Eyebrow Brushes

by Valerie Gladstone — February 4, 2008

They might seem the last thing you'd need, but if you really want to make your brows look a lot better, there's nothing like them. I went from using my fingertips and Q-Tips to being a believer.

Shaping the eyebrows in the make-up application process should be done before applying foundation, concealer, and powder to the face. Defining your eyebrows before applying eye make-up, cheek color, or lipstick makes a big difference in the overall balance you want to create.

Make-up artists consider eyebrows and eyebrow shape the most important facial features because well-defined eyebrows will frame the eyes, make them look bigger, and give the face a polished look. Shapeless and messy eyebrows can ruin any make-up effect you try to create. You can have a facialist wax them but first be sure she knows which shape you want. Although there are many choices, the most elegant brow shape is long, clean, and natural. If you need instruction, visit Sephora or the cosmetic counter at any department store.

Arches -- This arched brush from Smashbox Cosmetics conforms to the shape of your eyes for a thin line in one easy stroke ($20 at Sephora.com).

• Blurred Lines -- Sometimes it's best to blur the lines. Nars' Smudge Brush #15 is made of 100 percent pony hair and creates the best I-just-rolled-around-in-bed look ($24 at Sephora.com).
• Blending -- Tarte's Brush with Greatness does double duty with a full, rounded head for all-over shadow and a tapered head perfect for blending ($24 at Sephora.com).
• Smoky Look -- Cargo's Smoky Eye Brush creates a trendy, smoky look with just a few back and forth strokes ($32 at Sephora.com).
• Angling and Grooming -- With an angle-cut brush to fill in brows and a spooley to groom, try Anastasia Mini Duo Angled/Spooley ($18 at Sephora.com).