Expert-Approved: 23 Best Makeup Brushes Of 2024 With Buyer’s Guide
The right tools combined with your skills can pave the way for the makeup artist in you.
Oscar Velazquez is a professional makeup artist who specializes in a wide range of makeup styles, including bridal, editorial, fashion, and special effects. His deep understanding of different skin tones and facial features helps him tailor his makeup applications to enhance and highlight his clients’ unique beauty.
Read full bio of Oscar Velazquez
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
Read full bio of Srijita De
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
While looking for the best makeup brushes, you need to keep certain things in mind. They are constantly being innovated with the ever-changing makeup trends, and you need a brush set that takes care of all your makeup needs. Your brush set should have them all, from larger brushes for blush and foundation to precision brushes for intricate makeup looks. Besides, you need different brushes for makeup techniques such as contouring and highlighting. Although there are many makeup brushes available in the market, a brush that is expertly crafted with soft bristles and has a lightweight design is ideal. A durable and versatile makeup brush set is the only smart choice. We have listed our top picks of makeup brushes and added tips on maintaining them below. Take a look!
In This Article
23 Best Makeup Brushes Of 2024 – Reviews And Buyer’s Guide
1. Best Overall:BS-MALL Makeup Brushes
This assorted makeup brush set has synthetic nylon bristles that are soft and silky. It makes makeup application easy and effortless. These brushes are firm and designed to offer a secure hold. This set covers the essentials for every makeup enthusiast who wants precision, from blending brushes to tiny eyebrow brushes. This set consists of 5 big kabuki makeup brushes and 9 precise eye makeup brushes. Their handles are made with a trendy rose gold-colored alloy and wood. Check out this video detailing a reviewer’s experience with this set, before buying it.
- High quality
- Gentle on the skin
- Durable
- Covers all sizes and shapes
- Well-shaped brushes
- Assorted set for complete makeup application
- Cruelty-free
- Good for buffing and blending
- The brushes shed quickly
2. Best Affordable:BESTOPE Makeup Brushes
Bestope Makeup Brushes are versatile and well-designed. This set has 5 big kabuki makeup brushes and 11 precise makeup brushes. This set of budget-friendly makeup brushes is perfect for both professional makeup artists as well as beginners. These makeup brushes have soft, dense fibers that blend the product well. This set is great for sculpting, contouring, shading, and highlighting. Its handles offer a good grip. Check out this video on YouTube to watch a detailed review of the brush.
- Cruelty-free
- Affordable
- Premium quality
- Good grip
- Not durable
Pro TipWhen applying powder foundation, use a brush with fluffy bristles. But apply liquid foundation with a flat brush or a narrow brush packed with dense bristles.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 6,617 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
3. Best Durable:BEAKEY Makeup Brush Set
This complete set of essential makeup brushes is perfect for professional and home use. It comes with a non-latex beauty sponge which is cruelty-free. It is super soft and can be used wet and dry. The set also contains a makeup brush cleaner egg that is made with eco-friendly materials. It is easy to use and keeps your makeup brushes sparkling clean. Many reviewers agree that the bristles of the brushes are made of soft, dense fibers that do not absorb any product. They also last longer as they don’t shed easily. The classic black handles with a silver aluminum ferrule offer a comfortable grip. These non-slip, good-quality makeup brushes make for great travel accessories and gifts. Check out this video to explore a tester’s experience of using the set, before buying it.
- Do not shed
- Durable
- Cruelty-free
- Sturdy handles
- Comes with a makeup brush cleaner
- Unpleasant smell after washing
4. Best Travel-Friendly:EmaxDesign 12 Pieces Makeup Brush Set
Makeup is an art! And the proper brushes can help you create something unique so you can manifest your style. That’s why you need the EmaxDesign makeup brush set that contains 12 handmade brushes with synthetic fibers. The handles of the brushes are made of high-quality bamboo which is durable. The bristles feel soft and luxurious on the skin. These brushes are easy to carry and store. They can be cleaned and maintained without much effort. That’s not all, the set has received rave reviews from its users on different e-commerce sites who claim that the brushes last for a long time.
