The 7 Best Makeup Brushes, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Tamara Staples

People / Tamara Staples

A good makeup brush can create the illusion of no-makeup makeup — smoothing out unwanted bumps, blending away discoloration, and creating a streak-free finish. Whether your skills rival those ofprofessional makeup artistsor lie somewhere south of “what end of the brush do I hold,” a high-quality makeup brush can enhance your overall application.To help you find your next favorite makeup brush, our testers brought 15 makeup brushes to an in-house glam studio, brushing foundation across their faces to test the best uses for each brush and see where they fell short. After each mini-makeover, they evaluated the brush’s design, application results, and how easy it was to clean.Experts SayTheMAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brushstole our top spot and the hearts of makeup artists, One describes it as, “A cordless airbrush since it buffs and blends any formula perfectly!” —Gregory Arlt,celebrity makeup artist.He tells PEOPLE he loves the precision of this brush for clients likeCarly Rae Jepsen,Nicole Scherzinger, andFran Drescher.Read on for the best makeup brushes that PEOPLE Tested.Our Top PicksBest Overall:MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush at Nordstrom$42Jump to ReviewBest Budget:e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush at Amazon$7Jump to ReviewBest Investment:It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6 at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest for Foundation:Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush at Tartecosmetics.com$32Jump to ReviewBest for Contour:Lune+Aster Foundation Brush at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest for Powder:Real Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 Brush at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest for Coverage:Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest Foundation for Mature Skin:Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation at Sephora$43Jump to ReviewBest Contour Kit:MAC Cosmetics Contour Palette at Amazon$47Jump to Review

A good makeup brush can create the illusion of no-makeup makeup — smoothing out unwanted bumps, blending away discoloration, and creating a streak-free finish. Whether your skills rival those ofprofessional makeup artistsor lie somewhere south of “what end of the brush do I hold,” a high-quality makeup brush can enhance your overall application.

To help you find your next favorite makeup brush, our testers brought 15 makeup brushes to an in-house glam studio, brushing foundation across their faces to test the best uses for each brush and see where they fell short. After each mini-makeover, they evaluated the brush’s design, application results, and how easy it was to clean.

Experts SayTheMAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brushstole our top spot and the hearts of makeup artists, One describes it as, “A cordless airbrush since it buffs and blends any formula perfectly!” —Gregory Arlt,celebrity makeup artist.He tells PEOPLE he loves the precision of this brush for clients likeCarly Rae Jepsen,Nicole Scherzinger, andFran Drescher.

Experts Say

TheMAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brushstole our top spot and the hearts of makeup artists, One describes it as, “A cordless airbrush since it buffs and blends any formula perfectly!” —Gregory Arlt,celebrity makeup artist.He tells PEOPLE he loves the precision of this brush for clients likeCarly Rae Jepsen,Nicole Scherzinger, andFran Drescher.

Read on for the best makeup brushes that PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush at Nordstrom$42Jump to ReviewBest Budget:e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush at Amazon$7Jump to ReviewBest Investment:It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6 at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest for Foundation:Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush at Tartecosmetics.com$32Jump to ReviewBest for Contour:Lune+Aster Foundation Brush at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest for Powder:Real Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 Brush at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest for Coverage:Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest Foundation for Mature Skin:Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation at Sephora$43Jump to ReviewBest Contour Kit:MAC Cosmetics Contour Palette at Amazon$47Jump to Review

Best Overall:MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush at Nordstrom$42Jump to ReviewBest Budget:e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush at Amazon$7Jump to ReviewBest Investment:It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6 at Amazon$50Jump to ReviewBest for Foundation:Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush at Tartecosmetics.com$32Jump to ReviewBest for Contour:Lune+Aster Foundation Brush at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest for Powder:Real Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 Brush at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest for Coverage:Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush at Amazon$27Jump to ReviewBest Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to ReviewBest Foundation for Mature Skin:Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation at Sephora$43Jump to ReviewBest Contour Kit:MAC Cosmetics Contour Palette at Amazon$47Jump to Review

Best Overall:MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush at Nordstrom$42Jump to Review

