Top 10 Makeup Brushes

Just as you have a variety of cosmetics, you also need a variety of makeup brushes for application. Whether you are applying lipstick, foundation or eyeliner, each brush has a purpose to make sure makeup is blended and smoothed so you look your best.

There are two types of makeup brushes: natural-haired and synthetic. Natural -hair brushes vary in softness and come from animals like the squirrel (very fine or soft hair) to thicker from badger, sable or pony hair. Natural-hair brushes are best used with powder makeup, including blush, foundation powder or eye shadow but are often more expensive. Synthetic brushes are made of polyester and are more durable when used with cosmetics than natural-haired brushed because they are easier to clean and do not absorb pigment with constant use. These types of brushes are best used with creamy makeup and since they do not hold much powder, are suitable for light application.

Even if you only have a few brushes right now, it's ok. Eventually, add more brushes to your collection to make application even easier.

Here are the top 10 makeup brushes:

Large Powder Brush- The large powder brush is essential in applying pressed or loose powder over foundation. A larger brush, like a Kabuki brush, is also helpful when applying shimmer powder to the face, shoulder or cleavage area. Use a translucent powder over foundation to set it and keep makeup looking fresh all day.

Blush Brush- A blush brush is designed with rounded bristles to ensure your blush is nicely blended into the skin. Even if your blush comes with a mini-brush, don't use it. The lack of bristles and shape will not blend the powder into the skin properly. Instead, use a blush brush to apply color to hallows of the cheeks, and blend into the skin and hairline.

Fan brush- A fan brush is perfect when you want to blend loose powder or blush powder into the skin. The light bristles also help you wipe away any excess eye shadow powder that fell on the cheeks after application.

Large eye shadow brush- A larger eye shadow brushes helps get all-over color to the lid and brow area to ensure even coverage. Use the brush to apply a warm shimmer powder to the entire eye area.

Contour Brush- To get color into the eye crease, use a contour brush to create definition. Contour brushes also make blending eye shadow colors super easy.

Eyeliner brush- If you are a fan of smudgy or soft eyeliner, the eyeliner brush allows you to apply shadow to the lash area with precision. Run the brush into your favorite eye shadow color, and apply it to the lash line for a soft look.

Tapered Eyeliner brush- For those days you want the thin, precise look of liquid eyeliner, a tapered brush will get close to the lashes and allow you to apply gel or liquid liner in one easy movement.

Lip brush- Whether you prefer to apply lipstick with a brush or just want a precise application, a lip brush allows you to shape and fill in lips with color without making the lips look too heavy.

Eyelash brush- Once you put on mascara, use an eyelash brush/comb to remove clumps on the lashes. In a pinch, use a travel-sized toothbrush as a temporary eyelash brush. The brush will separate the lashes, making them look thicker and longer.

Eyebrow brush- This firm, short-bristled brush is best to use when applying eyebrow powder. The look is soft, which is perfect if you just need to fill in a few sparse areas. For more definition, however, use a pencil and eyebrow brush to soften the harsh lines.