The Best Makeup Brushes for Every Skin Type
1/7If you thought that makeup brushes were as simple as dip, sweep, done (and then clean, of course), you’re in for a surprise. While they may seem one size fits all — and no shame if you usually go with the cheapest option — there are extra perks to taking more into consideration when you’re shelling out for a makeup brush. An overlooked (but essential!) factor to consider: your skin type. We hear you: does it really matter? Yes. Whether your skin tends to be dry, oily, or totally normal, investing in a brush that works best with your specific type not only improves the performance of your products, but also keeps your skin looking Kylie proportions of airbrushed. Not quite sure where to start? No problem! Here, the only makeup brushes you need for all skin types.
2/7Skin Type: Normal
Jackpot! Having totally normal skin gives you the widest range of options, so a good rule of thumb is to go with the best quality your money can buy. Look for one that, like this, has two different types of synthetic fibers — straight and wavy — to pick up and distribute pigment almost as well as natural hairs. A tapered tip can reach into nooks and crannies like around the nose and mouth, and the quality is tough to find at such a reasonable price.
3/7Skin Type: Dry
The biggest challenge of applying makeup to parched skin is actually small — literally. We’re talking about those tiny, annoying flakes. Luckily, there’s an easy way to get rid of them. “A buffing brush helps to reduce the appearance of dryness, since it physically buffs away any flakes,” explains Russ Brouse, national makeup artist for Japonesque (a brand well-known for its high-quality brushes). Sloughing them off as you apply your foundation guarantees a smooth, seamless application.
4/7Skin Type: Oily
If your skin tends to be on the slick side, look for a brush that can handle the formulations popular for oily skin types (like mattifying, oil-free, and liquid-to-powder options). Try a multipurpose brush to stipple the foundation into skin. By stippling, in which you literally press product on before blending, the formula won’t be diluted with the oils on the skin’s surface. The goat hair bristles on this one are nonabsorbent, so it won’t soak up pigment.
5/7Skin Type: Sensitive
When it comes to choosing between natural and synthetic fibers, the former has a leg up here thanks to its more forgiving texture. “Natural bristle brushes are so soft and gentle, they won’t irritate the skin,” says Russ. If you’re not comfortable giving up synthetics, NBD — IT Cosmetics offers an option with bristles designed to replicate the feel of natural hairs.
6/7Skin Type: Acne-Prone
If you’re prone to breaking out, Russ recommends brushes that give you the option of heavier coverage, which will help minimize the appearance of acne and blemishes whenever you need it. A classic foundation brush allows you to “paint” on the pigment, giving you control over the intensity, and the pointed tip takes care of smaller details like zits and dark spots.
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