Natural Or Synthetic Foundation Brush: Which Is Best For Your Makeup Bag?

There's a range of feelings when it comes to makeup. Some may see putting on makeup as a chore while others see it as a natural part of their daily routine and still others find it a joyful way to express their creativity and personality. But whether it's a routine (or hobby or job), it can potentially be intimidating when you first get started, and you'll want to have the right tools to start with, and that includes makeup brushes, and in case you were curious, here's how often you should be replacing your makeup brushes.

In the same way you wouldn't paint the side of your house with the same brush you'd use to paint your baseboards, you need multiple makeup brushes — here are the best makeup brushes for every step of your routine. One of the workhorses in your brush set may likely end up being the brush you use to apply your foundation. But whether you should go for a natural or synthetic foundation brush for your foundation depends on your choice of foundation and your priorities.

Makeup foundation brushes are designed to help your foundation go on more smoothly and leave you with a flawless finish. But you need to ensure that you match the type of foundation with the ideal brush to apply; otherwise, it'll be harder to get a polished look. Natural brushes are made from animal hair, like goat, squirrel, and weasel, and they are often softer and fluffier than synthetic brushes. If you're not putting on full coverage, liquid foundation but instead a lighter powder foundation, a natural brush will let you put it on easily and smoothly, and they're the superior brush when it comes to blending, according to SheKnows.

Some things to consider about natural foundation brushes. Since natural brushes are made from animal hair, they take more time and money to make, which means you'll likely be paying more for natural brushes than synthetic ones. And for those who are dedicated to an animal-friendly/vegan lifestyle, natural brushes would definitely be a no-go.

If you're going for a full coverage look with your foundation, you'll likely use a liquid or cream foundation compared to a powder. You don't have to apply liquid foundation with a brush; you can use a beauty blender or even your fingers. But if you choose a brush to apply your foundation, remember that synthetic brushes are made from nylon or polyester fibers. In comparison, natural brushes are inherently more porous since they're made from hair that is not unlike our own, complete with cuticles and the ability to absorb products. And since the goal isn't to fill your brush with product but instead apply it to your face, a synthetic brush is a must for liquid foundation.

Whether you go for a synthetic or natural brush, you'll probably find that the bristles are more likely to come loose and get stuck to your face with a cheaper brush. You don't have to spend all your money on brushes but buy the best ones you can afford to help them last longer. And don't forget to clean your brushes. Natural brushes should be cleaned with a gentle shampoo or soap, and for synthetic brushes, especially if you've used them for liquid foundation, you can use a stronger hand soap. And skip storing your brushes loose in a makeup bag since that's a quick way for the bristles to get damaged and dirty.