Many years ago, my makeup brush collection consisted of several sponge applicators and a powder brush. How times have changed! Good brushes can really make a difference in how your makeup looks, but don't think you have to spend a fortune to get good results.
Real Techniques are budget friendly, high-quality, cruelty free brushes, designed by makeup artist guru Samantha Chapman. They have a wide range of brushes, and can be bought either singly or as part of one of their handy starter kits. I've been building up quite a collection over the past year and they are definitely my 'go to' brush brand!
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| L-R blush, stippling, setting, shading, fine liner |
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| L-R blush, stippling, setting, shading, fine liner |
I've picked out some of my favourites, all of which can be bought as single brushes and wanted to give you the lowdown on each of them.
Blush brush*: soft and fluffy with a slightly domed shape, this will work wonders for both cream and powder blushers. It helps to blend the product really well and gives a flawless finish. £8.99
Shading brush*: perfect for applying eye shadow, this is super soft, but small enough to apply with precision. I'm tempted to buy another so I always have one available when the other is being washed! £6.99
Setting brush*: this brush is great for applying a small amount of powder to set your makeup. The brush is quite small, so can be used in those more annoying to get to areas, such as the sides of the nose, and also doubles up well for applying highlighter to brow bones. £6.99
Fine Liner brush*: although I normally use a felt pen style liquid liner, I do occasionally use a cream one, and this fine liner brush is great for applying them. It has very slim bristles, which enables you to get a nice, thin line, right along the lashes. £6.99
Stippling brush*: - possibly my favourite of them all, this is a duo-fibre brush that feels so soft against the skin. It's perfect for applying all kinds of creams and powders and I often use mine for blusher, or to apply highlighter. For me, this is the perfect brush to give you a flawless look, as it almost airbrushes the products on to your skin. £9.99
Another brush that I couldn't live without (I haven't pictured as it's only available as one of the starter kits) is the Buffing brush. Similar in size to the stippling brush, but with much more closely packed bristles, the buffing brush is perfect for all types of foundation and gives the most flawless base effect I've found.
You can find Real Techniques online from Fragrance Direct, and also in store from Boots and Superdrug.
Have you tried this brand before?