Sara Hill Makeup Brush Dupes

When I saw the new makeup brushes from Sara Hill, I noticed that they looked very familiar. Her Pyramid brushes, which can be purchased here: https://sarahill.com/collections/brushes look exactly like the paint brushes that I have been using for makeup application. She does say that they were inspired by art brushes which makes me think the brushes I have are likely a pretty good dupe.

Above is a picture of one of the brushes I purchased at Blick, my local art supply store. The bristles are made out of premium synthetic faux squirrel hair and are incredibly soft. I have been using this brush to apply highlight to the cheekbone area and for powder blush application. The shape fits the contours of the face beautifully, and reminds me of Fenty's shark tooth brush.

I admit that I have not tried the Sara Hill brushes, so I cannot honestly compare quality. However the art brushes I have feel quite luxurious.

Here are some others I have purchased:

The brush in the lower left corner (above) I use to paint on face lotion or primer. The other brush I use with very pigmented blush as it only picks up a small amount of powder, allowing for easy layering.

This smaller brush (above) I have been using to blend eyeshadow. It works much like a MAC 217, but the bristles are a bit more loose and fluffy. For this reason I do not use it with cream products, but favor it for blending out powder eyeshadow.

Prices:

Above is the listed retail price for these brushes. As you can see, if you purchase 5+ of any combo of brushes, the price per brush drops significantly.

As with all brushes, the larger the brush, the more expensive it is. I find the prices, especially if buying 5 or more to be extremely reasonable compared to makeup brushes. Many high quality makeup brush brands, like Smith Cosmetics (which I love) offer a paint brush style aesthetic. However these are typically among the higher priced makeup brushes. So I think going straight to the source and trying paint brushes is a good option. I do recommend buying art brushes in person because you really want to feel the brushes to make sure they are soft enough for use on the face, especially around the eye.

Here are a few more that work nicely for makeup application:

Whenever I am inside of an art supply store, I spend a lot of time browsing the isles to see what items I can adapt for use in makeup. I hold my eyeliner in a roll intended to hold color pencils. I often find many of the tools are perfect for makeup and the cost is significantly cheaper!

Here is the display at my local art store: 

They also had a variety of small traditional looking paint brushes (pictured font row, bottom right corner above) that remind me of the Makeup Forever brushes.

This is the sign in the art store that made me stop and feel the brushes:

Using art brushes for makeup is not a new concept. It is certainly not one that I invented. However with makeup brushes being designed after art brushes so frequently, I think it is worth taking a closer look.

Pop into your local art supply store. You never know what dupes you may find!

Do you use art brushes to apply makeup?

*All brushes in this post were purchased by me. I do not get paid to write reviews.

 

 

How to Rock a (Dark) Bold Lip

In 2013, I wrote a post with tips and tricks on how to rock a bold lip. I shared my methods for keeping your pout looking perfect all day long.  The strategy outlined in that post is still what I use today, so if you have not read that post, I highly recommend you do. I want to take all of the information I previously outlined and expand upon it.  A "bold lip" can mean anything from bright hues, to classic red.  However with the cooler months ahead of us, I want to focus on a dark bold lip. When working with deeper colors there are some additional steps that are useful.  Darker colors leave less room for error, and if you aren't careful can create a bit of a mess.  If you follow the helpful hints I have outlined below, you will look stunning, rather than scary, the next time you want to don a dark lip.

Here are my go-to tips for the perfect, dark & bold pout:

I have a fair complexion, which can make wearing dark lipstick a little difficult to pull off at times.  While I want to stand out, I don't necessarily want to look goth (unless I that is the specific look I am trying to achieve).  

• Prep your lips properly.  Lips are skin and we should think of them as such.  The same way you would prep your skin for foundation by exfoliating and moisturizing, you have to provide a smooth surface for your lip color to adhere to. Please do not skip this step.  It will make your lip color look better, and last longer.  For extra staying power, try a lip primer, such as Too Faced Lip Insurance.  This product really does help create the appearance of smoother lips, and is ideal for those who have trouble with their lip color feathering. 

• Line your lips with a lip liner the same color as your lipstick (or as close as you can get it).  This will also help your lip color last all day.  If you do not have a matching lip liner, opt for a clear one, such as Too Faced Borderline Anti-Feathering Lip Pencil. When wearing a dark lip, I do prefer to use a lip liner in a matching color because this provides an added layer of protection.  Fading is more noticeable with dark lip colors, so if my lipstick fades I will still have a layer of lip liner in the same color underneath it.  Using a clear liner does not provide this added benefit.  However if you do not frequently wear dark lips, or seldom change your lip color, I can understand not wanting to buy lip liners in a variety of hues.  If this is you, stick with clear, because it works with every color of the rainbow. 

Some of my favorite lip liner brands are: Milani Color Statement Lip Liners, Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Lip Pencil, and Too Faced Perfect Lips twist up liners (ideal for those who don't want to use a sharpener).  I always recommend having a clear lip liner on hand if you are a makeup artist. I am not sure if Too Faced still makes their Borderline Anti-Feathering Lip Pencil, but Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil in Ozone (clear) is also a great choice. 

Some of my favorite lip liners pictured above

• Be sure to have your concealer handy.  When wearing a dark lip color, cleaning up the edges of your lips with concealer is extra important.  This is a tip I mentioned in my first post, but I want to add that when using a dark lip color, double check the brush that you are applying concealer with as you go. You want to make sure none of that deep lip pigment has transferred onto your brush.  For example, If I were applying concealer under my lips along the edge of one side, then were going to repeat this step on the other, I would double check my brush before dipping back into the pot of concealer. Once a deep hued lip color gets mixed in with your concealer, it can be a bit difficult to remedy.  Likewise, a deep red smeared across your chin may stain the skin, making it a bigger pain to remove than something like a bright pink. 

• Use a lip brush! When working with darker lipstick, I prefer to apply smooth thin layers of product.  This way, I can simply add another layer for more intensity. It is much easier to add more than to take away. I find that applying lipstick directly from the tube, often can result in using too much product if you are not careful. If you use a traditional lip brush with a cap, you can load the brush up with your lip color and bring it with you in your purse, rather than having to carry the whole lipstick tube in a tiny clutch.

