Haul + Comparisons: Chanel New Brushes 2012 (Matte Handle)

#1 Powder Brush ~ #4 Blush Brush ~ #19 Blending Brush ~ #26 Small Contour/Shadow Brush ~ #14 Contour/Shadow Brush

#1 Powder Brush ~ #4 Blush Brush ~ #19 Blending Brush ~ #26 Small Contour/Shadow Brush ~ #14 Contour/Shadow Brush

#1 Powder Brush ~ #4 Blush Brush ~ #19 Blending Brush ~ #26 Small Contour/Shadow Brush ~ #14 Contour/Shadow Brush

I never bought any of Chanel's brushes because I wasn't a huge fan of the brass ferrule and shiny handle. They recently revamped their entire brush line and released over a dozen new brushes that have a nickel ferrule and a matte handle, which looks more classy and professional. Therefore, I had to get 5 in one shopping session. =) I also placed an order for their #15 eyeshadow brush on their main website, but it's currently on backorder. Hopefully, it'll be back in stock soon so I can review it for you all. =)

Packaging: All of the brushes come with a box and a velvet pouch, which I find to be cute, but not practical. It's just much easier to store my brushes in a brush holder and if I'm travelling, I prefer to use a brush case because I don't want to dirty the pretty pouches. (I am OCD and a neat freak.)

The back of the box indicates the country in which the brushes were manufactured. The #1 powder brush, #4 blush brush and #26 small contour/shadow brush are made in China, while the #14 contour/shadow brush and #19 blending brush are made in France. The country of origin does not affect my buying decision. I've had both good and bad experiences with brushes that are manufactured in China as well as in France.

MAC Gareth Pugh 182 Brush $60 (full review) - The bristles feel softer and are more densely packed compared to the Chanel #1 brush. However, the Chanel #1 brush is by no means scratchy or uncomfortable on the skin. Both brushes are great for buffing out over-applied products and for applying setting powder, but the Chanel brush is a more suitable option if you want lighter coverage since the bristles are less dense. I also prefer the Chanel brush for applying my Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer because it picks up the right amount of product and disperses evenly onto my skin. I thought that the brush head was going to be too big for my cheek area; however, it's actually not because the tip of the brush is curved. So, when I tap the brush into the pan, the product only transfers onto the tip of the brush. Therefore, when I place the brush onto my skin, the product does not cover a huge portion of my face. Instead, the product applies perfectly onto my cheek area.

MAC 109 Brush $34 (mini review) - The MAC 109 and Chanel #1 brush are two totally different brushes because they serve different purposes. Neither of the two are better than the other. The MAC 109 brush is pictured mainly for size comparison.

Chanel #1 Powder Brush $65 - The quality of this brush is great because the natural bristles feel soft and it only shedded one hair during its initial wash. I didn't experience any dye bleeding or funky smell. As for performance, it is ideal for applying setting powder & bronzer as well as buffing out over-applied products. It never leaves a heavy or cakey finish because the bristles are not too dense, but it also blends products like a dream because the bristles are not too flimsy. The #1 brush just has the right amount of density to perform both tasks effortlessly. (It measures 7.25 inches in total length.)

Studio Gear #13 Blush Brush $35 (full review) - The bristles feel softer than the Chanel #4 brush; however, it is by no means scratchy or uncomfortable on the skin. The Studio Gear #13 brush is also wider and has a more oval tip, while the Chanel #4 brush has a more pointed, tapered tip. Regardless, they both fit on my cheek area perfectly and apply blushes very well. Also, they are both dense enough for blending.

Chanel #4 Blush Brush $54 - The quality is just as great as the Chanel #1 Powder brush and I have not experienced any shedding, even after multiple washes and uses. The #4 brush is ideal for blush application, but it can also be used for highlighting the cheekbones and even contouring because it has a slightly pointed, tapered tip. (It measures 6.25 inches in total length and the bristles are made from natural hair.)

Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Brush ~ Chanel #19 Blending Brush ~ Japonesque Crease Brush

Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Brush ~ Chanel #19 Blending Brush ~ Japonesque Crease Brush

Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Brush ~ Chanel #19 Blending Brush ~ Japonesque Crease Brush

Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Brush $5.99 (mini review) - It's denser, firmer, and wider than the Chanel #19 brush. The Sonia Kashuk brush is my holy grail blending brush and nothing will ever replace it because it blends out harsh lines and dark pigmented eyeshadows, effortlessly. It isn't as soft as the Chanel #19, but I find that the Sonia Kashuk brush works well for blending because of the fact that it's not too soft. Some people have commented that it feels scratchy; however, I have 7 of these and none of them feel scratchy or uncomfortable on my sensitive eyes.

