Every time I head into my favorite makeup store to seek out something new, I find myself staring at the wall of brushes wondering which ones do I need and what do all of them do. Is there a one size fits all? What’s the most widely used? Are they really all that different? So let’s get right into this. I’ve chosen a few brushes that I feel cover most of the basics. Since MAC brushes tend to be the most popular, but can be quite pricey if you are just starting your collection, I will show a less expensive option that is almost identical. I refer to them as ‘dupes’.
The MAC 239 brush ($24.50) is a must have for applying shadow to the lid. It’s short, dense, flat bristles allow you to pack on the shadow for the best color payoff. The dupe is the Loew Cornell Maxine Mop 3/8. It’s actually an artists brush and is available at most craft stores like Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. It retails for $3.49 and is almost identical to the MAC 239.
The MAC 217 ($22.50) is a cult favorite. This is the workhorse brush. You can use it for adding shadow to the crease or lid. It’s also a great brush for blending edges. Some makeup enthusiasts have more than one 217 because it is so versatile. The dupe is by Crown Brushes and retails for $3.99. They are almost identical.
Next is the MAC 219 pencil brush ($24.50). This type of brush is for blending or smudging close to the lashline. If you want to create a smokey eye, this type of brush is a must. I use it to smudge out my liner on the top or bottom to create a softer line. I also use it to blend shadow on the top or bottom lash line for the smokey effect. You can also create a very defined crease with this brush. The dupe is the Sigma E30 Pencil brush for $9.99.
If you use a gel liner, you need a fine tip brush like the MAC 210 ($18.00). This gives you a very precise line. You can create a thick, winged cat-eye or a very thin line. The dupe is the Sonia Kashuk Bent Liner brush. It retails for $5.79 at Target.
The last brush can be used for both brow shadow or as an eyeliner brush. The MAC 208 ($19.50) is by far my favorite for filling in my brows. The angled tip is very fine and easy to work with. For those that aren’t comfortable using a fine tip liner brush, like the ones mentioned above, this brush is great for eyeliner as well. The dupe is the Sigma E 65. It retails for $9.00.
If I had to choose just a handful of brushes, these would be my must haves. Whether you are just starting your collection or want to add to it, I recommend having these. A good brush doesn’t have to be expensive, nor does it have to come from a makeup brand. It just has to do what you want it to. Now I want to know what YOUR favorites are!!
-Olive
The post Eye Makeup Brushes 101 appeared first on Ivory and Olive.