I often use a lip brush to apply my lip primer.  I can use the included wand to put some product onto a palette, and then dip my lip brush into the product before spreading a thin layer on my lips.  This keeps things sanitary, and helps me to get a thin, even layer that is a bit more precise than using a doe-foot applicator.  Lip brushes are also helpful for spreading out clear lip liner, or blending your colored liner inward from the corners of the mouth. 

Lip brushes come in a variety of styles. One of the more traditional styles is a lip brush with a cap that comes off, and fits onto the back of the handle, extending the handle length. This is the style I prefer to use for weddings, so that I can load up the brush with lip color and cap it to be carried in a purse for touch-ups.  I also have lip brushes like the two pictured below; a standard lip brush that has a full size handle, and a retractable style from Urban Decay that came with their Vice Lip Palette. 

 The Urban Decay brush pictured below, has bristles that retract down into the handle. 

• Be sure your face is in balance. Bold lips call for bold brows. This will help keep the face looking more symmetrical. For eye makeup, keep eyeliner clean and add lots of mascara.  If the focus is on lips, I will often just tightline the eyes for definition without taking away from the lip color. If you are using eyeshadow, choose light satin formulas in neutral colors. Again, we do not want to detract from the lips, but eyes that are completely bare will look a bit......off. 

• Blush or a blush/bronzer combo will really help to brighten up the face. This is specially important for those with fair skin, unless you are intentionally going for a goth look. 

• Pick a lip color and formula that suits your personal style. Makeup should be fun, and never make you feel uncomfortable. If a dark lip scares you, but you still want to try the trend, opt for more of a sheer balmy formula and give it an extra blot with a tissue. If your lips need extra moisture, a bold, dark gloss with good pigment can create a similar impact when paired with a matching lip liner. Try Burt' s Bees Lip Shimmer in Plum for a balm-like texture, or Armour Beauty Siouxsie lip gloss for a high shine pout.

Picture Above: Hourglass Lip Liner in Icon (classic, ,true red) & Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in Plum (true pigmented plum)

• Don't forget to clean up.  Do the finger trick. While it may look crass, the old "finger trick" works to keep lipstick on your lips, and off of your teeth. If you are unfamiliar with this technique, here is what I usually do: 
• Wrap a tissue around your index finger.
• Wrap you lips around your tissue-covered finger, be sure that you go all the way down on your finger so that your entire index finger is inside your mouth. 
• Slowly pull your finger out of your mouth.
• Done! This trick will get all of the excess color off of the inside of your lips, so it won't transfer to your choppers.

• Optional Bonus Tip: For an ultra matte look, and super bold, intensified color, pat a smidge of matte eyeshadow over your lipstick.  Be sure the eyeshadow is the same color as your lipstick, or you can go 1-2 shades lighter or darker for more of an ombre effect. This can be slightly drying on the lips, which is why the first step is so important. 

Here is the final result: 

For the above look, I used Jeffree Star Cosmetics Velour Liquid Lipstick in Designer Blood (dark rusty red with a satin finish) over Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Lip Pencil in Mrs. Mia Wallace (discontinued).  For eyes, I used Too Faced Perfect Black Orchid Waterproof Eyeliner to tight line.

My 2 favorite dark bold lip colors for Fall 2018 are: Dark Berry & Dark Red

If you like dark berry lipsticks try: Sleek Major Matte Lip Cream in Unreal, Milani Lipstick in Black Cherry or Ilia Lipstick in Lust For Life

If you like dark red lipsticks try: Ilia Lipstick in Femme Fatale, Milani Lipstick in Matte Confident, Jeffree Star Cosmetics Velour Liquid Lipstick in Redrum or Jeffree Star Cosmetics Liquid Lipstick in Designer Blood

What are your favorite dark lipsticks?  Please let me know in the comments below, or show me your dark bold lipstick looks on Twitter @MakeupMatters1

*All products in this post were purchased by me.  I do not get paid to write reviews.  All opinions are my own. 

It's All About STIPPLING BRUSHES! - Battle of the Brushes

As many of my readers know, I love makeup brushes. My obsession started with an attempt to locate the best quality synthetic makeup brush brand, and find professional grade versions of the animal hair brushes most artists were using at the time. What I didn't realize was that my quest for the best, would lead me to collect an assortment of brushes across many brands, some good, some bad and everything in between.  Truthfully, there is not one brand to rule them all.  I have found a few wonderful brands across different price points each with their own strengths and weaknesses.  Therefore, I decided to use my collection to help educate consumers without showing favoritism to one particular brand.  I want to help you find the perfect brush for your needs! The "perfect brush" will be different for each individual based on budget, lifestyle, and intended use.

For today's post, I am looking at one specific brush type, across a variety of brands. Yes my friends, today it is all about the stippling brush!

What is a stippling brush?  This type of brush, also called a duo-fiber brush, generally consists of two different types of brush fibers for the bristles. The bristles are sometimes staggered so that you have long and short bristles densely packed together. Other stippling brushes have the bristles uniformly cut or shaped so they have a flat, even head. Regardless of how the brush is constructed, this brush is intended to apply makeup to the face using a stippling (bouncing up and down motion) motion.

For example, the bristles can be dipped into liquid foundation, and then bounced onto the skin using an up and down motion to press the product into the skin. The more tightly packed the bristles, the more airbrushed look it will provide. 

While this type of brush is intended for stippling, as the name suggests, it can be used for so much more. Lately, I have been using it to apply moisturizer to the skin for my pre-foundation prep work. Something about the movement of the bristles around the face, allows me to get into all of the small sections, gliding the cream on with ease. 

Here is a look at some of the stippling brushes in my collection: 

As you can see from the above photograph, stippling brushes come in a variety of sizes and colors.  Some of the brushes have a longer handle, some of them short.  Some have quite a small brush head, some are large enough for body work. Sometimes the bristles are packed very tight together, others have bristles that are spaced apart. Regardless of how the brush is constructed, I  decided to put them side by side and examine each brush pictured above.

