How to: Finding a decent make-up brush

The small amount of brushes in my collection :)

I'm not sure about you, but when I search for a decent make-up brush the brushes are only available online or overseas. They are usually really expensive and that's not even including shipping! So today, I thought I would give out advice on what to look for in a make-up brush in your local chemist, supermarket or local make-up store. So have no fear! Amy's advice is here!

What should I look for?
Look for a brush which is made from good quality fibers. The softer and higher density of the fibers in a brush usually means that the brush is better quality.

How big should the brush be?
That depends. If your looking for a powder brush, then go for a wide brush which which is filled with thick, soft and a high density of bristles. The larger brush means you can cover more area and the high density of bristles allow you to collect more powder. If your looking for a blush brush then go for one which is roughly the size of the apples on your cheeks. Again, make sure the brush has a high density of fibers. Eye brushes

How do I know that the fibers won't fall out of the brush?
Most drug and make-up stores have their brushes on display. If this is the case then I recommend the 'squeeze' test.  Pinch the top of the brush and gently pull. If bristles fall out then you know the brush is not at the highest of qualities. If the bristles are firmly in place even after pulling a little harder, then the bristles are unlikely to fall out any time soon. However, if the brushes aren't on display and you are still  not sure then I would recommend to read reviews online. Some bloggers might have used the brushes and put their thoughts about them on their blog.

Why is the density of fibers important?
If you want an even complexion and a brush which allows you to blend easily, then the density of fibers matters. The higher the density, the smoother and easier the application will be.

Does the length of the handle matter?
It doesn't matter at all. It all depends on which one you like best.

How do i know if the brushes are environmentally friendly?
Usually on the back of the packaging they will exemplify that their products are not made or tested on animals. With many advances in technology, the bristles in the brushes are made from very fine pieces of fiber. So they are just as soft if not softer as what make-up brushes use to be made from. The other end of the brushes are usually made from wood. You can also get alternative such as metal and bamboo which are more environmentally friendly.

Does weight matter?
No, it doesn't matter. Again, it is completely up to you and how you prefer your brushes.

I'm just starting out in make-up brushes, what do you suggest to get me started?
I would recommend starting off with drugstore brushes then going all out for the ones from MAC. You can usually get them in packs which is great if your just starting out. Start getting use to the techniques of make-up brushes before you start going all out on high end brands.

I hope this helps some of you out there. The brushes seen in the picture above are my absolute favourites. they are all good quality and are easy to blend foundation and eye shadows.

Here are some links for the brushes I use:
Real Techniques Flawless Core Collection
Real Techniques Duo Fiber Collection
Nude by Nature Professional Brush Kit

Have fun!

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