Brushes

An artist's brushes are his primary tools to create beautiful single masterpieces. In the same manner, cosmetic brushes are vital in enhancing anyone's facial features. To create optimum and professional results from any type of cosmetic applications, one needs to learn the basics of makeup applicators.

All about cosmetic brushes

The bristles of cosmetic brushes are made from soft, natural or synthetic materials. Unlike paint and cleaning brushes, cosmetic brushes are constructed especially for handling delicate skin. Most cosmetic companies and body shops carry their own collections of applicator brushes, although more generic makeup brushes are also available in department stores and big pharmacies.

The sizes of makeup brushes affect the way makeup applied onto the face. There are many types of applicators meant for specific types of cosmetics. Applicator brushes for blushes and foundation are usually bigger, to cover wider areas of the face. Eye makeup brushes are smaller and finely tipped to create a more detailed eye contour finish. The bristles of makeup brushes used to apply lipstick are usually made of slightly harder material. Like eye makeup brushes, these brushes are also fine tipped to help line the lips. These brushes may also have longer handles for more convenient handling.

Keeping cosmetic brushes in top shape

To maintain the quality of these brushes, one needs to properly keep and clean them. Cosmetic applicators need to be kept in dry and covered containers to make them last longer, and to keep them clean. Break outs are usually caused by dirty cosmetic applicators which have been exposed to pollutants and dirt. Well kept makeup brushes and bags are ideal places to store these cosmetic brushes. Some cosmetic brushes may come with their own hard cases and covers for easier storage.

It is recommended to clean cosmetic applicators at least four times a week. Bacteria can breed from makeup clots in cosmetic applicators. Remember, these applicators also gather dead skin cells, which may contain harmful microorganisms that cause break outs. Warm water and shampoo are safe cleaning products for cosmetic applicators. Cosmetic brushes need be efficiently air dried to keep them clean and to make them last longer.

Cosmetic brushes can last up to a year; although for hygienic purposes, it's safe to change makeup brushes every four to six months. Makeup brushes may be pricy items to keep in your makeup purse, but the results whipped by good sets of makeup brushes are worth it.