Criteria for best stippling brush:

• Long lasting - A brush should stand up to multiple cleanings and repeated daily use.
• Firm ferrule- If the ferrule (metal piece that connects the bristles to the handle) is loose, the brush doesn't have much time left. 
• Soft bristles- While the bristles should be firm enough to push product into the skin, they should never feel scratchy or rough. 
• Comfortable handle- It is not uncommon to use a stippling brush for multiple products in the same makeup application.  I might apply moisturizer with the brush, and then stipple on and blend in foundation with the very same brush.  When holding any makeup brush for an extended period of time, comfort is key. 
• Functionality-As I mentioned, this type of brush can be used for different things.  Does it function for what I want it to?  If you are buying a stippling brush to use with a cream blush, but the brush head is too large to fit into the container, you may want to consider a different brush. With bristles like this, it is imperative that application is not streaky. 
• Price- Nearly every brand makes stippling brushes these days. They are not at all difficult to find.  Therefore, you should be able to find one in your budget. 

To begin my ranking, I decided to break the brushes up into group by size.  Comparing them this way helped me evaluate their functionality, which is the most important attribute to start with.  

Small Stippling Brushes

For the smallest brushes in my collection, I have a small stipple brush from E.l.f. Cosmetics ($3.00) and the stippling brush from Real Techniques ($10.00).   As you can see, I own multiples of the Real Techniques version.  This is because the small brush head is ideal for smaller containers of cream blush, and applying products to smaller sections of the face.  I had the Real Techniques version first, and did not discover the E.l.f. Cosmetics version until much later. The brush head is slightly smaller on the E.l.f. version.Both brands created their brushes with two layers of bristles and intend them for use with multiple product textures. 

The Real Techniques brush has a wide base at the end of it's handle so that it can stand on a table. However, between the two brands, I must say that I prefer the E.l.f. Cosmetics version.  The Real Techniques brush has rubber at the bottom of the handle. Rubber and alcohol are not friends. While cleaning my brush handles with alcohol one day, I realized that all of my Real Techniques stippling brushes had turned tacky on the rubberized section.  Sadly, the alcohol caused the handles to melt and turn sticky to the touch.  This created a section that all of the dust and pigment just sticks to on the brush.  Trying to remove it only further scraped up the handle of my brush.  I now realize that I need to clean the handles of my rubberized brushes differently, but this is especially frustrating as a makeup artist trying to keep everything sanitary.  The price discrepancy is another reason why E.l.f. Cosmetics wins my pick for best small stippling brush.

Winner in the size small category: E.L.F. Cosmetics Small Stipple Brush $3.00.  Available on their website or in select Target stores. 

Medium Stippling Brushes

This is the size that I use the most when it comes to stippling brushes.  Something about it feels comfortable in my hand, and the brush head is the perfect size for most faces.  I will use this size brush to apply moisturizer to the face before foundation. Unless I am working on a client with very oily skin (in this case I may skip right to primer), moisturizer gets applied before foundation to every single client with a stippling brush. In my collection I evaluated the Bdellium Tools 955, EcoTools by Alicia Silverstone stippling brush, and Expert Stippling Brush from Icing.  All three brushes are about the same length, with the brush from Icing having the largest brush head of the three.  The Bdellium Tools 955 brush has the softest bristles out of the three by far. Icing's bristles are the second softest in this trio, with the EcoTools bristles being the most coarse. I have had the Bdellium Tools & EcoTools brushes for several years, with the Icing's version being the newest brush to my collection out of the three.  That being said, I have still had the Icing version for at least three years. This EcoTools brush was a collaboration with the actress Alicia Silverstone and has since been discontinued.  However, the brand does make a very similar version called the Seamless Stippling Brush ($7.78) which is available at Walmart. Due to the fact that my brush is old, and the brand has since redesigned many of their brushes, I do not know if the bristles on the Seamless Stippling Brush are softer than the version I own. The Bdellium Tools 955 Green Bambu Finishing Brush is $14.00 and is available at bdelliumtools.com. Icing was a retail store in the Virigin Islands that I stopped into when they were having a big sale. I know this store is also in the states, and it's target demographic is women in their 20s, vs Claire's (their parent store) which targets teenagers. I am not in my teens or 20s, but still appreciate a good bargain.  I picked up this Expert Stippling Brush on sale for about $5.00.  I do not know if they still make it, but I did find an Expert Bamboo Stippling Brush on their site that looked quite similar.  This version retails for $9.99, but at the time of this post is buy one, get one free. If you are a beginner with makeup and can grab it on sale, the Expert Stippling Brush from Icing is a great choice.  However, if you are in the market for a high quality stippling brush that will last you for years to come, spending the few extra bucks and springing for the Bdellium Tools version will be well worth it. This brush has served me well over the years.  It does an amazing job with liquids, creams and powders, applying and blending them with ease.  The bristles are so incredibly soft that I never have to worry when using it on clients with sensitive skin.  I have never had even 1 bristle shed from this brush. I have had this one in my kit for so many years, and it sill looks as new as the day I bought it. 

Winner in the size medium category: Bdellium Tools 955 Green Bambu Finishing Brush ($14.00) available at www.bdelliumtools.com or Amazon.com 

Large Stippling Brushes 

After medium, large stippling brushes are the size that I use the most. The stippling brushes pictured above are from the brand Furless. They are all professional quality brushes that live in my kit.The PPF3, or Perfectly Pink Stippling Brush is made with soft, yet durable bristles and retails for $12.99.  The two brushes next to it are essentially the same brush in different colors.  The brush in the center is a Furless PRO6F, Must Have Pro Stippling Brush ($16.95) and the one to the right is from the Rose Gold Must Have ItsLikelyMakeup Set. The set is beautiful and costs $169.95 for 20 makeup brushes plus a brush apron.  I have had the PPF3 since August of 2014.  The PRO6F is a brush I have had for much longer than that, with the Rose Gold version being the newest addition to this trio. Picking a favorite here is really just splitting hairs.  They are all very high quality brushes that will last for many years. My only complaint is that I do wish the Rose Gold brushes were also sold separately, as I would like to purchase a few backups in this beautiful color to give as gifts to people. 