- Hand-crafted
- Portable
- Travel-friendly
- High-quality
- Durable
- Bristles clump easily
5. Best For All Types Of Makeups:USpicy Makeup Brush Set
This 32-piece professional makeup brush set is perfect for blending, shading, contouring, and highlighting. Their bristles are made with high-quality fibers that do not shed easily. Thus, this long-lasting brush set is a great purchase for anyone who is looking for reasonably priced makeup brushes. Whether you are applying foundation or drawing wings on eyelids, this perfect makeup brush set will help you do it effortlessly. Many reviewers love these premium makeup brushes as they have long handles and soft bristles. Even beginners can use them easily. They come in a beautiful matching black travel case so you do not lose or misplace any of them.
- High quality
- Suitable for all types of makeup
- Comes with a travel pouch
- No shedding
- Suitable for beginners
None
6. Best Lightweight:Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set
This award-winning makeup brush set by Real Techniques consists of 4 versatile brushes and a Miracle Complexion Sponge. These high-quality, cruelty-free products conceal, blend, and highlight with ease and precision. They help in picking and distributing the product evenly for a smooth, statement-making finish. They can be used to apply foundation, blush, concealer, bronzer, highlighter, and eyeshadow. The bristles of each brush are custom-suited for their application – short, dense bristles for blending and soft, fluffy bristles of the highlighter brush. The Miracle Complexion Sponge is a latex-free foam sponge that offers a flawless airbrushed finish. This set also comes with accessories like a cleansing palette and a gel for extending the life of the makeup brushes.
- Cruelty-free
- High quality
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
None
7. Best For Sensitive Skin:VANDER LIFE 24 Pieces Premium Makeup Brush Set
Vander Life Premium Makeup Brush Set is made with cruelty-free, soft, and dense synthetic fibers that are gentle on even the most sensitive skin. This makeup set equips you to use various makeup products – such as creamy foundations, concealers, setting powders, and eyeshadows – without product wastage. These brushes do not absorb the product and come in all shapes and sizes for complete makeup coverage. Their champagne wood handles have a matte finish and a chrome ferrule that offer excellent coverage. These brushes do not shed easily, making them highly durable.
- Cruelty-free
- Comes with a travel makeup bag
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Long-lasting
- Has a chemical odor that fades over time
RememberMake sure you use the makeup brush carefully; pressing too hard can not only damage the bristles, but can also ruin your makeup.
8. Best Comfortable Grip:Syntus Makeup Brush Set
Syntus Makeup Brush Set has handles made of durable wood with a rose gold aluminum ferrule that is trendy and functional. It helps in offering a firm, secure grip while applying makeup. The premium synthetic fibers on the brushes are soft, dense, and fluffy, which helps in blending and coverage. This makeup set is skin-friendly. It comes with a brush cleaner that helps in maintaining and extending the life of the brushes.
- Skin-friendly
- Functional design
- Durable
- Comfortable grip
- Comes with a brush cleaner
None
9. Best Cruelty-Free:EcoTools Duo Eyeshadow Makeup Brush Set
These eco-friendly brushes are vegan, cruelty-free, and made with recycled materials. They have bristles made of bamboo fibers, which are durable and safe for the skin. This high-quality dual-ended brush set has 4 brush heads that are effective as blending or smudging brushes. The soft brushes and firm handles make this brush set a favorite among both professional and amateur makeup artists.
- Cruelty-free
- Made of recycled materials
- Tree-free packaging
- Vegan brushes
- Travel-friendly
- High quality
None
10. Best High-Quality:Daxstar Yuwaku Professional Makeup Brush Set
Daxstar Yuwaku Professional Makeup Brushes are made of high-density, soft nylon bristles that are gentle on your skin. These bristles are odor-free and do not shed easily as they have protective caps. They are sturdy as the handles are made of theaceae wood and aluminum. These stylish nylon brushes come in a bag that is easy to carry and store.
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Bristles don’t shed, fray or break easily
- High quality
- Odor-free
- Come with a storage bag
- Fluffy brushes are flimsy and thin
11. LADES Makeup Brush Set
This unique gradient-colored makeup brush set will be a gorgeous addition to your beauty collection. The set consists of 12 different nylon brushes, each suited for a specific purpose. Their handles are made of plastic, which is durable. This set comes in a beautiful pink portable cylindrical box. This protects the brushes from damage and dirt. Many reviewers have testified that these brushes are a perfect gift for beginners as they are easy to use, clean, and maintain.
