From E.L.F. Cosmetics to Vieve – we test the best brushes to apply foundation
AS far as I’m concerned, nothing beats the finish and staying power you get from a brush when it comes to applying foundation.
Here are three of my favourites, to suit every pocket.
Budget
E.L.F. Cosmetics buffing foundation brush, £6, elfcosmetics.co.uk: I was pleasantly surprised by this affordable brush.
It is super-soft, densely packed and does not leave streaky lines.
It is on the smaller side, so also works well for blending out cream blush or contour.
But it sheds a little and does not wash too well.
So little and often is the best approach to cleaning if you want to preserve the bristles.
Other than that, I have no complaints.
This is a solid option if you are new to brushes and do not want to spend loads on getting the right tools.
Mid-range
Vieve 117 foundation brush, £26, cultbeauty.co.uk: This brush was created by pro make-up artist Jamie Genevieve and I knew I was going to love it before I even tried it.
The luxe wooden handle, gold trim and synthetic bristles that perform like natural ones (which hold on to and distribute product better) give a wow factor.
The hairs are slightly longer than the buffing brushes I like to use for foundation, which took some getting used to.
It means that you tend to use the side of the brush rather than the top of it to apply your make-up, but my complexion looked flawless once I had finished.
The longer bristles also mean it is great with powder products, which the others are not.
If you want that flexibility, then look no further.
Luxury
IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Perfection Brush No7, £36.50, cultbeauty.co.uk: I have used this brush for at least five years, both at my dressing table and from my make-up bag.
Its head is the biggest of the three brushes that I tried this week, which means you can apply your base faster while maintaining a good finish.
It cleans well and has yet to shed a single bristle.
Plus, it is double ended so you get a smaller brush – perfect for applying concealer– as well as the larger foundation brush.
It is expensive but really lasts and you are getting two great brushes for the price.
Pick of the week
HAILEY BIEBER’s skincare brand Rhode is now available in Britain.
With fans including beauty entrepreneurs Sabrina Elba, Rochelle Humes and Kim Kardashian, you know it’s got to be good.
Packed with peptides – the ingredients of the moment – that plump, repair and hydrate.
Make sure you add Rhode peptide lip treatment, £16, to your basket.
See rhodeskin.com.