Using the Right Tools: The Secret to Flawless Makeup

When it comes to the final results of makeup application, I can't stress the importance of using the right tools. From foundations to eyeshadows, the type of brushes you use are going to make the difference in how makeup lays down on your skin, and the finish you achieve. If you are doing makeup for a photo shoot or other event where your face is going to be on display, it is imperative that your makeup looks flawless in all types of lighting. Your applicators and the tools you use, along with high quality products are the key.

I've definitely learned through trial and error what tools are best for what. Doing makeup is an ever-evolving process and you learn as you go. Here is a list of my top makeup application tools:

• Sephora airbrush foundation brush
• Sephora airbrush concealer brush
• Sponge makeup wedges and sponge applicators
• Beauty blender
• Powder Puff
• Rounded crease brush and angled crease brush
• Large flat eyeshadow brush
• Eyeliner brush
• Blush brush
• Kabuki brush
• Angled contouring brush
• Fan brush
• Fluffy eyeshadow brush for blending
• Smudge brush
• Stippling brush like the MAC 187 brush
• Eyebrow brush

My brush collection includes many more brushes than these but the brushes and applicators listed here are my top go-tos. Here some makeup tips that will help you get the most out of your products:

• For foundation application use a foundation brush with densely packed bristles that allows you to buff the product into your skin in a circular motion, which gives a smooth, even finish. Another option is the Beauty Blender which is a small, hand held specially designed sponge that you moisten and then use to sponge foundation into the skin. 
• A concealer brush such as Sephora's platinum collection airbrush concealer brush is ideal for flawlessly buffing concealer into the under eye area (cream or liquid).
• Instead of using a big fluffy brush to swirl loose powder on your face after applying foundation, opt for a powder puff and gently press the powder into the skin with the puff. This seals the foundation rather than disrupting it through swirling a brush over the face after foundation application. You will also find that applying powder with a puff will cause your makeup to look fresh longer. This is really important for the flawless look necessary for photo shoots. 
• A rounded crease brush is essential for achieving a seamless, blended look in the crease of the eye. This is my favorite eyeshadow brush!
• Use a quality blush brush to apply powder blush to the apples of the cheeks.
• Makeup wedges are great for applying a lighter shade of powder to the the undereye area to set concealer that you've applied there. Then sweep off the excess powder with a fan brush. 
• Use a fine eyeliner brush to apply gel eyeliner precisely and create a winged cat eye effect
• A densely bristled angled eyebrow brush is ideal for apply brow powder to your brows to fill in sparse hairs. Don't draw your eyebrows on! Use a light hand to create a bit of shape with an eyebrow pencil and then do the majority of the filling in with a good brow powder. I like MAC eyebrow pencil in Spiked and NYX eyebrow cake powder kit.

I encourage everyone to visit Ulta or Sephora and pick up some of these brushes and applicators and try them out at home. The brushes can be a bit pricey but it is worth the investment. The sponges and puffs can be purchased at Ulta for under $10. You will be amazed at the difference in how your makeup looks!