There’s something undeniably uplifting about finishing off your makeup routine with a sweep of blush. And, let’s be real, having the right brush can make all the difference in achieving that perfect flush. Whether you’re going for a subtle, lit-from-within glow or a more dramatic pop of color, we’ve got you covered. Our curated selection of blush brushes caters to every style and preference. When it comes to choosing the perfect brush, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, think about what kind of finish you’re going for – do you prefer a soft, natural look or something more dramatic? Next, consider the type of blush you’ll be using – cream, powder, or liquid? And finally, don’t forget about the material and construction of the brush itself. Of course, having options is always a good thing. That’s why we’ve put together our top 10 picks for the best blush brushes out there.
From budget-friendly to premium, and from everyday favorites to eco-friendly game-changers, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, take a look below at our roundup of the best blush brushes, and find the one that’s right for you.
What to Know Before Buying a Blush Brush
With an array of impressive blush brushes on the market, selecting the perfect one can be overwhelming. To make your search easier, we’ve distilled our extensive research into a concise guide that will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
What Kind of Brush Do You Use for Blush?
While there aren’t strict rules for selecting makeup brushes, there are general guidelines that can help you find the right one. For blush, a medium-sized complexion brush with a domed or angled shape is typically suitable. Some brands even simplify things by labeling it as a ‘blush brush’. However, there are some nuances depending on the type of blush you use.
When it comes to powder blush, look for a soft and pliable brush that can deposit a natural-looking layer without requiring excessive blending. A denser brush will yield a more intense, pigmented finish, so medium-firm bristles might be a good choice if you prefer a bold look or are using a low-pigmentation blush. If you’re a fan of cream blush, then you’ll want a brush that’s specifically designed for cream products. This usually means firmer, denser bristles and a slightly flat top.
A dense brush won’t absorb your cream blush as much, allowing it to deposit and blend smoothly onto the skin. We’ll dive deeper into brush firmness later in our discussion.
Features to Look For
When shopping for a blush brush, there are several key features to look out for regardless of the type of blush you’re using. First and foremost, the bristles should be soft and gentle on your skin. We only included brushes with this characteristic in our selection, as the skin around your cheeks can be particularly sensitive. Additionally, we made sure that the brushes maintain their softness over time, without shedding or becoming scratchy.
This attention to detail ensures a comfortable application process. In addition to being soft, a good blush brush should have a long-lasting build and be durable enough to withstand regular use. Some brushes may require more maintenance than others, but overall, we aimed for products that would stand the test of time without falling apart or shedding excessively. The style of your blush brush is also an important consideration.
While it’s true that a brush is just a tool, having aesthetically pleasing options can enhance your overall makeup experience and even boost your confidence. Whether you’re looking for professional-level brushes or ones that fit with your personal aesthetic, we’ve included a range of styles to suit different preferences. Finally, many of us prioritize cruelty-free products, which is why we emphasize the importance of vegan bristles.
Synthetic fibers are often made from carefully shaped nylon or polyester and can be just as effective, hygienic, and versatile as natural hair brushes. With so much improvement in synthetic brush design over the past decade, it’s no longer necessary to compromise on quality for the sake of ethics. Now that you have a better understanding of what to look for in a blush brush, check out our curated selection of the best options available online.
We’ve included a wide range of products to fit different needs and preferences. If you’re still unsure about what to choose, we’ve also provided additional guidance on factors like size, firmness level, and shape in our comprehensive reviews.
Top 10 Best Blush Brushes 2024
Best Overall Blush Brush: Real Techniques Blush Brush
This brush stands out due to its ultra-soft and fluffy texture, making it perfect for achieving a soft and diffused blush look. Its larger size allows for quick and effortless application, which is especially beneficial when you’re short on time. As a Real Techniques design, this brush boasts a well-made construction at an affordable price point. The editor’s rating for this brush is high due to its numerous features and benefits.
It works exceptionally well with powder blushes, offering a low firmness level that makes it easy to apply even the most delicate colors. The brush itself measures large in size, sporting a pink handle with white-tipped black bristles that provide an excellent surface area for makeup application. In terms of application, this brush is a classic choice due to its extremely soft and fluffy texture.
