The Best Makeup Brushes and Tools for Every Step of Your Routine

If you love makeup, you probably know that having the right makeup brushes and tools can make a huge difference in your makeup application and results. Not only can they help you achieve a smooth, even, and flawless finish, but they can also help you create different looks and styles with ease and precision. However, with so many makeup brushes and tools available on the market, it can be hard to know which ones to choose and how to use them properly. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best makeup brushes and tools for every step of your routine, from primer and foundation to lips and highlighter. We’ll also show you how to choose, use, and care for your makeup brushes and tools, so you can get the most out of them.

Why you need makeup brushes and tools

You might be wondering why you need makeup brushes and tools when you can just use your fingers or the applicators that come with your makeup products. While there’s nothing wrong with using your fingers or the applicators for some purposes, there are many benefits to using makeup brushes and tools for others. Here are some reasons why you might want to invest in some quality makeup brushes and tools:

They can help you apply your makeup more evenly and smoothly, without leaving any streaks, patches, or fingerprints.
They can help you blend your makeup more seamlessly and effortlessly, without creating any harsh lines or edges.
They can help you control the amount and placement of your makeup more precisely and accurately, without wasting any product or making any mistakes.
They can help you create different effects and styles with your makeup more easily and creatively, such as winged eyeliner, smoky eyeshadow, or contoured cheeks.
They can help you protect your skin and health by preventing the transfer of bacteria, oil, or dirt from your fingers or applicators to your face or eyes.

How to choose makeup brushes and tools

Before we get into the best makeup brushes and tools for each step of your routine, let’s take a look at some factors that can help you choose the right ones for your needs and preferences. Here are some things to consider when shopping for makeup brushes and tools:

Your skin type. Depending on your skin type, you might prefer different types of brushes or tools for different purposes. For example, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you might prefer synthetic brushes or sponges that are less likely to harbor bacteria or cause breakouts. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you might prefer natural brushes or soft cloths that are more gentle and hydrating on your skin.
Your product type. Depending on the type of product that you’re using, you might prefer different types of brushes or tools for different purposes. For example, if you’re using liquid or cream products, you might prefer dense and flat brushes or sponges that can spread and blend them well. If you’re using powder products, you might prefer fluffy and round brushes or puffs that can pick up and distribute them well.
Your desired effect. Depending on the effect that you want to achieve with your makeup, you might prefer different types of brushes or tools for different purposes. For example, if you want a natural and subtle look, you might prefer small and soft brushes or tools that can apply and blend your makeup lightly. If you want a dramatic and bold look, you might prefer large and stiff brushes or tools that can apply and define your makeup strongly.
Your budget. Depending on your budget, you might prefer different types of brushes or tools for different purposes. For example, if you have a low budget, you might prefer affordable and versatile brushes or tools that can work for multiple purposes. If you have a high budget, you might prefer expensive and specialized brushes or tools that can work for specific purposes.

How to use and care for makeup brushes and tools

After choosing the right makeup brushes and tools for your needs and preferences, you need to know how to use and care for them properly. This will help you get the best results from your makeup application and extend the lifespan of your makeup brushes and tools. Here are some general guidelines on how to use and care for your makeup brushes and tools:

How to use makeup brushes and tools. When using your makeup brushes and tools, you need to follow some basic steps to ensure a smooth and flawless application. First, you need to pick up the right amount of product with your brush or tool, either by dipping, swirling, or tapping it on the product. Second, you need to apply the product on your face with your brush or tool, either by sweeping, stippling, or dabbing it on your skin. Third, you need to blend the product on your face with your brush or tool, either by buffing, swirling, or bouncing it on your skin.
How to care for makeup brushes and tools. When caring for your makeup brushes and tools, you need to follow some basic steps to ensure a clean and hygienic condition. First, you need to clean your brushes and tools regularly, either by washing them with soap and water or by wiping them with a brush cleaner or alcohol. Second, you need to dry your brushes and tools properly, either by laying them flat on a towel or by hanging them upside down on a brush holder. Third, you need to store your brushes and tools safely, either by keeping them in a brush case or by covering them with a brush guard.