Japonesque Professional Crease Brush $18 (full review) - The head of the brush is smaller and shorter than the Chanel #19. However, both brushes have the same density and almost the same width at the tip; therefore, I find that they both essentially perform the same. Both brushes are great for crease work, defining the outer v, blending product on the lower lash line, and adding color to the outer corner of the eye & a highlight color to the inner tear duct. 

Chanel #19 Large Tapered Blending Brush $38 - The quality is just as great as the other 2 Chanel brushes that I have mentioned above. The bristles are made from natural hair and feel very soft. This brush is a multi-tasker. It fits perfectly on my crease, defines my outer v, and places color where I need it to. Although it does not blend as well as my Sonia Kashuk brush, I find that the Chanel #19 is good enough for blending light colors and it will blend harsh lines if you put more time and effort into it. (It measures 6.25 inches in total length.)

MAC 239 Brush ~ Chanel #26 Small Contour/Shadow Brush ~ Japonesque Small Professional Eye Detailer Brush ~ Chanel #14 Contour/Shadow Brush

MAC 239 Brush ~ Chanel #26 Small Contour/Shadow Brush ~ Japonesque Small Professional Eye Detailer Brush ~ Chanel #14 Contour/Shadow Brush

MAC 239 Brush ~ Chanel #26 Small Contour/Shadow Brush ~ Japonesque Small Professional Eye Detailer Brush ~ Chanel #14 Contour/Shadow Brush

MAC 239 Brush $24.50 (full review) - It packs color onto the lids and lower lash line very well because the bristles are firm, thin and soft. Both the Chanel #26 and #14 brush are thinner, smaller and offer more precision, but they are too small for applying color onto my lids and they both feel slightly scratchy on my lower lash line.

Japonesque Small Professional Eye Detailer Brush $13.50 (mini review) - It is not as wide as the Chanel #26 brush, but it is wider than the Chanel #14 brush. It also feels softer, is slightly firmer, and most importantly, it does not irritate my lower lash line. Therefore, I prefer using the Japonesque brush for adding color to my lower lash line, setting my eyeliner with eyeshadow, and for any other detail work.

Chanel #26 Small Contour/Shadow Brush $30 + Chanel #14 Contour/Shadow Brush $28 - Both are firm & thin and are ideal for detail work. They both essentially perform the same, but the #14 offers slightly more precision because it's smaller. However, when I use either of the brushes on my lower lash line, it feels uncomfortable. I'm assuming that I just have a sensitive eye area because when I rub my fingers through the bristles, they feel soft and not scratchy at all. (The #26 brush measures 5.75 inches in total length and the #14 brush measures 5.90 inches.)

Bottom Line: I highly recommend checking out Chanel's new brush line. Each brush is so multi-functional and I didn't experience any shedding except for one tiny hair from the #1 powder brush. Overall, the quality of these brushes is great with the exception of the #26 and #14 brush, which do not work well with my sensitive eyes.

Note: The Chanel brushes can be purchased at Nordstrom.

Is this post too long? 

I thought it would be "easier" to read 

if I combined my reviews of the Chanel brushes into one huge post. >_<

Will you be getting any of Chanel's new brushes?

*This post contains affiliate links. None of the products mentioned are sponsored.

Collective Haul (Lancome, Burberry, Shu Uemura, Mac, Clinique, Japonesque + Drugstore)

Hey beauties, hope all is well. I hauled quite a few stuff during Black Friday, Cyber Monday and around Christmas time. However, I returned most of the things because they either just didn't work for me and/or I didn't like them for one reason or another. The following products are items that I kept and have been using for the past month or so. (All drugstore products mentioned in this post were given to me for free from one of my wonderful friends. The rest were purchased by me, using coupon codes, ebates and gift cards.)

1. L'oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Waterproof Mascara in 630 Blackest Black around $7 - During the first few uses, it did nothing for my lashes. Still, I continued to use it and now when I apply the mascara, it lengthens and volumizes my lashes with 2 coats. However, it flakes throughout the day and makes the tip of my lashes curl downwards a little bit. Also, it starts to clump when I apply the second coat and I end up having to separate my lashes with my Royal & Langnickel BC515 brush (mini review).

2. Maybelline Volum' Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara in 291 Very Black around $6 - It lengthens and volumizes my lashes with 2 coats. However, after 3 weeks of opening, it now clumps my lashes when I apply 2 coats and I end up having to separate my lashes with my Royal & Langnickel BC515 brush.