Best Overall:MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush at Nordstrom$42

Best Overall:

Best Budget:e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush at Amazon$7Jump to Review

Best Budget:e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush at Amazon$7

Best Budget:

Best Investment:It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6 at Amazon$50Jump to Review

Best Investment:It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6 at Amazon$50

Best Investment:

Best for Foundation:Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush at Tartecosmetics.com$32Jump to Review

Best for Foundation:Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush at Tartecosmetics.com$32

Best for Foundation:

Best for Contour:Lune+Aster Foundation Brush at Amazon$38Jump to Review

Best for Contour:Lune+Aster Foundation Brush at Amazon$38

Best for Contour:

Best for Powder:Real Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 Brush at Amazon$9Jump to Review

Best for Powder:Real Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 Brush at Amazon$9

Best for Powder:

Best for Coverage:Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush at Amazon$27Jump to Review

Best for Coverage:Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush at Amazon$27

Best for Coverage:

Best Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38Jump to Review

Best Face Primer:Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer at Amazon$38

Best Face Primer:

Best Foundation for Mature Skin:Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation at Sephora$43Jump to Review

Best Foundation for Mature Skin:Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation at Sephora$43

Best Foundation for Mature Skin:

Best Contour Kit:MAC Cosmetics Contour Palette at Amazon$47Jump to Review

Best Contour Kit:MAC Cosmetics Contour Palette at Amazon$47

Best Contour Kit:

Best OverallMAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant BrushPHOTO: Nordstrom$42 at NordstromView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at BloomingdalesStar QualitiesSynthetic vegan bristlesVersatile toolContours to the faceRed FlagsExpensive (but not overpriced, given the quality)Every beauty guru has a go-to tool in their kit, and the MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush is the one many makeup artists reach for. Celebrity makeup artistAnton Khachaturiantells PEOPLE this brush is “the ultimate complexion tool,” and fellow MUAJamie Greenbergrecommends placing your product “with the chiseled flat part and [blending] it with the amazing bristles.” Receiving a perfect score in design, application, and ease of cleaning in our testing, this makeup brush was a clear standout.Our tester loved its synthetic vegan bristles that were soft on her skin, but densely packed to avoid absorption and subsequent makeup loss. The shape also received praise for its ability to “get into the contours of your face” and reach tricky spots (such as around the nose).Designed for foundation, cream contour, blush, and powder, this brush is a universal tool to keep in your glam kit. Our tester said the MAC brush applied foundation quickly and simultaneously created a “beautiful and smooth” finish. Its versatility makes this brush ideal for your daily beauty routine — and as a bonus, it’s easily cleaned with soap and a quick rinse.Though our tester didn’t find any flaws with the brush, it does have a high price tag. While it’s more expensive than a drugstore pick, we firmly believe the cost matches the value.Shape:Dome, round |BrushMaterial:Synthetic vegan fibers |Uses:Coverage, contour |Designed For:Powder, cream, or liquid formulasPeople / Tamara Staples

Best OverallMAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant BrushPHOTO: Nordstrom$42 at NordstromView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at Bloomingdales

Best OverallMAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush

Best Overall

MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush

PHOTO: Nordstrom

$42 at NordstromView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at Bloomingdales

Star QualitiesSynthetic vegan bristlesVersatile toolContours to the faceRed FlagsExpensive (but not overpriced, given the quality)

Star QualitiesSynthetic vegan bristlesVersatile toolContours to the face

Synthetic vegan bristles

Versatile tool

Contours to the face

Red FlagsExpensive (but not overpriced, given the quality)

Expensive (but not overpriced, given the quality)

Every beauty guru has a go-to tool in their kit, and the MAC 170 Synthetic Rounded Slant Brush is the one many makeup artists reach for. Celebrity makeup artistAnton Khachaturiantells PEOPLE this brush is “the ultimate complexion tool,” and fellow MUAJamie Greenbergrecommends placing your product “with the chiseled flat part and [blending] it with the amazing bristles.” Receiving a perfect score in design, application, and ease of cleaning in our testing, this makeup brush was a clear standout.