The best makeup brushes and tools for each step of your routine

Now that you know how to choose, use, and care for your makeup brushes and tools, let’s move on to the best ones for each step of your routine. Here are some recommendations on what makeup brushes and tools to use for each step of your routine, from primer and foundation to lips and highlighter:

Primer and foundation

The first step of your routine is to apply primer and foundation on your face to create a smooth and even base for your makeup. For this step, you’ll need the following makeup brushes and tools:

Foundation brush

A foundation brush is a brush that you use to apply liquid or cream foundation on your face. It usually has a flat or angled shape with dense bristles that can spread and blend the foundation well. A foundation brush can help you achieve a full-coverage and flawless finish with your foundation.

How to use: To use a foundation brush, you need to dip the brush into your foundation and apply it on your face in downward strokes, starting from the center and moving outward. You can also use the brush to blend the foundation around your nose, mouth, and eyes.
How to care: To care for a foundation brush, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it flat on a towel. You can also wipe it with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash it.

Beauty sponge

A beauty sponge is a tool that you use to apply liquid or cream foundation on your face. It usually has a round or egg-shaped design with a soft and porous texture that can bounce and blend the foundation well. A beauty sponge can help you achieve a natural and dewy finish with your foundation.

How to use: To use a beauty sponge, you need to wet the sponge with water and squeeze out the excess. Then, you need to dip the sponge into your foundation and apply it on your face in bouncing motions, starting from the center and moving outward. You can also use the sponge to blend the foundation around your nose, mouth, and eyes.
How to care: To care for a beauty sponge, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it in a well-ventilated area. You can also microwave it for a few seconds in between uses if you want to sanitize it.

Foundation spatula

A foundation spatula is a tool that you use to scoop out liquid or cream foundation from its container. It usually has a metal or plastic design with a flat or curved tip that can pick up and transfer the foundation well. A foundation spatula can help you avoid wasting or contaminating your foundation.

How to use: To use a foundation spatula, you need to scoop out some foundation from its container with the tip of the spatula and transfer it to the back of your hand or a mixing palette. Then, you need to use your brush or sponge to pick up the foundation from there and apply it on your face.
How to care: To care for a foundation spatula, you need to wipe it with a tissue or cloth after every use and wash it with soap and water once in a while. You can also sanitize it with alcohol if you want to.

Concealer and powder

The second step of your routine is to apply concealer and powder on your face to set and mattify your makeup. For this step, you’ll need the following makeup brushes and tools:

Concealer brush

A concealer brush is a brush that you use to apply liquid or cream concealer on your face. It usually has a small or medium size with a flat or pointed shape that can cover and blend the concealer well. A concealer brush can help you conceal any blemishes or dark circles that are still visible after applying foundation.

How to use: To use a concealer brush, you need to dip the brush into your concealer and apply it on your face in dabbing motions, focusing on the areas that need more coverage or correction. You can also use the brush to blend the concealer with your foundation.
How to care: To care for a concealer brush, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it flat on a towel. You can also wipe it with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash it.

Powder brush

A powder brush is a brush that you use to apply loose or pressed powder on your face. It usually has a large and fluffy shape with soft bristles that can pick up and distribute the powder well. A powder brush can help you set and mattify your makeup and reduce shine.

How to use: To use a powder brush, you need to swirl the brush into your powder and tap off the excess. Then, you need to apply the powder on your face in sweeping motions, starting from the center and moving outward. You can also use the brush to dust off any excess powder or fallout from your makeup.
How to care: To care for a powder brush, you need to wash it with soap and water once a week and dry it flat on a towel. You can also shake it or dust it off in between uses if you want to remove any residue.

Setting brush

A setting brush is a brush that you use to apply loose or pressed powder on specific areas of your face. It usually has a small or medium size with a tapered or angled shape that can target and blend the powder well. A setting brush can help you set and mattify your under-eye area, nose, chin, or other areas that tend to crease or get oily.

