eye-catching looks on your travels. Neatly store your favorite products such as Morphe travel brush sets, travel-sized Morphe setting spray, and Morphe travel palettes while keeping them protected and organized with the compact makeup travel cases. No matter where your wanderlust takes you, Morphe's travel makeup kits ensure that you will always look flawless and fabulous wherever you roam.

Why Shop Morphe Travel-Sized Makeup & Brush Sets?

Look flawless wherever you wander with Morphe’s Affordable Travel-Sized Makeup Essentials

If you are someone who loves to travel in fabulous style, the travel-sized collection of makeup essentials from Morphe is perfect for your exploits. This collection of Morphe's travel-sized makeup products includes a variety of must-haves, from compact eyeshadow palettes to travel-sized brushes and foundation. These products are both affordable and portable, fitting easily into any travel bag or purse. No matter where your next adventure takes you, you can rely on Morphe to keep you looking stunning and feeling confident. Say goodbye to compromised beauty routines while traveling and say hello to effortless glam with Morphe's travel-sized makeup essentials.

Frequently Asked Questions About Morphe Travel-Sized Products

What are the must have travel makeup products.

Morphe offers a wide range of travel-sized makeup products , along with kits and sets curated for whatever adventure you are about to embark on. Stock up on our best-selling Continuous Setting Mist in travel sizes , as well as our Make It Big Mini Volumizing Mascara . We also offer a range of brush sets in their own travel bag so you can go anywhere and still slay your look.

How to pack makeup for travel?

The best way to pack makeup for travel is organize, organize, organize. In addition to packing travel sizes of your fave products, we recommend bringing along a travel kit or bag specifically for your beauty products. No one wants to experience a foundation leak in their luggage, so make sure everything is zip-sealed away and safe from any mishaps. 

What cosmetics can I travel with?

This depends entirely on your preferred method of travel. Some trips have very few rules (road trip, anyone?) while catching a flight or a cruise may come with their own restrictions and standard practices. Before you pack your glam, make sure to check any instructions or directions regarding packing liquids, creams, and more.

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7 Best Dry Brushes for Exfoliating, According to Beauty Experts

By Danielle Cohen

Like clockwork, dry brushing seems to pop in and out of #BeautyTok’s collective consciousness every few months. And it makes sense—the centuries-old Ayurvedic practice isn’t exactly new, and it’s long been a favorite self-care practice among celebrities who boast its exfoliating and circulation-stimulating benefits. As for what exactly dry brushing is, it’s exactly what it sounds like: It's using a coarse-bristled brush all over your dry body to exfoliate the skin . Of course, you can’t dry-brush without, well, a dry brush. But what makes a good dry brush? We spoke to beauty experts to find the best dry brushes, beloved by editors and dermatologists alike.

The best dry brushes, at a glance:

• Best Dry Brush for Daily Use: Elemis Body Detox Skin Brush , $45
• Best Value Dry Brush: EcoTools Bristle Bath Brush , $7
• Best Dry Brush With Long Handle: Earth Therapeutics Far-Reaching Dry Brush , $10
• Best Dry Brush for Sensitive Skin: Kitsch Body Dry Brush , $14
• Best Vegan Dry Brush: OSEA Body Brush , $28

Your dry-brush questions, answered:

What are the benefits of dry brushing, how do you use a dry brush, how many times a week should you dry-brush.

All products featured on Glamour are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best Overall Dry Brush: Elemis Body Detox Skin Brush

Elemis Body Detox Skin Brush

When it comes to a great dry brush, thoughtful design is key—and this Elemis Body Detox Skin Brush delivers. “Honestly, the handle on the Elemis dry brush is really what sold me,” says Alexis Androulakis, former makeup artist, beauty industry veteran, and viral beauty sensation behind The Lipstick Lesbians . “I love that Elemis has the option to have the handle on and allows you to detach it if you prefer that really close scrub.” The brush quickly and efficiently exfoliates thanks to its densely packed cactus fiber bristles, which slough off dead skin cells and boost circulation without leaving skin tender and irritated, even when applying pressure.

Bristle material: Cactus | Size: 5" x 15" x 16" | Cruelty-free: No

• What we like: The long handle and canvas strap are great for hard-to-reach areas.
• What could be improved: The detachable head isn’t the sturdiest.

Best Value Dry Brush: EcoTools Bristle Bath Brush

EcoTools Bristle Bath Brush

You don’t need to spend a lot to find a stellar dry brush. Teresa Songg, MD , a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical, loves this EcoTools Bristle Bath brush because of its gentle bristles and long, ergonomic handle, though the less-than-$10 price point certainly doesn’t hurt. The multiuse brush can be used both wet and dry, and even works with our favorite bodywashes and cleansers. We’re big fans of the added hanging ribbon—it’s a tiny detail that makes a huge difference in storing and drying the brush post-use.