It features extra-long bristles with a lot of give, allowing it to deliver a very natural-looking blush finish. As a result, overapplication becomes practically impossible, making it ideal for those who tend to apply too much product. While this brush does excel in many areas, there are some limitations to consider. For instance, its large size can make it challenging to work with if you have small features or prefer precise blush placement.
In these cases, a smaller brush might be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense or heavy blush look, this brush may not be the best choice, as it tends to diffuse colors slightly. In terms of durability, Real Techniques brushes are renowned for their ability to withstand the test of time. This particular brush features an elongated ferrule that is securely attached, reducing the risk of breakage significantly.
The bristles themselves remain soft and fluffy even after extended use, making this brush a great value at its price point. In conclusion, this brush offers numerous benefits, including its fluffy and gentle texture, natural-looking blush finish, large size for quick application, affordability, and durable design. However, it may not be the best choice for those who require precise applications or prefer more intense blush colors.
Best Budget Blush Brush: Wet N Wild Blush Brush
This brush is a standout for its exceptional softness, medium size, and fan-like shape, making it perfect for beginners and those who struggle with blush placement. The synthetic bristles are incredibly gentle on the skin, imparting a natural-looking wash of color that’s neither too heavy nor too sheer. The small size allows for precise application, particularly when blending from the apple of the cheek to the temple.
While it may not have the heft or luxury feel of other brushes, its softness and affordability make it an excellent choice for those on a budget. However, it does require gentle care to maintain its integrity and softness over time.
Best Blush Brush Set: Real Techniques Makeup Brush Set
This incredible Real Techniques blush brush set offers unparalleled versatility, featuring not one, but three expertly crafted brushes designed to cater to diverse blush application techniques. Each brush is built with the same precision and quality as those sold individually by Real Techniques, ensuring a consistent experience. The set boasts an impressive array of tools for achieving flawless blush looks.
The Real Techniques Blush Brush, previously discussed in detail, is joined by two additional brushes that can be used for various blush styles. For instance, the expert face brush excels at applying cream blush and contouring, much like the Real Techniques Sculpting Brush but with a more subtle approach. The small setting brush, meanwhile, delivers a precise and sheer layer of blush, comparable to the Sigma Tapered Brush. This brush is also suitable for highlighting or setting the under eyes.
Whether you’re torn between multiple brushes on this list or simply want to elevate your makeup game, this set is an excellent value. Not only do you get these three essential brushes, but also a wonderful makeup sponge and a deluxe crease brush that doubles as both an eyeshadow applicator and concealer. Design-wise, Real Techniques sets the bar high by including the same top-quality brushes found in their individual product lines.
While some brands may compromise on quality when bundling products, this set proves to be no exception. If we were to nitpick, the color story could be more cohesive, but each brush looks great individually, and the colors hint at which line each belongs to. In contrast, the overall color scheme of the set is somewhat disjointed. Pros include: three brushes catering to different application styles, additional tools for various makeup purposes, high-quality construction, and durability.
Cons: the set’s color story may not be visually appealing.
Best Fan Brush: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Pro Fan Brush
This NYX fan brush is designed to deliver dramatic results. Its large size and medium firmness level make it perfect for building up a bold blush color. The thick, ombre-bristled fan shape covers the cheeks quickly without looking overdone. While it excels with powder blushes, its soft application also makes it great for blending out cream blushes applied with fingers or a sponge.
In terms of durability, this brush stands up well to regular use, but does require some TLC when cleaning.
If not handled carefully, the bristles can become misshapen and the overall shape of the brush can be lost. Despite this, its pros far outweigh its cons.
For those who want to create intense or draped blush looks, this brush is an excellent choice. Its large but elongated shape gives a high level of control, allowing for precise application and blending.
Best Premium Blush Brush: Bobbi Brown Blush Brush
A staple in many makeup artist kits, this premium blush brush has been impressing for over a decade with its perfect size and softness. The result is a flawless wash of powder blush that lasts year after year. Its luxurious construction ensures it will withstand the test of time. This iconic design eschews gimmicks, instead opting for a classic, timeless approach to blush application.
