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What is a Foundation Brush?

Kasey James
Kasey James

A foundation brush is a medium-sized makeup brush that applies liquid, cream or powder foundation to the skin. The brush has a plastic handle and bristles on the end. Most foundation brush bristles are very soft to the touch. This kind of brush allows foundation makeup to be applied evenly on the face.

Some foundation brushes have short bristles, while others have longer bristles. Short-bristled brushes are generally used for cream or liquid foundations. Long-bristled brushes are used for powder foundations. The purpose of the brush is to create a smooth and even look on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin using foundation.

Makeup brushes were once used by professional makeup artists only, but now brushes are used by many people.
Makeup brushes were once used by professional makeup artists only, but now brushes are used by many people.

The foundation brush should be dipped into the foundation either using one side of the brush for a light look or both sides of the brush for a heavier look of the foundation. The tip of the brush bristles can be used for areas that are hard to reach. Hard-to-reach areas include the crevice of the nose, mouth or around the eyes.

There are many types of makeup brushes other than the foundation brush. Other types used to apply makeup are blush, eyeshadow, concealer and lipstick brushes. Makeup brushes were once used by professional makeup artists only, but now these brushes are used by many people. Each brush serves the purpose of making it easier to apply the makeup onto the face.

A foundation brush is often used to apply corrective concealer to discolored areas.
A foundation brush is often used to apply corrective concealer to discolored areas.

Foundation brushes and other brushes can harbor bacteria and other dirt. Excess makeup will eventually begin to build up on the brush, which can cause dirt or bacteria to be applied to the face. This kind of dirt can cause the face to break out with acne.

Keeping the foundation brush clean is important so the brush is bacteria-free. Washing brushes regularly with a mild soap will help to keep the bristles clean. Some brand-name brushes also sell their own makeup brush cleaner. The brushes should be rinsed clean with water. After brushes have been washed and rinsed, they can be patted dry.

There are many foundation and other makeup brushes on the market. These brushes can be purchased at stores that carry makeup. A foundation brush can be bought alone or in a set with other brushes for the face, eyes and lips.

The makeup brushes on the market range in price from very inexpensive to costly. The price of a foundation brush depends on the quality and brand name. Some foundations come with the brush as an entire kit.

Discussion Comments

Spotiche5

@ocelot60- I think that you should try purchasing a new, high quality foundation brush. Sometimes inexpensive brushes are more coarse than costly ones, and don't do a very good job when it comes to applying makeup evenly.

Raynbow

@ocelot60- If your foundation brush is old, getting a new one may do the trick. Sometimes makeup brush bristles fray when they get old, and don't allow foundation to be applied smoothly like they did when they were new.

Washing your foundation brush may also help to soften it up, which will allow you to get a smooth finish when you apply your foundation. Try washing it with warm water and the same soap that you use to wash your face. Then dry it thoroughly before you use it.

Ocelot60

I have a foundation brush but I really don't like the way it applies makeup. There are always streaks and clumps of foundation left even after I rub it in thoroughly. I'm wondering if I have the wrong kind of brush, or if I need a better foundation applicator.

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    • Makeup brushes were once used by professional makeup artists only, but now brushes are used by many people.
      By: Chris Tefme
      Makeup brushes were once used by professional makeup artists only, but now brushes are used by many people.
    • A foundation brush is often used to apply corrective concealer to discolored areas.
      By: roblan
      A foundation brush is often used to apply corrective concealer to discolored areas.
    • Some foundations are designed to be applied with a brush rather than with the fingertips.
      By: armina
      Some foundations are designed to be applied with a brush rather than with the fingertips.
    • Sharing make-up brushes with other people may spread bacteria and irritate eyelids.
      By: Minerva Studio
      Sharing make-up brushes with other people may spread bacteria and irritate eyelids.
    • Applying foundation using the fingertips may increase the chances of clogging the pores.
      By: Doruk Sikman
      Applying foundation using the fingertips may increase the chances of clogging the pores.
    • A foundation brush may be used to apply cream or powder foundation.
      By: Tanouchka
      A foundation brush may be used to apply cream or powder foundation.