Which is the best foundation brush for me?

Achieving the perfect, flawless complexion is just as much about finding the perfect foundation brush as it is about using the correct base product.

With different shapes come different finishes and each type of foundation brush can work especially well with particular foundation formulations to create your dream skin finish.

Which is the best foundation brush for me?

To help you find the best foundation brush for you, we have created an edit of our favourite brushes and a guide to what finish each brush will help you achieve as well as the perfect complementary foundation.

Best liquid foundation brush

Made with ultra-soft, synthetic bristles, the Morphe M439 Deluxe Buffer Brush creates a seamless finish with any liquid foundation. Undoubtedly the best Morphe foundation brush, the M439 does not absorb any of your product meaning you will achieve your desired finish each and every time you apply your base. With a thick, lightweight handle, the brush makes to so easy to apply your base with the ultimate control.

Use with: EX1 Cosmetics Invisiwear Liquid Foundation

Best powder foundation brush

With a unique convex centre to allow for seamless application, the bareMinerals Original Powder Foundation Brush is the best brush for mineral powder foundation. Its soft, synthetic bristles glide over the skin without causing any irritation and apply just the right amount of product to your complexion for a smooth, natural-looking finish.

Use with: bareMinerals Original Loose Mineral Foundation

Best brush for cream foundation

With a flat shape and a duo-fibre bristles, the MAC 132S Duo Fibre Foundation Brush picks up just the perfect amount of your cream foundation and seamlessly applies the product onto your skin. Either used in a sweeping or a buffing motion, the synthetic fibres in varying lengths blend and diffuse at the same time to help you achieve a beautiful finish with minimal effort.

Use with: Cover FX Total Cover Cream Foundation

Best foundation brush for full coverage

Flat, classic foundation brushes are the best for applying a full coverage, flawless base. The Smashbox Buildable Foundation Brush is made with high-tech synthetic bristles which work to smooth your product into the skin for an airbrushed finish. As its name suggests, the Buildable Foundation Brush allows you to seamlessly layer your foundation up to your desired finish.

Use with: MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation

Best foundation brush for sheer coverage

A stippling brush is the perfect tool to use if you want to achieve a natural, light finish to your skin. With a blend of dual length bristles, the Japonesque Stippling Brush diffuses the product beautifully to provide sheer coverage with every foundation for a base which looks just like skin. Use with your favourite liquid or cream foundation for a soft, natural finish.

Use with: NARS Cosmetics Sheer Glow Foundation

Best foundation for quick application

If you’re in a rush, using a large foundation brush which deposits product quickly and seamlessly is an essential. The Foundation Brush from Kevyn Aucoin has been specially designed to buff product into the skin in minutes without compromising a beautiful finish. With ultra-soft synthetic bristles which mimic fingertip application, the tapered brush allows you apply products to each area of your complexion with ease.

Use with: Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation