Makeup brushes have been around since the dawn of cosmetics. All around the world, women of the ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, the Chinese, the Mayans, the Indians, used these classic tools to apply makeup, for a flawless look on their face, body, hair. References to long handled lipstick application brushes are seen in some magazines from the late 1950s to 1960s.
And the trend in modern makeup caught on, with cosmetics manufacturers inventing newer and better uses for the age old, classic, bristle brush. Modern brushes have a handle which is either wood or plastic; ancient handles were made from wood, bone, ivory/teeth and claws. Modern brush bristles are either natural hair or synthetic fibers; ancient bristles were all made from pure animal hair.
Natural or Synthetic Makeup Brushes?
I believe, opting for natural or synthetic brushes is purely based on the end use or purpose and even on personal beliefs. Moralistically speaking, natural bristled brushes are a no-no – since they are made from animal hair. Although manufacturers take adequate precautions, there is still a remote possibility of animal harm or abuse. From that viewpoint, synthetic fibers are preferred by many. Practically speaking, the intended end use should ideally drive your choice.
Broad Differences between the Two Categories
Natural brushes are more absorbent, porous and most ideal for powder based makeup. Synthetic bristles are ideal for cream based beauty products.
The animals that provide the material viz. hair, for natural brushes may not always be readily available, making them expensive and sought-after. Synthetic brushes are man-made in factories from plastic, nylon, polyester (soft white taklon fiber), they are mass-produced, cheaper and readily available in the markets.
Being absorbent, natural bristles can retain moisture, dead skin cells, chemicals, minerals and will over time foster bacterial-fungal growth. They are not easily cleaned; hence advisable to use and throw the natural brushes every couple of years. Some skin types are sensitive and can be allergic to animal hair. Synthetic brushes can be easily cleaned and disinfected; synthetic bristles are strong and do not get damaged easily by use or by chemicals and solvents in the beauty products. Being more durable, synthetic brushes can be used for longer periods.
The Long, Short, Plump, Trim – Of It
Makeup brushes come in variety of shapes (round, pointed, flat, fan-shaped, angled, mop shaped), sizes, textures and colors. For example, goat hair brushes are soft and suited for face powder applications. Weasel and sable bristles are pointed at the tips and ideal for defining eyes and lips. Badger hair is thicker at the top and suited for foundations and powders. Horse hair is strongest and suits a variety of purposes – you can even wet them for cream applications. Squirrel tail hair is softest and expensive. Camel and badger hair brushes are comparatively cheaper.
Whichever type of makeup brush you choose, you must also be aware of the techniques to care for them. Some of the sections here explain the different cleaning methods; please be sure to read those too! Also if you would like to add to the information or want more inputs, do write to me.
