Review + Comparison: Battle of the Flat Paddle Foundation Brushes

Flat paddle synthetic brushes are meant to be used for applying liquid foundation all over the face in a painting motion. I personally prefer to use a buffing brush for applying liquid foundation because it's quicker and buffs the product into my skin easier. When I want an airbrush effect and more coverage without the bristles absorbing lots of product, I opt for a stippling brush. In general, I only use flat paddle synthetic brushes for applying concealer under my eye area and liquid foundation around the small crevices of my nose.

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation ~ Chanel #6 ~ Sigma F60 ~ EcoTools Bamboo Foundation

Real Techniques Essential Foundation ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation ~ Chanel #6 ~ Sigma F60 ~ EcoTools Bamboo Foundation
Real Techniques Essential Foundation ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation ~ Chanel #6 ~ Sigma F60

Dior Backstage Fluid Foundation Light Coverage Brush ($45) - This is the thickest of the bunch. I love that the bristles are dense and firm. The size of the head is excellent for face application, but it still fits nicely under the eye area. I just tap the product lightly and it immediately sinks into my skin, providing great coverage without streaking. (It measures 7 inches in total length.)

Chanel #6 Foundation Brush ($45) - The base of the head is thick and firm, while the tip is thin and tapered. I like using it for applying under eye concealer because it doesn't streak and it fits really well under my eye area. As for face application, I prefer the Dior one because it's thicker and slightly bigger. (It measures 6.20 inches in total length.)

Sigma F60 Foundation Brush ($16) - The head is narrower and the tip is thicker compared to the Chanel one. I do notice that if I apply too much product, it's difficult to blend out without streaking, using the Sigma one. (It measures 7.5 inches in total length.)

EcoTools Bamboo Foundation ~ Real Techniques Essential Foundation

Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version) ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

EcoTools Bamboo Foundation ~ Real Techniques Essential Foundation

Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version) ~ Royal & Langnickel BX-45

Royal & Langnickel BX-45 ~ Real Techniques Essential Foundation ~ EcoTools Bamboo Foundation

EcoTools Bamboo Foundation Brush ($5.99) - The head is slightly thicker, denser and narrower than the Chanel one. I have no issues with it streaking and it blends product into the skin effortlessly. This is a total bargain! (It measures 6.30 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Essential Foundation Brush (comes in the Travel Essentials set $17.99) - The head is slightly smaller and denser than the EcoTools one. Out of all of them, the RT one is the one that I reach for the most because it provides excellent coverage without streaking when I apply the product in a tapping motion. (It measures 6.25 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel BX-45 Brush ($15.99) - This is another one that I reach for the most because it offers excellent coverage and it blends the concealer seamlessly with my foundation with barely any effort. The head is the shortest of the bunch and fits perfectly under the eye area. Also, I love how dense and firm it is. I have no complaints about this brush, which is very rare. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel BX-40 ~ Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro C201 ~ Sigma F60 (Mr. Bunny Kit) ~ Sigma F60

Royal & Langnickel BX-40 ~ Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro C201 ~ Sigma F60 (Mr. Bunny Kit) ~ Sigma F60

Royal & Langnickel BX-40 Brush ($28.99) - The head is the biggest of the bunch and ideal for face application. It doesn't streak when I apply liquid foundation, but the bristles are not as firm as the Dior brush. I prefer the Dior one for face application because it gives me better control. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro C201 Brush (comes in the SILK Synthetic Hair 12 pc Set $119.99) - The bristles are not flimsy and it doesn't streak when I apply liquid products, but it's not as firm as the Sigma F60. When it comes to flat paddle synthetic brushes, I'm all about firmness because I want maximum control. (It measures 7 inches in total length.)

Sigma F60 Foundation Brush (comes in the Mr. Bunny Essential Kit $120) - The bristles are not as firm and the tip is not as pointed as the regular Sigma F60. Also, I have to be careful to not over apply product or else it'll be difficult to blend out without streaking. (It measures 7.5 inches in total length.)