The medium-sized brush boasts a rounded, slightly tapered shape, making it suitable for various techniques, from swift sweeps with the flat side to targeted applications using the tapered tip. While similar alternatives like the e. l. f. Flawless Face Brush exist at a lower price point, this premium brush is smaller, offering even greater control.
The exceptional quality of the wooden handle and vegan bristles has earned it a loyal following over the years, with many users still utilizing their original brushes from a decade ago. While its high price tag may be hard to justify for some, those who typically opt for luxury beauty products won’t be disappointed. The brush’s versatility, classic design, and durability are major pros. However, it’s worth noting that more affordable alternatives do exist.
Most Affordable Pro-Looking Blush Brush: e.l.f. Flawless Face Brush
We’re huge fans of this large blush brush, which boasts a unique tapered shape that provides multiple surface areas for applying blush. Its incredibly soft bristles deliver a diffused finish, making it perfect for achieving a natural-looking flush. Despite its affordable price point, the brush exudes a professional air, with a sturdy build and sleek black handle with white-tipped black bristles.
The soft, large brush is another great option for those on a budget, offering a lovely blush application that’s both sheer and diffused. Initially, it may seem similar to the Real Techniques Blush Brush, but its tapered tip allows for greater versatility in terms of the surfaces you can work with – from precise coverage to broad strokes. The design is mature and timeless, making it easy to incorporate into your professional makeup routine.
While this brush is a tad pricier than the Wet n Wild option, its larger size and sturdier build make it well worth the investment. With proper care, including gentle shampooing, the bristles will retain their softness. That being said, quality control can be hit-or-miss, with some brushes arriving in less-than-stellar condition.
Overall, this brush offers a great balance of pros and cons, including budget-friendliness, versatility, soft finishes, and professional aesthetics – just keep an eye out for any inconsistencies.
Best for Cream: Real Techniques Sculpting Brush
When it comes to applying cream blushes, this precision brush is a game-changer. Its firm bristles allow for precise application and seamless blending, making it perfect for giving the cheeks a natural-looking lift. The angled shape of the brush also serves as a guide for applying blush on a slight angle, from cheekbone to temple, which can help create a more defined and lifted appearance.
While this brush is excellent for cream blushes, it’s worth noting that it may not be the best choice for powder blushes. The tightly packed bristles tend to pick up too much product, resulting in an over-application of color. One minor drawback to consider is the difficulty in cleaning the brush thoroughly. Despite this, the high-quality construction and durable design ensure that the brush will withstand regular use without losing its shape or shedding bristles.
Overall, this brush is an excellent addition to any makeup routine, particularly for those who prefer a more natural-looking finish.
Most Affordable Stipple Brush: Wet n Wild Small Stipple Brush
The Wet n Wild Stipple Brush is an excellent choice for precise yet soft application of cream blushes. Its affordability is another major plus. The brush’s design features dual-fiber bristles, which means it has shorter bristle lengths for picking up and depositing the cream blush, as well as longer bristles for blending. While it may not be very firm, it still excels at applying creams. In fact, its softness makes it ideal for achieving a sheer, natural-looking finish.
Compared to the Real Techniques Sculpting Brush, this brush is more subdued in terms of application and size. It’s designed to deposit color and blend simultaneously, making it easy to achieve a very subtle look. The brush has a girlish aesthetic, similar to Wet n Wild’s Blush Brush, which may appeal to those who appreciate its whimsical design. However, the handle can be prone to staining if used with dark cream blushes, so some care is required to maintain its longevity.
Overall, the pros of this brush include its affordability, effectiveness with cream blushes, and ability to deliver a sheer, natural-looking finish. The cons are that it may feel light and delicate in use, won’t work well with powders, and requires careful handling to avoid staining.
Best Eco-Friendly Blush Brush: EcoTools Precision Blush Brush
The EcoTools brush stands out for its unique blend of traditional design and eco-friendly materials. Its medium-firm touch makes it suitable for both cream and powder blush applications, allowing for a more concentrated color payoff. The lightweight bamboo handle, although slightly delicate, is constructed to ensure durability. This brush excels at delivering bold, intense looks with cream or powder blushes.
For those who alternate between the two product types, this brush is an excellent choice. While some users might find the resulting look too concentrated, others will appreciate the amplified color payoff. The EcoTools brush shares similarities with the NYX Pro Fan Brush in its ability to enhance sheer blush tones. However, it offers a more traditional rounded shape that appeals to those who prefer a classic design.
