Makeup Brushes 101

What if we told you that you could actually find out how to easily use all the brushes in your brush set? If you're anything like most of us, you have a choice few that you use and never really touch the rest of them. We're here to give you a crash course in navigating the purpose of each brush and how to use them. By the end of this article, you'll be able to successfully use each one and step up your makeup game and reveal your true peak beauty!

Face Brushes

Concealer Brush

These are used to hide dark circles, redness, or blemishes, especially in hard-to-reach areas like the inner corner of eyes. These come in small, rounded shapes that buff and blend. Always remember to use an eye moisturizer first! Consider using the concealer's wand to apply it to the concealer brush first instead of directly onto your face. To apply under your eyes, dab a small amount of concealer starting in the inner-eye area and pat across the undereye area until blended. Never swipe or smear. Chances are you'll end up with a very unflattering texture that can also leave creases. To use on problem areas, follow the same steps, applying a small amount onto each spot and dabbing until it's fully blended.

Foundation Brush

Foundation brushes can be flat or rounded, but they are always densely packed to blend smoothly for an airbrushed finish. Always use moisturizer before applying for a even result. Use light strokes to blend the foundation into your skin for the best result. When you use a good foundation brush, you'll notice an instant difference not only in your makeup application, but also the state of your makeup throughout the day.

Powder Brush

These are round and fluffy, and as you can guess, are typically used to apply powder. These aren't as densely packed to prevent excess product from the face. If you invest in a good powder brush, you can use it for bronzer, finishing powder, or even blush if you opt for the smaller ones. Their soft bristles blend the makeup evenly to create natural-looking coverage. Use the bristles to pick up a fine layer of loose or pressed powder, tap it to remove excess, and dust over t-zone and under eyes. This way it's buildable, and you don't start out with too much.

Kabuki Brush

These have very short handles and dense hairs. They can be used to apply liquid foundation or even body makeup with medium-to-full coverage. Use the bristles to pick up the product, then gently swirl and buff. The density makes it perfect for a fuller-coverage finish. Kabuki brushes are often known as the do-it-all brushes because they can blend out foundation, buff in cheek color or bronzer, and apply finishing powders.

Bronzer + Blush Brush

A bronzer/blush brush has fluffier bristles than a foundation brush and typically has a more rounded or oval brush head. It's designed to add some color and brightness to your skin, whether you're applying bronzer, blush, or both. It’s your one-stop-shop for a sun-kissed glow or fresh-faced rosy look. Look for one with super soft and fluffy bristles to get the best result. Apply bronzer all over face with circular motions. To apply blush, start at the apples of cheeks and brush upward diagonally.

Eye Shadow & Brow Brushes

All-Over Eye Shadow Brush

These are extremely user-friendly, whether you're a beginner or a pro. These are great for getting the hang of applying eye shadow and getting the result you envision, not to mention it's great to learn blending. These are rounded, small, and stubby brushes that are amazing for applying upper-eyelid shadow or shadow primer, but work well for lower lids also once you get the hang of it.

To use, dip in your pigmented eye shadow, tap excess, and apply colors to the proper area of the eyelid. If you use a windshield wiper approach, you'll probably have the best luck when starting out. If you're looking for an even more pigmented look to get closer to the shade in the palette, apply water to the brush before using.

Angled Brush

These are absolutely crucial to perfect brows as well as precision when creating a cat-eye liner look. These brushes are angled and dense. For brows, dip into brow product and make tiny strokes to fill in any sparse spots and shape your arches. To use as an eyeliner brush, dip brush into eye shadow product, line the upper lash line, and flick it out into a wing if you're feel adventurous. You can go over it with a liquid liner or pencil to seal it in for all day wear.

Crease Brush

These brushes are tapered, fluffy brushes. The bristles taper so that it can apply eye shadow directly on the crease, with the shorter, outer bristles blending the edges. This adds absolutely amazing dimension to eyes and creates a beautiful contrast between colors. To use, dip in an eye shadow color that is a little darker than what you used on your eyelids. In the natural crease of your eye, make sweeping motions in one direction to apply the crease color. When you're finished, make sure to use a different brush to blend the colors.

Now it's time to start practicing those skills! You'll be shocked at how much your makeup game will improve. Now you're on your way to achieving those amazing looks you see all over Instagram. Get ready to meet the new you!

Finally! An Easy Hair Routine that Works!

On hair washing days, which hair products do you actually need and which ones can you skip? We've got the answers! When it comes to a hair wash and dry routine, all of those options can be totally overwhelming. Of course conditioner comes after shampoo, but what comes after that? With all the serums, oils, and sprays available, it's tough to choose for the best of us. Furthermore, in what order do you use them to ensure you get the benefits? Let's dive in to your complete guide to make hair washing days oh so easy.

