Bargain Brush Strokes: Top Drugstore Makeup Brushes

Brushes & Applicators Sets by Ulta
Beauty Tools by Ulta

Brushes are an important part of your makeup kit and are also one of the most expensive purchases you can make. They generally are the difference between a sloppy makeup job and a well applied makeup job...even if you are a novice.

With brushes that run at $35-$65 a piece many every day women tend to over look brushes and stick to the awful sponge thingies that come with compacts...might as well clean your ears with them instead -_-

On the same hand, buying cheap brushes do more harm than good. There is nothing worse than a poor quality brush...not grabbing pigment, so scratchy it won't apply smoothly not to mention falling apart on you.

As a pro I  invest in my brushes as they are tools that I need to work with and to last a life time, but for the average woman out there who only wants to apply their makeup well, there are some excellent options both in quality and in price.

Here are my Top 4 Choices for quality affordable brushes for your DIY pro applications:

Eco Tools: 

Bamboo Bronzer brush $12.99 and Bamboo 6 piece Eye Brush Set $7.99

Earth Friendly Beauty, these brushes not only look cute but are cruelty free and made from recycled materials. They come in various sets with carrying cases also made from recycled materials and are available in basically every major drugstore and supermarket. What better way to go green than this!


Sonia Kashuk:

Sonia Kashuk Couture Brush Set $14.99 

Sonia Kashuk brushes and quality, on a budget, on a stick handle. Made by a Makeup Artist so you can rest assured that the make and quality is there. Her brushes also feature really trendy and cute seasonal designs for added personality. These brushes can be found exclusively at Target.



Real Techniques:

Real Techniques Core Collection $17.99

Another line created by Pro Makeup Artist Sam Chapman, known to many as Pixiwoo youtube guru. The Real Techniques brush line combines pro expertise on what a brush should do and innovative design. The handles are made to stand upright and are colour coded to make use easy. No more "What is this brush for?" Real Techniques brushes are available at Ulta.


Face Secrets:

Face Secrets Foundation Brush $9.99

Face Secrets is a brand that provides cosmetic tools such as sponges, disposable applicators and also includes a full makeup brush line (possibly) exclusive to Sallys Beauty Supply. Sold in only single pieces, I randomly picked up a few eyeshadow brushes and powder brushes and was pleasantly surprised at the quality, and for the price there's no harm!

Now that you have great tools to apply your makeup with, be sure to pick up a brush cleaner. Brushes should be washed at least once a week ( personal brushes of course). If you guys would like a post on how to clean and maintain your new brushes comment below!

Brushes & Applicators Sets by Ulta

Saj Mack is a Professional Makeup Artist in Atlanta Georgia providing over 6 years experience in Beauty, Commercial, Film, Television, Special FX and more. See her work at www.makeupbysaj.com