How to use: To use a setting brush, you need to swirl the brush into your powder and tap off the excess. Then, you need to apply the powder on your face in dabbing motions, focusing on the areas that need more setting or mattifying. You can also use the brush to blend the powder with your concealer or foundation.
How to care: To care for a setting brush, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it flat on a towel. You can also wipe it with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash it.

Blush and bronzer

The third step of your routine is to apply blush and bronzer on your face to add some color and warmth to your complexion. For this step, you’ll need the following makeup brushes and tools:

Blush brush

A blush brush is a brush that you use to apply powder or cream blush on your cheeks. It usually has a medium or large size with a round or angled shape that can apply and blend the blush well. A blush brush can help you add some color and glow to your face and define your cheekbones.

How to use: To use a blush brush, you need to swirl the brush into your blush and tap off the excess. Then, you need to apply the blush on your cheeks in circular motions, starting from the apples and moving upward to the temples. You can also use the brush to blend the blush with your foundation or powder.
How to care: To care for a blush brush, you need to wash it with soap and water once a week and dry it flat on a towel. You can also shake it or dust it off in between uses if you want to remove any residue.

Bronzer brush

A bronzer brush is a brush that you use to apply powder or cream bronzer on your face. It usually has a large and fluffy shape with soft bristles that can apply and blend the bronzer well. A bronzer brush can help you add some warmth and dimension to your face and create a sun-kissed look.

How to use: To use a bronzer brush, you need to swirl the brush into your bronzer and tap off the excess. Then, you need to apply the bronzer on your face in sweeping motions, following the shape of a “3” from your forehead, to your cheekbones, to your jawline. You can also use the brush to blend the bronzer with your foundation or powder.
How to care: To care for a bronzer brush, you need to wash it with soap and water once a week and dry it flat on a towel. You can also shake it or dust it off in between uses if you want to remove any residue.

Contour brush

A contour brush is a brush that you use to apply powder or cream contour on your face. It usually has a small or medium size with a tapered or angled shape that can sculpt and blend the contour well. A contour brush can help you create shadows and highlights on your face and enhance your bone structure.

How to use: To use a contour brush, you need to dip the tip of the brush into your contour and tap off the excess. Then, you need to apply the contour on your face in dabbing motions, following the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose, the temples of your forehead, and the jawline of your chin. You can also use the brush to blend the contour with your foundation or powder.
How to care: To care for a contour brush, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it flat on a towel. You can also wipe it with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash it.

Eyeshadow and eyeliner

The fourth step of your routine is to apply eyeshadow and eyeliner on your eyes to add some color and dimension to them. For this step, you’ll need the following makeup brushes and tools:

Eyeshadow brush set

An eyeshadow brush set is a set of brushes that you use to apply powder or cream eyeshadow on your eyelids. It usually consists of different types of brushes for different purposes, such as flat, fluffy, angled, or pointed brushes that can apply, blend, define, or smudge the eyeshadow well. An eyeshadow brush set can help you create different looks and styles with your eyeshadow, such as natural, smoky, or colorful.

How to use: To use an eyeshadow brush set, you need to pick the right brush for the right purpose and dip it into your eyeshadow. Then, you need to apply the eyeshadow on your eyelids in sweeping, dabbing, or blending motions, depending on the effect that you want to achieve. You can also use the brushes to mix and match different colors and finishes of eyeshadow.
How to care: To care for an eyeshadow brush set, you need to wash each brush with soap and water after every use and dry them flat on a towel. You can also wipe them with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash them.

Eyeliner brush

An eyeliner brush is a brush that you use to apply liquid, gel, or cream eyeliner on your lash line. It usually has a small and thin shape with a pointed or angled tip that can draw and fill the eyeliner well. An eyeliner brush can help you create different effects and styles with your eyeliner, such as winged, smoky, cat-eye, or graphic.

