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10 Best Makeup Brushes 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BS-MALL Professional Makeup Brush Set 18 Pcs Premium Synthetic Foundation Powder Concealers Eye Shadows Blush Makeup Brushes with Travel Case (Matte white beige)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,263
Bristle Type
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes

Most important from
56672 reviews

Bristle Type
The brushes feel incredibly soft and work beautifully for powders, blushes, and bronzers, making application effortless.
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes
An impressive variety of 18 brushes covers all makeup needs, from foundation to eyeshadow, offering great versatility.

The BS-MALL Professional Makeup Brush Set includes 18 brushes made with soft synthetic bristles that are cruelty-free and designed to provide smooth, streak-free application. This set covers essential brushes for foundation, concealer, blush, eyeshadow, and powder, making it versatile for a complete makeup routine. The brushes have ergonomic fabric handles in a matte white beige color, offering decent control for precise makeup application.

A travel-friendly case is included, which keeps the brushes organized and protected on the go, ideal for those who like compact storage or frequent touch-ups. The brush density and shapes are well-suited for blending, contouring, and highlighting, appealing to both beginners and more experienced users. However, the brushes are quite lightweight and relatively small, which some might find less comfortable compared to heavier or longer-handled brushes.

The synthetic bristles are easy to clean and durable, designed to resist shedding and maintain their shape over time. This set is a solid choice for anyone seeking an affordable, cruelty-free makeup brush kit with good variety and portability, but those who prefer larger professional brushes might want to consider their size preferences before purchasing.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,263
Bristle Type
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes

Most important from
56672 reviews

Bristle Type
The brushes feel incredibly soft and work beautifully for powders, blushes, and bronzers, making application effortless.
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes
An impressive variety of 18 brushes covers all makeup needs, from foundation to eyeshadow, offering great versatility.
#2

Sigma Beauty Essential Makeup Brushes Set – Professional Grade Makeup Brush Set with Premium Fibers and Sleek, Durable Handles for Face & Eyes, Includes 12 CK001 Black Makeup Brushes

Rating
8.5
Bristle Type
Brush Shape
Handle Length

Most important from
967 reviews

Bristle Type
These brushes are incredibly soft and worth every penny.
Brush Shape
The flat kabuki brush is a standout for cream and liquid foundations.
Handle Length
Comfortable and easy to control, these brushes are a joy to use.
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes
Each brush arrived in perfect condition, with no bent bristles or shedding.

The Sigma Beauty Essential Makeup Brushes Set is an impressive collection of 12 brushes designed for both makeup beginners and experienced professionals. With its premium synthetic fibers, these brushes offer a soft touch, making them suitable for sensitive skin, which is a significant plus. The various shapes—flat, angled, and round—enable users to apply, blend, and contour makeup effectively, catering to a wide range of techniques and products. The stylish design, featuring metal plating and waterproof handles, not only looks chic but also ensures durability and longevity, an essential factor for frequent users.

This Sigma brush set is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their makeup game, providing the versatility and quality needed to create flawless looks. Just be mindful of your skill level and maintenance commitment as you consider adding these brushes to your kit.

Rating
8.5
Bristle Type
Brush Shape
Handle Length

Most important from
967 reviews

Bristle Type
These brushes are incredibly soft and worth every penny.
Brush Shape
The flat kabuki brush is a standout for cream and liquid foundations.
Handle Length
Comfortable and easy to control, these brushes are a joy to use.
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes
Each brush arrived in perfect condition, with no bent bristles or shedding.
#3

Niré Beauty 15piece Award Winning Professional Makeup Brush Set: Vegan Makeup Brushes with Case, Makeup Sponge, Brush Cleaner, Guide, Gift Box

Rating
8.2
Bristle Type
Handle Length
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes

Most important from
7788 reviews

Bristle Type
The brushes are soft and made from quality materials, making makeup application smooth and easy.
Handle Length
These brushes are of excellent quality, with no shedding and great size handles.
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes
The variety of brushes and the beautiful design make this set worth the investment.