Our tester loved its synthetic vegan bristles that were soft on her skin, but densely packed to avoid absorption and subsequent makeup loss. The shape also received praise for its ability to “get into the contours of your face” and reach tricky spots (such as around the nose).

Designed for foundation, cream contour, blush, and powder, this brush is a universal tool to keep in your glam kit. Our tester said the MAC brush applied foundation quickly and simultaneously created a “beautiful and smooth” finish. Its versatility makes this brush ideal for your daily beauty routine — and as a bonus, it’s easily cleaned with soap and a quick rinse.

Though our tester didn’t find any flaws with the brush, it does have a high price tag. While it’s more expensive than a drugstore pick, we firmly believe the cost matches the value.

Shape:Dome, round |BrushMaterial:Synthetic vegan fibers |Uses:Coverage, contour |Designed For:Powder, cream, or liquid formulas

Best Budgete.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation BrushPHOTO: Target$7 at Amazon$7 at Target$7 at WalmartStar QualitiesWorks well around the eyes and noseEffective at applying liquid and powder productsRed FlagsRather smallHigh-quality beauty tools don’t have to break the bank. This e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation brush offers a sophisticated design, versatility, and easy maintenance for an affordable price. Our tester raved about the soft bristles, which are made from vegan synthetic fibers rather than animal hair. The tapered shape allowed easy access to the contours and grooves of her face, noting that it works best around the eyes and nose.The e.l.f. makeup brush is designed to work with alltypes of foundations— powder, cream, and liquid — and applies each effortlessly. Our tester appreciated how it blended her foundation “quickly and smoothly, without blotchiness.“While rinsing the bristles was easy, they did retain a faint stain from the makeup color. Our tester also said she’s used to big brushes, and this one was a little small for applying product to larger areas on her face.Shape:Dome, tapered |BrushMaterial:Synthetic vegan fibers |Uses:Buffing, blending |Designed For:Powder, cream, or liquid formulasPeople / Tamara Staples

Best Budgete.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation BrushPHOTO: Target$7 at Amazon$7 at Target$7 at Walmart

Best Budgete.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush

Best Budget

e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brush

PHOTO: Target

$7 at Amazon$7 at Target$7 at Walmart

Star QualitiesWorks well around the eyes and noseEffective at applying liquid and powder productsRed FlagsRather small

Star QualitiesWorks well around the eyes and noseEffective at applying liquid and powder products

Works well around the eyes and nose

Effective at applying liquid and powder products

Red FlagsRather small

Rather small

High-quality beauty tools don’t have to break the bank. This e.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation brush offers a sophisticated design, versatility, and easy maintenance for an affordable price. Our tester raved about the soft bristles, which are made from vegan synthetic fibers rather than animal hair. The tapered shape allowed easy access to the contours and grooves of her face, noting that it works best around the eyes and nose.

The e.l.f. makeup brush is designed to work with alltypes of foundations— powder, cream, and liquid — and applies each effortlessly. Our tester appreciated how it blended her foundation “quickly and smoothly, without blotchiness.”

While rinsing the bristles was easy, they did retain a faint stain from the makeup color. Our tester also said she’s used to big brushes, and this one was a little small for applying product to larger areas on her face.

Shape:Dome, tapered |BrushMaterial:Synthetic vegan fibers |Uses:Buffing, blending |Designed For:Powder, cream, or liquid formulas

Best InvestmentIt Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6PHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon$50 at Nordstrom$50 at QVCStar QualitiesSleek designApplies all types of products effortlesslyEasy to cleanRed FlagsWe couldn’t find anyThough designed for powder products, this brush worked flawlessly with liquid foundation during our tests (so it gets bonus points for versatility). Our tester loved the flat top design of this brush as well as the weight of the handle.The soft but dense bristles allow the foundation to sweep across your face without losing much product en route. “It’s a good size for blending foundation onto any part of your face,” our tester said, noting the streak-free finish.This brush aced our cleaning test, with all of the foundation rinsing out quickly and fully. While we hesitated at the price, sometimes you need to treat yourself — and this is worth it.Shape:Flat top, dome |Brush Material:Synthetic hair |Uses:Blending, contour |Designed For:Loose and pressed powdersPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best InvestmentIt Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6PHOTO: Amazon$50 at Amazon$50 at Nordstrom$50 at QVC

