With so many shapes, brands, and price tags, finding the best makeup brushes can be overwhelming. That’s why we searched and reviewed the top brushes for foundation, eyes, and more to help you find what you need right away! In this guide, we’ve included options for beginners, pros, and budget-savvy beauty lovers. Consider this your no-stress resource to brushes that really work!
Snap Guide
- Best beginner set: Real Techniques Everyday Essentials
- Best luxury brush: Sigma F80 Kabuki
- Best eyeshadow brush: MAC 217S Blending Brush
- Best travel set: e.l.f. Complete Mini Kit
- Cleaning tip: Wash every 7–10 days with a gentle brush cleanser
How to Choose the Best Makeup Brushes
The right brush should feel soft on your skin and let you apply products evenly. It should also last through repeated washes without shedding. Ideally, this brush should also work great with your chosen products: synthetic bristles for liquid and cream formulas or natural fibers for powders.
Despite the steeper tag prices, high-end brushes remain popular because of their luxe finishes. Thankfully; many budget-friendly dupes perform just as well, as long as you treat them with proper care.
The Best Makeup Brushes in 2025: Reviewed and Rated
Below are our top recommendations for each category: foundation, concealer, blush, eyeshadow, eyeliner, and all-in-one sets. We also included the suggested products for specific requirements.
Best Foundation Brush
Flat-top kabuki brushes remain the gold standard for a flawless base. The Sigma F80 delivers pro-level coverage, while Real Techniques’ version is a budget-friendly dupe.
Verdict: Get a Sigma F80 if you want a pro finish. For cost-conscious makeup artists, Real Techniques is a great budget dupe.
Best Concealer Brush
Look for small, tapered brushes to target areas under the eyes and cover blemishes. The Sephora Collection PRO Concealer #57 is precision-perfect and gentle on delicate skin.
Verdict: Buy this for spot concealing and for applications under the eyes.
Best Blush Brush
A fluffy, dome-shaped brush can seamlessly blend powder blush. The e.l.f. Angled Blush Brush is a top budget pick while MAC’s 168S remains a pro favorite.
Verdict: Buy e.l.f. Angled Brush Blush for everyday use; buy MAC 168S if you want the premium feel and can afford the similarly-premium price.
Best Eyeshadow Brush
Every kit needs a fluffy blending brush. The MAC 217S is legendary, while Real Techniques’ Eye Shade + Blend set is a drugstore win.
Verdict: Buy MAC 217S if you’re planning to invest in just one brush; buy Real Techniques as part of your starter kit.
Best Eyeliner Brush
Angled liner brushes make liquid or gel eyeliner easier. The Morphe M432 is firm yet flexible, delivering clean wings without skipping.
Verdict: Buy Morphe M432 if you’re struggling with gel/cream liners.
Best Multi-Tasking Brush Sets
For beginners, a capsule set is smarter than buying individual brushes. Real Techniques Everyday Essentials offers 5 must-have brushes under $20. For pros, Zoeva’s 15-piece set covers every technique with luxe precision.
Verdict: Buy Real Techniques Everyday Essentials as a capsule kit; buy Zoeva Complete Set if you want a full pro kit.
Caring for Your Makeup Brushes
A brush is only as good as the care you give. Here are a few tips to take care of your brushes:
- Don’t use your brushes when they’re dirty; they work poorly and also harbor bacteria that can irritate skin.
- Wash face brushes weekly and eye brushes every 7–10 days.
- Use a gentle brush cleanser or baby shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and lay flat to dry.
With regular care, even budget brushes can last for years.
Pick Brushes Worth Your Money
The best makeup brushes aren’t always the most expensive. Rather, they’re the ones that actually work for your skin, blend seamlessly, and make application effortless.
Our verdict? Invest in a few core brushes you’ll reach for every day, and skip the bundles. With the right set, your makeup routine becomes faster, smoother, and a whole lot more fun.
Ready to upgrade your kit? These are the only brushes we definitely recommend for all. Tell us what you think.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do expensive brushes really make a difference?
Luxury brushes may last longer and feel softer, but many drugstore brushes rival their performance.
How many brushes does a beginner need?
Start with five: foundation, concealer, blush, eyeshadow blender, and eyeliner. Expand as you grow more confident.
What’s better, a brush or a sponge?
Brushes give more control and are easier to clean, while sponges offer a dewy finish but absorb more product.