Winner in the size large category: It's a toss up, but if I must choose the PRO6F has to be it. I have had this one the longest out of the three, and the cobalt blue handle is professional, yet stunning.  The bristles are soft, and functional without ever leaving streaks behind. This brush is good for so many different uses, and can be purchased solo or as part of a set.  You can shop here: Furless Cosmetics

Extra Large Stippling Brushes

I know this post is starting to get a bit long, but I had to include these extra large brushes.  With their super big brush head, it is almost impossible to stipple these on the face.  However, they do make excellent body brushes.  Foundation should always be taken down the neck and onto the shoulders or any exposed area of skin.  Sometimes, we just want to tap a bit of highlighter onto the shoulders, or buff in a bit of bronzer.  These brushes are ideal for these uses. Out of these three brushes, I have had the Sedona Lace 813 (first one pictured above) the longest by far. The quality is similar to Sigma brushes, and the price point used to be just a bit cheaper than Sigma at the time of purchase.  It looks like as of the time I am writing this post, this brush is on sale for $6.98 (regular price $19.95). Sedona Lace also sells animal hair brushes, so please be sure to shop for the Synthetic Duo Fibre Brush - 813 if you are looking to add this one to your collection. The brush in the center is from Real Techniques by Sam & Nic.  Sadly, I do not see this brush on their website.  I believe I purchased it at my local Walgreens or Target at some point last year.  It is incredibly soft and the rubber at the bottom of this brush seems to be made of a slightly different material than the stippling brush I mentioned in the section of smaller brushes above. Unfortunately I do not recall how much I paid for this brush, but I believe it was included as part of a set. The last brush pictured above is from IT Cosmetics. Again, I got this brush as part of a set that I do not believe they make anymore. However, I did locate a set on Ulta's website that has a brush from the brand that looks very similar.  It is called Your Airbrush Masters 6 Pc Advanced Brush Set, and retails for $65.00. This set calls the brush their Blurring Powder brush, and recommend it for powder application. I will say this, I have numerous brushes from IT Cosmetics and every single one is a winner.  I am not a big fan of double sided brushes, but the ones I do like are from IT Cosmetics.  These brushes make excellent gifts, and their sets are a wonderful value. I recommend this brush for anyone looking for a bit of luxury in their makeup game.  The bristles are ultra plush and feel so incredibly soft on the skin. 

Again, you can't go wrong if you buy any of these brushes.  All three are absolute winners in my book. The Sedona Lace is great for a professional kit, especially at the sale price! The Real Techniques brush is great for personal use, and the IT Cosmetics version would make a lovely gift, or be ideal for someone wanting brushes that are a bit more luxurious. 

Winner in the extra large category: Sedona Lace Synthetic Duo Fibre Brush - 813.  At $6.98 each, I am seriously considering buying a few more of these for my kit.  Professional quality at drugstore prices? Yes please!! Shop at Sedona Lace.

And the winner is.....drum roll please.....

It's a tie!  Bdellium Tools Green Bambu 995 Finishing ($14.00) and Furless Must Have Pro Stippling Brush ($16.95). 

Both brushes are professional quality, and will last you for years to come. The Bdellium Tools brush has a shorter handle, while the Furless brush has a long handle, so depending on your personal preference this may help you to decide.  The bristle length is about the same on both brushes, but the circumference of the brush head is larger on the Furless brush. The bristles are equally soft on both, and I have noticed no difference in handle comfort.

I have always said that makeup artists and those truly passionate about makeup should invest in high quality tools.  The best tools that you can afford vary depending on one's budget.  However, I promise you that you will not go wrong with either of these brushes.  They are both well-made brushes that I am proud to have in my collection. 

What is your favorite stippling brush? Did I mention it here?  Please let me know in the comments.

*This post contains both brushes purchased by me and brushes sent for consideration.  However, any links within this blog post are simply for the convenience of the reader.  I do not get any commission if you purchase any of the brushes mentioned in this post.  I was not paid to write this post. I do not get paid to write reviews, nor do I write reviews in exchange for products. I have worked hard to build my brush collection over the years, and hope to share my knowledge with other consumers so that they can make the best decisions possible. 

Quick Guide: Everyday Makeup

With everyone back to school and back to work, I thought I would share my current guide to Everyday Makeup.  I did create a back to school makeup look, and I have done a tutorial using the Urban Decay Naked Petite Heat Palette before. However, this post is more of a guide to my current makeup look when I want to throw something on that looks polished and professional,  but doesn't look like I am wearing a ton of makeup. Because I wear this look, or something like it, pretty frequently,  I can apply it in a very short amount of time. 

Your "everyday makeup look" should be something that makes you feel good. This look is all about presenting a better version of yourself, while still looking like you! 

Let's get started!


Prep:
Apply moisturizer with a duo fiber brush,  followed by a touch of primer through the T-zone and under eyes. I just rub in the primer with my fingers to get it really worked into the skin. I also apply lip balm at this point. This step is especially important if wearing a matte lipstick, as it will prevent the lips from looking too dry. 

Face Base:
I dotted my Milani foundation around my face and neck, and buffed it in with a buffing brush that was sprayed with setting spray.

Next, I applied just a little bit of concealer under my eyes and to any dark areas on my face, more as a highlight than a cover up. This step could probably be skipped since I will apply concealer later, but I find my dark circles distracting,  and like an even canvas to work with.
 
Brows:
To start grooming my brows, I brush them up using my Real Techniques brow brush (the bristled end of the brow brush/lash comb tool). I use a dark brown pommade on an angled brush and focus the color on the arch, especially under the brow for a defined structure. Then using my Kelley Quan Wave Brush I apply an ash brown brow powder to any sparse areas using light feathery strokes. I then pick up my Real Techniques brow brush once more and use it to blend the product through my brows.

Using a cotton swab, I clean up around the brows before using a matte pencil highlighter from Milani and a flat concealer brush to further define my brows. You can use a concealer for this step if you prefer, just pick one that has a brightening effect.  For the flat concealer brush, I like using one with longer bristles that have more flexibility to them. This allows me to get the highlighter right up under the brows very closely without getting product in the brow hairs themselves. 

