This comprehensive review dives deep into the new Smashbox makeup brush collection, offering a detailed look at each brush's performance and unique features. From foundation to blush, highlighting to eyeliner, we explore the versatility and innovative designs of this extensive range. We examine the quality of the synthetic bristles, the ergonomic handle designs, and the overall usability for both professional makeup artists and everyday users. Expect honest opinions and practical insights into which brushes are stand-out performers and which might not be necessary additions to your makeup bag.This in-depth analysis covers the entire collection, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of each brush. We explore the surprisingly versatile Sheer Foundation brush, the customizable Full Coverage Foundation brush, and the innovative designs of the Stippling and Blurring Foundation brushes. We also delve into the unique blush and eye brush collections, showcasing their diverse shapes and applications. Finally, we assess the highlighting, smudging, and brow brushes, ultimately determining the overall value and practicality of this impressive new line from Smashbox.
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Face Brushes: Sheer Foundation & Full Coverage Foundation
The Smashbox Sheer Foundation brush, despite its name, is surprisingly versatile. Its large size makes it perfect for applying setting powders like the Urban Decay Velvetizer, ensuring even coverage without excess product. I even found it useful for applying body highlight. The Full Coverage Foundation brush is designed for buffing motions, ideal for stick foundations. The handle design cleverly indicates where to grip for varying coverage intensity.
The bristles on both brushes are synthetic yet feel remarkably like natural hair, a surprising and welcome feature. The Full Coverage brush, in particular, allows for customized coverage depending on grip placement, offering flexibility for different makeup routines and desired intensity.
Foundation Brushes: Stippling & Blurring
The Stippling Foundation brush features a unique ergonomic design with a sloped handle, guiding the user's grip for optimal application. While I personally prefer buffing, this brush offers a stippling option for those who like that technique. The Blurring Foundation brush, although not my daily choice, is still a solid option for subtly blending contour.
The Stippling Foundation brush's design stands out, as the handle indicates the ideal grip for application. I found the Blurring Foundation brush best for light contour blending, depending on the product used; however, it wasn't my go-to for full coverage.
Powder & Concealer Brushes: Precision & Versatility
The Powder Foundation brush is another unique addition, combining a fanned-out stippling effect with a denser center for precise product pickup and coverage. While I don't typically use powder foundation, I believe this brush would excel with it. The Blurring Concealer brush, surprisingly, became a favorite, effortlessly buffing and blending liquid concealers under the eye for a natural look.
The angled Powder brush is a game-changer for setting the under-eye area with targeted precision. Its unique design allows for focused application. The pinpoint concealer brush is excellent for spot concealing blemishes, applying just the right amount of product to avoid heavy build-up.
Blush Brushes: A Variety of Shapes and Applications
The Smashbox blush brush collection offers four unique shapes. The first blush brush is ideal for stippling cream blushes, allowing for buildable color without overwhelming the cheeks. The Buildable Cheek brush, initially underestimated, provided a streak-free application with a beautiful, dispersed flush.
The Angled Blush brush is perfect for applying blush on top of contour, but I personally found the Buildable Cheek brush to be more suitable. Lastly, the Precise Blush brush is a more traditional option for those who prefer controlled application to the apples of the cheeks.
Eye & Brow Brushes: Precision & Versatility
The Smashbox eye brush collection includes a range of options for every eye look. The All-Over Shadow brush is ideal for applying base color. The Crease brush is exceptionally tapered for detailed blending, while the Smokey Shadow brush is fantastic for smudging shadow under the eye.
The unique lash and brow brush is a multi-tasker, combing through brows and lashes and even applying mascara precisely. The angled eyeliner brush provides flawless inner-corner lining and the angled brow brush is a versatile tool for both powder and pomade.
Other Brushes: Highlighter & Kabuki
The unique highlighter brush allows for precise placement, hugging the cheekbones effectively. Its design prevents unwanted product fallout. The fan brush is a standard inclusion but the real star here is the detailed highlighting brush which offers unparalleled precision.
Rounding off the collection are the Precision Smudger and Brow/Liner brushes, designed for intense smudging and precise lines. The Kabuki brush, with its unusual shape, perfectly hugs facial curves, ideal for blending and touch-ups throughout the day.
Overall Conclusion and Recommendation
The Smashbox brush collection is extensive, providing a wide range of tools for both professional makeup artists and everyday users. The quality of the synthetic bristles is impressive, mimicking the feel of natural hair. The unique shapes and handle designs add significant value, ensuring precise application and buildable coverage.
While the collection lacks a dedicated bronzer brush, the overall quality, versatility, and innovative designs make it highly recommended. The price point is also reasonable, especially considering the exceptional performance and durable construction of the brushes. Many brushes are stand-out performers, particularly the Buildable Cheek brush and the unique highlighting brush.