Real Techniques Essential Foundation
Sonia Kashuk No. 05 Synthetic Foundation (New Version) ~ Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version)


Real Techniques Essential Foundation
Sonia Kashuk No. 05 Synthetic Foundation (New Version) ~ Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation (Old Version)

Sonia Kashuk No. 05 Synthetic Foundation Brush (New Version $14.29) - The head is slightly thicker and firmer than the RT one. Also, it has a thin tip. The SK one is another one of my favorites. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Foundation Brush (Old Version $14.29) - The head is thinner than the new version and it's the flimsiest of the bunch. Also, it's difficult to blend product into my skin without it streaking. The new version is far superior and I'm so glad that Sonia Kashuk revamped it. (It measures 6.75 inches in total length.)

Bottom Line: In terms of only application and disregarding physical appearance & price, my favorites are the Sonia Kashuk (new version), Real Techniques, and Royal & Langnickel BX-45. Coming in 2nd place is the EcoTools one. 3rd place goes to the Dior one and 4th place goes to the Chanel one. I love how dense and firm they all are and they blend product into my skin so easily, when used in a tapping motion!

Note: The Dior brush is available at Sephora and Nordstrom. The Chanel and Sigma brushes are available at Nordstrom. The EcoTools brush is available at Ulta, drugstore.com and Target. The Real Techniques brush is available at Ulta, drugstore.com and Target. The Royal & Langnickel brushes are available at their online store. The Sonia Kashuk brushes are available only at Target. The brush holder is sold separately and can be purchased here for $22.

What flat paddle foundation brush do you love and would recommend?

*This post contains affiliate links. The Sigma, Real Techniques & EcoTools brushes were given to me by one of my lovely friends. The Royal & Langnickel BX-45 & BX-40 brushes were won during one of their sweepstakes. The Royal & Langnickel C201 was given to me for review consideration. All of the other brushes that are mentioned above were purchased by me using my own funds, 

Swatches + Review - Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronzing Makeup Base

The Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronzing Makeup Base is a cult favorite among many beauty bloggers and YouTube vloggers. I never understood why because the swatches online look Oompa Loompa orange. I already have the Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer, which is my holy grail bronzing and contouring product not orange, it's completely matte and it gives my face dimension. I decided to purchase the Chanel cream bronzer with the intention of using it as a base and to prolong the wear of my powder bronzers. 

The texture of the Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel is creamy and it blends into my skin effortlessly when applied with a synthetic brush, such as the Royal & Langnickel BX-25, BX-15, BX-30, BX-35 and BX-70 brush (review + comparison). (Do not use a brush that's made from natural hair because it will shed when it comes in contact with cream products.) I usually apply my foundation, then the Chanel cream bronzer and finally, I'll set everything with a translucent powder. I prefer to apply the cream bronzer in a tapping motion rather than a sweeping motion because if I use the sweeping motion, it can mess up my foundation and the finish can look blotchy. Tapping the product into my skin leaves a more natural finish.

The BX-25 brush is denser than both the BX-15 and BX-30; therefore, it picks up more product, applies more heavily and requires less layering to get good color payoff. The BX-15 and BX-30 are by no means flimsy, but they apply more lightly and prevent you from over applying the product. However, it's difficult to over apply the Chanel bronzer because it looks so natural no matter how many times you layer it. Therefore, it doesn't matter which 3 of the brushes you use. You'll still achieve the same result.

If I want a more "chiseled" look, I'll use the BX-35 to contour my cheekbones and the BX-70 to contour my nose. (I use the BX35 in a tapping motion rather than a sweeping motion to prevent it from moving my foundation and from creating a harsh line.) To finish off the look, I apply a setting powder and then my Too Faced Chocolate Soleil as the final step. I find that it gives me more dimension than Soleil Tan De Chanel because it's darker and completely matte.

Royal & Langnickel Revolution Brushes: BX-25 ~ BX-15 ~ BX30

(brushes are dirty, sorry)

Royal & Langnickel Revolution Brushes: BX-35 ~ BX-70

Soleil Tan De Chanel looks scary orange compared to Chocolate Soleil, but I assure you, it looks completely natural when applied to the face. For reference, I'm a MAC NC30/35, MUFE HD 127, L'oreal True Match W4 and Dior Forever 21 mixed with 31. I have also wore this when I was a MAC NC35/37, MUFE HD 128, L'oreal True Match W6 and Dior Forever 31 and it looked absolutely gorgeous. However, lighter beauties may find this to be too orange and darker beauties (NC42 and up) may find it to be too light. This product works best on medium skin tones as it adds warmth to the skin and enhances the complexion.

