We all love to invest in our favourite makeup products, from the best BB Creams and bronzers to our formidable foundations and mascaras, but what about the tools of the trade? Makeup brushes are an essential for any makeup routine. After all how are you supposed to apply your mineral powder foundation, or that much loved bronzer? Let alone your eyeshadow and blush. That’s right, from foundation to concealer, eyeshadow, cheeks and lips, there is a makeup brush for literally every makeup category, but how are you supposed to know which makeup brushes to use to nail that flawless makeup finish?
Keep reading as we reveal 5 tips to help you choose the right makeup brushes for you:

1. Consider the type of makeup you use vs the brushes shape and size

Different makeup products be it for example foundation or blusher require different makeup brushes. And the shape of the brush will determine the area of the face it is best suited for.
For example a large flat brush is best for applying liquid foundation, a large fluffy brush is perfect for powder foundation while a tapered (a brush that reduces in size and thickness towards the end) brush is best for precise application on smaller areas like under your eyes.

2. Look for high-quality brush bristles

Investing in high-quality makeup brushes will make all the difference in the application and longevity of your makeup. The bristles should be soft and durable, should not irritate the skin in any way, nor should they shed or lose their shape over time. Synthetic bristles are usually the best option because they are durable, easy to clean and hygienic. Synthetic brush bristles are usually made of nylon or polyester, however ELES Cosmetics’ range of professional makeup brushes are made from taklon, a “green” and allergy free synthetic fibre. Their smooth synthetic fibres do not absorb or trap pigment making it easy to keep clean. Makeup brushes with natural bristles are another option, however they are made with animal hair to provide a very soft finish.

3. Check the makeup brush handle

A comfortable handle is important to ensure steady and precise makeup application. Look for brushes with sturdy and easy to grip handles.

4. Consider your budget

There are a wide range of makeup brushes available in the market with varying price ranges. Decide on your budget and invest in good quality brushes as these will last you a long time.

5. Keep those brushes clean

Your makeup tools are meant to be washed. Besides bacteria, brushes also accumulate dead skin cells and oil which can clog your pores leading to skin irritation and pesky pimples! Also if you apply your makeup with a dirty bush the end result can be a streaky and patchy complexion! Clean brushes definitely make for a smoother makeup application!
You should clean your makeup brushes once a month by swishing them in a cup of warm water with a little shampoo. Rinse the brushes and lie them flat on a towel on the counter until they dry.

Still confused? Here are some of the most commonly used makeup brushes for the different makeup categories;

1. Foundation: A flat, densely packed brush or a beauty sponge is ideal for applying foundation. Try ELES Foundation Brush or Large Concealer Brush
2. Concealer: A small, pointed brush is best for applying concealer. A concealer brush has a small head and is ideal for targeting specific areas. Try ELES Small Concealer Brush or Tapered Detail Brush
3. Powder: A large fluffy brush is perfect for applying powder. Look for a brush with long, fluffy bristles that can pick up just the right amount of product. Try ELES Powder Brush
4. Blush: A medium-sized angled brush or a fan brush is great for applying blush. An angled brush allows you to apply blush precisely to your cheekbones, while a fan brush can be used to dust a light layer of blush over cheeks and other areas of your face. Try ELES Powder Blush Brush
5. Contour: A small, angled brush or a small fan brush is best for contouring. An angled brush allows you to apply the product in a precise line, while a fan brush can be used to dust a light layer of contour powder over the face. Try ELES Tapered Powder Brush
6. Eyeshadow: There are several brushes that are ideal for applying eyeshadow! Eek you might say, however this all depends on the look you are going for. A flat, dense brush is great for packing on colour, while a fluffy blending brush is perfect for blending out harsh lines. A small tapered brush can be used to apply eyeshadow to the crease or to smudge eyeliner. Try ELES Base Shadow Brush, Blending Brush and Small Tapered Blending Brush.
7. Eyeliner: A small, flat makeup brush or a pointed brush is perfect for applying eyeliner. An flat brush allows you to create precise lines, while a pointed brush is ideal for created a winged liner look. Try ELES Flat Definer Brush and ELES Small Eyeliner Brush

By following all these tips, you can choose the right makeup brushes that will help you achieve flawless makeup every time.