Before you begin doing make-up on yourself, you need to be familiar with the right tools. With good tools, you can manage the amount of colour you want, blend the colours and correct small mistakes. Even the finest cosmetics will look streaky when applied with sub-standard applicators.
Do try to buy only natural hair brushes. Natural hair is kinder to your face, lasts longer, maintains its shape and allows you to control the application . The weight of natural hair also gives a brush the best balance. Pony, goat, sable, camel and squirrel hairs are the most commonly used in brushes.
Below is couple of makeup brushes that you should be aware of;
Eyeliner Brush
This thin, fine tipped brush is used wet to turn your eyeshadow into an eyeliner or apply cake eyeliner . A brush made of sable will be resilient, not too soft, and holds its point. If you have blemishes, you can buy a 2nd brush and use it to dot cover up on the trouble spots for further coverage after you’ve applied your foundation .
Eyeshadow Sponge
An eyeshadow sponge will apply shadow more profoundly than the brush, therefore it is best for applying light to medium colours or any shadows wherever you want more coverage. A clean sponge is also great for blending stubborn edges, erasing mistakes or for smudging eyeliner to soften its effect . Eye sponges are not as costly , so you will want to have several . Be sure the applicator is made of cosmetic grade sponge which is smooth to the touch. If the sponge looks very porous or is harsh, do not buy it.
Eyeshadow Brush
This fluffy brush is a miniature version of your blusher brush. The same shape and hair, it will give you a light application of eyeshadow, and is especially good for dark colors where you do not want too much. You can also use it for blending.
Blusher Brush
The blusher brush is one of your most important tools. Smaller than the powder brush but comparable in shape and composition, it’s used to blend and apply your blusher. This brush preferably should contain some sable, as sable has decent body to help ‘move’ the blusher where you want it on your cheek. Correct placement of your blusher is vital , so please do not skimp on the quality of your blusher brush.
Powder Brush
This is the biggest brush in your collection, it is used to fluff on loose or pressed powder. It should be slightly rounded in shape and very full . Select soft hair such as pony, squirrel, goat or a combination.
In addition to these brushes, there are numerous other tools you will need from the pharmacy.
Cosmetic sponge, cotton wool balls or pads, cotton wool buds, tissues. Now you have everything you need to become your own makeup artist.