Cleansing

Remember that styling begins in the shower! It's best to use a shampoo that's specifically geared toward your hair type, such as a shampoo for color-treated, curly, frizzy, or damaged hair. If you're only washing a couple of times a week, think about getting a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue that regular shampoo may miss. We swear by Redken Hair Cleansing Cream. This works wonders, especially if you have a problem getting your shampoo to lather. It acts as a reset for strands and roots. When washing, always make sure to focus on the scalp since this is where the majority of the product build-up and oils hang around. It's recommended that you do a quick wash once, focusing on the scalp, then once more all over.

Conditioning

Shampooing strips the hair of oils that may be good for the hair. It's time to put some moisture back in those locks! No matter your hair type, this step is absolutely crucial. Again, try to go for a conditioner that targets your hair type. Avoid your roots to prevent a shiny, oily appearance. Focus on applying from mid-shaft to ends. Allow it to sit for around 3-5 minutes before rinsing.

Moisturizing

Moisture is key! This is quite possibly the most important step of all for most people. Choosing a wash-out mask or leave-in conditioner can make or break your hair's look. Everybody benefits from this extra moisture, but it's so much more important for dry, frizzy, or damaged hair. Just like some people need more hydration in their skincare routine, some need extra hydration in their hair. This affects everything from styling results to ease of maintenance. We recommend the line of Kérastase masks. They have something for every hair type, from color-treated blondes to those with extra curly hair and everything in between.

Some people prefer hair oils for moisture, which is also an amazing choice. These come in oils for dry hair, wet hair, or both. Our go-to is Kérastase Elixir Ultime. This is great to put in before you blow dry as well as afterwards to get rid of any frizz and add some shine. As long as you keep your hair moisturized, you're well on your way to better looking and better feeling hair!

Blow Drying

Let's start by saying that using cotton towels to dry your hair should be avoided if possible. It causes friction and can damage your locks. Keep in mind that experts say you should let your hair dry 40-50% of the way before blow drying to cut down on the heat you'll use on your hair, which leads to less damage. Don't forget to ALWAYS use a heat protector before putting heat on your hair, whether you're using a blow dryer or hot tools. Our favorite blow dry heat protectant is Redken Quick Blowout. It protects your tresses from heat while speeding up drying time considerably. Heat protector soaks in best when hair is wet, so give that consideration. Take your protector and spray all over, combing through afterward to distribute it evenly. When the protectant is appliied and it's time to blow dry, an amazing tool to invest in would be an ionic hair dryer. They come in a range of prices, including something everyone can afford. This cuts down on tons of frizz, damage, and drying time. These are a must-have for those with damaged hair that are trying to improve the state of their hair. When blow drying, you'll get a better overall look if you dry it in layers. Don't forget to tilt the dryer downward to cut down on frizz at the crown.

This Season's Hottest Nail Trends

Winter 2023 nail styles are some of the chicest and most exciting shades out there! From earth tones to marbled nails, we've got the scoop to have you looking fabulous. Expect classic chilly weather hues with a little bit of a twist. Let's get a little adventurous and see which one suits you best!

Cat-Eye Gemstone

This is the most luxe looking trend of the season. The sumptuous texture elevates any color from dark purple to bright beige and everything in between. With the cat-eye effect, it gives the nails some dimension and resembles a gemstone. These are our personal favorite since they come in any color and really create an amazing look that will get you compliments every time! All you need is a bottle of cat-eye polish and a magnet to get this amazingly stylish look.

High-Shine Chrome

Chrome is all the rage this season! This high-shine polish is has an ultra-shiny, outer space feel. Chrome comes in powder form to put over your polish, which begins with a black base color. If you're feeling edgy, mix it with another of the season's trends and add some glitter to an accent nail to make it pop. No matter the color choice of chrome, each one is amazingly stunning!

Earth Tones

From reds to browns, these colors are on fire this season! Change up the usual merlot color and trade it in for something like deep brown. No need to adorn them with jewels or different finishes. They have a certain elegance that makes a statement without flashy designs or finishes. Rusty red has been crowned the hottest earth tone of the season.

Milky Whites

This is already a go-to shade every winter, but this year it's getting even more attention! Instead of the standard white, this nail trend is a little less opaque and opt for something a little more sheer. For those who love a good sheer polish, milky whites make a splash even more so than a neutral sheer shade.

Gingham Style

Gingham is a simple print to try and it is the perfect choice for winter. It's a two-color pattern with classic combinations like red and white, red and black, or blue and white, but you can experiment with different color combinations to find the one that best reflects your style. It's a classy choice that makes your nails look fun and stylish.

Marble Nails

There are endless possibilities when it comes to design, from solid colors to intricate patterns. Whether you want something subdued for everyday wear or more eye-catching for a special event, marble nails are perfect. You can literally create anything. They look sophisticated and they're super easy to do yourself!

There's a little something for everyone! This season offers designs from marble to cat-eye, and no matter what you choose, you can't go wrong. Try these fun and sophisticated looks to have your nails looking super chic this winter! Get ready to be showered in compliments and turn a few heads. Try some of these amazing DIY designs. You'll be glad you did!