Best InvestmentIt Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6

Best Investment

It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Buffing Foundation Brush #6

PHOTO: Amazon

$50 at Amazon$50 at Nordstrom$50 at QVC

Star QualitiesSleek designApplies all types of products effortlesslyEasy to cleanRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any

Star QualitiesSleek designApplies all types of products effortlesslyEasy to clean

Sleek design

Applies all types of products effortlessly

Easy to clean

Red FlagsWe couldn’t find any

We couldn’t find any

Though designed for powder products, this brush worked flawlessly with liquid foundation during our tests (so it gets bonus points for versatility). Our tester loved the flat top design of this brush as well as the weight of the handle.

The soft but dense bristles allow the foundation to sweep across your face without losing much product en route. “It’s a good size for blending foundation onto any part of your face,” our tester said, noting the streak-free finish.

This brush aced our cleaning test, with all of the foundation rinsing out quickly and fully. While we hesitated at the price, sometimes you need to treat yourself — and this is worth it.

Shape:Flat top, dome |Brush Material:Synthetic hair |Uses:Blending, contour |Designed For:Loose and pressed powders

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for FoundationTarte Foundcealer Foundation BrushPHOTO: Sephora$32 at Tartecosmetics.com$32 at Macy’sStar QualitiesCurved design helps blend seamlesslyDense bristlesGreat multi-purpose brushRed FlagsBetter results with liquid over powderIf a sponge is not cutting it, you’ll want to opt for the Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush as an alternative for foundation application. The fluffy dome-shaped brush head is densely packed with soft, synthetic bristles that seamlessly blend your liquid foundation into your skin for a natural finish.This blending brush scored well in design, application, and more, especially when it came to liquid foundation (and according to the name, it should work just as flawlessly with concealer, too). The densely packed bristles are short, which allows for a more concentrated and controlled blend than a longer-haired brush, which may leave unsightly brushstrokes on your skin. Our tester also noted how “light and easy it was to hold,” as some brushes felt awkward in their hand.This brush is the whole package if you’re looking for an option that will work for both your foundation and concealer, making it a one-stop shop for all of your base makeup needs. But if you prefer powder foundation over liquid, you may not get the same airbrushed effect, as these bristles blend best with liquid foundations.Shape:Dome |BrushMaterial:Synthetic fibers |Uses:Coverage, blending |Designed For:Liquid foundation, concealerPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for FoundationTarte Foundcealer Foundation BrushPHOTO: Sephora$32 at Tartecosmetics.com$32 at Macy’s

Best for FoundationTarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush

Best for Foundation

Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush

PHOTO: Sephora

$32 at Tartecosmetics.com$32 at Macy’s

Star QualitiesCurved design helps blend seamlesslyDense bristlesGreat multi-purpose brushRed FlagsBetter results with liquid over powder

Star QualitiesCurved design helps blend seamlesslyDense bristlesGreat multi-purpose brush

Curved design helps blend seamlessly

Dense bristles

Great multi-purpose brush

Red FlagsBetter results with liquid over powder

Better results with liquid over powder

If a sponge is not cutting it, you’ll want to opt for the Tarte Foundcealer Foundation Brush as an alternative for foundation application. The fluffy dome-shaped brush head is densely packed with soft, synthetic bristles that seamlessly blend your liquid foundation into your skin for a natural finish.

This blending brush scored well in design, application, and more, especially when it came to liquid foundation (and according to the name, it should work just as flawlessly with concealer, too). The densely packed bristles are short, which allows for a more concentrated and controlled blend than a longer-haired brush, which may leave unsightly brushstrokes on your skin. Our tester also noted how “light and easy it was to hold,” as some brushes felt awkward in their hand.

This brush is the whole package if you’re looking for an option that will work for both your foundation and concealer, making it a one-stop shop for all of your base makeup needs. But if you prefer powder foundation over liquid, you may not get the same airbrushed effect, as these bristles blend best with liquid foundations.