Eyes:
I used a nude creamy eye primer from NYX to prep the lids for shadow. Again, you can use a matte concealer for this step, or if your eyelids are dry, skip it altogether. 
For powder eyeshadow,  I used 3 matte colors from the Urban Decay Naked Petite Heat Palette; Vibrate (soft nude), Heist (rich cayenne) and Strike (rich reddish-brown). As always, you can use any eyeshadow in your collection, just choose matte, warm shadows as they will work best for the type of look we are trying to achieve. 

To start the eyeshadow look, I applied Vibrate using a blending brush to set the primer. If you don't have this palette, use any matte shadow that is just a touch darker than your skin tone. I started at the lash line blending upward. Just a thin coat of this color will do. Next, I picked up Heist on the tip of the same blending brush and began at the outer corner of the eye blending it on using short circular motions. The color was applied through the crease of the eye, with a little bit being swept onto the eyelid. It is important to stabilize the skin so the shadow blends on smoothly. I like a rich warm tone for this step because it helps define the eye emphasizing the natural blue in my eyes. 

Use a clean brush to blend out the edges. Everything should look seamless and hazy. Using a very thin angled brush, I applied the darkest color in the palette (Strike) to the upper lash line. If you want a more defined liner, you can dampen your brush, but I don't think it is necessary with these shadows as they are quite pigmented. I only bring the liner about 3/4 of the way in. Using whatever is left on the brush, I gently press the color under my lower lash line, keeping the color along the outer 3/4 only. Make sure the color on the bottom lash line connects with the liner on top. I used a cotton swab to smudge the color, reapplying and smudging as desired.

For full lashes, I applied a few coats of Milani Big and Bigger Lashes Mascara to top and bottom lashes after curling them with a metal lash curler. 

Face Color:
Using foundation and concealer evens out the skin, but it also removes any color from the face. Color cosmetics can help add the color back in a more strategic way. To finish up the face, I applied Fenty Beauty Matchstix cream color in Amber,  blending it out with a pointed foundation brush. Amber is a very natural looking contour color on my skin tone. The pointed foundation brush I used is a shape and size that mimics fingers. You can certainly blend the color in with your fingers instead of a brush if desired. To clean up and brighten the under eye area, I added a healthy dose of my Aveda inner light concealer to highlight my face.  This is such an underrated product. The color, texture and long lasting formula make this concealer a must-have product for my everyday look.  I set the concealer using a flat sponge and a colorless loose setting powder.  I used a very small amount of powder. The purpose of the powder in this look is to set the concealer, and provide a base for my powder blush. Too much powder can emphasize fine lines and make the skin look cakey.

Using my angled blush brush from the Crown Brush Syntho Series (see my synthetic brush guide for affiliate link & discount code), I gently swept on a bit of Milani Baked Powder Blush in Corallina. This blush has gold shimmer in it, so I don't need a separate highlighter, which is one of the reasons I love this product for everyday. Milani makes some of the best blushes on the market. The color selection, textures available, and affordable price point make them a go-to product for professional makeup artists and beginners alike. They offer colors that work for every skin tone, and many of their colors are universally flattering, which is especially helpful for makeup artists.  

Lips:
I applied Fenty Beauty Mattemoiselle Matte Lipstick in Freckle Fiesta (matte terracotta) directly from the tube to the center of the bottom lip. I pressed my lips together to spread it to my top lip, and then blended the color out using a Bdellium Tools Bold Lip Brush.  You can use your finger if you prefer, but I have always favored the precision of a lip brush.  I did not want the lip to have that overly "perfect" vibe, but was aiming for a more low maintenance look. Using the leftover concealer on my concealer brush, I cleaned up around the edges of my lips, not for a crisp edge, but just to clean up any smudges and add a bit of a highlight. 

Here is the finished look:

As you can see, the focus is clear, even skin, a bold brow and lovely lips that create a polished look. This look is professional,  without looking like I tried too hard. I only had to toss my lipstick in my bag for touchups and I was good to go for the rest of the day. If going out at night, smudge on some dark eyeliner and pat on some lip gloss for evening cocktails. 

This is such a pretty look for Autumn. I love terracotta,  rust, and other warm peppery colors this time of year. Fall also allows me to shed the balmy products of summer and replace them with richly pigmented hues. The warmth of the colors helps us forget how cool it will be outside soon! For more Fall friendly ideas, be sure to read my previous post.

What is your everyday makeup look this time of year? How do you revise your routine for cooler temperatures?

*Note: This post contains products purchased by me, and some sent for consideration by the company. I do not get paid to write reviews or accept money from any brands in exchange for mentioning them in my posts. 

I do have an affiliate link & discount code with Crown Brush. If you choose to shop through this link/use my code, I may make a very small commission. This helps support the site, and enables me to continue bringing you content you love. If you would like to learn more about how you can receive a discount on Crown Brush products, please contact me on Twitter @MakeupMatters1 for personalized recommendations. As a service, I help makeup lovers and artists building their kit decide which brushes work best for them. I do have posts outlining some of my favorites, but I think it is more beneficial to help you discover your favorites instead. 

How to Rock Gold

Shimmery gold pigment is a favorite of mine for decorating the eyes. Gold makeup looks good on pretty much every eye color, skin tone and age. From antique gold, to rose gold, modern metallics are here to stay!

Today I created a completely gold makeup look including gilded lips and highlighted cheekbones. 

You can tone this up or down depending on personal preference. 

Let's get started!

Face

Honestly, since I used quite a bit of shimmer and loose pigment for this look, you may want to start with the eyes and apply your foundation after for easier clean up. I am simply in the habit of applying my face base first. Even looking skin is the one thing I always strive for, so I need to have some coverage on my face.

I started off by applying moisturizer with my Christopher Drummond Air Blender Brush.  I am so sad that they don't make these brushes any more because they have been staples in my kit for years. 