Bristle material: Synthetic | Size: 17.5" x 4.5" x 2.88" | Cruelty-dree: Yes

• What we like: Soft bristles are great for sensitive skin types.
• What could be improved: Won’t provide as deep an exfoliation as other brushes

Best Dry Brush With Short Handle: Goop G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush

Goop G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush

Meet the dry brush of Goldilocks’s dreams: Goop’s G.Tox Dry Brush is long enough to reach behind the knees and between the shoulder blades, but not so long that it’s a nuisance to store; the size really is just right—and that’s not the only helpful design feature. With a curved design and easy-grip handle, the brush is made with usability in mind. The agave-based sisal bristles are stiff and hold up well over time, making it a great investment in your body- and self-care routines.

Bristle material: Agave-based sisal | Size: 10.55" x 3.23" x 1.46" | Cruelty-free: Yes

• What we like: Ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and follow the curves of your body.
• What could be improved: Stiff bristles can feel rough on more sensitive-skin types.

Best Dry Brush for Sensitive Skin: Kitsch Body Dry Brush

Kitsch Body Dry Brush

Dry brush bristles are notorious for being pretty rough on the skin; after all, they’re made for exfoliation. But if you have sensitive skin, those stiff, harsh bristles can cause irritation and discomfort. Luckily, the Kitsch Body Dry Brush uses vegan nylon fibers for a perfectly soft scrub that’s gentle but effective. According to esthetician Stacey Heintzman , the bristles are densely packed but soft to the touch, making for an ideal experience that nearly any skin type can handle. The natural cotton handle makes it easy to buff the skin without death-gripping the brush, for an allover gentler, simpler dry-brush session.

Bristle material: Vegan nylon fiber | Size: 2.95" x 4.9" x 1.3" | Cruelty-free: Yes

• What we like: Vegan nylon fiber bristles are densely packed but soft to the touch.
• What could be improved: The bristles are quite soft, which may not provide the deep exfoliation everyone is looking for.

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Best Dry Brush With Strap: Keys Soulcare Energizing Dry Body Brush

Keys Soulcare Energizing Dry Body Brush

“I’ve been dry-brushing for years and own a few different body brushes, including several that are downright too abrasive,” says freelance beauty editor and consultant Erica Metzger . “The Keys Soulcare brush is the most user-friendly and my absolute favorite. The bristles are dense but soft, so it feels invigorating, but I’m never worried about overexfoliating.” She also loves the size—it fits snuggly in the palm of your hand—which makes it ideal for travel and everyday use. And dry brushing is made all the simpler with its thick woven textile strap: Simply slide your hand underneath it and gently brush toward the heart in short, upward strokes.

Bristle material: Vegan plant-based synthetic | Size: 1.81" x 3.39" x 5.75" | Cruelty-free: Yes

• What we like: Practical design makes it easy to use.
• What could be improved: Some users complain about the wood chipping over time.

Best Vegan Dry Brush: OSEA Body Brush

Osea Body Brush

For celebrity master esthetician Sarah Akram , a dry brush should be made for precision use, which is exactly why she reaches for this OSEA Body brush. Made with plant-based sisal fibers and a sturdy beechwood base, it’s perfect for really getting in there and addressing specific areas like around the ankles and under the armpits. Plus, we love that it’s made with plant-based, vegan ingredients—no need to worry about synthetic fibers or pesky plastics here.

Bristle material: Sisal | Size: N/A | Cruelty-free: Yes

• What we like: The densely packed brushes offer deep exfoliation.
• What could be improved: Bristles may be painful for those with more sensitive skin.

Best Dry Brush With Long Handle: Earth Therapeutics Far-Reaching Dry Brush

Earth Therapeutics Far-Reaching Dry Brush

A special curved, long-reach handle sets this Earth Therapeutics Dry Brush apart from the rest, giving users the leverage needed to reach every nook and cranny. Made from durable hardwood, the 19-inch handle has a slight curve to it that allows for easy reaching to smooth the skin and detoxify organs. The bristles are stiff yet soft—a tough middle ground to find—and provide a solid scrub without leaving skin red and raw.

Bristle material: Boar | Size: 3" x 18" x 1.75" | Cruelty-free: Yes

• What we like: The extra-long handle makes scrubbing those hard-to-reach spots a breeze.
• What could be improved: Smooth handle makes it hard to maintain a good grasp while using.

Dry brushing is great for anyone who wants to improve their skin's appearance and level up their nighttime bath routine. While the main benefit of the ritual is exfoliation, beauty experts claim it offers a host of other benefits, including improving circulation and helping prevent ingrown hair by removing buildup on skin.