3. Milani Infinite Liquid Eye Liner in 05 Everlast around $6.99 for 5ml - The formula is goopey. So, I have to wipe off alot of the excess before applying it or else it applies very thick. Also, I wish it was a felt tip applicator because the brush applicator is a little too thick and a little hard to control. I have to be extra careful or else the liner ends up being too thick. Other than that, I love using it because it does not fade or smudge and it's waterproof. Just make sure to wait about a minute to let it dry & set. 

4. MAC Select Sheer Pressed Powder in NC30 $23 for 12g - I got this at the CCO for $16.75. My Mac foundation shade is NC30/NC35. I always buy a setting powder that is lighter than my skintone (NC25) to set my Dior foundation because the setting powder in NC30 & NC35 oxidizes throughout the day and makes me look orange. However, NC25 is too light when I use it to set my L'oreal True Match foundation. So, I got NC30 and it's a perfect match for me currently when I use it to set that foundation.  

5. Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler $19 - I regret not getting this sooner. I used to own a Revlon eyelash curler because it's cheap and I thought all eyelash curlers were the same, but I was so wrong. The Shu Uemura eyelash curler curls my lashes effortlessly and it doesn't pinch my skin or break my lashes like the Revlon eyelash curler does.

6. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream around $20 for 0.5 oz - Although I don't have any wrinkles (yet), I still like wearing this eye cream underneath my eyes before I apply my concealer. The eye cream makes my MAC Pro Longwear concealer apply more smoothly and it doesn't leave a cakey finish. I just have to make sure that I wait for the eye cream to fully absorb into my skin before applying the concealer or else the concealer will slide off throughout the day.

7. Sonia Kashuk Eye Makeup Remover around $9.99 for 4.75 oz - It removes waterproof mascara and eye liner really well, doesn't sting my eye and it doesn't feel greasy when applied with a cotton pad. However, it feels greasy when I touch the product with my bare hands. Also, please keep in mind that it does leave a white residue if you use too much, but this doesn't bother me because I usually wash my face with a facial cleanser afterwards. By the way, it's similar to the Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover, except that the Neutrogena one is cheaper. However, I prefer the Sonia Kashuk one because I only need to use 1 cotton pad for each eye in order to remove all my waterproof eye makeup.

8. Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover around $5 for 3.8 oz - The 5.5 oz bottle retails for about $6.50. It's similar to the Sonia Kashuk one. However, it takes 3 cotton pads to remove all my waterproof eye makeup. I recommend it for those who are on a beauty budget because it still gets the job done.

9. Clinique Mild Clarifying Lotion Toner $12.50 6.7 oz - I got this because it's gentle and it doesn't dry or sting my face. It also removes any makeup that my facial cleanser missed. However, it has a thin gel consistency and alot of the product gets absorbed into the cotton pad, which is wasteful. Also, pieces of cotton from the cotton pad get stuck to my face when I apply too much of the toner. (I use Market Spa Cotton Rounds and Swisspers 100% Cotton Facial Cleansing Pads.)

10. Lancome Bienfait Aqua Vital Lotion $45 for 1.7 oz -  It has a watery consistency and feels very light. It quickly absorbs into my skin and my skin feels and looks moisturized after I apply it. However, when I apply any brand of liquid foundation, I can see some minor flaking, which is due to the fact that I use a facial cleanser that contains 2% salicylic acid. (Salicylic acid exfoliates the skin and can be drying.) Therefore, I need a heavier moisturizer when I'm wearing foundation. However, the Lancome moisturizer is moisturizing enough if I don't wear foundation over it.

11. Japonesque Professional Eye Detailer Brush Medium $19 - It is made from soft, natural bristles and is very similar to the MAC 239 brush (full review), except that the Japonesque brush is a little bit firmer, thicker and longer. The brush tip is thin enough to apply eyeshadow on the lower lash line and it does not feel prickly whatsoever. I actually prefer the Japonesque brush over the MAC 239 because it's easier to clean, it dries fast and it's less expensive. Compared to the Royal & Langnickel BC410 brush (mini review), the Japonesque brush is smaller, but not too small for packing on eyeshadow onto my lids. It is also great for applying highlight under the brows. 

12. Japonesque Professional Eye Detailer Brush Small $13.50 - It's made from soft, natural bristles and it's significantly smaller and thinner than the medium Japonesque Professional Eye Detailer brush. The small version offers better precision and is great for detail work. It also doesn't irritate my lower lash line. If I had to choose either the small or medium version, I would choose the medium version because it's more versatile.  