How to use: To use an eyeliner brush, you need to dip the tip of the brush into your eyeliner and wipe off the excess. Then, you need to draw the eyeliner on your lash line in short and steady strokes, starting from the inner corner and moving outward. You can also use the brush to smudge or wing out the eyeliner if you want a softer or more dramatic look.
How to care: To care for an eyeliner brush, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it flat on a towel. You can also wipe it with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash it.

Eyelash curler

An eyelash curler is a tool that you use to curl your lashes before applying mascara. It usually has a metal or plastic design with a curved shape that can fit and lift your lashes well. An eyelash curler can help you open up your eyes and make them look more awake and expressive.

How to use: To use an eyelash curler, you need to position it at the base of your lashes and squeeze gently for a few seconds. Then, you need to move it slightly upward and squeeze again for another few seconds. You can repeat this process until you reach the tips of your lashes. You can also heat up the curler with a hair dryer or warm water for a few seconds before using it if you want a more lasting curl.
How to care: To care for an eyelash curler, you need to wipe it with a tissue or cloth after every use and wash it with soap and water once in a while. You can also replace the rubber pad on the curler if it gets worn out or damaged.

Mascara and brows

The fifth step of your routine is to apply mascara and brows on your eyes to add some length, volume, and definition to them. For this step, you’ll need the following makeup brushes and tools:

Mascara wand

A mascara wand is a tool that you use to apply mascara on your lashes. It usually has a plastic or metal design with a spiral or comb shape that can coat and separate your lashes well. A mascara wand can help you add some length, volume, and curl to your lashes and make them look more dramatic and attractive.

How to use: To use a mascara wand, you need to pull it out of the mascara tube and wipe off the excess. Then, you need to apply the mascara on your lashes in zigzag motions, starting from the roots and moving upward to the tips. You can also wiggle the wand at the base of your lashes to create more volume and curl.
How to care: To care for a mascara wand, you need to wash it with soap and water once a week and dry it in a well-ventilated area. You can also comb it with a lash comb or brush in between uses if you want to remove any clumps or residue.

Brow brush

A brow brush is a brush that you use to groom and shape your brows before applying brow product. It usually has a dual-ended design with a spoolie and an angled brush that can comb and fill your brows well. A brow brush can help you create natural and defined brows that frame your face and enhance your features.

How to use: To use a brow brush, you need to use the spoolie end to comb your brows upward and outward, following their natural shape and direction. Then, you need to use the angled brush end to fill in any sparse or uneven areas with brow powder, pomade, or gel. You can also use the spoolie end again to blend the product and create a more natural look.
How to care: To care for a brow brush, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it flat on a towel. You can also wipe it with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash it.

Brow scissors

A brow scissors is a tool that you use to trim your brows before applying brow product. It usually has a small and sharp design with a curved or straight shape that can cut your brows well. A brow scissors can help you remove any excess or unruly hairs from your brows and make them look more neat and tidy.

How to use: To use a brow scissors, you need to use a spoolie or a brow brush to comb your brows upward and outward, following their natural shape and direction. Then, you need to use the scissors to trim any hairs that are longer than the rest or that stick out of the shape. You can also use the scissors to shape the arch or the tail of your brows if you want a more defined look.
How to care: To care for a brow scissors, you need to wipe it with a tissue or cloth after every use and wash it with soap and water once in a while. You can also sanitize it with alcohol if you want to.

Lips and highlighter

The sixth and final step of your routine is to apply lips and highlighter on your face to add some color and glow to your complexion. For this step, you’ll need the following makeup brushes and tools:

Lip brush

A lip brush is a brush that you use to apply lipstick, gloss, or balm on your lips. It usually has a small and thin shape with a pointed or flat tip that can apply and blend the lip product well. A lip brush can help you create precise and smooth lips that look more polished and professional.

How to use: To use a lip brush, you need to dip the tip of the brush into your lip product and apply it on your lips in short and steady strokes, starting from the center and moving outward. You can also use the brush to outline your lips with a lip liner or to mix and match different colors and finishes of lip product.
How to care: To care for a lip brush, you need to wash it with soap and water after every use and dry it flat on a towel. You can also wipe it with a brush cleaner or alcohol in between uses if you don’t have time to wash it.