“Dry brushing assists in stimulating the skin to provide external exfoliation and keep your skin feeling supersoft,” says Stacey Heintzman , an esthetician. “It’s also wonderful for circulation and moving stagnant lymph, which leaves your skin looking dull. By dry-brushing consistently, you will help the energy in your body move around to create a beautiful, healthy glow.”

According to esthetician Sarah Akram , it also provides general muscle relaxation, while Teresa Songg, MD , a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical, highlights its ability to remove dead skin cells without drying out the skin.

Using circular motions, brush upward on dry skin prior to showering or bathing, starting from the feet. The entire process should take a couple minutes. Dr. Song suggests avoiding any bruising-sensitive locations and making sure not to overlap in the same area for too long. Meanwhile, Akram underscores the importance of using light pressure—she says applying too much pressure is a common mistake that can lead to skin irritation. Follow by cleansing the skin and using a moisturizer or body oil .

You can use the same rule of thumb as you would for a chemical or physical exfoliator on your face—in other words, use one or two times a week. Heintzman says to keep in mind that consistent practice is key to results, so be sure to dry-brush at least once a week. Those with particularly sensitive skin and skin conditions like rosacea and eczema should avoid dry brushing.

By Ariana Yaptangco

By Danielle Sinay

By Andrea Navarro

By Deanna Pai

The 13 Best Foundation Brushes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our top pick is the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush

Applying makeup can take a bit of practice and the right beauty tools. And, as it turns out, foundation brushes are one of the most important applicators in any makeup bag. “When using the right foundation brush, your foundation will blend seamlessly, giving it a second-skin-like appearance and being nearly undetectable,” Dominique Lerma , an executive makeup artist at OMNIA Brush , tells PEOPLE. “It will also speed up your application time and you can cover more real estate on your face in a shorter amount of time.” 

While many opt to use their fingers when applying foundation — we’re also guilty of doing this — a proper makeup brush can give a more evenly distributed application. “Using your fingers or a blender gives you just one point of contact on the skin, but a brush gives you thousands, so the makeup gets spread so much more evenly and smoothly,” Jenny Patinkin, a celebrity makeup artist and founder of Jenny Patinkin , tells us. On top of that, fingers can deliver blemish-causing bacteria and excess oil to the skin which is less than ideal. 

With the benefits of foundation brushes top of mind, our PEOPLE Tested team set out to find the best foundation brushes. We researched dozens of top options before narrowing it down to 24 applicators for lab testing, where we conducted experiments to determine quality, application efficacy, and more. See which ones made the cut with our top picks for the best foundation brushes, ahead.

Best Overall: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush

Buy at Charlottetilbury.com

The flat brush head gives excellent, seamless coverage.

The bristles are soft to the touch and don’t cause any irritation to the face while blending foundation.

The brush features an overall high-quality construction with a durable handle and bristles that can withstand foundation blending without breaking or shedding.

The price point is a little higher end, but you get what you pay for, and it’s quality makes it worth the investment.

The Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush is our top pick for the best foundation brush overall. This brush features a flat-headed brush shape and synthetic bristles that are as soft as natural hair. Designed for buffing foundation, the makeup brush held up against our rigorous lab testing and can withstand lots of wear and tear, thanks to its durable handle and flexible brush bristles. 

As far as blending is concerned, we were thoroughly impressed by how well the makeup brush blended foundation into the skin. Not only was it easy to apply and achieve an even coverage, it also helped create a beautiful, seamless blending effect without any streaking. When cleaning, the bristles gently separated from the foundation and didn’t clump together while wet. They dried quickly and thoroughly and never lost their integrity. 

Overall, this is an excellent pick for someone looking for a flat-headed foundation brush that is high quality and durable enough to last a long time (with proper care, of course). While it is a little pricey compared to some options on our list, we think it’s well worth the investment, considering you get what you pay for.

Brush Shape: Flat head | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Buffing foundation

Best Overall, Less Expensive: BK Beauty 101 Contoured Foundation Brush

Buy at Bkbeauty.com

It’s a luxury-inspired foundation brush for under $35.

The dome-shaped head allows you to blend contour for a seamless finish.

The bristles are durable and flexible, and don’t shed when buffing out the foundation.

Although it has a dense design, the brush doesn’t absorb too much foundation and does an excellent job of transferring makeup to the complexion.

It’s a little large for a foundation brush, which might not be ideal for all preferences.

For a less expensive top pick, consider the BK Beauty 101 Contoured Foundation brush. This under-$35 makeup brush is inspired by its luxury counterparts for just a fraction of the investment. While it is slightly large for a foundation brush — which might not be ideal for some preferences — the dome-shaped head allows you to blend and blur contoured looks for a smoother and more flawless finish. 