One of the standout features is the use of recycled materials and renewable components, such as bamboo handles and metal ferrules. This not only benefits the environment but also provides a solid construction with minimal risk of breakage.
Pro-Favorite Blush Brush: Sigma Beauty F35 Tapered Highlighter Brush
This tapered brush is a favorite among makeup artists, despite some inconsistencies in quality control. Its delicate design and soft bristles make it ideal for applying sheer layers of powder blush to precise areas. If you have smaller features or want to target specific parts of your face, this brush is perfect. However, due to its small size, you may need to apply multiple layers to achieve the desired effect, which can be a drawback.
The Sigma brand is well-regarded in the professional community for its high-quality designs and wide range of brush shapes. The bristles are also anti-microbial, which helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps your brushes fresh for longer. While the handle and bristles typically hold up well over time, there have been some instances where buyers received brushes that shed or lost their shape after a few washes.
On balance, this brush is a decent choice if you’re looking for a small, professional-grade brush with anti-microbial properties. However, it’s worth noting that other brushes on the list may offer better value for your money due to their larger sizes and more consistent quality control.
Your Guide to Blush Brushes in Every Shape & Size
Are lingering doubts or questions still hovering in the recesses of your mind as you weigh your options for the perfect blush brush? To further illuminate the path to selection, we’ve included a few additional factors to take into account.
The Right Size
When it comes to choosing the right blush brush size for your makeup routine, the key is understanding how different sizes can affect the coverage and blending of the product. Here’s a breakdown of each size and when they’re most suitable. Small Blush BrushesA small brush may be the perfect choice if you have smaller features or prefer a more precise application.
They’re ideal for applying blush in a thin, localized way, building up color gradually, or creating complex cheek contours by stacking different shades. However, keep in mind that using a small brush can be time-consuming, so it’s still worth having a medium or large-sized brush on hand. Medium Blush BrushesFor most people, a medium brush is the sweet spot. This size is usually proportionate to the average woman’s cheekbones, allowing for effortless coverage and blending.
A medium brush can also help create a natural-looking flush by applying and blending the blush in one step. Our favorite medium-sized blush brush is the Wet n Wild Blush Brush, while luxury lovers might prefer the Bobbi Brown Blush Brush. Large Blush BrushesSome makeup enthusiasts swear by large brushes that provide quick and easy coverage. These brushes are perfect for those with naturally fuller cheekbones or who want to create a dramatic, all-over flush.
Large brushes can also be very soft, requiring no blending afterward. If you prefer a more targeted application, look for larger brushes with tapered or angled shapes, like the Real Techniques Blush Brush or e. l. f. Flawless Face Brush.
Considering the Brush Shapes
When it comes to blush brushes, the shape is just as important as the size. The way a brush is shaped can greatly impact the surface area you’re working with, and subsequently, the final result. The classic round blush brush has a domed or rounded tip that fits perfectly on the apple of the cheek, giving you that rosy-cheeked look. Brushes like the Bobbi Brown Blush Brush and the Real Techniques Blush Brush are great examples of this classic shape.
The larger and more domed version is also popular for creating a more dramatic effect. Angle brushes take things to the next level with their elongated shape, featuring shorter bristles on one end and longer ones on the other. This design allows for precise application and control, making it perfect for contouring or blush application. Brushes like the Real Techniques Sculpting Brush are great examples of this type. Tapered brushes offer even more versatility and control.
With a unique design that features shorter bristles on the outside and longer ones in the center, you get a larger surface area along the side and a small one at the tip. This makes them ideal for both targeted and diffused blush applications. Brushes like the e. l. f. Flawless Face Brush and the Sigma Tapered Brush are great examples of this design. Fan brushes, on the other hand, have a more subtle effect due to their thin and elongated shape.
They’re better suited for highlighters, but some fan brushes can be thicker through the middle, making them suitable for blush application as well. Brushes like the Wet n Wild Blush Brush and the NYX Pro Fan Brush are great examples of this design. Finally, flat-top or kabuki brushes have a unique design that features a flat top surface. This makes them perfect for cream blushes, helping to dispense and blend the product evenly.