The Niré Beauty 15-piece Professional Makeup Brush Set is a comprehensive collection designed to cater to both beginners and professional makeup artists. The set includes 15 different brushes, each with super-soft synthetic bristles that are gentle on the skin and suitable for all skin types. The brushes come in a stylish black and rose gold color, with handles made from sustainably sourced wood and recycled aluminum, making them an eco-friendly choice.

The inclusion of a makeup sponge, brush cleaner, and a guide with pro tips adds extra value, helping users understand how to use and maintain their brushes effectively. Additionally, the set comes in a gift box, making it a thoughtful present for makeup enthusiasts. The brush guide can help ease the learning curve for beginners who might feel overwhelmed by the variety of brushes included.

The brushes are handmade, so there might be slight variations in size, but they generally range from 5.9 inches to 8.2 inches in length. They are versatile, suitable for applying foundation, concealer, powder, contour, blush, highlighter, eyeshadow, eyeliner, brows, and lipstick. Potential buyers should consider whether they need such an extensive set for their personal use.

Rating
8.2
Bristle Type
Handle Length
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes

Most important from
7788 reviews

Bristle Type
The brushes are soft and made from quality materials, making makeup application smooth and easy.
Handle Length
These brushes are of excellent quality, with no shedding and great size handles.
Brush Set vs. Individual Brushes
The variety of brushes and the beautiful design make this set worth the investment.

Buying Guide for the Best Makeup Brushes

Choosing the right makeup brushes can significantly enhance your makeup application experience. The right brushes can help you achieve a flawless look, while the wrong ones can make application difficult and uneven. When selecting makeup brushes, consider the type of makeup you use, your skin type, and the specific look you want to achieve. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking makeup brushes.
Bristle TypeBristle type refers to the material used for the brush hairs. There are two main types: natural and synthetic. Natural bristles are made from animal hair and are great for powder products because they pick up and distribute the product evenly. Synthetic bristles are made from man-made materials like nylon or polyester and are ideal for liquid or cream products as they don't absorb the product. If you have sensitive skin or prefer cruelty-free products, synthetic brushes are a better choice. Consider what type of makeup you use most often to determine the best bristle type for you.
Brush ShapeBrush shape is important because different shapes are designed for different applications. For example, a flat foundation brush is great for applying liquid foundation, while a fluffy powder brush is perfect for setting powder. Angled brushes are ideal for contouring, and small, precise brushes are best for detail work like eyeliner or eyeshadow. Think about the specific makeup tasks you need brushes for and choose shapes that will help you achieve those tasks effectively.
Brush DensityBrush density refers to how tightly packed the bristles are. Dense brushes pick up more product and provide fuller coverage, making them ideal for foundation and concealer. Less dense brushes offer a lighter application, which is perfect for blush, bronzer, and highlighter. If you prefer a natural, sheer look, opt for less dense brushes. For a more polished, full-coverage look, choose denser brushes.
Handle LengthHandle length can affect how comfortable a brush is to use. Longer handles provide more control and are great for detailed work, while shorter handles are easier to maneuver and are ideal for travel. Consider where and how you typically apply your makeup. If you often do your makeup on the go, shorter handles might be more convenient. If you prefer a precise application, longer handles could be more suitable.
Brush SizeBrush size is important for achieving the desired level of precision. Larger brushes cover more area and are great for applying products like powder, bronzer, and blush. Smaller brushes are better for detailed work like eyeshadow, eyeliner, and concealer. Think about the areas of your face you need brushes for and choose sizes that will help you apply makeup accurately and efficiently.
Brush Set vs. Individual BrushesYou can buy makeup brushes individually or in sets. Brush sets are convenient because they often include a variety of brushes for different applications, which can be cost-effective and ensure you have all the tools you need. However, individual brushes allow you to pick and choose exactly what you need, which can be beneficial if you already have some brushes or only need specific ones. Consider your current brush collection and your specific needs to decide whether a set or individual brushes are the best option for you.

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