13. Burberry No. 10 Definition Liner Brush $32 - It is made from soft, squirrel hair. The brush tip is thin and it does not scratch or irritate my lower lash line. However, it's also a little bit flimsy and it's hard to control when I apply eyeshadow on my lower lash line. I still prefer my Japonesque detail brushes for lower lash line application. (The Coastal Scents C138 brush (full review) is pictured for size comparison.)

Hope you all enjoyed my haul. =)

Have you tried any of the products that I have mentioned above?

What have you bought during the holiday sales?

*This post contains affiliate links. None of the products mentioned are sponsored.

Review + Comparison - NARS Eye Contour Brush vs Coastal Scents Sable Contour Brush vs Ulta Tapered Crease Eyeshadow Brush vs Japonesque Pro Crease Brush vs Studio Gear Crease Contour Brush

From Left to Right: Coastal Scents C138 Sable Contour brush, NARS #14 Eye Contour brush, Japonesque Professional Eye Shadow Crease brush, Ulta Pro Tapered Crease Eyeshadow brush, Studio Gear #35 Blending Crease Contour brush

*Description*

Coastal Scents Sable Contour Brush $1.79 - This brush is made from soft natural bristles. It's thicker and denser, but not as firm as the NARS brush. The Coastal Scents brush is also similar to the Japonesque brush in terms of application; however, the head of the Coastal Scents brush is a little shorter, more pointed & less denser.

NARS Eye Contour Brush $28 - This brush is made from 80% pen super goat hair and 20% pony hair. The bristles feel soft when I run my fingers through them; however, when I use the brush on my eye area, it feels a bit prickly. This brush has a very tapered point and is firm. I wouldn't consider the Coastal Scents brush to be a dupe for this because the Coastal Scents brush isn't as firm and it isn't as pointy or thin as the NARS brush.

Japonesque Professional Crease Brush $17 - This brush is made from soft natural bristles. It's similar to the Coastal Scents brush in terms of application; however, the head of the Japonesque brush is a little longer, more rounded & a little denser.

Ulta Tapered Crease Eyeshadow Brush $14 - This brush is made with a blend of soft squirrel and pony hair. It has a tapered point and is dense & firm. It's similar to the Studio Gear brush in terms of density; however, the head of the Ulta brush is more pointed and is a little shorter. In comparison to the other 3 brushes, the Ulta brush is wider, denser and firmer. 

Studio Gear Blending Crease Brush $30 - This brush is made from squirrel hair and is super soft. The bristles are dense and firm. It has the largest head compared to the other 4 brushes. The Studio Gear brush is similar to the Ulta brush in terms of density; however, the head of the Studio Gear brush is more rounded and is a little longer. 

From Top to Bottom: Coastal Scents C138 Sable Contour brush, NARS #14 Eye Contour brush, Japonesque Professional Eye Shadow Crease brush, Ulta Pro Tapered Crease Eyeshadow brush, Studio Gear #35 Blending Crease Contour brush

*Application*

Coastal Scents Sable Contour Brush $1.79 - This brush is great for crease work, defining the outer v, blending product on the lower lash line, and adding color to the outer corner of the eye & a highlight color to the inner tear duct. However, it's not my favorite brush to use for adding eyeshadow onto the lower lash line because I find it to be a little too wide, thick and flimsy for that purpose.

NARS Eye Contour Brush $28 - This brush is ideal for adding eyeshadow on the lower lash line and defining the outer v. It gives better precision than the Coastal Scents brush because the NARS brush is pointier and thinner at the tip. The only gripe I have is that it feels a bit prickly during application.

Japonesque Professional Crease Brush $17 - This brush is great for crease work, defining the outer v, blending product on the lower lash line, and adding color to the outer corner of the eye & a highlight color to the inner tear duct. However, I find it to be a little too wide & thick to use for adding eyeshadow onto the lower lash line. I only use it for that purpose when my Royal & Langnickel BC410 Silk Eye Shader SM brush (mini review) & Mac 239 Eye Shader brush (full review) are dirty.

Ulta Tapered Crease Eyeshadow Brush $14 -  This brush is great for crease work, blending product on the lower lash line, and adding color to the outer corner of the eye & a highlight color to the inner tear duct. It's similar to the Studio Gear brush in terms of application, but I prefer the Ulta brush more because the tip is slightly pointed and fits in my crease better. However, I find it to be a little too wide & thick to use for adding color onto the lower lash line. 