- Easy to clean
- Dry quickly
- Soft bristles
- Comes with a storage case
- Uneven bristle length
12. CINDIY Makeup Brush Set
CINDIY Makeup Brush Set consists of 20 high-quality makeup brushes with synthetic fibers that are soft and gentle on the skin. They do not irritate the skin and are safe to use on the most sensitive skin types. These durable brushes pick the product easily and help in uniform application. They are easy to clean and use.
- High quality
- Affordable
- Offer even application
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Does not shed
- No fluffy brushes
13. Docolor Makeup Brushes
Docolor Makeup Brushes are high-quality brushes that are a favorite among both professional and amateur makeup artists. These affordable makeup brushes are soft and firm – perfect for flawless application. This complete assortment of brushes caters to all your makeup needs. The brushes are exquisitely crafted with sustainably sourced wood that is durable and scratch-resistant. It comes with a portable Pu Leather multipurpose case that helps you organize your makeup without cluttering.
- High quality
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Long-lasting
- Reasonably priced
- Precise application
- Skin-friendly
- Firm bristles
- Durable handles
None
14. LEDeng Funfunman Makeup Brushes
These quirky mermaid makeup brushes add a touch of femininity and adventure to your makeup collection. These handmade brushes have premium-quality synthetic fiber bristles that are soft and skin-friendly. The dense bristles ensure good product hold and application while the handles offer a comfortable grip. These brushes are hand-assembled and are suitable for both professional and home use. These colorful makeup brushes are easy to use and clean.
- High quality
- Dense bristles
- Does not irritate the skin
- Hand-assembled
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Bristles fall out easily
15. UNIMEIX Makeup Brushes
UNIMEIX Makeup Brushes come in a flirty floral case that keeps your brushes clean and organized. The floral case rolls up to save space. Thus, it is portable and travel-friendly. These premium-quality brushes are made of cruelty-free elastic bristles that are soft. Their smooth wooden handles are comfortable to use. These brushes are suitable for sensitive skin as they do not cause skin irritation.
- Cruelty-free
- Travel-friendly
- Easy to clean
- Skin-friendly
- Durable
- Bristles shed over time
16. ALIMICE Professional Makeup Brushes Set
The Alimice Professional Makeup Brushes Set includes 14 brushes designed especially with soft bristles suitable for sensitive skin. It is designed to suit beginners’ and professionals’ needs. The fine hair texture with even brush layers goes with all types of products-powder, liquid or creamy. Each brush comes with a conical design allowing you to hold the brush and apply makeup conveniently. The thick aluminum tube fixed to the handle prevents the loss of the bristles and makes them durable. Moreover, the set comes in a travel storage case which becomes a holder when opened.
- Soft bristles
- Carry case
- Durable handle
- No shedding
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- None
17. Zoreya Makeup Brushes
Zoreya Makeup Brushes come in a set of 15 makeup brushes that are ideal for blending, shading, contouring, and highlighting. The large brushes with their thick, dense synthetic fibers help in applying foundation and powders without wasting any product. The small brushes help with precise application required for eye and lip makeup. The skin-friendly bristles do not shed easily and help you achieve that flawless finish. The high-quality wood handles ensure durability and a secure grip.
- Dense bristles
- Do not cause irritation
- No shedding
- High quality
- Does not absorb makeup products
- The bristles are slightly stiff
18. SIXPLUS 15 Pieces Coffee Makeup Brush Set
SIXPLUS 15 Pieces Coffee Makeup Brush Set is designed with elegance and function in mind. Their high-end bristles are a mix of synthetic, goat, and horse hair that blends the makeup well. These brushes are suitable for most skin types and do not cause any irritation. The exotic coffee-colored timber handles ooze luxury. These brushes come in a high-quality magnetic storage box. It is easy to open and close. The compact case is stylish and can be used as a makeup stand on your vanity dresser. This handmade makeup brush set is perfect for traveling. It makes for a thoughtful gift too!