Shape:Dome |BrushMaterial:Synthetic fibers |Uses:Coverage, blending |Designed For:Liquid foundation, concealer

Best for ContourLune+Aster Foundation BrushPHOTO: Amazon$38 at Amazon$38 at Bluemercury.comStar QualitiesErgonomic handle for easy applicationShort bristles are easy to care forWorked well on all areas of the faceRed FlagsHigher price tagIf you’re looking for a brush to go with yourcontour kit, this brush will create shape and definition on your face. With lavishly soft bristles and an angled shape, the Lune+Aster brush is perfect for contour. The synthetic vegan bristles were a hit with our testers, and the short ergonomic handle made it easier to apply pressure and control the brush strokes.This brush earned a perfect score across all of our tests and applied product equally well across large facial areas as well as tight spots around the nose and under the eyes. Suitable for liquids, sticks, and powders, this brush can blend out any formula to achieve a smooth and even result.And after you apply your makeup, “the product squeezes right out of the short bristles, making the cleaning process quick,” our tester said. As with some others on our list, this makeup brush is expensive, but we think the price reflects the value.Shape:Angled, dome |Brush Material:Vegan fibers |Uses:Contour, coverage |Designed For:Liquid, stick, or powder foundationsPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for ContourLune+Aster Foundation BrushPHOTO: Amazon$38 at Amazon$38 at Bluemercury.com

Best for ContourLune+Aster Foundation Brush

Best for Contour

Lune+Aster Foundation Brush

$38 at Amazon$38 at Bluemercury.com

Star QualitiesErgonomic handle for easy applicationShort bristles are easy to care forWorked well on all areas of the faceRed FlagsHigher price tag

Star QualitiesErgonomic handle for easy applicationShort bristles are easy to care forWorked well on all areas of the face

Ergonomic handle for easy application

Short bristles are easy to care for

Worked well on all areas of the face

Red FlagsHigher price tag

Higher price tag

If you’re looking for a brush to go with yourcontour kit, this brush will create shape and definition on your face. With lavishly soft bristles and an angled shape, the Lune+Aster brush is perfect for contour. The synthetic vegan bristles were a hit with our testers, and the short ergonomic handle made it easier to apply pressure and control the brush strokes.

This brush earned a perfect score across all of our tests and applied product equally well across large facial areas as well as tight spots around the nose and under the eyes. Suitable for liquids, sticks, and powders, this brush can blend out any formula to achieve a smooth and even result.

And after you apply your makeup, “the product squeezes right out of the short bristles, making the cleaning process quick,” our tester said. As with some others on our list, this makeup brush is expensive, but we think the price reflects the value.

Shape:Angled, dome |Brush Material:Vegan fibers |Uses:Contour, coverage |Designed For:Liquid, stick, or powder foundations

Best for PowderReal Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 BrushPHOTO: Ulta$9 at Amazon$11 at Walmart$12$11 at Jcpenney.com

Best for PowderReal Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 Brush

Best for Powder

Real Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation 3-in-1 Brush

PHOTO: Ulta

$9 at Amazon$11 at Walmart$12$11 at Jcpenney.com

Star QualitiesAdjustable brush levelsLight to full coverageRed FlagsHad to smooth certain areas more than once

Star QualitiesAdjustable brush levelsLight to full coverage

Adjustable brush levels

Light to full coverage

Red FlagsHad to smooth certain areas more than once

Had to smooth certain areas more than once

There are many different uses for powder: you can set an area with translucent powder, lock in your look with a finishing powder, or opt for a powder foundation. The Real Techniques Custom Complexion Foundation brush is a standout because of its versatility. Though this brush can be used for liquids, we’ve found that its prowess is in powder application.

We used the mini lever on the handle to switch the brush’s length and density. Minimum (the longest bristle-length setting) is best for light swathes of powder to set your liquid foundation, whereas maximum, the shortest brush level, allows the bristles to be more compact and dense for more concentrated coverage. “I really liked that I could use the max setting to really build coverage quickly in certain areas,” our tester said. The mid-level is for everything in between.

