Beauty Bits and Tips:  a few more beauty hints from us

Powder brush - A must for powder, this brush typically has  a rounded head.  I like the large-headed ones as I find they give me an  easier and more even  application.  I use  Chanel's Powder Brush #6 which is available at Sephora.com.

Blush brush - I know some blushes come with small brushes.  They may be all right for a touch up (and they may not be) but applying blush well requires a brush designed to do the job.  Blush  brushes are smaller than powder brushes and  I prefer one that is angled because I find that it give a more precise application.  I use Paula Dorf's Cheek Brush which is available at Sephora.com.

Eye shadow brush - The little sponge applicators that come with some shadows just don't work.  You'll be amazed at the difference in application between the two.   Shadow brushes are usually slightly rounded and among the smaller of the eye brushes.  Find one that is made to apply shadow.  I use Paula Dorf's eyeshadow brush which is available at Sephora.com and Beauty.com.

Eye contour brush - Made to accentuate shadow used in the eye crease, an eye contour brush can make working in that area a snap.  There a several types of contour brushes -- and I like several  depending upon the look I'm trying to achieve.  However, as a start, I would recommend one that is angled.  For a simple contour brush, I use Paula Dorf's Eye Contour Brush which is available at Sephora.com and Beauty.com.

Hint:  When applying a cosmetic with a powder formula, either blow on the brush or tap it on the inside of your wrist after you have put  color on the brush  and before application.   This removes some of the powder and helps to putting too much of the product  on your face or eyes.

Eye liner brush - The name says it all.  This one will depend upon what you are using to line your eyes.  With some exceptions, my favorites are a flat, straight synthetic brush for liquid and a small, rounded "smudge brush" to soften an eye pencil line.  (Tip:  If you are using the synthetic brush with liquid liner, "tap" the brush along the lashline rather than drawing a line.)  I use Paula Dorf's Eye Definer Brush for liquid and her Smudge Brush for pencil.   Both of these are available at  Sephora.com.

Eyebrow brush - These brushes, which put your brows in place,  usually have a small brush (with stiff bristles) on one side and a comb on the other.   In my opinion this is one brush that needn't be "top quality." I use one by Maybelline that doesn't seem to be made any more.  A few  alternatives may be Shu Uemura's Eyebrow Brush, Lola Eyebrow Groomer, both available at Sephora.com,  or Z New York's Lash Comb/Brow Brush #5 which is available at CosmeticMall.com.

Lip brush - Yes,  you need a lip brush --- even if you line your lips.  It keeps lipstick application precise.  I prefer natural hair lip brushes to the synthetic ones.  I also  like a smaller,  rather than a larger one.  I use M.A.C.'s Lip Brush/Covered Brush available at macys.com. 

Makeup sponges - I know its not a brush, but these little miracle workers smooth and even out foundation like nothing else.  I apply my foundation and then take a clean sponge and gently go over my entire face with it, concentrating on the neckline.   It makes a difference.  Rite Aid Make Up Wedges fit the bill and are available at drugstore.com.

If you already have the basics, here are some others to consider adding to your collection:

• Foundation brush - Great for applying foundation

• Concealer brush - It helps place concealer right up to the lower lashes

• Eye blending brush - Makes blending eye shadow colors a breeze

• Under-eye powder brush - It's kind of like a "concealer brush" for powder, and its great

So, start building your wardrobe of brushes and enjoy the results.

Have a beautiful month!

Carol

February 2004

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