Makeup Brushes: Splurge or Skip

You’ve got the makeup, but haven’t got a clue what to do with it. We’ve all been there. A product is only as good as what you use to apply it, but with a wide range of prices and brands, it can be difficult to know where to start. Don’t waste money on novelty applicators that you’ll get little use out of. Instead, invest in brushes that are multifunctional and able to be used on a daily basis.

Foundation Brush: Splurge

Foundation is the base for the rest of your makeup, so having a tool to help create flawless skin is essential. A good foundation brush will ensure a smooth and even base for the rest of your look. Plus, if you wear some sort of face makeup on a regular basis you will get plenty of use out of a foundation brush.

Eyeliner Brush: Skip

Unless you are a religious gel liner user, you can do without an eyeliner brush. Liquid liner almost always comes with pen or felt-tip applicators, so a liner brush wouldn’t really serve a purpose besides taking up space in a makeup bag. And if you prefer pencil liners, investing in a good sharpener is a much better way to spend your money.

Eye Shadow Blending Brush: Splurge

If you are looking to perfect that classic smokey eye or are a fan of matte, harder to blend shadows, a good blending brush will be your new best friend. Prevent streakiness by splurging on a fluffy eye shadow brush to ensure your eyes look gorgeous every time.

Fan Brush/Highlighting Brush: Skip

While they look fun, a fan brush or any other brush advertised for highlighting is one you can save on. Get the same effect sans brush by simply tapping highlighter on your cheekbones with your ring finger. Then blend it out with just a finger or a clean eye shadow brush.

Contour Brush: Splurge

Contouring is having its moment. Although it can be tricky, shelling out for a high quality contour brush will ensure the product go on much smoother with more even results, saving you time and frustration.

Lip Brush: Skip

If you are a fan of dark or super bright lip colors, the best thing to do is add a lip liner to prevent color from sliding around. While a lip brush is nice for cleaning up any mistakes around your lip line, a good liner or a matte lipstick formula is going to help keep your color in place all day without a brush.