Studio Gear Blending Crease Brush $30 - This brush is great for crease work, blending product on the lower lash line, and adding color to the outer corner of the eye & a highlight color to the inner tear duct. However, I find it to be a little too wide & thick to use for adding color onto the lower lash line. 

From Left to Right: Coastal Scents C138 Sable Contour brush, NARS #14 Eye Contour brush, Japonesque Professional Eye Shadow Crease brush, Ulta Pro Tapered Crease Eyeshadow brush, Studio Gear #35 Blending Crease Contour brush

Bottom Line: I recommend getting the Coastal Scents brush if you're on a budget and the Japonesque brush if you have a little more money to spend because the bristles are slightly fuller & offers better control for crease work. However, i would skip the NARS brush because it feels a bit prickly during application and I would also skip the Studio Gear brush because the Ulta brush works the same, if not better, and is cheaper. Also, it is important to note that I have not experienced any shedding, dye bleeding or funky smell with any of these brushes.

From Left to Right: Coastal Scents C138 Sable Contour brush, NARS #14 Eye Contour brush, Japonesque Professional Eye Shadow Crease brush, Ulta Pro Tapered Crease Eyeshadow brush, Studio Gear #35 Blending Crease Contour brush

Note: The Coastal Scents Sable Contour brush measures 5.5 inches and is available for purchase on Coastal Scents' website. The NARS Eye Contour brush measures 7 inches and is available on Nordstrom. The Japonesque Professional Crease brush measures 7 inches, while the Ulta Tapered Crease Eyeshadow brush measures 6.25 inches. They are both available at Ulta. The Studio Gear Blending Crease brush measures 7.5 inches and is available at Studio Gear's online store.

Have you tried any of the brushes that I have mentioned above?

What brush do you use for defining and crease work?

*This post contains affiliate links. None of the products mentioned are sponsored.

Overview: Brush Collection

Brushes are essential in creating a flawless look; therefore, you should choose wisely

and I highly recommend investing in high quality brushes

because they will last you a lifetime, especially if you take good care of it.

Also, I know some of you may not like to read lengthy detailed reviews.

So, I thought it would be helpful if I wrote a mini review about each brush that I currently have. =)

1. Sephora Professionnel Platinum Stippling Brush #44 $35 (full review): The bristles are firmer and denser than the Mac 187 brush. The black bristles are made from natural fibers, while the white bristles are made from synthetic material. Therefore, this brush is ideal for stippling liquid foundation and other liquid or cream products, such as blushes and bronzers. (Do not stipple & SWIRL or the liquid/cream product will come in contact with the black natural fibers, and that will cause the brush to shed. If you only stipple, then there will be no shedding whatsoever and it will give you an airbrush finish when used to apply liquid foundation.) This is my favorite foundation brush for applying my L'oreal True Match & Make Up For Ever HD foundation. However, it is also important to note that it bled when I washed it the first few times. Also, I wish the handle was black so that it'll look more professional and match my other brushes. (Yes, I'm OCD.) It measures 7.5 inches in length.

2. Mac 187 Duo Fibre Brush $42 (full review): The bristles are firm, dense and soft. Just like any duo fibre brush, the black bristles are made from natural fibers, while the white bristles are made from synthetic material. This used to be my go-to brush for applying liquid foundation, but my Sephora #44 brush quickly replaced it because it's denser and firmer. I've been only reaching for the Mac 187 when my Sephora #44 brush is dirty. The Mac 187 brush is also suitable for stippling cream blushes and bronzers. (Like I mentioned before, do not stipple & SWIRL or the liquid/cream product will come in contact with the black natural fibers, and that will cause the brush to shed. If you only stipple, then there will be no shedding whatsoever and it will give you an airbrush finish when used to apply liquid foundation. Also, the Mac 187 brush that I have is the old version. The new version (review) is flimsier and not ideal for stippling liquid foundation.) It measures a little less than 7 inches in length.

3. Mac 131 Duo Fibre Brush $40 (Limited Edition): I got this for $24 at an Estee Lauder Company Store. It's similar to a CCO, except the Estee Lauder Company Store is not open to the public. Click here for more info. The 131 brush picks up the right amount of product and lightly disperses my Mac Mineralize Skinfinish (MSF) highlighter in Soft & Gentle (review & swatches) onto my skin. However, when I use it to apply regular powder blushes, they end up looking blotchy and uneven. The black bristles are made from natural hairs, while the white ones are made from synthetic material. Therefore, this brush is ideal for applying cream and liquid products. It'll also work for applying Mac MSFs, but just not regular powder products. It measures 7.25 inches in length.