- Handmade
- Elegant design
- Comes with a magnetic storage box
- Suitable for all skin types
- Travel-friendly
- Made with high-quality materials
None
19. NEVSETPO Quality Makeup Brushes
These lightweight, hypoallergenic makeup brushes have premium synthetic wool bristles that do not shed easily. These soft brushes do not absorb excess product, thus preventing wastage and ensuring effortless application and seamless blending. The solid wood handle is durable and comfortable to use. Its lustrous paint is stylish and does not fade quickly. This set comes in a travel-friendly pouch.
- Easy to clean
- Streak-free application
- Flawless coverage
- No shedding
- Non-chemical odor
- Non-allergenic
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Average quality
20. Maange Makeup Brushes
The Maange Makeup Brushes are hand-crafted with velvety bristles. The kit includes 10 different-sized brushes, 4 for makeup and 6 for eye makeup. They are suitable for beginners and professionals. Each brush is designed with a wooden handle, aluminum tube, and wool bristles. The brushes come in a compact storage case that opens into 2 compartments for easy organization. The rose gold color of the brushes looks stylish and they are a perfect gifting option too.
- Storage container
- Durable handle
- Soft bristles
- Travel-friendly
None
21. Tenmon Unicorn Shiny Gold Diamond Makeup Brush Set
Tenmon Unicorn Shiny Gold Diamond Makeup Brushes are stylish, quirky, and Instagram-worthy. Their high-quality synthetic fiber bristles are soft and delicate. They are gentle on the skin and do not shed. These pretty brushes are durable and easy to use. They pick up the product easily and effortlessly. The handles are strong and offer a comfortable, non-slip grip.
- Premium quality
- Easy to use
- Dense bristles
- Do not shed
- Beautiful packaging
- The bristles are too soft
22. Daxstar Makeup Brush Set
Daxstar Makeup Brushes are made of silky soft, high-quality bristles that glide smoothly on your skin. These gentle bristles do not cause any irritation, making them safe for sensitive skin. They pick up product without any wastage. For exceptional results, use the brushes in a dabbing motion instead of dragging them across the skin. This brush set is suitable for beginners and professionals alike. They are easy to clean and maintain. The brushes come in a portable poly bag, making it travel friendly.
- High quality
- Dense bristles
- No shedding
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Portable and travel-friendly
- The bristles are not firm
23. Eigshow Premium Makeup Brush Set
This gorgeous jade green makeup brush set from Eigshow has 8 high-quality brushes with 100% synthetic nanofiber bristles. These durable, lightweight brushes have thin profiles that help in applying makeup with precision. These vegan, odor-free brushes make for an ideal gift.
- Vegan
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
- Durable
None
Those were our top picks of makeup brushes available on the market right now. If you are wondering how to pick the best makeup brushes for your needs, we have you covered. Check out all you need to know about the brush materials, bristles, and all the different types of makeup brushes in the sections listed below.
Material Of The Bristles
- Synthetic: These brushes work best for creams or liquid formulas as they don’t soak up the product.
- Natural:Natural bristles are an excellent choice for applying powders such as blush or eyeshadow as they hold the powder well and help in effortless application.
Types Of Makeup Brushes And How To Use Them
There are different types of makeup brushes for different makeup products and techniques. A foundation brush can be used to apply foundation, while an eyeshadow brush is made for applying eyeshadow. If you are wondering what an angled brush or pencil brush is used for or if a concealer brush can only be used to apply concealer, check out the list given below.
| Type of Brush | Use | |
| 1 | Powder Brush | Gently dusting loose powder products, such as powder foundation, across your face. |
| 2 | Tapered Foundation Brush | The precise application of foundation, highlight, or blush. |
| 3 | Stippling Brush | Creating a flawless, airbrushed look. |
| 4 | Kabuki Brush | Applying loose powder or body shimmer. |
| 5 | Contour Brush | To achieve angular, defined cheekbones and facial structure. |
| 6 | Silicone | To seamlessly apply foundation and blend products. |
| 7 | Beauty Blender | Applying wet and dry foundation, blush, highlighter, and concealer. Works well for liquid formulas. |
| 8 | Fan Brush | Applying highlighter, brushing away makeup mistakes, and blending out dark lines. |
| 9 | Blush Brush | For the application of blush to get that fresh-faced, youthful rosiness. |
| 10 | Eyeshadow Brush | Applying color to your eyelids. |
| 11 | Angled Eye Shadow Brush | For smudging and contouring eye makeup. |
| 12 | Eye Shadow Crease Brush | For creating the illusion of depth and adding dramatic contrast to your base lid color. |
| 13 | Eyeliner Brush | For adding a liner to achieve a fuller lash line or cat-eye look. |
| 14 | Brow Brush | Used for taming and styling your brows. |
| 15 | Mascara Wand | To apply mascara to your upper and lower lash lines. |
| 16 | Lip Brush | To precisely apply lipstick, gloss, and other lip products. |
| 17 | Lip Liner Brush | To apply lip liner before main lipstick or gloss application. |
It is important to regularly replace makeup brushes. However, this is dependent on various factors. We have identified some of them in the following section to make your job easier.