When testing the brush quality, we were impressed by the overall dense design and how it doesn’t absorb too much foundation, so you don’t waste a lot of product. The bristles are also highly flexible and durable and don’t shed when buffing out the foundation on the complexion. 

Brush Shape: Dome head | Bristle: Not listed | Good For: Contour

Best Splurge: Clé de Peau Beauté High Coverage Foundation Brush

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Nordstrom.com

Despite a durable construction, this makeup brush is ultra-lightweight and comfortable to use when applying foundation.

The bristles are very soft and pliable while remaining flexible enough to move with brush strokes when blending.

It has a beautiful design that looks luxurious on top of a vanity table.

Cleaning is a little tricky, and the bristles clumped together while wet. However, once dried, it retained its shape and texture.

If you’re in the market for a splurge-worthy makeup brush, consider the Cle de Peau High Coverage Foundation Brush. At $70, this is the most expensive brush on our list — though we promise it’s well worth the splurge. The brush features a highly durable yet ultra-lightweight construction that makes it comfortable to use when applying foundation. On top of that, the bristles are very soft and pliable while remaining strong and flexible enough to move with brush strokes while blending (and without shedding or breaking off). On top of that, the luxury foundation brush also features a stunning design that doubles as vanity decor. 

Cleaning this brush was a tad tricky but not impossible. It takes a little bit of extra effort to remove all liquid foundation from the bristles, and when wet, the bristles clump together. That being said, once dried, the brush retains its shape and texture and is ready for the next application.

Brush Shape: Angled | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: High coverage

Best Budget: Real Techniques Expert Face Makeup Brush

Buy at Target.com

Despite its under $10 price tag, the foundation brush still feels high-quality and durable (and the bristles don’t break off or shed during application).

The brush helps you achieve excellent coverage with cream and liquid foundations. It’s also easy to blend formulas for a more airbrushed look.

The brush shape is small and compact which might not be ideal for some preferences.

The Real Techniques Expert Face Makeup Brush is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a high-quality foundation brush. This under-$10 makeup brush is made from high-quality and durable synthetic fibers that feel soft on the face and are flexible enough to blend cream and liquid foundations without breaking or shedding. While the brush shape is a little small in size — which took some getting used to — we were able to achieve excellent coverage with an airbrushed look, thanks to its blending power.

Brush Shape: Dome | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Cream and liquid foundation application

Best Budget, Even Less Expensive: e.l.f. Cosmetics Ultimate Blending Brush

It’s a durable blending foundation brush for under $10.

The dome bristles help you achieve a buildable application while also blending seamlessly into the skin.

It deposits foundation onto the skin in an even and precise layer, without causing streaks.

The handle is a little thick and awkward to hold at first.

For something even less expensive, consider the Elf Cosmetics Ultimate Blending Brush. This budget-friendly foundation brush costs $7 and rivals some of the more expensive options on our list. It’s constructed from synthetic bristle fibers and features a dome shape that allows you to achieve a buildable application. When testing, we were impressed by how well the brush also blends for a more airbrushed finish, and how it deposits an even and precise layer of foundation without much effort. While the brush handle is on the thicker side and takes some getting used to, we found this e.l.f. makeup brush to be comfortable, lightweight, and easy to use.

Brush Shape: Dome | Bristle: Synthetic fibers | Good For: Buildable application

Best Dual-Ended: IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush #7

The brush handle has a slight hourglass shape, providing a more comfortable grip when applying foundation.

The brush bristles are high-quality and don’t break or shed.

It features super soft bristles that help achieve more buildable coverage when using liquid and powder formulas.

It features a full and fluffy round brush head that can take some getting used to at first.

The IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush #7 is an excellent option for those shopping for a dual-ended foundation brush. Ideal for achieving buildable coverage with liquid and powder formulas, this brush features one large, rounded side for foundation application and a much smaller side for blending concealer or focusing on hyperpigmentation cover-up. The handle has a slight hourglass shape for a more comfortable grip, and the brush bristles are durable, flexible, and ultra-soft against the skin, too. While the full and fluffy nature of this brush can take some getting used to, it’s an excellent option for those looking for a two-in-one makeup brush designed for a range of coverage.

Brush Shape: Rounded | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Buildable coverage with liquid and powder formulas

Best Dual-Ended, Less Expensive: e.l.f. Cosmetics Concealer & Foundation Complexion Duo Brush

The handle has a tapered shape that is comfortable with a good grip.

The bristles are light and airy, allowing you to achieve an airbrushed finish with both foundation and concealer.

Despite its $8 price, the brush is highly durable, and the bristles stay intact without shedding or breaking.

Cleaning the brush is fairly easy, but since the tips have a white hue, they get stained with foundation.