Lip scrubber

A lip scrubber is a tool that you use to exfoliate and moisturize your lips before applying lip product. It usually has a silicone or plastic design with a textured or bristled surface that can scrub and massage your lips well. A lip scrubber can help you remove any dead skin or flakiness from your lips and make them look more smooth and plump.

How to use: To use a lip scrubber, you need to wet your lips with water and apply some lip scrub or balm on them. Then, you need to use the scrubber to gently rub your lips in circular motions for a few minutes. You can also use the scrubber to stimulate blood circulation and collagen production on your lips.
How to care: To care for a lip scrubber, you need to rinse it with water after every use and dry it in a well-ventilated area. You can also sanitize it with alcohol if you want to.

Highlighter brush

A highlighter brush is a brush that you use to apply powder or cream highlighter on your face. It usually has a small or medium size with a tapered or fan shape that can apply and blend the highlighter well. A highlighter brush can help you add some glow and radiance to your face and accentuate your features.

How to use: To use a highlighter brush, you need to swirl the brush into your highlighter and tap off the excess. Then, you need to apply the highlighter on your face in sweeping motions, focusing on the areas that catch the light, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the cupid’s bow of your lips, and the inner corners of your eyes.
How to care: To care for a highlighter brush, you need to wash it with soap and water once a week and dry it flat on a towel. You can also shake it or dust it off in between uses if you want to remove any residue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having the best makeup brushes and tools for every step of your routine can make a huge difference in your makeup application and results. Not only can they help you achieve a smooth, even, and flawless finish, but they can also help you create different looks and styles with ease and precision. However, you need to choose, use, and care for your makeup brushes and tools properly to get the most out of them. By doing so, you can enjoy a beautiful and flawless makeup look every day.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about makeup brushes and tools:

Q: How many makeup brushes and tools do I need?
A: There is no definitive answer to how many makeup brushes and tools you need, as it depends on your personal preference, budget, and makeup routine. However, as a general rule, you should have at least one brush or tool for each step of your routine, such as primer, foundation, concealer, powder, blush, bronzer, eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, brows, lips, and highlighter. You can also have more than one brush or tool for each step if you want to create different effects or styles with your makeup.
Q: How do I know which makeup brush or tool to use for which purpose?
A: You can know which makeup brush or tool to use for which purpose by looking at their shape, size, texture, and density. For example, flat and dense brushes or tools are good for applying liquid or cream products; fluffy and round brushes or tools are good for applying powder products; small and pointed brushes or tools are good for applying precise or detailed products; large and angled brushes or tools are good for applying contouring or highlighting products.
Q: How do I clean my makeup brushes and tools?
A: You can clean your makeup brushes and tools by following these steps: 1) Wet your brush or tool with water and apply some soap or brush cleaner on it. 2) Gently massage the bristles or surface of the brush or tool with your fingers or a brush mat to loosen up the dirt and makeup residue. 3) Rinse the brush or tool with water until the water runs clear. 4) Squeeze out the excess water from the brush or tool and reshape it if needed. 5) Lay the brush or tool flat on a towel or hang it upside down on a brush holder to dry.
Q: How often should I clean my makeup brushes and tools?
A: You should clean your makeup brushes and tools according to how often you use them and what type of product you use them with. As a general rule, you should clean your brushes and tools that you use with liquid or cream products after every use; your brushes and tools that you use with powder products once a week; and your brushes and tools that you use with eye products after every use or once a week.
Q: How do I store my makeup brushes and tools?
A: You can store your makeup brushes and tools by following these tips: 1) Keep them in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. 2) Keep them in a clean and closed container such as a brush case, a ziplock bag, or a drawer. 3) Keep them separate from each other to prevent cross-contamination or damage. 4) Cover them with a brush guard or a cloth to protect them from dust or dirt.