It is important to mention that Soleil Tan De Chanel looks slightly shimmery under direct sunlight. However, the shimmers are barely noticeable and it looks nearly matte under artificial lighting. It's still very safe to wear during the day time because it looks very natural. Also, it lasts at least 12 hours without fading when worn over liquid/cream foundation and set with a powder.

The price can be a turnoff, but it contains a hefty amount of product and you only need about 3 taps of product for each cheek. Therefore, it will take months before you'll need to replenish.

Bottom Line: I highly recommend getting the Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel to use as a base in order to lengthen the wear of a powder bronzer. If you have a medium complexion, this will also work well alone and leave your skin with a natural sun-kissed look.

Note: The Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Bronzing Makeup Base contains 1oz of product and is available on their online store, Nordstrom, and at Chanel makeup counters for $48.

*This post contains affiliate links.

What product do you use to contour your face?

Review: MAC 215 Medium Shader Brush

From Left to Right: Royal & Langnickel BC410 ~ MAC 215 ~ MAC 239 ~ Royal & Langnickel BC411

MAC recently launched the Face and Body Fall 2012 Collection, which includes the limited edition 215 Medium Shader brush. The 215 is bigger than the 214 (review) and smaller than the 227. The head of the brush is short, dense and made from natural bristles. The bristles feel soft (not scratchy at all) and they're not extremely stiff like the MAC 214, which irritates my lower lash line.

Generally, brushes that are made from natural hair should not be used with cream products because they absorb alot of product and don't apply as smoothly as a synthetic brush does. Both the Royal & Langnickel BC410 and MAC 239 are made from natural hair and are ideal for packing on powder products. The Royal & Langnickel BC411 is made of synthetic material and is more suitable for applying cream products. The MAC 215 is more versatile and works well with both cream and powder products. It packs on color nicely and applies evenly without any patchiness or shedding, regardless of the type of product being used.

From Left to Right: Royal & Langnickel BC410 ~ MAC 215 ~ MAC 239 ~ Royal & Langnickel BC411

The size of the brush can be an issue, depending on how small your eyes are and how you hold the brush. When I hold the brush horizontally, I find that it covers a huge portion of my eye. However, when I hold the brush vertically and at a slight angle, it covers my lids perfectly.

When using powder products, I prefer to use a fluffier and rounder brush to blend because the 215 is too dense for that purpose. It ends up blending away the product. However, it's great for softening the edges when using cream products. 

Bottom Line: I love the uniqueness and the versatility of the MAC 215. It's not like any other natural hair shader brush that I have tried because it can be used with both cream & powder products. I love to use it for applying & blending cream bases, packing on powder eyeshadows and highlighting my browbone. This brush has become a staple in my collection.

Note: The MAC 215 Medium Shader brush measures 6.60 inches, while the 239 measures 6.5 inches. Both retails for $25 on Nordstrom. The Royal & Langnickel BC410 measures 6.25 inches and retails for $15.99, while the BC411 measures 6.5 inches and retails for $10.99 on their online store.

What brush do you use for applying cream & powder eyeshadows?

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

Review + Comparison: Royal & Langnickel SILK Pro Synthetic Hair 12 PC Brush Set

case measures 10" x 0.45" x 8.75" when opened

The Royal & Langnickel SILK Pro 12pc Brush Set comes with 12 brushes, all of which are made from synthetic material and feel very soft like a bunny's bum. (Don't worry, no animals were harmed during the manufacturing process.) The bristles retain their shape very well and they do not splay, even without using the plastic brush guard that comes with the set. Also, I did not experience any shedding with any of the brushes.

case measures 4.75" x 0.85" x 8.75" when closed 

The C101 powder brush and C111 blush brush come with their own plastic brush guard.

Packaging: The 12pc set comes with a faux leather case, which is very slim, lightweight and travel friendly. It may seem like there are only 12 brush slots inside, but there are actually 14 brush slots because there is a tiny slot on each end of the case, which is perfect for storing brushes with a thin handle, such as the Royal & Langnickel C212, C441 and C491. Other brands of brushes will fit nicely in the case too.