For foundation,  I mixed a bit of Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-In-1 Foundation + Concealer in 00 Light Natural with IT Cosmetics CC Cream in Fair. I dotted the mixture around my face, then spread the product out using an actual paint brush from my local art supply store. I took my Beauty Blender Blotterazzi flat sponge and dampened it with water, squeezing out the excess.  Then I rolled the sponge around my index finger and used it to gently pat, press and blend the foundation mixture into my skin, being sure to cover the neck, chest and ears. 

Above: Fenty Match Stix in Linen & Amber 

Before getting my gold on, I really wanted my skin to look lit from within and ethereal. It helps add to the golden aesthetic. 

To achieve this, I used Fenty Beauty Match Stix in Amber & Linen to contour & highlight. Adding dimension to the face with different color creams results in an overall glow that is simply stunning.  These cream sticks are a makeup artist's dream come true because they never seem to dry out. I find it is best with most cream products to warm them up on the back of the hand before applying to the face. This helps the product meld more effortlessly into the skin. 

I used a liquid blush and luminizer along my cheekbones to keep my skin looking dewy and hydrated. 

Eyes

Brows frame the eyes, and for this look a full brow helps keep things in balance. I brushed my brows up with a spoolie, then focused on the arch of the brow using a colored pommade and my Kelley Quan Wave Brush. To fill in the gaps, I used a slightly fuller angled brush to apply just a touch of brow powder. 

To help your makeup last longer, layering products is key. I started with a gold gel cream liner hybrid from Physicians Formula. Pat and blend a light layer of color from lash line to just above the crease using a dense precision brush. Use a fluffy brush to blend out the edges.

ColourPop's Yes, Please palette is popular for a reason. The warm tones look flawless on just about everyone. On a flat broad eyeshadow brush, I picked up the light shimmery gold from this palette, patting and sweeping the color onto my eyelids. To darken the outer corner of my eye and add depth to the crease, I used a stiff dome shaped brush to sweep on Urban Decay Deluxe Eyeshadow in Honey. As you can see from the above pictures, Honey is a darker, more yellow gold than the ColourPop shadow. I also brushed Honey along my lower lash line. 

For even more of that golden goddess effect, I applied OCC Loose Colour in Cruising to the inner corner of my eye and mobile lid. I used my lip brush from Sugarpill sprayed with a setting spray to apply it. This technique (called foiling) allows the pigment to be painted on like liquid metal. The size and shape of this brush is perfect for foiling, priming the lids or applying concealer for a cut crease. 

On my lower waterline,  I applied Urban Decay 24/7 pencil in Eldorado (gold), smudging it into the lower lashes.

To complete the eyes, I used Jeffree Star Cosmetics Velour Liquid Lipstick in Weirdo (black) as an eyeliner along the top lash line. These are eye safe, and when applied with a small, flat brush, they work surprisingly well as liquid eyeliner. I applied mascara & falsies for voluminous lashes.

 

Glow

A gold makeup look would not be complete without highlighter.  I used a light gold one from Sleek along the top of my cheekbones blending it over Milani Corallina Baked Powder Blush (coral with gold flecks). 

I even chose a bronzer with some golden shimmery specks in it to warm up the face. 

Lips

To make sure my pout was perfect, I prepped my lips with a lip primer and clear lip liner from Too Faced. I chose a beautiful metallic lipstick from Milani appropriately called D'Oro (gold). 

For gloss, I used a mixture of Armour Beauty in Stardust & Marilyn.  Both glosses are clear with gold flecks, but one has a bit more iridescence.

Finished Look:

I used a light shimmery highlighting pencil from Milani to add just a touch more sheen to the inner corner of the eye and just under my brow.

After cleaning up any eyeshadow fallout,  I touched up my concealer before setting it with just a tiny touch of powder. 

Despite all of the shimmer, this look is totally wearable. I especially love rocking gold makeup at the end of summer. The key to making the look last is applying multiple thin layers. I like to use a mixture of textures to keep it interesting. 

Gold looks especially beautiful when the skin is warmed up with a bit of bronzer. Gold makeup can work for everyone. Play around with different tones, textures and placement until you find your favorite way to Rock Gold. 

 

As always, THANK YOU for reading. I hope that you learned something new. Please feel free to chat with me on Twitter @MakeupMatters1 

Note: The makeup products in this post were purchased by me or gifted to me. Some of the brushes in this post may have been sent for consideration by the company. However I do not write sponsored content. I do not get paid to write reviews or accept money from any brands. All opinions are my own.  

Hack: Get Perfect Makeup Using the TBT

Do you struggle with getting your makeup to look perfectly blended? Are your eyeshadow colors looking a bit muddy? If things just aren't turning out the way you want them to, try the TBT application hack. No, I am not referring to "throw back Thursday."  Nor did I invent this method. However, I did come up with this easy to remember acronym to help my clients remember the concept.

TBT = Two Brush Technique 

The process is as simple as it sounds, apply your product with one brush, then grab a second brush to blend. For example, in the above photo, I applied powder eyeshadow with a flat brush, then picked up a clean blending brush to blend with.

Sounds easy right? This isn't just for eyeshadow.  I use this method for nearly all of my makeup application. 

In the below picture I used 4 different powder eyeshadows. Each was applied with one brush, with a second clean brush used to blend. 

For my foundation & concealer, I used a flat traditional foundation and concealer brush to apply the product to my face. Then I grabbed a more dense buffing brush with no product on it to buff, stipple and blend the product into my skin. This creates a much more airbrushed appearance, with no need to worry about streaks. 

Do you use the TBT? What is your favorite makeup Hack? 

 

3 Ways To Embrace Fall

Ask most makeup lovers which season is their favorite, and many will pick Fall. The colored leaves,  sweater weather and pumpkin spiced lattes are all things to look forward to as the warm months come to an end. What I really love about Fall is the makeup colors and textures.

Right now, while we are in between seasons there are a few things I do to get Fall ready. 

1. Pull out the dark eyeshadow. In the summer months we don't want to worry about our eyeshadow coming off at the pool. Summer makeup is all about the effortless look. For Fall, I like to go bold. 

Nothing screams Fall like Coloured Raine's Beauty Rust palette. I especially love shades like Recharge (matte burnt orange) and Dusk (matte brick red, pictured below).

