The hardworking make-up brushes that'll up your beauty game
- Posted by
- Lucy Partington
- Published
Stylist’s beauty editor profiles the new-generation tools you need in your makeup bag now.
Jump-start a well-rounded collection of brushes with Stylist’s guide to the crème de la crème of makeup tools. No kit is complete without them.
From flexi-handles for a precise application of lipstick to curved bristles for sculpting cheekbones, read on for our top picks…
Best for lipstick
Ainsel Yoga Brush
This handle flexes to allow a better grip, giving a superprecise application. It’s double-ended too, with a finer brush for lining and a thicker one for filling.
£23, ainsel.com
Best for contouring
Zoeva Luxe Contour Artist Brush
Curved to adjust to all face shapes, the cleverly cut bristles mould to cheek bones,making defining easy for any contouring novices.
£19.99, cultbeauty.co.uk
Best for powder
Sigma 30HD Max Kabuki
The triangular shape makes powder application foolproof, while the shorter side is ideal for buffing under the eyes without smudging eyeshadow.
£23.50, beautybay.com
Best for mascara
Morphe Metal Eyelash Definer Brush
Brushing lashes might seem high-maintenance but these metal teeth are the secret to clump-free mascara and a well-defined arch. They’re also good for separating lash extensions.
£3.50, morphe.com
Best for concealer
It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Magic Eraser Brush
Short, sharp, dense hairs have been custom-cut to blur away imperfections.Use in circular motions under the eyes and over blemishes to disguise them.
£22, selfridges.com
Best for eyebrows
NARS #52 Eyebrow Brush
The firm, tightly packed bristles of this brush perfectly blend powder, gel or cream formulas through eyebrows. Apply product direct to the brows, then brush back and forth a couple of times for a feathery finish.
£23, narscosmetics.co.uk
Best for cream blusher
By Terry Tool Expert Sponge Brush
Technically not a brush, nevertheless the curved, flattened edges of this sponge help to evenly diffuse cream blusher for the most natural looking of finishes.
£25, net-a-porter.com
Best for foundation
Estée Lauder Sculpting Foundation Brush
A short, lightweight wooden handle allows for greater control,while precision trimmed,curved bristles fit the contours of your face for seamless application.
£38, esteelauder.co.uk
Images: Ainsel / Cult Beauty / Beauty Bay / Morphe / Selfridges / NARS / Net-A-Porter / Estée Lauder