If you want a dual-ended foundation brush for less, we’ve got your search covered with the Elf Complexion Duo Brush. This foundation brush features a large and small rounded head constructed from super soft synthetic fibers. Designed for achieving an airbrushed look with concealer and foundation, the multifunctional makeup brush is easy to use, comfortable to hold (thanks to its tapered handle), and has a great grip for precise application. 

Despite costing less than $10, this brush is also highly durable and has strong yet flexible bristles that move with your technique without shedding or breaking off. The only downside is that the tips are white so foundation can stain the brush easily, even with regular cleaning.

Brush Shape: Round | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Airbrushed concealer and foundation

Best for Smoothness: Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush

Buy at Sephora.com

The handle is a little thicker than some other options, though we found that this helps provide additional comfort and a good grip during application.

The synthetic bristles have a super soft texture that feels similar to natural hair.

The brush mimics finger application, so you can easily achieve a smooth and well-blended finish.

We needed to use a little extra foundation to get a desired look.

For a smooth finish that looks well-blended without any streaks, consider the Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush. This makeup brush features an angled head with soft synthetic bristles that resemble natural hair but with much more durability. After testing several options, we were most impressed by how this brush is designed to mimic finger application, allowing you to achieve more precise blending for a seamless look (though you do need to use a little more foundation to get the desired look). 

In addition to the brush and application, the handle is highly comfortable and easy to grip with an almost ergonomic feel thanks to its thicker design. 

Brush Shape: Angled | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Mimicking finger application for precise blending

Best for Powder Foundation: It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Flat Top Buffing Foundation Brush #6

Buy at Walmart.com

The flat top head makes it easy to apply a powder foundation with light, natural-looking coverage.

The brush’s shape makes it easy to cover a lot of ground with a small amount of product.

Cleaning the brush is a breeze and you don’t have to worry about the bristles clumping together or losing their shape once dried.

The flat top can take some getting used to, but it’s a great tool for powder formulas and for buffing foundation to get an airbrushed finish.

Not all makeup brushes are compatible with powder foundation. Still, the It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Flat Top Buffing Foundation Brush #6 does an excellent job of dispersing powder with an even and natural-looking finish. The brush’s shape makes it easy to cover a lot of the face with just a small amount of product, so you can achieve light coverage or layer on for a more buildable finish. Although the flat top design can take some getting used to, we found it to be highly effective at applying powder formulas and buffing liquid foundation for a more airbrushed look (it also works great for blending in blush). 

The brush is also one of the easiest brushes we cleaned as you can not only remove product without much effort but also don’t have to worry about bristles clumping together or losing its shape. 

Brush Shape: Flat top head | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Buffing

Best for Blending: Laura Mercier Real Flawless Foundation Brush

Buy at Bloomingdales.com

Buy at Harveynichols.com

The brush provides excellent coverage and is particularly great at blending into the skin for more even-looking coverage.

The bristles are super soft and flexible on the complexion, so the skin won’t get irritated with blending strokes.

The logo wears off easily.

Blending requires a lot more brush contact, so you want one with ultra-soft bristles that are strong yet flexible enough to achieve a desired look. We found these must-haves in the Laura Mercier Real Flawless Foundation Brush, which features an easy-to-use teardrop shape and a lightweight handle for lasting comfort. The brush features a dense and angled design, making it easy to achieve excellent coverage while also blending into the skin. The bristles also have a super soft touch that doesn’t irritate skin with rigorous blending strokes. 

When testing the brush’s durability, we found that the logo was easy to remove with a piece of tape. While this isn’t a complete deal-breaker for us, it’s worth noting that, over time, the logo and other details might wear off. 

Brush Shape: Teardrop | Bristle: Not listed | Good For: Achieving a second-skin finish

Best for Buildable Formulas: Morphe M707 Oval Foundation Brush

Buy at Ulta.com

Buy at Morphe.com

You don’t need a ton of strokes to blend foundation into the skin and achieve a streak-free look.

It doesn’t absorb a lot of formula, so you don’t have to worry about waste.

It’s easy to get a precise application for buildable coverage.

The bristles are thick and clump together when wet, which makes cleaning a bit of a challenge.

The Morphe M707 Oval Foundation Brush is designed for full coverage, but we found that it works best on buildable formulas. This foundation brush doesn’t pick up a lot of excess formula so you don’t have to worry about wasting formula and you can get a more precise application when building your coverage look. Additionally, its thick bristles and oval shape make it easy to blend foundation into the skin and prevent and streaks. 

Since the bristles are thicker, they’re more prone to clumping together when wet. This makes cleaning a bit of a challenge but not impossible — just know that you might need some extra downtime between uses in order for it to fully dry.

Brush Shape: Oval | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Full coverage

Best Multipurpose: Saie The Base Brush

Buy at Saiehello.com

The brush features a thick handle that is comfortable to hold when blending liquid foundation.