To start my eyeshadow look, I primed my eyes with Milani eyeshadow primer, and then dipped a fluffy brush into a mixture of Vanilla Bean (light beige with a slight sheen) & Creme Brulee (matte medium tan) from Makeup Geek. You can use any color that are close to your skin tone, and one a few shades deeper for this step. I applied these colors to my crease as a base for my darker shadows, using a clean brush to blend out any harsh edges.

From the Coloured Raine Beauty Rust palette, I dipped a smaller crease brush into Recharge and swept it deeper into the crease of my eye, again blending the edges with a clean brush.

When working with darker eyeshadow it is especially important to use a small amount of product at first, and build up the color gradually. This will really help those with a heavy hand. 

Once my crease looked the way I wanted it to, I dipped a flat brush into Black Radiance Continuous Creme Eye Color in Mauve and applied it to my eyelid.

 

While this cream eyeshadow is beautiful on its own, I used it as a base for Dusk from the Coloured Raine Beauty Rust palette. Red Eyeshadow can be difficult to wear, but layering a few different textures and finishes makes it very chic. 

Over Dusk, I applied the popular Glass Bull pressed powder from ColourPop,  patting it on the eyelid with a very dense brush.

I then ran a mix of Recharge and Dusk along my lower lash line with a Flat Liner Brush from Royal and Langnickel S.I.L.K. Green Line. I kept the darkest color close to the lashes, smoking Dusk out with Recharge at the edges. 

2. Play with colored pencils. I have eyeliner from many brands, but Urban Decay really wins for best color selection. I used  the color Lucky from the brand's 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencils. These are waterproof and come in a variety of finishes, and colors so you can go as bold or be as conservative as you desire. I applied Lucky (sparkly copper) to my water line, and lower lashes, and tightlined my upper lashes with the color Zero (matte black). 

For blush, I used Tarte's Amazonian Clay 12-hour blush in Achiote,  topping it off with Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter in Iridescence. 

3. Rock a bold lip. In summer, I tend to pick lighter lip balm and gloss. When Fall is coming, I opt for cinnamon, gingerbread and warmer, more full-coverage lip products. I have been wearing Milani Color Statement Lipliner in 03 Nude topped with Jeffree Star Cosmetics Velour Liquid Lipstick in Allegedly. When it comes to lip products, Milani wins my vote from the drugstore.  Jeffree Star Cosmetics liquid lipsticks are new to me and the formula and staying power is AMAZING! Even though I always prep my lips for lip color, matte formulas can dry out my lips. The Velour Liquid Lipstick from Jeffree Star Cosmetics feels absolutely weightless on the lips, and lasts all day and night until you remove it. I am beyond impressed with the formula and color selection.

The reason this look worked for me is because of the layering of the different eyeshadow textures. The combo of cream, matte and shimmer melded together for this Fall ready eye.

Here is a closer look:

I hope you enjoyed this Fall Makeup Look. What are your favorite things about Fall? How do you switch up your makeup with the change of seasons?

*All products in this post were purchased by me or gifted to me by a family member. I do not get paid to write reviews. All opinions are my own. 

5 Face Brushes From Crown Brush You Will Want Now!

5 Face Brushes From Crown Brush You Will Want Now!

If you are a makeup artist, you have probably heard of Crown Brush.  For anyone who hasn't heard of them, this brand has been around for as long as I can remember.  Long before influencers pushed certain brush brands online, Crown Brush was the go-to brand for makeup artists looking for super affordable, but professional quality makeup brushes to build their kit.  Makeup artists like myself often need multiples of many brushes, especially eye brushes.  This can get quite costly, causing many to build their brush collection over time.  I discovered Crown Brush years ago when looking for a budget friendly way to purchase several brushes at once.  I knew I wanted brushes that were professional quality and also wanted a brand that offered a large variety of shapes and sizes. 

 

Crown Brush is still a brand that I go to for quality brushes in a variety of styles, without breaking the bank. The quality of their brushes has always been impressive, but I have noticed a real improvement throughout the years. I still have many brushes from this brand that are close to ten years old, and they are in excellent condition.  However, the newer Pro Brush Series from the brand, offers top quality tools that rivals their comptitors. 

A Special Deal For Makeup Matters Readers:

Right now, Crown Brush is running a HUGE site wide Labor Day sale of 35% off!  I have a special treat for you.  Not only will you get 35% off, you can use my code and get an additional 10% off for an amazing deal!  The 10% cannot be applied to their Value Center (clearance) items, BUT all other items are 35% off.  Use my code for an additional 10% off after the 35% off discount has been applied.  

If you would like to take advantage of this very special deal, click the below link (my affiliate link) and be sure to use code: LIZACHUNG at checkout. 

You can shop the brushes in this post through this link: Crown Brush

Use this code at checkout: LIZACHUNG

To help you shop, I picked out a combination of old and new favorites in my collection to share with you.  I narrowed the list down to my top 5 face brushes that I think everyone will love.  They are all multipurpose brushes, with soft bristles that work for liquids, powders and creams. 

Here are the five must-have face brushes that I love, and know you will too!

1. Precision Powder Brush - I have had this brush in my kit for years. This brush is from Crown's Syntho Series. I love it for setting powder under the eye, and precise placement and blending of any face powders.  The tapered tip makes it a great choice for a soft contour. If you like to put loose powder under the eyes to catch eyeshadow fallout during application, this brush is a great option. The bristles are ultra-soft, and the tulip shaped head comes to a nice point, which can be difficult to find in cruelty-free makeup brushes. 

2. Deluxe Angle Blush Brush - Another winner from the Syntho line is this perfectly angled blush brush. Again, I have had this brush for years.  It works well for blush, highlighting, and contouring. The bristles are soft enough even for the most delicate skin.  I love using this with my Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush.  For a more precise contour, pinch the bristles together and sweep your contour powder on.  Release the grip and use the tip of the brush to blend.

