My Essential Makeup Brushes

There once was a time when I didn't own a single makeup brush, bar a few cheap eyeshadow brushes from some Christmas gift set. Oh, how times (and my makeup routine) has changed! Now I simply couldn't survive without an array of beautiful brushes adorning my desk. Here's a round up of my four essential makeup brushes and why I couldn't live without them.

The Real Techniques Expert Face Brush - where would I be without this bad boy? The Real Techniques brushes are a favourite among beauty junkies and newbies alike, due to their affordability and amazing quality, and the Expert Face Brush is loved by many. It is such a versatile brush which can be used for a plethora of jobs - applying foundation, buffing concealer, blending... the possibilities are endless. Personally I use this brush for blending concealer once I've applied it under the eye. The size and density of this brush makes it the perfect tool for the job in my eyes (or under them).

The Real Techniques Stippling Brush is another firm favourite of mine, as you may see from the pinkish hue on the bristles I use this to apply cream blusher. Again, the density and size of this brush are ideal for this use. As mentioned before, the Real Techniques brushes are fabulous quality, and will withstand wash after wash with very minimal shedding. The bristles also stay soft which makes them great value for money.

I absolutely adore this EcoTools Bamboo Blush Brush because it is so amazingly soft. I've had it for a pretty long time and washed it quite a lot but it still stays soft. Best of all, EcoTool brushes are made from natural and recycled materials so my conscience is clear whilst using this little beauty. Although this is advertised as a blush brush, I find it's a little on the large size for this use. Instead I use it as a powder brush. It feels like little puppies kissing my face.

Last but certainly not least is the EcoTools Angled Eyeliner Brush, which I find to be absolutely perfect for filling in my eyebrows with powder. The bristles are just the right stiffness to apply the powder effortlessly. Again this brush is made from natural and recycled materials - bonus!

Do you have any essential makeup brushes? Have you tried any of these?