Since it has a full yet tapered brush design, you can use this for blending liquid foundation as well as applying powder formulas.

The bristles are super soft but also dense and compact, so you can use it to both dab and glide across the skin.

The thicker bristles make cleaning it a little tricky, but the brush also doesn’t pick up a lot of excess formula so you don’t have to worry too much about removal.

For a multipurpose makeup brush, consider The Base Brush from Saie. This foundation brush is designed for liquid formulas, but also works well with powdered foundation and blush, too. Since the soft bristles are dense and compact, you can use this brush in several ways, including dabbing and gliding across the skin. Its full yet tapered design also makes it easy to maneuver on the complexion, whether you’re blending liquid foundation or applying powder formulas. Plus, the thick handle is comfortable to hold, especially when rigorously blending foundation. 

Cleaning the brush is a bit tricky because the brush head is so dense. However, the brush doesn’t pick up a lot of excess formula so you don’t have to worry about not getting everything out (you might just need to wait a little longer for it to dry).

Brush Shape: Tapered | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Liquid formulas

Best Kabuki: Sigma Beauty F80 Flat Kabuki Brush

The foundation brush features a simple yet effective design. 

The brush density provides a little bit of firmness, but the bristles still feel soft against the skin.

It blends beautifully and evenly, even if you don’t have a lot of experience with kabuki brushes.

It absorbs a little bit of extra formula, so you have to make sure to really get in there while cleansing.

For the best kabuki foundation brush, we recommend the Sigma Beauty F80 Flat Kabuki Brush. This brush features a flat head design and super soft bristles tightly packed together for a slight firmness. Overall, the brush’s density allows you to get a lot of control when applying foundation and it’s easy to achieve a seamless look with just a few blending strokes. Although the brush absorbs a little excess foundation (so be sure to really get in there when cleaning), we found it to be an effective and easy-to-use brush, even for beginners.

Brush Shape: Flat head | Bristle: Synthetic | Good For: Achieving a buildable airbrushed finish

Others We Tried

Sonia Kashuk Essential Flat-Top Foundation Brush No. 168 : We also tried the Sonia Kashuk Essential Flat-Top Foundation Brush No. 168 and loved it as another budget-friendly alternative. This foundation brush features a larger head that takes some practice to create a smooth and seamless look. However, once you get the hang of things, you only need a little bit of foundation at a time, so it’s a great option for buildable coverage. 

Sephora Collection Pro Foundation Brush #47 : The Sephora Collection Pro Foundation Brush #47 is also worth mentioning. This $30 foundation brush is ultra-light and comfortable to use, and its round head makes it easy to achieve even coverage with just one to two layers of foundation. It is a bit tricky to clean between uses, though, and we found that the bristles absorb too much water, making it harder to dry in time for the next application. 

What to Look for in Foundation Brushes

Brush shape .

Foundation brush shape can vary and is often a personal preference for application. However, some brush shapes are designed specifically to achieve certain finishes, such as full coverage, buildability, an airbrushed look, and blending for contour. The most common foundation brush shapes include dome, round, oval, flat head, and teardrop. 

After testing several options, we found that the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Complexion Brush is the best foundation brush overall. This brush features a flat headed shape that makes blending the formula super easy. We also loved the BK Beauty 101 Contoured Foundation for a less expensive option. This foundation brush as a dome head shape that is a little oversized, sort of like a powder brush. We loved it because the bristles are dense and super soft, making it easy to build coverage and blend seamlessly while working with a contoured effect. 

Bristle Material 

The bristle material is another important thing to consider when shopping for the best foundation brushes. While natural bristles might seem like the better choice, they are more absorbent and make a smooth application a little trickier as a result (plus, they take a long time to dry when cleaning). Instead, Lerma recommends opting for a synthetic makeup brush that resembles natural hair with a soft and flexible texture. 

All foundation brushes on our top picks list are constructed from synthetic hair, which helps achieve a more seamless application and keeps its quality for a lot longer compared to natural brushes. 

How We Tested 

To find the best foundation brushes, our PEOPLE Tested team researched dozens of options before narrowing it down to 24 makeup brushes for lab testing. Once in the lab, the team conducted seven tests, to determine their overall performance. We started with a hair drop test, where we rubbed the bristles onto a piece of paper to note bristle quality and see if any shed or break off. Next, we applied tape to the logo and then peeled it away to test the packaging quality and make note of any logo transfer or fading. We also conducted a dye test by soaking the bristles in water and then rubbing them across a tissue to see if the bristles bled. From there, we continued with a drop test, where we dropped the brushes from a countertop onto the floor to see how much — if any — damage occurred. 

