Makeup Brushes every beginner should own
Here are the 10 essential brushes I recommend for beginners. Listed them in the order to buy them (starting with the most versatile), explained how to use each, and added quick shopping notes for Pakistani buyers.
1. Foundation brush (tapered or flat-top buffing brush)
Use: Ideal for applying liquid or cream foundations evenly and blending away streaks. A dense, tapered or flat-top brush creates a smooth, airbrushed finish.
Pro tip: Dot foundation on your face, then buff it in with circular motions for a seamless look. Synthetic bristles work best for liquids and creams.
Why beginners need it: Gives more control and faster application than fingers, with smoother results. Experts agree synthetic brushes are best for creams.
2. Beauty sponge (makeup sponge)
Use: Perfect for sheering out foundation and blending concealer for a natural, skin-like finish.
Pro tip: Dampen before use to reduce product absorption and get a dewy look. Great for blending around the nose and under eyes.
Why beginners need it: Very forgiving — even uneven strokes blend into a soft, natural finish.
3. Concealer brush (small, slightly tapered)
Use: For precise concealer placement under the eyes or on blemishes.
Pro tip: Pat (don’t swipe) to avoid disturbing foundation. The small tip helps reach inner corners easily.
Who What Wear
4. Powder brush (large, fluffy)
Use: For setting powder or light bronzer application.
Pro tip: Tap off excess powder, then sweep gently for a soft, natural finish without looking cakey.
5. Blush brush (domed, medium density)
Use: For blush and soft contouring. The rounded or angled shape helps place color on the apples of your cheeks.
Pro tip: Smile, sweep blush across the apples, and blend upward along the cheekbones for a lifted effect.
6. Contour/bronzer brush (angled or small tapered)
Use: Adds depth and definition using cream or powder contour. The angled design follows cheekbones for easy sculpting.
Pro tip: Apply lightly and build up slowly. Blend thoroughly to avoid harsh lines. Synthetic brushes suit creams; natural ones suit powders.
7. Eyeshadow flat brush (shader)
Use: For packing color onto the eyelids — a must-have for beginners.
Pro tip: Pat color on instead of swiping for better pigment payoff.
8. Eyeshadow blending brush (fluffy crease brush)
Use: For blending and softening edges in the crease. Essential for smooth, polished eye looks.
Pro tip: Use gentle, windshield-wiper motions with a light touch. Blending is about softening, not erasing.
9. Small angled brush (for brows and liner)
Use: For filling brows or applying gel eyeliner. Multi-use and affordable.
Pro tip: Use short, hair-like strokes for brows; slightly dampen for a sharper liner effect.
10. Lip brush or small detailing brush
Use: For precise lipstick application and correcting edges. Also great for detailed concealing.
Pro tip: Helps apply bold shades evenly and precisely, extending lipstick wear.
Looking for quick shopping tips for buyers in Pakistan? Here’s a handy guide to get you started!
Start with a small set: Consider picking up a starter set with 5 to 10 pieces. These are usually budget-friendly and offer good quality for beginners. You can find both local and imported sets quite easily.
Synthetic vs natural bristles: If you're using creams or liquids, synthetic brushes are your best bet—they're easier to clean too! Natural bristles tend to be softer for powders but can be a bit pricier. For those just starting out, synthetic sets are highly recommended.
Where to buy: Check out Nuvari.pk for a dedicated makeup category filled with affordable beauty items. You can also explore large marketplaces like Daraz, local beauty shops, and specialized beauty stores in Pakistan for brush kits. Just remember to compare reviews and check the return policies before making a purchase.
Brush care: Keeping your brushes clean is essential (and dermatologist-approved!). Dirty brushes can collect bacteria, leading to breakouts or irritation. It’s best to wash brushes used for liquids (like foundation or concealer) weekly, and give all your brushes a deeper clean once a month. Use a gentle antibacterial brush cleaner, mild shampoo, or even your facial cleanser. Rinse, reshape, and lay them flat to dry—just avoid soaking the handles to protect the glue.
Quick cleaning routine:
Daily: Give your brushes a quick wipe with a brush cleanser spray or a clean tissue to remove any surface product.
Weekly: Deep clean them with a gentle cleanser, rinse until the water runs clear, reshape the bristles, and let them dry flat.
Replacement guideline: Keep an eye on your brushes! If they start shedding excessively, lose their shape, or have an odor even after cleaning, it’s time to replace them. Experts suggest swapping out makeup brushes every 1 to 2 years, and sooner for well-used synthetic tools. Regular cleaning can help extend their lifespan.
Quick starter pack suggestion (what to buy first): If you’re looking to start with just 4 to 5 items, here’s a solid list:
- Foundation brush (or sponge)
- Powder brush
- Blending eyeshadow brush
- Flat eyeshadow shader brush
- Angled brow/liner brush
With these, you’ll have everything you need to create a full face and practice your techniques.
Final tips for beginners: Instead of buying a bunch of single-use brushes, invest in one versatile brush that can do multiple