3. Pro Angle Bronzer Brush - This brush is from Crown's Pro Brush Series, and is newer to my kit. This brush is designed for bronzing, as the name implies.  However, I really love using it for both powder and liquid foundation.  The dense bristles help to provide a full-coverage look.  The unique angle of the brush head, and flexible "give" to the bristles allows for a seamless blend that creates a truly airbrushed look. This is a great choice if you are looking for a multipurpose face brush as it can be used with products of various textures, and fits the contours of the face perfectly. 

Here you can see just how flexible the bristles are when a little pressure is applied:

4. Pro Lush Pointed Powder/Contour Brush - I used this brush in my last post. This brush is also from Crown's Pro Brush Series, and was purchased at the same time I bought the Pro Angled Bronzer Brush. In my last post, I used it to apply powder to set my concealer. I love this for getting makeup into hard to reach spots. It works very well for applying powder under the eyes, corner of the nose, and anywhere that you want more precise placement.  The pointed tip makes this brush ideal for a natural looking contour. The bristles are made out of High Grade synthetic fibers that can be used with liquid, powder and cream products.  The bristles are 2" tall x 1" wide.  This is a completely unique shape for me, and I do not have any other brush like it in my collection.  The size and shape also make this brush a good one for applying highlighter to the tops of cheekbones.

Below is a picture of me using this brush to apply powder to the under eye area, and then using it to apply highlighter to the tops of my cheekbones. 

In addition to the 5 brushes detailed in this post, you can see a handful of my favorite eye brushes from Crown in the lower right corner of the above photo. I have to give an honorable mention to the Deluxe Blending Fluff Brush (Syntho Series) pictured above.  It is a brush that I own many of in my kit and have mentioned in several previous posts on this site. Also pictured above is the Oval Shadow Brush (Syntho Series) which is another eye brush that I have multiples of. It is super inexpensive, and mine have lasted for years. This brush is available individually and as part of a set.

5. Pro Lush Powder Brush - Last but not least, is this HUGE powder brush!  This is also from the Pro Brush Series.  I purchased this because it is quite large, making it perfect for use on the body. Applying bronzer to the face, neck, chest and shoulders is a breeze with this brush due to the super rounded head, and the multi length bristles.  This has a much more fluffy feel to it, and is the one I think every single person will absolutely love. This is great for someone who wears bronzer regularly. Note the large, rounded brush head, and staggered cut of the bristles in the photo below. This is truly a fantastic brush.  It is extremely soft, and applies powder products so evenly.  I am actually considering buying more of these for my kit because the price is so reasonable. 

I love using this brush to apply my IT Cosmetics Bronzer, because it swirls around the pan perfectly, allowing me to cover a good amount of surface area when applying bronzer to the body. 

Pictured above, this brush is a great dupe for the Marc Jacobs Beauty Bronzer Brush that is so popular with makeup lovers.  The brush is only ever so slightly smaller, but the price difference is huge.  The Marc Jacobs Beauty Bronzer Brush retails for $78!  If that is outside of your budget I highly recommend checking out this one from Crown Brush.  It is also a great dupe for the Sephora Pro Featherweight Powder Brush #91 (pictured above) which retails for $40.  The brush head is about the same size, the only difference being in handle shape, and length.  The Sephora brush has a slightly longer, more tapered handle, but again, the Crown Brush is a fraction of the price. 

I hope you enjoyed this look at my 5 favorite face brushes from Crown Brush. If you are looking for good quality makeup brushes that will last you for years to come, I highly recommend taking advantage of their Labor Day sale.  

Again you can shop through my affiliate link here: Crown Brush

Don't forget to use my code LIZACHUNG for that added discount! 

Other brushes that I own and love from Crown Brush include:  

• 6PC HD Set w/Mixing Plate & Spatula (made from high-grade synthetic fibers, this brush is vegan and cruelty free). 
• 10PC Professional Syntho Brush Set (I have mentioned this as a set I love in an older post of mine). I love the Flat Bronzer Brush in this set for applying foundation.  This set has a lot of brushes that not everyone thinks of, but are really important such as the Deluxe Mini Fan Brush for applying mascara, Deluxe Spoolie Brush and Deluxe Eyeliner Brush. 
• Deluxe Crease Brush (I recommend buying multiples of this one as it is useful for creating any eyeshadow look from beginner to advanced)
• Deluxe Foundation/Camouflage Brush - I normally do not favor dual sided brushes. However, this one is very convenient for foundation and concealer application. I can apply moisturizer, primer and foundation with the larger side, and simply flip the brush over to apply and blend my concealer. The High Grade synthetic fibers make this brush durable, and very easy to clean. 

Extra tips for shopping: From the "Brushes" menu at the top, chose from brush sets or individual brushes depending on what you are looking for. If shopping for individual brushes, I recommend the Syntho Series, or the brushes mentioned above from the Crown Pro Brush Series. Simply click on the brush that you are looking at and a little box with tabs appears under the brush (on the desktop site it appears to the right).  The first tab has a detailed description of the brush.  The second tab is my favorite, it is called, "Bristle Profile."  This tells you exactly what the bristles are made of so you can be 100% sure that you are not purchasing animal hair brushes. Something that I have mentioned many times, is that I hate it when companies do not list what bristles the brush is made out of on their site. I always want to know exactly what I am buying. I know too many people who have purchased an animal hair brush accidentally because the bristle type was not clearly listed on the site. 

Crown Brush is for makeup artists and makeup lovers alike. I think you will be very surprised at how affordable these brushes are.  Some of the eye brushes I mentioned above are under $5 each.  The quality is really impressive, especially considering the price. I have had many Crown brushes for years, and they have all held their shape well.  I have never had one break on me, which is impressive given how hard I can be on my brushes.

Do you own any Crown Brush tools?  Please share your favorites in the comments below. Which brushes from this brand would you like me to review next?

*All of the brushes mentioned in this post were purchased by me.  I did receive an affiliate discount on my most recent purchase, but they were still bought with my own money.  If you choose to shop through my affiliate link, I will receive a very small commission.  This helps support the site.  Please note that I never get paid to write reviews.  In fact, I will not accept money in exchange for a review in order to provide you with an unbiased view.  Any product mentioned in any post is a product that I have personally used. I will never recommend anything to my readers that I do not personally use and love myself.