After testing durability, we then began our foundation test. We used the brushes to apply a layer of formula to the backs of our hands to get an idea of the overall application experience. Next, we measured the spread by adding a dollop of foundation to a plastic tray and using the brush to spread it out. Once our foundation test was complete, we cleansed the brushes and made note of how well they cleaned up, including how they dried and the overall quality post-cleanse. 

Following our experiments, we compiled our notes and examined each foundation brush thoroughly, looking at overall performance, quality, and application. We then narrowed it down to our top picks and curated this list of the best foundation brushes as a result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of brush is best for liquid foundation?

“I recommend using a synthetic brush to apply liquid or cream foundations,” says Lerma. While natural hair brushes are beneficial for makeup application, Lerma notes that synthetic brushes can often mimic the same texture and application as a natural brush but last much longer. “A natural hair brush absorbs water and moisture, becoming thick and wet,” she adds. “The formula will need to be worked from the brush onto the face and can risk the chance of the product not gliding on as evenly and will require a bit more blending and precision during application.

What shape is best for foundation brush?

The best shape for a foundation brush is a personal preference, though Patinkin recommends a slightly domed angle foundation brush “because it hugs the curves of the face but still can get into every little nook and cranny.” The Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush is a good example of this type of brush since it features an angled cut while remaining fluffy and full. We also love the Laura Mercier Real Flawless Foundation Brush for similar reasons.

How often should you change your foundation brush?

“This is unique to each individual, the brand of brush they invest in, and how they care for their brush in between uses,” says Lerma. If taken care of properly, a high-quality foundation brush should last you years. Patinkin says you’ll know it’s time to replace your brush if it’s shedding or the bristles feel prickly.

Is it better to apply foundation with fingers or brush?

To achieve a seamless finish, Lerma says it’s best to use a brush. “Using your fingers to blend your foundation can cause streaking with the formula,” she explains. On top of that, fingers aren’t always as clean as brushes and using them can “cause a spread of bacteria or oils on the face, causing an unwanted breakout,” Lerma adds. 

With that said, Patinkin says some artists still prefer fingers because they generate heat and “can help foundation meld better with the skin.” For the best of both worlds, consider a foundation brush that mimics finger application, such as the Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation Brush .

Take Our Word For It

Jessie Quinn is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as Byrdie, InStyle, The Spruce, NYLON, and more. When covering the best foundation brushes, Jessie thoroughly reviewed the PEOPLE Tested team’s insights and considered their notes on design, durability, performance, and ease of cleaning. She also reached out to makeup experts Jenny Patinkin and Dominique Lerma to learn more about what to look for in the best foundation brushes and answer some of our most burning questions about design, shape, and application. As a result, she curated this list of top foundation brushes tested and approved by PEOPLE.

Meet Our Experts

• Jenny Patinkin is a celebrity makeup artist and founder of Jenny Patinkin . 
• Dominique Lerma is an executive makeup artist at OMNIA Brush .

What Is PEOPLE Tested? 

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People .

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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Mother’s day gift guide 2024: the best beauty tools for traveling moms.

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This portable humidifier from Canopy will keep her skin hydrated and looking its best even on a long ... [+] flight.

Traveling can take its toll on skin and hair but packing all the beauty tools needed to keep them looking their best can be challenging.

Make her life easier with these thoughtful gifts that are made for travel. Whether they’re mini sized, multi-taskers or cordless – or all of those – they each solve a problem without causing another one. In fact, they’re so good, they just may replace the tools she uses at home.

Sutra IR Infrared 2” Blowout Brush

This 2-in-1 brush is the way to give her a professional blowout at home or on the road. Taking advantage of Sutra’s exclusive Healthy Heat FAR Infrared (IR) and Ionic technologies, this must-have tool is the answer to achieving perfect drying and styling — at the same time. It works quickly so she can get on with her vacation, looking and feeling great. Price: $110

Palmperfect Electric Shaver

Available in three vibrant colors, this pretty shaver is so much more effective than a disposable razor. Thanks to a dual clipper blade, it’s also less likely to result in nicks and cuts. An Amazon’s Choice, it has a thoughtful, ergonomic design and she can use it on wet or dry skin, with or without shaving cream. Also, it runs on two AAA batteries and is cordless so it’s ideal for silky smooth travels. Price: $9.92

Drybar The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron

She likes to play around with her hairstyle but doesn’t want to take an extra bag just for her tools. This amazing multi-tasker from the pros at Drybar gives her everything she needs to change it up at her whim, including a signature heatproof case for travel. Ionic and infrared technology work together to create shiny, healthy hair no matter how she decides to style it. Price: $199

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Plum Beauty Rose Quartz Facial Roller

Plum Beauty offers great beauty tools to meet any specific need but everyone will love this beautiful rose quartz facial roller. It has so many benefits, from reducing under-eye circles and puffiness to tightening and minimizing pores to enhancing the effectiveness of her favorite skincare products. Best of all, it just feels relaxing and indulgent. She’ll want to always carry it in her purse for a quick pick-me-up. Price: $10.99

