Brush Up Your Skills

In order to get the painting right one has to use the right brushes. But you're right; you don't need every brush out there! However it's important to invest in some basic ones. These will help you to apply, blend, smudge and mix your makeup colours better. Here are some things to consider when choosing your brushes. No matter what style brush you are considering, make sure it's made from natural bristles. The brush heads will hold their shape much longer than synthetic ones. Although natural-bristle brushes are more expensive they'll represent better value in the long term if cared for properly.

The exception to the natural-bristle rule is eyeliner or lip brushes. Because the makeup you use them for is waxy and sticky, a nylon bristle will be easier to clean and maintain.

You should also look for brushes with the metal clasp that holds the bristles to the handle. A nickel metal clasp will hold the bristles better than cheaper aluminum. When it comes to the handle of the brush, wooden handles are the best -- they last longer and are more comfortable to hold. When you're shopping, test the handles to see how they feel in your hands.

Here are the five brushes every woman should own:

A do-it-all eye shadow brush:

Look for one with a flat, rounded brush head. Use the wide flat side for an all-over wash of color from your lashline to the crease and the edge of the brush for definition. Or you could keep disposable sponge applicators which are equally useful.

An eye detailer:

These are great multipurpose brushes to use on the brows and to line the upper and lower lashes. The brush should be flat and square-shaped with synthetic bristles to ensure good application.

A blending brush:

This should have long, soft, looser bristles -- like a little tail -- to buff the shadow and eliminate hard lines.

A spooly brush:

This is like a mascara wand. Use it to brush through the eyebrows and to unclump mascara.

A blush brush:

This should be medium-sized with rounded, natural bristles.

Finally, if you use loose powder, you need a good, fluffy powder brush. Also, a lip brush is nice to have as an extra, but it's not absolutely necessary. To keep your brushes in good condition, as well as free of bacteria, you should wash them about once a month with water and a gentle soap (a baby shampoo would be perfect!) and let them air-dry.