The versatility of this brush is unbeatable, which is why our testers approved of this style even though they felt the bristles fell a bit short compared to some of the others. “The quality of the bristles could be better, but the flexibility of use makes up for it,” they said. If you’re looking for a brush that can take on all of your powders, this is it.

Shape:Dome |Brush Material:Synthetic fibers |Uses:Sheer to full coverage, blending |Designed For:Powder, tinted moisturizer, foundation, concealer

PHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for CoverageReal Techniques Blend + Blur BrushPHOTO: Ulta$27 at Amazon$10 at WalmartView on Realtechniques.comStar QualitiesExtremely smoothingEasy-to-hold handleSeamless blendingRed FlagsMay work better with liquid vs. powderThough unconventional in design, this foundation brush did a standout job of creating some serious coverage. Our tester compared the simple yet ergonomic handle to that of a toothbrush.The brush has a densely packed oval head of stiffer bristles, but our tester reported that they were not rough on their skin. The compact brush head allowed for a seamless blend and easy buildup of coverage, which was a huge benefit of this brush. “I was able to get decent coverage without having to continuously add more makeup,” they noted, appreciating the flawless finish. “I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to build up even coverage.“Based on our experience, this brush would perform best with liquid products over powder. The density of the bristles helped to work the liquid onto the skin with a smooth finish, whereas powder may be easily picked up in this process, potentially creating patches or an uneven texture. But if liquid foundations are the name of your game and you appreciate an easy-to-use brush, then this could be your new go-to.Shape:Oval, dome |Brush Material:Synthetic fibers |Uses:Full coverage, blending |Designed For:Cream or liquid foundationPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for CoverageReal Techniques Blend + Blur BrushPHOTO: Ulta$27 at Amazon$10 at WalmartView on Realtechniques.com

Best for CoverageReal Techniques Blend + Blur Brush

Best for Coverage

Real Techniques Blend + Blur Brush

$27 at Amazon$10 at WalmartView on Realtechniques.com

Star QualitiesExtremely smoothingEasy-to-hold handleSeamless blendingRed FlagsMay work better with liquid vs. powder

Star QualitiesExtremely smoothingEasy-to-hold handleSeamless blending

Extremely smoothing

Easy-to-hold handle

Seamless blending

Red FlagsMay work better with liquid vs. powder

May work better with liquid vs. powder

Though unconventional in design, this foundation brush did a standout job of creating some serious coverage. Our tester compared the simple yet ergonomic handle to that of a toothbrush.

The brush has a densely packed oval head of stiffer bristles, but our tester reported that they were not rough on their skin. The compact brush head allowed for a seamless blend and easy buildup of coverage, which was a huge benefit of this brush. “I was able to get decent coverage without having to continuously add more makeup,” they noted, appreciating the flawless finish. “I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to build up even coverage.”

Based on our experience, this brush would perform best with liquid products over powder. The density of the bristles helped to work the liquid onto the skin with a smooth finish, whereas powder may be easily picked up in this process, potentially creating patches or an uneven texture. But if liquid foundations are the name of your game and you appreciate an easy-to-use brush, then this could be your new go-to.

Shape:Oval, dome |Brush Material:Synthetic fibers |Uses:Full coverage, blending |Designed For:Cream or liquid foundation

While picking out a new set of makeup brushes, check out our other PEOPLE-Tested beauty winners. Our editors and independent testers put each product through rigorous testing to present you with only the best options on the market.

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.comDior Backstage Face & Body Foundation$43 at SephoraView on Dior.comView on Harrods.comMAC Cosmetics Contour Palette$47 at AmazonView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at Macy’sBeauty Bakerie Flour Setting Powder$26 at Amazon$26$22 at Nordstrom$14 at Target

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer

$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation$43 at SephoraView on Dior.comView on Harrods.com

Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

$43 at SephoraView on Dior.comView on Harrods.com

MAC Cosmetics Contour Palette$47 at AmazonView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at Macy’s

