Of all the makeup brushes I own this one is definitely in my top three (the other two are eye brushes and interestingly both also MAC).
I first came across this particular brush about seven years ago. I was assisting a pro makeup artist on a shoot and she had about a dozen of them in her brush roll. I remember thinking how interesting she should have so many of the same brush. Once I learnt what it did and got to know its versatility, I was sold.
It is called a ‘Short Duo Fibre’ brush because the brush head it is made up of both natural bristles (black) and synthetic fibres (white).
What this means is that when product, be it cream or powder, is applied to the skin in circular motions, the synthetic fibres prevent the brush from picking up too much product thus resulting in a more even distribution.
I find it works best with cream products (foundations, cream blushes, cream contours and highlighters) and call it my ‘airbrush finish’ brush.
It is also affectionately known to my clients as ‘the Badger Brush’ 😉
Some tips on how I use it:
- Having applied liquid foundation using fingertips (always a crucial first step), work this brush all over the skin in small circular motions. Do not lift the brush as you do this but keep the brush pressed onto the skin at all times as you move it around.
- Once you have applied cream blush, use this blush to diffuse the outer edges.
- Same goes for highlighter and contour. Once your cream, liquid or powder highlighter or contour has been applied, use the brush to smooth over any ‘stripes’.
There is a reason this brush features time and time again when I work with clients. If you are someone or know someone who isn’t very good at applying foundation this will ensure they apply it evenly and smoothly. It is also simply a fabulous brush to have in your personal collection as people will look at it and think ‘I wonder what that is for’. It is then up to you whether or not you enlighten them 😉
THE FACTS
How much is it:
£34.50. If you prefer to keep your foundation brush in your everyday makeup bag I recommend getting this short handle version. Be sure to ask for the 130SH (SH = Short Handle).
Where can I buy it:
Online at maccosmetics.co.uk or your country’s MAC site if ordering from abroad, stand alone stores and MAC counters within larger retailers. It is worth checking calling your nearest MAC store beforehand to check the brush is in stock.
Who is it for:
Anyone who likes a polished finish to their skin, wannabe makeup artists or makeup lovers who will appreciate the ‘pro’ recommended tools.
Coming up tomorrow…
The liquid foundation I really didn’t think I would like, but ended up loving…
A bit more about my Advent Cal:
My advent-themed calendar is designed to give you, lovely reader, some ideas for presents this gifting season. The list is based on my Top 25 Beauty Buys of recent years. Of the 25 products which made the cut, some I have used for the first time this year and others I have been using for several years. The selection criteria for each product was as follows:
1. It is a product I have repurchased or know I will definitely repurchase at some point
2. It is an item I believe will genuinely make an awesome gift for someone this Christmas
This series is not sponsored and you should know that, like many makeup artists, I am one of the fussiest people I know when it comes to selecting and using beauty products. They have to blow me away. Hope you enjoy!