Brushes 101

Amazing makeup artist, Amy Nadine, who writed for Laruen Conrad's beauty site, gave a great tutorial on face brushes and I HAD to share it! 




Foundation (Liquid): You’ll want a synthetic, densely-packed flat but wide brush to effortlessly cover more space when you’re in a hurry in the mornings.  Look for ones with nylon or Taklon bristles for the smoothest application.
Foundation (Cream): If you use a cream foundation, you’ll want a 100% natural bristle brush so it deposits less product as you swirl it all over, giving you a flawless airbrushed effect.  Natural bristles are critical for building coverage without streaking.
Foundation (Mineral Powder): This can be a synthetic or natural bristle powder brush, but look for one with a plump shape designed for the swirling motion we do when applying minerals. 
Concealer (Undereye): I love a flat synthetic concealer brush for covering dark circles because you can really “lay down” the product by using the side of the brush.  The other component to look for is a tapered edge because this helps you avoid clumping during application.  The synthetic bristles will pick up less product so your coverage will last longer (the thicker you apply it, the more likely it will crease and cake).
Concealer (Blemishes): Look for a pointed and tapered concealer brush made of synthetic bristles so you can apply it precisely on top of any kind of blemish (pimple, scar, broken capillary, etc.) without touching the surrounding skin. Practice mini-swirling motions gently on top of the blemish then lightly blend the perimeters with your ring finger.  For a quick refresher on covering a glaring pimple
Powder (All-over): Look for a big, fluffy natural bristle powder brush for situations when you’re going to be on camera (college TV channel, YouTube, your friend’s music video) or photographed under brutal lights (yearbook photos, weddings, sorority formals).  This afternoon I will use one of these on Lauren before she walks out on the Chelsea Lately Show because the lighting on talk shows is criminal and she will not have a shiny face under my watch!
Powder (T-Zone): Use an eyeshadow blending brush made with natural hair bristles as a powder brush just for the areas that tend to shine: between your brows, around and on the tip of your nose, your upper lip and your chin.  This allows the rest of your face to glow and breathe.

Thanks Amy!  What a great lesson!!!!