4. Mac 130 Short Duo Fibre Brush $40 (full review): The bristles are firm and dense, but the head is tiny; therefore, it's not practical to stipple liquid foundation with this brush. It makes me cringe to buff in a circular motion with this brush because like I mentioned a dozen times already, if you stipple and SWIRL, the liquid/cream product will come in contact with the black natural fibers, and that will cause the brush to shed. I've tried using this to apply my L'oreal True Match & Make Up For Ever foundation, but they both ended up looking streaky. However, the Mac 130 brush applies my Dior Forever foundation flawlessly without any streaking or blotchiness (as long as I work a small section at a time and quickly buff it in). The Dior foundation dries really quick, so I'm not able to stipple this foundation with my Mac 187 or Sephora #44 brush, since stippling requires more time. If you don't mind the shedding, the Mac 130 brush is also ideal for contouring when using cream bronzers. It measures 6.5 inches in length.

5. Cover FX #160 Cream Foundation Brush $38 (full review): The Cover FX #160 brush is one of the softest brushes that I have come across, but I don't know why it's marketed as a cream foundation brush. The bristles are made from natural fibres, so it'll shed when used with liquid or cream products. Also, it's too dense for blush & bronzer application, and is a little bit small for the cheek area, so the product tends to concentrate on one area and ends up looking blotchy. It does buff in my foundation really well, but the shedding annoys me. Even though the Mac 130 brush sheds as well, I prefer using it to apply my Dior Forever foundation because it's so much easier to wash, there's no staining and drying takes less time. I've been only reaching for my Cover FX #160 brush when my Mac 130 brush is dirty. It measures 6 inches in length.

Update: Cover Fx recently released a new version that's made with synthetic materials.

6. Japonesque Professional Blush Brush $38: This is one of the softest brushes I own. It's even softer than my Mac 168, Mac 109, and basically every other brush that I have in my arsenal (besides the Cover FX #160 & Studio Gear #13 brush.) I don't know why it's not a popular brush in the blogging community. The bristles are not too dense or too flimsy, and is perfect for blush application. Also, I've never experienced any shedding or dye bleeding with this brush. It measures 8.10 inches in length.

7. Studio Gear #13 Blush Brush $35 (full review): This is very similar to the Japonesque professional blush brush, except the Studio Gear #13 brush is a little wider and a tiny bit denser, but both brushes essentially perform the same. The bristles feel teddy bear soft and it's unfortunate that most people haven't even heard of the brand. Their brushes are definitely high quality and are well worth the investment. It measures 7.5 inches in length.

8. Sonia Kashuk Blusher Brush $17.99 (full review): This is my go-to brush when I'm dealing with a very difficult blush that's highly pigmented. It's very fluffy, but not flimsy. The Sonia Kashuk Blusher brush picks up the right amount of product and disperses evenly. It can also be used as a powder brush. The bristles are very soft and it only shedded a few hairs when washed the first time, which is normal. The price is definitely a little steep, considering that it's a drugstore brand; however, I highly recommend it. It measures 7.30 inches in length.

9. Mac 168 Large Angled Contour Brush $32 (full review): The bristles are soft and not too dense or flimsy for applying regular (not sheer or highly pigmented) blushes and bronzers. However, I prefer the Mac 109 for contouring because the brush is firmer and denser. Also, my Mac 168 brush  sheds like 1-2 hairs each time after I wash it. Maybe I got a defective one? It measures 7.25 inches in length.

10. Sonia Kashuk Multi Purpose Brush $17.99 (full review): The bristles are denser and softer than the Mac 168 brush. The Sonia Kashuk brush is definitely not intended for applying highly pigmented products because it's simply too dense. It only works best with sheer products. I like using it to apply my Too Faced Peach Leopard Bronzer. However, I find it too wide for contouring. I still prefer the Mac 109 for contouring because it gives me more precision and it fits better in the hollow of my cheeks. It measures 7.10 inches in length.

11. Inglot 4SS Eye Brush $22 (full review): The bristles are soft and not too dense or flimsy. I like using it to apply highlight on top of my cheekbones and setting powder under my eye area & around the small crevices of my nose. However, it's too big for eye application. It measures 7.25 inches in length.

12. Mac 109 Small Contour Brush $32 (full review): The bristles are made from natural fibers; therefore, it will shed when used for applying liquid products, such as foundation. I prefer to use the 109 brush to contour because it's dense & firm and the head fits perfectly in the hollow of my cheeks. I don't recommend it for blush application because the brush is too small for the cheek area. It measures a little over 7 inches in length.

