As makeup lovers, it’s always easy to get caught up in the many variations of brushes there are to create the absolute perfect smokey eye or shiny lip. But the truth is that there are ways to narrow down the tools you really need to just a basic few, particularly if you’re a busy gal trying to lug around a little bit of everything in your purse. If you’re trying to build a practical makeup kit for your bag – the kind you’ll carry with you to get through touch-ups and on-the-go application – you’re not going to need every single variation of brush. Here’s a short list of what you’ll really need as you plan an essential makeup kit.
Essential Makeup Brushes: What You Really Need
Brow Brush – For me, this is an absolute essential because your eyebrows frame your face and are often the first thing people will notice if they’re out of place and unruly. Keep a brow brush with you to put stray hairs back in place. You can also use this brush to gently get rid of mascara clumps on your lashes.
Lip Brush – Even if you’re on the go, a lip brush is essential in making your lipstick go on flawlessly – and stay on, exactly where you want it (inside your liner).
Kabuki Brush – Rather than carrying a full-sized blush brush, a kabuki brush is a fantastic alternative for soft cheek color. It also doubles as a powder brush – just be sure to gently clean between applications (some mineral water and a napkin will do in a pinch).
Cheek Contour Brush – This is an absolute ‘do’ for applying bronzer and/or highlighting the face. Pick up a couple if you apply bronzer often to keep the darker powders separate from the highlighting ones.
Sponge Foundation Brush – While you could technically use your fingers to apply foundation, carrying a sponge brush with you will ensure that you not only apply and distribute it well, it also doubles as a tool to absorb excess oil and makeup.
Angled Eyeliner Brush – Whether you’re going for a softer, smudged look or a precise, inky cateye, this is the brush that will get you as close to your lashes as possible. Make sure to keep it clean for the best application.
Eye Blender Brush – This versatile brush will help you sweep on eyeshadow in the gentlest of ways while being firm enough to work with for more definition. Works well for touchups and if you can only pack one eye makeup brush, this is the one you want.