Babyliss Pro Nano Titanium Travel Dryer

Sure, most hotels provide hairdryers but why should she sacrifice quality for convenience when she can toss this little beauty into her bag? Tiny but powerful, it’s lightweight and folds up to practically nothing. Nano Titanium technology results in lots of shine and, best of all, its dual voltage makes it ideal for international travel. Price: $33.59

Canopy Portable Humidifier

Hotel and airplane air can be so drying, making this dermatologist-recommended and TSA-approved portable humidifier the perfect traveling companion. Using first of its kind hybrid humidification, it hydrates skin and also helps alleviate symptoms of colds and allergies. It’s easy to use and can be plugged in or run on battery for up to 11 hours. Plus, it’s mold-inhibiting and a snap to clean. Price: $100

ion Luxe Cordless Curling Wand

For curls on the go, mom will love this hot tool that comes with its own heat-proof carrying case, charger and adapter. She’ll get 30 minutes of cordless styling time with an automatic shut off after 10 minutes of non-use. Nano silver and tourmaline technology provides a glossy finish via her choice of three heat settings. The wand easily slips into her carry-on to work its magic anywhere. Price: $79.99

Solawave Neck and Chest Rejuvenating Mask

Fans of Solawave’s bestselling skincare wand will be thrilled with the brand’s newest problem-solver. Focusing on the neck and chest, which age faster than the face, this rejuvenating mask uses Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapies to smooth fine lines and reduce wrinkles and crepiness. It comes in its own easy to pack bag so she can just put it on for 10 minutes – it turns off by itself – in her hotel room and be treated to the equivalent of a spa treatment. Price: $299

Calista GoGo Mini Heated Round Styling Brush

With all the power of a full-sized tool, this mini styling brush heats up to 365 degrees so she can smooth and straighten, curl, tame or touch up her hair wherever she goes. Plus, she’ll get less frizz and more shine, thanks to fusion technology combining both ionic and ceramic properties. Calista was founded by salon owner and professional hairstylist, Maria McCool, whose ultra-compact tools are a traveler’s dream. Price: $39.99

reVive Light Therapy's Lux Collection Soniqué Mini Cleanser

Small but mighty, this high tech device combines multi-spectrum light therapy with sonic cleansing to improve skin, clear up acne and minimize wrinkles. In just a few minutes, her travel-weary skin will be glowing. Yes, it’s kind of a miracle. Price: $129

Black Wolf Sonic 2 in 1 Scalp Face and Body Scrubber

Because a scalp massage is always the most relaxing part of getting her hair done, give her this easy to tote device that deep cleans her hair and scalp with her choice of three vibration settings. It’s rechargeable and can be used in the shower so she can keep her hair and scalp healthy even in a hotel. It also comes with an attachment to clean and exfoliate her face and body. Price: $39

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Best Makeup Bags for Travel: Shop Now

These travel-friendly makeup bags will keep you organized.

By Lilian Gonzalez

Lilian Gonzalez

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All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

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14 coach gifts that you can buy on sale for mother's day - starting at $49, lazyher travel makeup bag, relavel travel makeup train case makeup cosmetic case organizer.

Whether you’re traveling or just need a makeup bag that suits your on-the-go needs, consider buying yourself this Relavel makeup case. This high-quality leather makeup bag is perfect for all occasions. It includes adjustable dividers that allow you to move it around and organize your items based on your preferences. You can DIY it and make it your own. It also has plenty of space to fit all you want. With its waterproof and wear-resistant features, cleaning it will be easy. It also comes with an attachable shoulder strap. If you’re looking for a versatile option, add this one to your cart. 

Étoile Duo Vanity Case

Consider one of TikTok’s favorite trendy makeup bags: the Étoile Duo Vanity Case that’s all over my FYP. This limited edition comes in gray, black, beige, lavender pink, and so many other colors. Hurry, though: There are only three left in stock in lavender pink! This makeup bag has you covered with a top and bottom compartment. This bag also includes a fold-out mirror, making it easier for you to apply your makeup or skincare routine when on the go. Its vegan leather material and makeup-stain-proof lining make it truly one of a kind.

Semezuxx Checkered Makeup Bag, Brown 2Pcs Cosmetic Travel Bags

Ulta beauty clear sage-trimmed weekender.

Can’t keep track of what’s in your makeup bag? Don’t fret: Consider this Ulta Beauty clear sage-trimmed alternative with see-through pockets and multiple compartments. Its spacious and sage-green tassel zipper pulls offer a clean look. You’ll get easy access to your items with just one glance.

For more product recommendations , check out other must-have makeup products to add to your makeup bag and discover the best Ulta Beauty deals now.

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