Makeup brushes Archives - Detroit Duchess

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.