13. Royal & Langnickel Silk Baby Dome Powder Brush $14.99 (full review): This is softer, denser and bigger than the Mac 109 brush. However, the Royal & Langnickel brush is too big for contouring. I mainly use it to apply my bronzer and for blending out over applied products. One thing that annoys me is that it sheds 1-2 hairs after each wash. Maybe I got a defective one? It measures 6 inches in length.

14. Mac 182 Buffer Brush Couture Limited Edition $55 (full review): The bristles are soft and not too dense or too flimsy. I use it to apply setting powder all over my face. It's also great for buffing in mineral & powder foundation if you don't want heavy coverage. However, the Sephora Professionnel Contour Blush Bronzer Brush #43 is more suitable for applying mineral & powder foundation if you want better coverage since the bristles are more densely packed. It measures 2.75 inches in length.

15. Sephora Professionnel Contour Blush Bronzer Brush #43 $36 (full review): The bristles are soft and dense. It's great for buffing out over applied products & for applying mineral & powder foundation because it'll give you an even application and better coverage. (Note: The denser the brush, the more coverage you'll get.) You can also use the side of the brush for contouring, but I still prefer the Mac 109 because it fits better in the hollow of my cheeks. Also, I find that round top, angled & paddle brushes work better for blush & bronzer application because the shape of those brushes fit better on the cheek area. It measures 6 inches in length.

16. Mac 185 Body Buffer Brush $52 (full review): The bristles are soft and densely packed. It's great for applying mineral & powder foundation and for buffing out over applied products. However, I do not recommend using it to apply liquid or cream products since the brush is made from natural fibers and shedding will result from that. It's also difficult to wash without touching the handle. Sooner or later, the Mac logo will be rubbed off since water keeps getting on it. Also, water can easily loosen the glue in the handle, and that will result in shedding. Lastly, I wish that the bristles were black because white bristles stain easily and are tougher to clean. It measures 2.5 inches in length.

1. Royal & Langnickel Silk Sable Brow Angle Brush BC530 $7.99: It's firm, but too thick for lining my eyes. I like using this to fill in my brows. It measures 6.5 inches in length.

2. Royal & Langnickel Silk Sharp Line Brush BC498 $4.99: It's firm, but too thin for filling in my brows. I like using it to set my liquid eyeliner with a black eyeshadow. This is also good for applying gel liner. It measures 6.1 inches in length.

3. Royal & Langnickel Silk Lash Comb Brush BC515 $9.99: The metal bristles do a great job at separating my lashes after I apply my mascara, but it's difficult to wash out the mascara residue that's left on the comb. Also, the metal bristles are sharp. Be careful not to poke your eyes out with it. It measures 6.75 inches in length.

4. Generic Spoolie Lash Brow Brush:  I don't remember where I got this from, but all spoolie brushes work the same for me. I use powder eyeshadows to fill in my brows. Therefore, I mainly use a spoolie brush to blend out the brow color and to make it look less harsh. .

5. Ulta Professional Wide Eyeshadow Brush $9: The bristles are soft and dense, but not as thin or firm as my other eye shader brushes. It's great for applying highlight on the browbone, blending and for packing color onto the lids. However, it may be too big for people with a small eye area. It measures 7.10 inches in length.

6. Royal & Langnickel Silk Eye Shader SM Brush BC410 $15.99: This brush is a little wider and thinner than the BC411 brush. The bristles are made from natural hair and I love using it for packing color onto the lids and adding color to the lower lash line because the brush is firm, thin & soft. It's also great for applying highlight under the brows. The only thing that I'm not too ecstatic about is the color of the bristles. It just does not look attractive. I much prefer it to be black bristles, but this is just a personal preference. It doesn't affect the performance or the quality of the product. However, it may be slightly too big for people with a small eye area. It measures 6.25 inches in length.

7. Royal & Langnickel Silk Synthetic MD Eye Shader Brush BC411 $10.99: The bristles are soft & firm, but a little thicker than the BC410 brush. It doesn't pack on color as well as my other eyeshadow brushes because the BC411 brush is made from synthetic material, which tend to apply products lightly. However, this brush is great for applying cream eyeshadows and concealer, but I mainly use it for applying powder eyeshadows when my other eyeshadow brushes are dirty and for smudging. It measures 6.5 inches in length.

8. Japonesque Professional Medium Eye Shadow Fluff Brush $19: The bristles are not as thin or firm as the Royal & Langnickel BC411 and BC410 brush, but the hairs on the Japonesque brush are soft. I like using the flat side to pack color onto my lids and the tip to add color onto my crease because the tip is fluffy and not too thin. It measures 7 inches in length.

