If you’re unhappy with how your makeup looks, even when using top-quality products, there’s a good chance the issue isn’t your makeup but the tools you’re using. The truth is, your brushes play a major role in achieving that smooth, airbrushed finish. Without the right tools, even the best products won’t perform as well as they could.
Makeup brush sets come in a variety of price ranges, from under $5 to over $500, with some premium brands offering even pricier options favored by professionals. If you’re searching for the best makeup brush sets to get that professional look, we’ve already done the homework for you. We’ve considered factors like price, quality, and portability to compile our top picks, so you can easily find the perfect set for your needs.
### 1. **Sephora Collection Tools of the Trade Brush Set**
Say goodbye to uneven blush and messy eyeshadow with this comprehensive 8-piece brush set from Sephora. This set includes everything you need for flawless application, from highlighting cheekbones to creating sharp cat eyes. While it’s on the pricier side, the quality more than justifies the cost. The bristles are soft, work well on all skin types, and make blending a breeze. Plus, the light-colored bristles help you gauge how much product you’re using. All brushes come in a travel-friendly case, making it a win for makeup lovers on the go.
### 2. **Sigma Beauty Best of Sigma Brush Set**
Sigma’s 7-piece brush set is a worthy contender for those who want professional-quality tools without breaking the bank. The brushes feature engineered synthetic fibers that mimic natural hair, offering top-notch performance while staying cruelty-free. Whether you’re applying foundation, eyeshadow, or highlights, these brushes cater to all your needs. You’ll get a durable, versatile set for under $100—an excellent deal for budding makeup enthusiasts and seasoned professionals alike.
### 3. **Bobbi Brown The Basic Brush Collection**
Known for luxury, Bobbi Brown offers a 6-piece set that’s hard to beat in quality. While it does come with a steep price tag, the durability and performance of these brushes might make it worth the splurge. Each brush is designed for targeted applications like foundation, concealer, blending, and even eyebrow grooming. Proper care will keep these brushes in excellent condition for years, making them a worthwhile long-term investment.
### 4. **Smashbox #ShapeMatters Brushes**
This 5-piece brush set is all about redefining your features with precision. Smashbox includes tools for contouring, blending, and achieving perfect smoky eyes. The set comes with a handy travel pouch and double-duty brushes like a brow tool that doubles as a liner. Priced reasonably considering the quality, this collection is an easy go-to for both beginners and pros.
### 5. **Kevyn Aucoin The Expert Brush Collection Travel Set**
If you’re looking for compact, dual-ended brushes, this travel-friendly set is worth considering. It includes five dual-ended brushes, giving you the functionality of 10 tools in a small, convenient case. Made with a mix of synthetic and natural fibers (cruelty-free), these brushes deliver a flawless finish. While the size of the brushes may feel limiting to some, they’re perfect for touch-ups on the go.
### 6. **ZOEVA Rose Golden Luxury Set Vol. 3**
This stunning 8-piece set features rose gold handles and soft bristles that are as functional as they are beautiful. It includes brushes for blush, foundation, and eye makeup, all neatly stored in a clutch-like faux leather case. The density of the bristles makes application effortless, and the lighter tip of the bristles ensures you don’t overload product.
### 7. **It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Brush Collection**
Ideal for those who prioritize soft, high-quality brushes, this 6-piece set from It Cosmetics handles everything from blending to precision work. The 100% synthetic bristles are perfect for sensitive skin, and the travel case makes it easy to carry these essentials. Though it’s moderately priced, this set’s durability and performance make it a solid investment.
### 8. **e.l.f. Studio 11 Piece Brush Collection**
For those on a budget, e.l.f. offers a fantastic 11-piece set that covers all your makeup needs. This affordable collection includes foundation, contour, precision, and fan brushes, all stored in a convenient water-resistant case. Soft bristles make them suitable for all skin types, and the sleek black design adds a professional touch. If you’re new to makeup and want a reliable starter set, this is a great choice.
### 9. **Morphe 15-Piece Vegan Pro Set**
Morphe is a favorite among many, and this 15-piece vegan set lives up to the hype. The brushes are versatile enough for liquid, cream, and powder products, making them a go-to for professionals and beginners alike. With a mix of angled and blending brushes, this collection is perfect for contouring and achieving precision application. The travel roll case is a bonus for easy portability.
### 10. **Too Faced Teddy Bear Hair Professional 5-Piece Brush Set**
This playful yet functional set includes five essential brushes with soft, synthetic bristles for flawless application. Don’t worry—the “teddy bear hair” bristles are cruelty-free! Despite being on the pricier side for only five brushes, the performance and pretty pink-and-gold pouch make this a fun and practical addition to your collection.
### 11. **Chantecaille Travel Brush Set**
Chantecaille’s travel-friendly set is a luxe option that’s compact yet effective for on-the-go touch-ups. This 5-piece collection features lightweight brushes with soft bristles ideal for flawless makeup application. While extremely expensive, each brush is made to last, ensuring you get long-term value.
### 12. **SHANY 12-Piece Natural Goat and Badger Brush Set**
If you’re seeking a beginner-friendly, affordable set, SHANY offers a 12-piece option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Each brush is handmade and features a blend of synthetic and cruelty-free animal hairs. For added convenience, the brushes come in a roll-up pouch, making this set a practical pick for travel and everyday use.
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### **How to Care for Your Makeup Brushes**
Taking care of your brushes not only keeps them performing well but also ensures they last longer. Here’s how you can maintain them:
– **Clean Regularly:** Regular cleaning prevents bacteria buildup and keeps bristles free from leftover makeup. Use a gentle brush cleanser or baby shampoo, lather the bristles, rinse with lukewarm water, and let them air dry.
– **Invest in a Quality Cleanser:** Using a dedicated brush cleanser, like those from Clinique, Bobbi Brown, or Make Up For Ever, can help maintain the integrity of your brushes.
– **Shape the Bristles:** After washing, carefully shape the bristles and allow them to air dry completely before storing.
By following these simple care tips, your brushes will stay soft, sanitized, and ready to give you a flawless makeup look every time.