Cosmetic Bags and Beauty Tools

Cases, pouches and brush sets: carrying versus applying

The aisle has carrying on one side and application on the other. Cases and pouches carry and protect: a lockable aluminum makeup case with trays suits a professional kit, while a soft pouch suits a handbag. Brush sets, eyeshadow and liner brushes and lash tools do the application. A few palettes and duos are listed as accessories, so check the product type to see whether you are looking at a tool, a case or a color product.

Brush shapes, bristle type and keeping tools clean

Match the brush to the job: a flat shader packs color on the lid, a soft blending brush softens edges, and a fine angled brush draws liner. Synthetic bristles suit cream and liquid products, since they do not soak them up, and natural hair suits powder. Sets list how many pieces they contain, but a small set that you clean beats a large one left dirty. Brush cleaners are sold separately. Lash tools list lengths in millimeters.

Questions about Cosmetic Bags and Beauty Tools

Synthetic or natural bristles for makeup brushes?

Synthetic bristles suit cream, liquid and gel products because they absorb little. Natural hair picks up and blends powder well. Many people use synthetic brushes for liquid foundation and natural ones for powders.

How often should I wash makeup brushes?

Wash foundation and concealer brushes about weekly and eyeshadow brushes every couple of weeks, using mild soap or a brush cleaner. Dry them flat or tips down so water does not loosen the glue at the base.

How many brushes do I need to start?

A foundation brush, a powder brush, a flat shadow brush, a blending brush and a fine angled brush cover most looks. Large sets add variants, but a few well-kept brushes are enough.