A Guide to Makeup Brushes: Which Ones to Use and When To Use?

Fan Brush: This brush actually has several uses. it can be used to apply blush, blend, clean up excess powder and highlight cheekbones.

Brow Brush: This is important when you are filling in your eyebrows. It is angled so that you can get even the thinnest areas of your brows.

Powder Brush: This is the most common of all brushes and should be in every makeup collection. It should be used to apply any type of powder foundation product.

Eye Blending Brush: This brush is perfect for blending in your eye shadow along the crease of your lids. 

Lip Brush: These brushes are typically tiny and allow lipstick or gloss to be applied more precisely to the lips. 

Kabuki: This brush is typically short with wide round or flat bristles. It is mostly used to apply mineral powder by using a circular motion to buff the powder into your skin. 

Angled Eye Brush: This brush can be used to define your eyes. It can be used with gel eyeliners or even along your crease to get a more precise line. 

Stippling Brush: This brush is a blend of synthetic fibers and goat hair. It is used for light powder, liquid or cream products. It can give you an airbrushed look when used with powder.

Eyeshadow Brush: Use this brush to apply any type of eyeshadow. The bristles are just right for eyeshadow application.

Angled Brush: These brushes are typically used to apply blush. They are similar to powder brushes in their firmness. 

Concealer Brush: This firm, narrow brush is tapered at the end and allows you to brush on concealer in a concentrated area. 

Flat Brush: This brush allows you to contour your cheeks (think Kim Kardashian). The corners allow you to apply color right beneath your cheekbones.

Smudge Brush: A smudging eye brush helps to obtain the coveted smokey eye. It has soft bristles that let you smudge a concentrated area.

Brow Brush and Comb: You can use this tool for both your eyelashes and brows. The brush will allow you to smooth your brows down and the comb side can be used to get clumps out of your lashes.

Angled Liner Brush: This thin brush will give you a precise line and allows you to choose the thickness of your liner.

Blending Sponge: Although this isn't a brush, a blending sponge is a great tool to use with liquid foundations. It gives your face a flawless, smooth finish. 

Blending Brush: You should use this brush once you have applied all of your face makeup. It will blend it all together to give your face an airbrushed effect.