Review (4/5): i wish i knew how to use ALL the brushes...
I was so excited to receive this set. I already had a brush set from Mary Kay, that I love; but, I it only has 5 brushes.
Since I like to contour and highlight (subtly), I mostly needed brushes for this.
Researching sets produced a huge price range. One could spend upwards of $70.00, with comparable brush sets. Yikes!! This set is much more affordable. The brush handles are solid and bristles are firmly attached. Some brushes are softer than others.
So, if they are quality brushes and the price is reasonable, why am I only rating them 4 stars? I had no clue what each brush was for, and the internet wasn't very helpful:(
If the brushes had been labeled, or there had been an insert explaining the function/functions of each brush--it would have received 5 stars. Add pictures/diagrams for tips on use, even better. I would be willing to pay a little extra for an easy to clean roll-up case for the brushes. A girl needs to keep her brushes clean. That is a feature, I believe many look for. I travel a lot, so my roll up bag (for my other set) is essential.
As it is, Cosmopolitan magazine's website has an article on how to use different makeup brushes. It was helpful for a few of the brushes, which I now use everyday.
What I love:
*The sponges are fabulous for applying foundation and blending after you contour/highlight.
*The large, angled brush is great for applying blush, so it looks more natural.
*The large, pointed brush does a nice job, when adding bronzer to contour.
*The large, round brush is what I rely on for swirling on powder.
*The small, pointed brush is phenomenal at applying color at applying contour eye shadow.
* I use the small, tall bristled, rounded brush to blend the areas of shadow on my eyes that need softening.
What I didn't like:
*Obviously, not knowing what each brush is for.
*The eyeshadow? brushes use too much product and application is sparse. I believe it's because the bristles are stiffer than what I usually use.
*No case to keep them clean, which leads me to look for alternative solutions. Leaving them out in the air, exposed, is a bad idea. Think of the germs in the air, especially if you keep them on the bathroom sink. Eww! Bacteria grows quickly and can cause infections, such as pink eye.
User Tip: I use baby shampoo to wash my brushes. It is gentle on your brushes and it gets the job done.
I received this product at a discount, in exchange for my honest feedback and unbiased review.