Natural Brushes

Natural brushes are recommended for application of powder makeup. The bristles will hold the powder better than plastic, synthetic brushes, allowing you to apply makeup more evenly. It’s important to note that most manufacturers and makeup lines are committed to obtaining natural hair in a cruelty free way. If that is something that is important to you, you might want to check the brand before you purchase.

Goat Hair

Goat hair is one of the most commonly used hairs found in makeup brushes. It is a bit more coarse than other types of hair. Coarser hair allows you to pick up and hold more powder, keeping application even and smooth. It is best used for face powder, blush, bronzers and sometimes eyeshadow.

Sable Hair

Sable brushes are super durable and long-lasting. This is surprising since Sable brushes are also super soft. Sable hairs are wide in the middle and pointy at the tip, making them great for detailed applications of eyeliners and shadows. And, because of the natural texture, powder stays on the brush. The brushes hold their shape well and last forever if you care for them. Most of the really expensive makeup brushes are made with sable, specifically Kolinsky which comes from a certain species of mink.

Squirrel Hair

The squirrel hair used in makeup brushes is not from the type of squirrels you’re used to. It’s actually from a type of long-haired squirrel. The hair is the softest of those used for makeup brushes. Like sable hair, the hair shaft is wider in the middle and pointed at the tip. The hairs are gathered into a compact head, making this type of hair perfect for blending brushes and crease brushes.

Badger Hair

Badger hair is the coarsest of the natural hair brushes. The shape of the bristles is unique in that the root is thin and the tip is thick, making it perfect for brow and fan brushes. It’s great for dusting powders, blending shadows and cleaning up makeup lines and stray powders.

Pony Hair

Pony hair has a consistent thickness from root to tip. This makes it great for thicker brushes such as blush, powder and shadow brushes. Pony hair is soft but strong, giving it a great flexibility for contouring.

Synthetic Brushes

Usually made from nylon or taklon, synthetic brushes are best for applying cream and liquid makeup. The smoothness of the bristles applies creams in an even, fluid layer. The best thing about synthetic brushes is that they are inexpensive. The bad thing is they don’t last as long as natural bristle brushes. These brushes have a tendency to become stiff and splayed as they age.

Your Thoughts?

Does it help to know which types of hair are best for each type of brush? Do you have opinions on natural vs. synthetic brushes? Leave your thoughts in the Comments.


Don’t forget to check back soon for the next installment of the Makeup Brush Guide!