There are multiple factors to consider when trying to achieve a particular makeup finish. You need to consider what kind of product you’re using, for starters. If you’re looking for a sheer, lightweight finish, then a tinted moisturiser is your best bet. For fuller coverage, we’d likely point you in the direction of a foundation. But one major contributor that is often overlooked? The method of which you’re using to apply your makeup; namely when you should be using makeup brushes and when to avoid them at all costs.
How do we know when to use our fingers or a brush?
It depends who you’re asking. According to Bobbi Brown, “fingers are a makeup artist’s go-to because the warmth of fingers melts the product into the skin, giving the most skin-like finish,” she told The Huff Post. “They’re also your greatest tool for blending.”
Plus, as far as hygiene is concerned, unless you’re a meticulous makeup brush sanitiser, washing your hands prior to makeup application will usually guarantee a cleaner finish than brushes that are likely to harbour bacteria or fungus.
Though Bobbi relies heavily on her hands for a natural and even finish when applying complexion makeup like foundation and concealer, this doesn’t mean that she’s ditching her brush kit altogether. “When you’d like more coverage on the skin or detail on the eyes, grab your brushes to layer additional product or colour where needed,” she said.
Similarly to Bobbi’s approach, it’s common practice for makeup artists to rely on both their hands and brushes, based on what’s needed. “I use both tools and my fingers, but for very specific things. For instance, I prefer to apply makeup first with brushes, then soften and lightly blend out the product with my fingers. I find that using a mix of both is really beneficial and yields seamless results,” makeup artist, Ashley Rebecca explained.
As a rule of thumb, if you prefer a fresh-faced, skin-like finish, we lean towards using your fingers. And for a flawless, buildable or fuller coverage look? A beauty blender or makeup brush will leave your skin looking airbrushed.
bh recommends: Manicare Flawless Complexion Sponge ($12.49, Chemist Warehouse) or the Real Techniques Foundation Blender ($29.95, The Iconic)
Main image credit: @justbobbidotcom
What do you use to apply your makeup? Your fingers or a brush?
Definitely brushes
I always use a brush
I don’t know how make up users keep up with all the trends, techniques, do’s and don’ts! I have enough trouble trying to work out skincare products, what my skin likes and reacts to and the same with hair products.
A bit of both always.
Fingers. Always.
I use sponges, fingers and brushes. All have different purposes and effects.
Good article.
This is a very unusual point of view – to say that fingers are cleaner than brushes. I am sure my bridal clients will not appreciate me having my hands all over their face, no matter how many times I wash them beforehand.
I agree with you, @Skincare Junkie.
Yes, you definitely need to sterilise brushes between applications.
When applying makeup to someone else, I agree that brushes are more hygienic.
I think it depends very much on the individual and how you achieve the look you want.
I love Bobbi Brown, I’ve been following her advice since I was a teen in the late 90s.
I use fingers for applying concealer under my eyes.
I apply tinted sunscreen with my fingers, but mineral powder foundation with a brush as it needs to be buffed into the skin.
anyone has trouble with forums? It is useless on laptop now on all 3 browsers I use. Signed in, tells me to log in. Shows days old content only. Forums need fixing ASAP
It’s been exactly the same for me @Yohanna. Totally frustrating!
Yes I miss most of the topics on forum
I use fingers to apply foundation, concealer and cream blush. A blush brush for powder blush and eyeshadow brushes for eyeshadow. I gave away using eyeshadow sponges to apply eyeshadow years ago.
I rarely wear makeup these days and prefer to use a brush when I do
I use both brushes and fingers.
I use my fingers for cream blush, and to blend things a bit more, I’ve always read it’s bad – bacteria etc… but there is no way to get it looking the way I want otherwise.
I find i get better results with brushes
I prefer to use my fingers for anything creamy because I get an even, smooth finish. I use brushes for any powder products.
Is fingers banned word? My comment did not go trough.
Interesting. It is not. But has been “moderated” posting previously. What is happening here?
Love the look of the RT blender brush
I use a sponge which is probably worse. I do like to pat on foundation with clean fingers sometimes, because I currently cream foundation and it contains some oils.
More brushes than fingers. But I guess a bit of both.
I always use a brush. It is quicker.
I don’t think I’ve ever used my fingers for make up application before, but why not?
I have brushes but usually ind fingers best
I use my fingers mostly and a brush for concealer and powder.
With foundation I apply with my fingers and then blend outwards with my beauty blender, I sometimes finish with a mineral foundation if I want my make-up to last all day
I prefer to use my fingers when applying foundation. My skin is more on the dry side so I find I can blend it quicker with my finger.
I use both ways.
I like both
I rarely use brushes
I generally use brushes.
I have brushes but don’t really use them for anything but powder makeup – might be time to start!
I use both. Fingers to apply foundation and concealer and brushes for the rest.
Fingers works great for creamy things like foundation and cream eyeshadow and blush.
I do sometimes use my fingers, but for powder a brush is a must for me.
Depends on type of foundation.
I use foundation and eyeshadow brushes and wash them with a good cleanser weekly.
I used to use my fingers, but now use brushes.
I agree that fingers give a more natural look. I tend to reserve my foundation brushes for more heavy duty makeup like weddings.
I’m fingers for foundation most of the time, and sometimes concealer, but I use brushes for everything else. Gives me more control.
Im a mix, depends on a few factors.
I love a good brush.
I use brushes always for anything and everything I can. Not a fan of using fingers at all
I blend cream blushers, highlighters, and foundation with my fingers and use brushes for powder products.