Over the last few weeks I’ve been obsessed with YouTube MUA videos (that’s short for makeup artists which I just learned). Who knew there was so much drama in the MUA community?! I have watched way more videos about it than I care to admit haha! There is a common thread in all of these videos – a very specific set of makeup brushes. Each of the artists seems to have their favorite version but it left me wondering which set to get for myself.
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After watching so many makeup videos I am embarrassed at how sad my brush collection is. I probably have about 3 brushes that are nice enough to even share online. This prompted me to try and figure out what set I should invest in for myself. Some of the lines I’ve been looking at have a variety of sets but the others just sell them as individual brushes and you can build your own set with all of your favorites. Here is a list of must-have brushes to start your collection:
- Foundation Brush
- Concealer Brush
- Powder Brush
- Blush Brush
- Shadow Brushes
- Flat
- Fluffy
- Dome
- Small Angled Liner Brush
- Lip Brush
- Liquid Liner Brush
- Brow Brush
I’ve narrowed it down to five brands that I want to start building my collection with:
Smashbox
Smashbox Cosmetics is the OG in cosmetics started by the great-grandsons of Max Factor. I already have their Buildable Foundation Brush which isn’t too bad at $32.
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Bobbi Brown
As I’ve mentioned before, I am a huge fan of Michelle Money and her Youtube show the MMandL Show. This was where I was first introduced to Bobbi Brown’s brushes. I have the Ultra Fine Eye Liner Brush ($31).
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MAC
MAC is probably the beginner brush set for a good portion of the MUAs online. A good portion started out working at MAC so it makes sense. I have brush 217 – the Synthetic Blending Brush.
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Sigma
I haven’t used any Sigma brushes, but this is one of the brands the MUAs rave about. Sigma was created in 2009 by a molecular bacteriologist and civil engineer. I need a better brow brush and I hear that E75 Angled Brow Brush is great and you can’t beat the $17 price point.
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Morphe
Morphe was created in 2008 and is billed as the company started by MUAs and influencers. They do a ton of collaborations with prominent influencers. Their Bling Set ($49) would be a great way to start your collection.
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What are your favorite makeup brushes?
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