Investing in high-quality makeup brushes can significantly elevate your makeup application, and MAC Cosmetics is renowned for its extensive and professional range. This detailed review explores ten of MAC's most sought-after brushes, offering an in-depth look at their performance, versatility, and overall value. We'll delve into the specifics of each brush, highlighting its unique features and ideal uses, providing you with the information you need to make informed choices for your makeup kit.From iconic blending brushes like the legendary 217 to specialized tools for eyebrows, contouring, and powder application, this review covers a diverse selection. We’ll examine both natural and synthetic bristle options, exploring their suitability for various makeup products and techniques. Whether you're a seasoned makeup artist or a passionate enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to select the perfect MAC brushes to enhance your makeup artistry.
Read more: 5 Must-Have Eyeshadow Brushes for Stunning Looks
MAC 217 Blending Brush: The Legendary Blender
The MAC 217 is arguably the most iconic eyeshadow brush in MAC's lineup. Its soft, natural bristles are perfect for effortlessly blending eyeshadows, creating a seamless wash of color across the lid. The 217's fluffy texture prevents harsh lines, making it ideal for both subtle and dramatic looks. Its versatility is unmatched – it's a must-have for any makeup enthusiast.
I own several 217s because I use it so frequently. It's become my go-to brush for creating a polished eyeshadow look, whether I'm going for a natural daytime look or a more intense evening eye.
Its popularity speaks volumes about its quality and performance. It truly revolutionized how we blend eyeshadow, paving the way for similar brushes on the market.
MAC 224 Blending Brush: For Flawless Edges
The MAC 224 is another popular blending brush known for its slightly larger size compared to the 217. Its black bristles are equally soft but offer more coverage, making it excellent for softening harsh lines and blending out the edges of eyeshadow.
I often use it as a final step to achieve a seamless, professional-looking blend. The 224 is particularly useful for those who enjoy creating more intense or dramatic eye makeup looks. It ensures a smooth, gradient effect without any patchy spots.
This brush seamlessly integrates with the 217, offering a complete blending solution for eyeshadow application.
MAC 239 Shader Brush: For Intense Color Payoff
Unlike the 217 and 224, the MAC 239 is a flat, firmer brush with natural bristles. This unique shape allows for precise application and the ability to pack on significant color intensity. It's perfect for building dramatic eyeshadow looks where a strong pigment is desired.
I find it indispensable when I want a really bold eyeshadow look. Its flat shape allows you to really dig into the eyeshadow and pack the color onto the lid effectively. It's also great for applying color under the lash line for a smoky eye effect.
The 239 complements the 217, offering a contrasting technique for achieving diverse eyeshadow applications.
MAC 221 Small Shader Brush: Precision Blending
The MAC 221 is a smaller version of the beloved 217, ideal for detailed crease work. Its compact size allows for precise application and blending in smaller areas of the eyelid.
For those with smaller eyelids or who prefer more detailed eye makeup, the 221 is an invaluable tool. Its miniature size offers the same exceptional blending capabilities as the 217, but with greater control and precision.
It’s perfect for adding depth and dimension to the crease without accidentally applying color to the lid.
MAC 242 Synthetic Shader Brush: Cream & Pigment Perfection
The MAC 242 stands out with its synthetic bristles. This makes it the perfect choice for cream eyeshadows, pigments, and glitters. Synthetic bristles don't absorb product as much as natural bristles, ensuring maximum color payoff.
It’s also more hygienic, reducing the risk of bacterial build-up. I use the 242 not only for eyeshadow but also for applying concealer, particularly under the eyes, achieving seamless coverage.
Its versatility and effectiveness with different product types makes it a valuable addition to any makeup kit.
MAC 212 Shader Brush: Precise Liner Application
The MAC 212 is a small, flat shader brush that's excellent for applying eyeshadow along the lash line. It allows for creating a precise, defined line, enhancing the eyes without the need for a separate eyeliner.
The brush's small size offers precision, and it's perfect for creating both subtle and dramatic liner looks, even in the waterline. It blends easily, making it easy to create a smoky, diffused line.
It's a fantastic alternative to traditional eyeliner, using eyeshadow for a softer, more integrated look.
MAC 208 Angled Brow Brush: For Natural-Looking Brows
The MAC 208 is a firm, angled brush specifically designed for eyebrow application. Its slightly stiffer bristles allow for precise shaping and filling, creating natural-looking brows.
Unlike softer eyeliner brushes, the 208 offers better control and definition. Its firm texture makes it easy to create fine, hair-like strokes for a fuller, more natural appearance.
This brush is a long-time favorite for its ability to deliver a polished brow look, despite its seemingly simple design.
MAC 168 Angled Contour Brush: Versatile Cheek Application
The MAC 168 angled brush is a truly versatile tool. While its name suggests contouring, I primarily use it for blush application. Its angled shape allows for precise placement and blending.
The natural bristles ensure smooth application, preventing harsh lines or splotches. It's perfect for achieving a naturally flushed look with blush and can also be used for precise contouring if needed.
It’s my everyday go-to for creating a naturally sculpted look.
MAC 187 Duo Fibre Brush: Seamless Concealer Blending
The MAC 187 is a unique duo-fibre brush with a blend of white and black bristles. This combination ensures gentle yet effective blending, particularly for concealer. The white bristles minimize product absorption, while the black bristles offer a bit more coverage.
I use it to seamlessly blend concealer into my foundation, creating a flawless, airbrushed finish. It's incredibly effective at concealing dark circles and blemishes without looking heavy or cakey.
Its unique bristle configuration and gentle touch make it a must-have for achieving a natural and flawless look.
MAC 135 Bronzer Brush: Effortless Bronzer Application
The MAC 135 is a larger brush with natural bristles, specifically designed for bronzer application. Its size and shape make it perfect for sweeping bronzer across the face, creating a natural-looking sun-kissed glow.
The natural bristles blend the bronzer seamlessly into the skin, preventing harsh lines or streaks. It's particularly useful for contouring and defining the face.
Its soft yet firm bristles allow for even distribution of bronzer, achieving a flawlessly blended effect.
MAC 103 Powder Brush: The Perfect Finishing Touch
The MAC 103 powder brush is my go-to for setting makeup with powder. Its slightly domed shape allows for even distribution of powder across the face, preventing heavy application or cakiness.
It's not too big or too small, making it perfect for setting both the under-eye area and the entire face. The soft bristles ensure a smooth, even application.
This brush is essential for achieving a long-lasting, polished makeup look that doesn't appear heavy or unnatural.
Conclusion: MAC Brushes – Worth the Investment?
Overall, MAC makeup brushes are a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about makeup. Their durability, quality, and range of brush types make them a go-to for both professionals and makeup enthusiasts.
While some brushes are more popular than others (the 217 being a prime example), each brush reviewed here has a distinct purpose and provides unique benefits. The 217, 224, and 168 stand out as particularly versatile and essential.
Consider your specific needs and preferences when making your selections. Whether you need excellent blending capabilities (217, 224), intense color payoff (239), or precise application (212, 208), MAC offers a brush to meet your requirements.