Brushes like the Wet n Wild Small Stipple Brush are great examples of this design.
The Right Firmness Level
When selecting a blush brush, consider the firmness level and how it will impact the final result. A soft brush is often the go-to choice for achieving a natural-looking flush, as it deposits a light layer of product that blends easily into the skin. This type of brush is perfect for those who want to avoid the ‘clown look’ and prefer a subtle color. The Real Techniques Blush Brush and Wet n Wild Blush Brush are popular options in this category.
For a more intense blush look, consider a medium-firm brush. These brushes have denser bristles that pick up more product than soft brushes, making them ideal for powder or cream blushes. They’re also great for blending out already applied blush, as they can lift and redistribute color evenly. The NYX Pro Fan Brush is a good example of a medium- firm brush that excels at this task. For those who prefer to use cream blushes, a firm brush is the way to go.
These brushes offer precise control and a stippling motion that allows for both depositing and blending out product in one step. The Real Techniques Sculpting Brush is a great example of a firm blush brush that can help create a stunning, natural-looking flush.
Burning Blush Brush Questions
Don’t worry if you’re still curious about blush brushes – the fact that a natural flush might arise means you won’t have to reach for one in the first place!
How Do You Use a Blush Brush Correctly?
When it comes to using a blush brush, the approach depends on the type of blush and brush you’re working with, as well as the desired look. For most people, the sweet spot is along the highest part of the cheekbones, starting at the apple of the cheeks and angling towards the temples. To get the best results, begin by tapping the brush against your skin to deposit the color where it will be most concentrated.
Next, use gentle circular motions to blend the blush outward, feathering it into the surrounding skin to achieve a natural-looking finish. With practice, this technique should leave you with a seamless, sun-kissed glow that looks like an extension of your own skin.
Can You Use a Blush Brush for Powder?
When push comes to shove, a blush brush can serve as a makeshift powder brush, although it’s not the most ideal solution. This is because blush brushes tend to be smaller than their powder counterparts, resulting in a more time-consuming application process.
If you find yourself without other options, using a soft and pliable blush brush is your best bet. A firmer blush brush can apply too much powder, leading to an unflattering cakey appearance.
The Real Technique Blush Brush stands out for its unusually large size and incredibly soft texture, making it a suitable substitute.
Can You Use the Same Brush for Blush and Bronzer?
While it’s not the most ideal approach, you can still use the same brush for both blush and bronzer. However, there is a catch – after applying bronzer, you’ll need to thoroughly clean the brush before moving on to blush application, lest it turns out looking muddy. A dry brush cleaner can be a helpful tool in this situation. Alternatively, using separate brushes for each product is likely to prove even more convenient.
If you’re particularly fond of a specific brush that doubles as a bronzer and blush applicator (such as Wet n Wild’s offerings), buying a spare might be the most practical solution.
How Do You Care for a Blush Brush?
To extend the life of your blush brush, proper maintenance is crucial. While replacing it every few months might seem inevitable without care, a little attention can help it perform for years to come. Start by cleaning your brush daily, ideally after each use. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests weekly cleanings, but we recommend a quick spritz with a brush cleaning liquid followed by a wipe down on a paper towel.
For a deeper cleanse, shampoo your brushes monthly using a gentle brush shampoo and water. Be cautious not to let any water seep into the ferrule, as this can weaken the glue that holds the bristles in place. Rinse thoroughly, pat dry with a towel, and use your fingers to gently press the bristles together before laying it flat to air dry. Finally, store your brushes safely when not in use. Designate a clean, dry space like a brush bag, cup, or makeup organizer for this purpose.
Ensure the area is out of reach from children or pets that might damage your brushes, and you’ll be enjoying a well-maintained blush brush for years to come.
At Last Blush
When it comes to makeup, having the right tools can make all the difference. The quality and type of brushes you use can greatly impact the overall look and feel of your makeup. That’s why it’s essential to understand what each brush is designed for. Whether you’re looking for a soft, natural finish or a bold, vibrant color, there are countless options to choose from.
This guide aims to help you navigate the vast array of blush brushes available, ensuring that you find the perfect one for your personal style and makeup preferences.
