Of all the tools that are essential for keeping us looking our best, the humble foundation brush should never be overlooked. After all, nothing can ruin a great look quite as quickly as a harsh, un-blended line or some patchy concealer. And while it might seem like every brush more or less does the same thing, that actually couldn’t be further from the truth.
“The type of foundation brush you select is super important and can impact the desired coverage and finish,” Sabena Collier, makeup artist and Bobbi Brown Pro Artist, tells BEAUTYCON. The type of bristles, density of the bristles, and application method can all dramatically impact how your foundation sits on the skin. Depending on your desired look, finding the right brush is paramount.
When you’re shopping for a foundation brush, there are a few very important factors to consider, explains Collier. It all comes down to your skin, and your preferences. “For more textured skin that has acne, scarring, or enlarged pores, I’d recommend using a damp makeup sponge. The softness of the sponge helps the product to apply evenly onto the skin. For application, use light tapping or bouncing motions,” says Collier.
“For a sheerer application of foundation, I would suggest using a less dense foundation brush or sponge. This allows you to control the amount of product you’re adding to the skin using light sweeping or gently pressing motions. For a medium to full coverage, I would suggest using a denser or flatter foundation brush. This will allow you to apply more product with a seamless application.”
So whether you prefer “no-makeup makeup” or a full beat, here are the 10 best foundation brushes and sponges you can use to get a flawless base.
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Refy Duo Face Brush
Why get one brush when you could get two? This double-sided Refy brush can be used for many different products and techniques. For foundation, you can use the denser side for precise application and more concentrated product. The stippling brush is excellent for lighter coverage tinted moisturizers, or even for feathery blush.Available at Sephora
This foundation brush costs a pretty penny, but there’s a reason it’s one of the best reviewed on the market. It uses dense, synthetic fibers that make it easy to blend out even thick products, like stick foundation. This is one of the softest foundation brushes you can find, so your morning routine practically feels like a soothing facial.Available at Sephora
For the makeup novice, you can’t go wrong with this simple blending brush. Whether you dab on a hint of concealer in the mornings or opt for a full face, you can use this brush for all your liquid and cream products, never leaving behind streaks or brushstrokes. Available at Sephora
Lady Gaga’s Triclone Skin Tech Foundation went viral on TikTok, so it’s no surprise that the accompanying foundation brush is just as worthy of our attention. Designed to be used with liquid products, this brush makes it easy to place and buff out your foundation with its ultra-soft bristles.Available at Sephora
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Makeup by Mario F4 Dual-Ended Foundation and Face Brush
As a celebrity makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic knows how important a perfectly blended base is for his clients. He created this dual-ended brush, and unsurprisingly people are obsessed. One end denser and allows for precise product application, while the other is made to seamlessly blend foundation into the skin.Available at Sephora
When Beautyblender first launched its iconic, pink egg-shaped sponge, they changed the makeup world. Stippling on foundation with a dampened sponge is one of the best methods to create a fully-blended, dewy look. Even if you apply most of your products with a brush, going over your makeup again with this Beautyblender and a light hand can help everything melt together.Available at Sephora
Makeup brushes are a staple tool, but so many of them are outlandishly expensive. While we love a splurge, blended foundation doesn’t need to come with a massive price tag. This brush is $8 and is dual-sided, which means you’re getting a massive deal. Not only can you apply your foundation with this, but the smaller end is perfect for concealer. Available at Ulta
For makeup lovers, we know to always trust Bobbi Brown and her products. This foundation brush was designed to leave behind a flawless base, and it’s a favorite of expert artists. “I personally enjoy using a denser foundation brush. My go-to for myself and clients is Bobbi Brown’s Full Coverage Face Brush. It gives me the most flawless and seamless foundation application every single time,” says Collier.Available at Nordstrom
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Chanel Les Pinceaux de Chanel Retractable Foundation Brush No.103
Is there anything worse than your makeup brushes staining the inside of your bag? Whether you need to blend on the go, or you’re packing for a trip, this luxury brush is a must-have. It has feathery bristles that make it easy to blend out your makeup, but the packaging is next level. When you’re finished with your makeup, just retract the brush into its compact, so you’ll never have to worry about foundation messes again.Available at Nordstrom
In the world of makeup brushes, MAC has been doing it right for longer than most. This is a great multi-purpose brush that can be used for foundation, blush, and cream bronzer–or any other cream or liquid product in your routine. The medium-density bristles mean you can get a light finish or heavier application, depending on your preference.Available at Nordstrom