9. Confidential E39 Fluff Eye Shader Brush $8 (full review): The bristles splay and are not as firm or as soft as my Mac 239 brush. I still like using the Confidential E39 brush because it's thin, it's slightly bigger and it can cover more eye area in one swipe. However, the bristles stain easily, especially if you're using dark colors. It measures 6.75 inches in length.

10. Mac 239 Eye Shader Brush $24.50 (full review): The bristles are firm, thin and soft. It's great for applying color onto the lower lash line and lids. However, I find myself reaching for the Royal & Langnickel BC410 brush more because it's bigger and can cover more eye area at a shorter amount of time. Also, just like any other brush with white bristles, the 239 brush takes more time and effort to clean. It measures 6.5 inches in length.

11. Studio Gear #35 Blending Crease Contour Brush $30 (short review): This brush is made from squirrel hair and is super soft. The bristles are firm and dense. It's great for smudging and adding color on the crease area & inner corner. It does a decent job at adding color on the lower lash line too, but I prefer to use my Royal & Langnickel BC410 brush because it's thinner. It measures 7.5 inches in length.

12. Coastal Scents C139 Tapered Crease Eye Brush $2.55 (full review): This brush is thin, firm and tapered; therefore, it's ideal for applying color to the outer v area. It's also great for blending when I'm wearing a dark color on my lids because it fits nicely on my socket line. The C139 really smokes out the color. It measures 6 inches in length.

13. Sigma E45 Small Tapered Blending Brush $9: This brush is tapered and is similar to the Coastal Scents C139 brush, except the Sigma E45 is not as firm and is a little bigger. It is more suitable for applying color on the crease area. I can still use it to blend out harsh lines, but I prefer to use the Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Blending brush because it's wider and a little bit firmer. It measures 7 inches in length.

14. Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Blending Brush $5.99 (short review): This is the BEST blending brush on the market. It's dense & firm and blends out all harsh lines and dark pigmented eyeshadows with barely any effort. It just makes blending a breeze. It also fits in my crease really well and is great for crease work. I can't believe it's a drugstore product. All the other blending brushes and even the high-end ones don't compare to the Sonia Kashuk one. This is my holy grail blending brush, but the only thing that I hate is the handle. White handles get dirty easily and I just prefer it to be black since it'll look more professional. It measures 6 inches in length.

15. Mac 217 Blending Brush $22.50 (full review): It's not dense or firm enough to blend out HARSH lines and dark pigmented eyeshadows, but I like using it to apply & blend my transition color. The 217 brush is ideal for blending light colors and for applying a sheer wash of color all over the lids. It measures 6.5 inches in length.

16. Sigma E25 Blending Brush $9 (full review): Just like the Mac 217, the Sigma E25 is too flimsy for blending out HARSH lines and dark pigmented eyeshadows. The difference between these 2 brushes is that the Sigma E25 is bigger and flimsier. Because the tip of the brush is wider, it's harder to control the placement of color. The Mac 217 fits better on my eyes. It measures 7 inches in length.

17. Coastal Scents Pro Blending Fluff brush $3.95 (full review): This is another brush that's similar to the Mac 217. The Coastal Scents version is thinner and less denser, but it's still great for applying and blending my transition color. This brush is also ideal for blending light colors and for applying a sheer wash of color all over the lids. However, it's too flimsy for blending out HARSH lines and dark pigmented eyeshadows. It measures 6.7 inches in length.

18. Edward Bess Luxury Eye Brush $40 (full review): It's not as soft as my other eye brushes, such as my Sonia Kashuk Black Domed Eyeshadow brush, but it's by no means scratchy. Please keep in mind that some brushes, especially blending brushes can't be too soft or else it won't blend/work properly. The bristles are not too dense or too flimsy for application on the eyes. If you have a big eye area, then you could use the Edward Bess Luxury Eye brush to add a light wash of color onto the lids, to define the crease, and to blend. I personally use it to apply setting powder under my eye area and to blend my eyeshadows when my holy grail Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Blending brush is dirty. It measures 6.25 inches in length.

19. Sonia Black Domed Eyeshadow Brush $9.99 (short review): The bristles are soft and super dense. I love using the Kashuk Black Domed Eyeshadow brush to apply highlight on my browbone and for blending my highlight color to create a smooth transition. However, it's too dense and big for crease work. It measures 6.5 inches in length.

Gosh, this is another long post. >_<

Hope these mini reviews are helpful. =)

I had alot more brushes in my collection a couple of months ago, 

but good thing I returned/sold them or else this post would be never ending.

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