MAC Cosmetics Contour Palette

$47 at AmazonView on Maccosmetics.com$42 at Macy’s

Beauty Bakerie Flour Setting Powder$26 at Amazon$26$22 at Nordstrom$14 at Target

Beauty Bakerie Flour Setting Powder

$26 at Amazon$26$22 at Nordstrom$14 at Target

What to Know About Makeup Brushes

Material

There are several factors that play into the design of a makeup brush, and bristle material is a big one. Bristles can be synthetic or natural, which will determine the texture and cost. Natural bristles are sourced from animal fur (squirrel, sable, goat, etc.), which can be difficult to acquire and more labor-intensive — thus, the higher price tag. Synthetic bristles are manufactured from various fibers and polymers and are often as soft as their real counterparts. Considering the ethical controversy around the use of animal fur (and the cost!), many brands have re-evaluated their bristle choices.

Shape

The brush shape (and size) can affect your application, so to figure out what shape you’ll need, you must consider the brush’s use. For contour, you’ll want a sharper angled brush for hard-to-reach spots like around the nose. On the other hand, for a daily makeup brush, a medium-sized flat brush will be most effective at blending foundation across your face in large strokes to avoid any streaks.

Density

The density of the bristles is a key component in an effective makeup brush. If you’re using liquid makeup, likebronzing dropsor cream foundation, you need a brush with densely packed bristles to keep the formula from seeping into the brush, never to be seen again (until wash day). A powder product like blush or bronzer will coat the top of the bristles, so you’ll want a looser brush to sweep the granular makeup across your face.

Cost

Though some makeup brushes can cost you a Benjamin (crickets), you don’t need something that expensive to create a beautiful finished look. Certain materials, sizes, and brands will affect the final price, but if you’re looking for a quality makeup brush to apply and blend foundation, there are great options for every budget, like thee.l.f. Cosmetics Buffing Foundation Brushthat retails for less than $10.

Eleven beauty aficionados were treated to midday makeovers as they tested 15 of the most popular makeup brushes on the market. To find picks for our list, they considered the design, application, and ease of cleaning for each brush.

Frequently Asked QuestionsThere aremakeup brushes for foundation, concealer, contour, powder, and blush. In general, larger and fluffier brushes should be used for the face, whereas smaller, thinner brushes should be used on the eyes for eyeshadow. A large, fluffy blush can handle all kinds ofbeauty products— everything from setting powder to bronzer and blush — but we recommend having different brushes for these products so you’re not accidentally bronzing where you’re trying to blush.Beginners will do well with a simple set of makeup brushes, including a larger, fluffier, long-bristled brush for loose powder (like finishing powder and bronzer); a separate fluffy brush for blush; a large, yet dense brush for foundation andundereye concealer; and a small, tapered brush for eyeshadow. You can do just about anything with these four brushes.It depends on the look you are going for, but bothmakeup spongesand brushes work interchangeably to blend your face makeup. Brushes often provide a sheerer, yet more airbrushed finish, whereas sponges are best for concentrated coverage. It depends on the level of coverage you desire, though you can find brushes that provide fuller coverage, as well. With adequate storage space in yourmakeup organizer, you can keep a few of both.

Frequently Asked Questions

There aremakeup brushes for foundation, concealer, contour, powder, and blush. In general, larger and fluffier brushes should be used for the face, whereas smaller, thinner brushes should be used on the eyes for eyeshadow. A large, fluffy blush can handle all kinds ofbeauty products— everything from setting powder to bronzer and blush — but we recommend having different brushes for these products so you’re not accidentally bronzing where you’re trying to blush.

Beginners will do well with a simple set of makeup brushes, including a larger, fluffier, long-bristled brush for loose powder (like finishing powder and bronzer); a separate fluffy brush for blush; a large, yet dense brush for foundation andundereye concealer; and a small, tapered brush for eyeshadow. You can do just about anything with these four brushes.

It depends on the look you are going for, but bothmakeup spongesand brushes work interchangeably to blend your face makeup. Brushes often provide a sheerer, yet more airbrushed finish, whereas sponges are best for concentrated coverage. It depends on the level of coverage you desire, though you can find brushes that provide fuller coverage, as well. With adequate storage space in yourmakeup organizer, you can keep a few of both.

Our Expert Panel

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com