When To Buy Replacement Makeup Brushes
- Broken Handles: Loose or broken handles are inconvenient to use and may harm you. It is better to reinvest in a new, durable makeup brush.
- Loose Ferrules: The glue dries up sometimes, or water enters the ferrules and dissolves the glue. Either way, a loose ferrule is a sign that it is time to change the brush.
- Shedding: As a rule of thumb, keep replacing your brush regularly as the bristles shed off over time due to wear and tear. If you notice that the density of the brush is waning, replace the brush as it can lead to patchy makeup application.
- Bristles Losing Their Integrity: When the bristles do not come back to their original shape after washing and drying them, it means it is time to replace the brush.
The next important question is regarding makeup brush maintenance. We have explained brush cleaning in detail in the next section.
How To Clean Your Makeup Brushes
- Run the synthetic bristles of the brush under warm running water. (Do not use hot water as it can damage the bristles.)
- Apply a small amount of gentle facial cleanser, brush cleaner, or baby shampoo to the synthetic bristles and work into a light lather.
- Rinse the bristles thoroughly under running water. You will notice that the water leaving the brush is tinted with old makeup.
- Continue rinsing until no product remains on the brush.
- Allow the brush to air-dry.
- Keep the brush head down when you are cleaning it and make sure the water does not run over the metal tube, especially avoiding the handle crack.
Lastly, let’s check out how to store your makeup brushes.
How To Store Your Makeup Brushes
Try to keep the brushes away from water and dust. Generally, they come in brush storage cases or pouches that protect them from damage. Keep them organized in this case or pouch after use. This also prevents you from losing the brushes.
The Bottom Line
Makeup artist Oscar Velazquez, adds, “Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, investing in high-quality makeup brushes is a must. They truly elevate your makeup routine and allow for limitless creativity. From foundation brushes that provide an airbrushed look to eyeshadow brushes that effortlessly blend and define, these brushes are essential tools for any makeup enthusiast.” Opt for the BESTOPE Makeup Brushes as they are durable, easy to clean, and suitable for both beginners and professionals. Try the Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set for custom-suited professional-grade brushes and the latex-free foam sponge or the EcoTools Duo Eyeshadow Makeup Brush Set for the effective blending or smudging brush heads. “Trust me, once you experience the difference these brushes make, you’ll never go back. Get ready to take your makeup game to the next level!”
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Baishali Bhattacharya, is a certified makeup expert who is always on top of the latest makeup trends. She compiled a comprehensive and detailed list of the top products after surveying every product review and user feedback. The purpose of these sturdy, durable and lightweight makeup brushes is to ensure smooth application of makeup products.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many makeup brushes do you need?
While most makeup professionals have 20-21 brushes, you may even work with seven brushes for your facial makeup. This includes a foundation brush, concealer brush, blush or powder brush, brow brush, medium and small eyeshadow brushes, and a lip brush.
Is it worth buying expensive makeup brushes?
Yes, expensive, good-quality brushes offer professional-looking results for a picture-perfect finish.
Does it matter what makeup brush you use?
Yes, using the right makeup brush for each makeup step is necessary for the perfect application.
How often should you wash your makeup brushes?
If you use makeup regularly, clean your makeup brushes once every 10-14 days.
How long do makeup brushes last?
Makeup brushes can last for about 1-5 years, depending on their quality, how you clean and store them, and how often you use them.
Read full bio of Oscar Velazquez
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijita De
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
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