Reader question: Best liquid foundation brush

Brushes

Oct 22

Good day Ms Liz! What's the best brush for liquid foundation? Pointed foundation brush or stippling brush? Brand? Cheap alternatives? Thanks!

Hi there! This is a complex question because the best brush for your liquid foundation use depends on the texture of the product and the effect that you want to achieve with it. You need to take into consideration where you need the coverage the most and what your skin needs from your foundation.

But it's not as difficult as it sounds. Here are different foundation brushes and how best to use them!

A flat foundation brush is best for heavy, opaque coverage. It can be used with any foundation texture but it's nice to use with very wet, sheer types if you want to maximize the coverage. To use, start from the center of your face, blending downwards and out.

Try: Estee Lauder Foundation brush, Charm Essentials Pretty in Pink Vegan Foundation Brush

A duo fiber stippling brush is ideal for heavy, viscous liquid foundation since it can distribute the product evenly without dragging and tugging on skin. To use, just get the foundation on the brush then dot dot dot all over your face! Blend if you have to. The finish is more soft focus and natural-looking, but still with the coverage you need.

Try: MAC 187 brush, Charm stippling brushes (individual or from sets)

A small, pointed foundation brush is great for petite faces and/or precision application. If you need particular coverage on the red/purplish sides of the nose, corners of the mouth, and under the eyes, a pointed foundation brush can get you there. It's also great for blemished skin since it can concentrate a small amount of foundation there as opposed to bigger brushes. Best to use with heavy, hard to spread foundations!

Try: Charm Travel Pointed Foundation Brush (rounded), Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush (flat)

A flat-top brush is typically used with mineral, pan, and cream foundation but it can also apply liquid nicely. Personally I like it best with a watery BB cream since it concentrates the pigment (due to how densely packed the bristles are) and buffs out any streaks or uneven application. It does quick work but it's difficult to maneuver due to the big brush head and flat surface.

Try: Real Techniques Buffer Brush, Charm Luxe Flat Top Brush