The handles are attached to a nickel ferrule and are matte black, which looks attractive, classy and professional. They are also full-size, which is a major plus for me because (1) I like my brushes to look uniform and (2) they won't get lost or be hard to find if I store them in my brush holder.

Scroll down to find out how they perform individually!

Sonia Kashuk Large Powder Brush ~ C101 ~ C111 ~ Studio Gear #13

Sonia Kashuk Large Powder Brush ~ C101 ~ C111 ~ Studio Gear #13

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C101 Powder Brush is ideal for applying setting powder and bronzer to the face, neck and decollete. The brush head is bigger, wider and denser than the C111 and Studio Gear #13 brush (review). The Sonia Kashuk brush is slightly wider at the tip and is not as dense. I find that the C101 gives me better control because of its density, but it also provides a light application of product because of its synthetic bristles. (Synthetic hairs tend to apply products more lightly than natural hairs.) For this reason, it always makes my makeup look natural and not cakey. (The brush takes about 11 hours to dry, but if you use a paper towel to absorb the excess water, then it'll take about 4.5 hours to dry. It measures 7 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $24.99.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C111 Blush Brush is ideal for applying blush and bronzer. The brush head is slightly longer and less dense than the Studio Gear #13 brush, but it is by no means flimsy. I love using it to apply highly pigmented blushers because it deposits the right amount of product without making me look like a clown. The tip of the brush has a wide oval shape and it's great for sweeping the product back and forth, upwards towards the hairline. The side of the brush can be used in a tapping motion for a precise application of product on the apple of the cheeks. (The brush takes about 11 hours to dry, but if you use a paper towel to absorb the excess water, then it'll take about 4 hours to dry. It measures 7.25 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $19.99.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C201 Foundation Brush is ideal for applying liquid and cream foundation. The brush head is thick and the bristles are not too flimsy, which allows it to apply the product evenly without streaking. It is also a great size for the face and it can get under the eye area really well when using the flat side of the brush. When using the tip, it fits nicely around the nose area and the small crevices of the face. (The brush takes about 5.5 hours to dry. It measures 7 inches in total length.)

C411 old version ~ C411 new version ~ C212 ~ C601

C411 old version ~ C411 new version ~ C212 ~ C601

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C411 MD Eye Shader Brush is ideal for applying and blending eyeshadows. This brush comes with the 12pc set, but I also purchased it individually about a year ago and the handle is slightly longer and not as matte. The brush head is also thinner and firmer than the new version, which is thicker and fluffier, but it's by no means flimsy. It still offers great control and I actually prefer it over the old version because it's more multi-functional. It's great for (1) spot concealing and for applying cream eyeshadows because the bristles don't absorb as much product as natural bristles do and it distributes the product evenly, (2) for applying a sheer wash of color onto the lids or an intense amount when layered, (3) for defining the eye when using the tip of the brush, and (4) for softening harsh edges. This is definitely a must-have for me because I can kill at least 4 birds with this one brush. Ha! (It only takes about 3 hours to dry and measures 6.70 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $10.99. )

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C212 Concealer Brush is ideal for spot concealing and for applying eyeshadow on the upper & lower lash line. The brush is thin, firm and small, which allows it to provide excellent control. I love using it to apply powder eyeshadow on my upper lash line to set my eyeliner. It also works well for filling in the eyebrows because it deposits a light amount of product, thereby creating a more soft and natural appearance to the brows. Those with a smaller eye shape will find this brush to also be great for applying cream eyeshadows. (The brush only takes about 2 hours to dry. It measures 6 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C601 Lip Brush is ideal for applying lip products & eyeliner and for filling in the brows. Because the brush is thin and firm, the tip is great for shaping the mouth, while the side is great for filling in color. I also like using it to apply eyeliner because it allows me to create a line that's not too thick or too thin. It can also be used for applying eyeshadow on the lower lash line or upper lash line to set eyeliner and for filling in the eyebrows. When compared to the C212 brush, the C601 brush offers a more precise application and leaves a more concentrated amount of product. (The brush only takes about 2 hours to dry. It measures 6.75 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $4.99.)

