Choosing the proper brush for the job can really give your makeup application that professional polish. Kristi Fuhrmann, Hollywood makeup artist and spokesperson for Sally Beauty Supply, gives some insider tips on selecting the right brush.

The brush you use is just as important as the cosmetics you choose. The shape and size of each brush is designed to help the makeup go on smoothly and make perfect makeup easier to achieve. Just as you wouldn’t use mousse instead of brow gel to tame unruly eyebrows, you wouldn’t use a shadow blender to apply foundation.

Makeup brushes should be cleaned regularly to avoid bacterial growth and to prevent product buildup, shortening brush’s life. Regularly wash your brushes in warm water with a mild detergent and let them air dry on a clean towel. Or, if you like, use a product such as Face Secrets Professional Brush Cleaner that will sanitize your brushes as well as provide conditioning for the bristles.

GIRL ON THE GO

TRAVEL BAG: There’s nothing like a purse-sized set of makeup brushes to keep you looking good-to-go while on the road.

The Face Secrets Makeup Artist’s Brush Set is the perfect accessory for travel. This professional-quality makeup brush set contains five essential travel-size brushes in a convenient travel portfolio with a magnetic closure. The selection includes the deluxe powder brush, angled blusher, eye contour brush, small shading brush, and a brow groomer. The brushes are a perfect selection for complete makeup application. The line’s brush-cleansing towelettes make it easy to keep these brushes in top shape.

HINTS FOR A FLAWLESS FACE

When applying makeup, you can end up with smudges where you don’t want them. The quick and easy way to fix these smudges without having to start over is to dip a cotton swab in makeup remover and gently wipe the area. Blot the area with translucent powder and, presto, the mistake vanishes.

Many cosmetic lines offer cream blushes and eye shadows. The best way to apply these is with a foundation brush or a wedge-shaped cosmetic sponge. For blush, dab a small amount on the cheekbone and then blend it well. For shadow, put a small amount on your brush and apply it in thin layers until you have reached the desired look.

Ernie McCraw is director of beauty education for Sally Beauty Company, the world’s largest distributor of professional beauty products. A licensed cosmetologist for more than 30 years, he is a frequent contributor to fashion and beauty publications nationwide.

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