STROKE OF GENIUS:Using brushes to apply make-up gives a better finish and a longer-lasting look, writes Phyl Clarke
In my aspirational life I walk everywhere, have two sessions of yoga and swimming each week, and produce mouthwatering treats from my (spotlessly clean) oven, although I'm obviously able to resist my own baking, as my svelte figure hasn't changed a whit since I was 18.
While all the above are true, occasionally, one thing I can't fool myself about is the fully equipped art box nestled on the top shelf of the wardrobe. I came across it the other day and wondered when my artistic drive would compel me to drop everything and paint, paint, paint.
May as well get some use out of those expensive brushes, I thought as I added them to my make-up brush stand, which is one of those pen holders with cylinders of varying height - just the job for holding bushes, eye pencils, nail files and so on, and they cost just a couple of euros in an office suppliers.
Of course make-up companies produce specific brushes and tools for different products. Here are the ones that I find most useful.
A concealer brush would probably be one of my desert island brushes, as it's impossible to achieve precise application right up underneath the lower lashes and at the inside corner of the eye without one. Don't underestimate the camouflaging part of your routine. I've noted it's where make-up artists spend the longest time.
If you wear a liquid foundation, invest in a foundation brush. I was quite sceptical at first, thinking I was doing fine using fingers to apply product, but I was converted after using one, as the finish is better. (I like to dampen mine a little for greater control.) You can also get into the little nooks and crannies more easily. Always brush in a downwards direction to help flatten the fine, downy facial hair and give a smoother finish. Elizabeth Arden (€20) and (€36.50) make the ones in my kit.
Most of us wear powder or bronzer, or both, and The Body Shop has a nifty face and body brush for €22. While you're there, check out the other brushes, as it's one of the best quality, good value ranges available. Cli bronzer blender brush (€24) is short-handled, fits in the make-up bag, and has a lovely full head for perfect application.
Wearing eyeliner can add subtle or dramatic emphasis to the eye, and my brush is of the flat kind that allows me to press dark shadow along the lash line for a lash-thickening effect. Laura Mercier makes the one I use and it costs €33.
Now here's where you can save some money. An eyebrow brush is essential for any kit, but if you don't want to buy one, clean off an old mascara brush and use it to groom brows. If you're buying one, make sure the bristles are quite firm, to lift and shape brows. Many brow pencils also have a brush at the end.
Nothing makes lipcolour last like applying it with a brush. If you want a stained effect over which to put a gloss, first apply lipcolour carefully with a brush, then blot back with a tissue until your desired effect is achieved. Finally add the gloss, which you can take with you for touch-ups.