Chanel #19 ~ NARS #12 ~ C422 ~ Inglot 80HP ~ C441

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C422 Smudger Brush is ideal for highlighting the inner corner of the eye, applying eyeshadow on the outer corner of the eye and smudging. The Chanel #19 (review) is bigger and more suitable for crease work, while the C422 is firmer and more suitable for detail work. However, those with a small eye shape will find the C422 to be a more appropriate for crease work. The NARS #12 is flimsier and doesn't offer as much control. When compared to the Inglot 80HP, the C422 is just as firm, but it has a pointed tip, so it allows for a more precise application. It is one of my favorite brushes from this set because it's so versatile. (The brush only takes about 2 hours to dry. It measures 6.85 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $7.99.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C441 Liner Brush is ideal for detail work, lining the eyes, defining the outer v, and applying eyeshadow on the lower lash line. The bristles are densely packed and feel very firm. It's thinner and offers more precision than the C422. I thought that the C441 was going to be too thick for applying eyeliner, but it actually creates a line that's not too thick or too thin because it has a thin pointed tip. This has become another one of my favorites from this brush set. (It measures 6.50 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $5.99.)

C501 ~ C491 ~ C451 ~ C521

C501 ~ C491 ~ C451

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C501 Angle Fluff Brush is ideal for crease work, blending eyeshadows and applying a sheer wash of color onto the lids. The bristles are not as densely packed as the C411 brush, but it's not too flimsy and still offers great control. The tip of the longer end of the brush fits perfectly right above the crease area and I love using it to apply my transition color. It's also great for defining the crease and for blending out light colors. (The brush only takes about 3 hours to dry. It measures 7 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $5.99.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C491 Angled Brow Brush is ideal for applying eyeliner and for filling in the brows. The brush is very thin and firm, so it allows you to get close to the lash line and to create a very thin & natural looking line. It also has an angled shape, so the tip of the longer end of the brush makes it easier to reach the inner corner of the eye. Therefore, I love using it to set my eyeliner with a powder eyeshadow. It's also great for shaping the brows if you prefer a more precise application. (The brush only takes about 2 hours to dry. It measures 6.25 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro Synthetic C451 Flat Eyeliner Brush is ideal for tightlining and for applying eyeshadow & eyeliner on the lower lash line. The brush is thin and firm, and it offers great control. It creates a line that's not too thick or thin; however, it's difficult to get into the inner corner of my upper lash line because I have hooded eyes. I prefer to use the brush to apply eyeshadow on my lower lash line because it gives a precise application and it doesn't tug or irritate my skin. (The brush only takes about 2 hours to dry. It measures 6 inches in total length.)

Royal & Langnickel Silk Pro C521 Brow Lash Groomer Brush is ideal for shaping the brows and separating the lashes. I love using the metal comb to remove mascara clumps because it can easily separate each and every one of my lashes. The plastic ones just don't compare. Just be careful not to poke your eyes out with it because the metal teeth are really sharp. The spoolie end of the brush grooms the eyebrows into place and softens the color of your brow product to create a more natural appearance. (The brush measures 7 inches in total length. It can be purchased individually for $9.99 and it also comes with an additional brow comb that's attached on the back of the metal comb.)

Bottom Line: The 12pc brush set is a great addition to any brush collection and it's also very travel friendly. It has everything that you need for a perfect makeup application! Also, it comes down to about 10 bucks per brush, which is extremely reasonable for the quality that you're getting. I highly recommend it, especially for those who are an avid user of cream products or for those who are just starting out with makeup and want a well-rounded brush set.

Note: The Royal & Langnickel SILK Pro Synthetic Hair 12 PC Brush Set retails for $119.99 and some of the brushes can be purchased individually on their online store. Also, for a limited time, you can get 40% off using coupon code ROYAL40 at checkout. The 40% discount can be applied to ALL Royal & Langnickel products and will expire by the end of this week.

*This post contains affiliate links and the products mentioned were provided by the manufacturer for consideration. This does not affect my opinion about the products. I don't do paid or guaranteed reviews. My reviews are based on my own honest opinion.

Have you tried any brushes from Royal & Langnickel's Silk Pro Line?
Do you prefer to buy brushes individually to tailor to your needs
or in sets for a better value?