Hello Again!
Tilane Jones here, popping in from UrbanBeautyCollective.com to share some great advice we just got from none other than highly-acclaimed make-up artist, Sam Fine. We recently had an opportunity to interview the legend whose art is evidenced on the famous faces of Tyra Banks, Vanessa Williams, Queen Latifah and Iman, just to name a few.
One of Sam’s big must-haves is the brush! Yes, he’s a stickler on the importance of having the right brushes and tools when applying make-up. “Tools are as important as the products you choose,” explains Fine. “It doesn’t mean you need a full collection like I have, but with every product you own you should begin to gather your collection of brushes and tools.”
He went on to say, “For example, pressed powder and loose powder need a large fluffy brush, but you shouldn’t use this same brush for blush and bronzer, this way you’re not mixing product and getting improper application. For a product like eye shadow, you might need anything from two brushes to six, depending on your level of professionalism.”
We wondered if it was o.k. to use our fingers. According to Sam, it’s a go! “It’s o.k. to use fingers for things like foundation, and concealers – cream products that can use some warming up. The oils in your body and on your hands will change or alter a powder or gel texture and its application, so I don’t recommend using your fingers in these instances.”
He explained that, “Brushes are investment pieces – like a good coat. With proper care, you can use them time and time again. Also, you should always toss out the powder puff that your pressed and loose powder comes with when you purchase it so the bacteria that it can retain from several uses don’t contaminate the product, and allow it to last longer.”
His final advice on the subject of brushes? Be clean! “I suggest washing your brushes at least once a month to remove bacteria.”
Well, taking a cue from Sam, we decided to do the legwork in search of the best, most cost-effective brushes on the market. See how we take care of you?
Many brushes come at many price points depending on if they are synthetic or natural bristles, here is a short list of some of the favorites we found:
Our favorite natural bristle line of brushes are from STILA Cosmetics (from $24-$50) their graduated bristle brushes and easy grip all wood handles help make application a breeze.
- M.A.C Cosmetics ($11-$50) is another line that is famous for their mid to higher priced professional quality brushes. You can’t go wrong!
- A great lower priced line is Sonia Kashuk @ Target ($8-$20). These synthetic brushes are super soft and because they are at an affordable price point they are great for those who are just beginning their love of make-up application. They are also great for those who are allergic to animal hair.
Those are the basics on brushes. Now all you need is your creativity and desire to be fabulous!
Click here to read the complete Sam Fine exclusive Q&A!
For more good beauty and fashion info, to find a hair stylist in your city, or for a daily dose of our celebrity Style Squad featuring Ursula Stephens and Wouri Vice, visit us at UrbanBeautyCollective.com.
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Until then, stay beautiful, sisters…
Tilane Jones, Managing Editor, UrbanBeautyCollective.com
