best makeup brushes

What Brand Has the Best Makeup Brushes?

When it comes to professional makeup, the brushes you use can make or break your look. In 2025, the market is flooded with hundreds of brush brands, from luxury artisanal sets to high-performance, cruelty-free synthetics. Determining what brand has the best makeup brushes requires evaluating craftsmanship, materials, versatility, and longevity.

Inspired by The New York Times Wirecutter 2025 Review, which tested over 70 brushes and shortlisted 30 finalists for professional evaluation, this guide explores top brush brands, what sets them apart, and what experts and makeup artists recommend.

1. Key Criteria for Choosing the Best Brush Brand

Not all brushes are created equal. When selecting a brand, consider:

  • Bristle Quality: Soft, dense, resilient fibers that hold pigment and resist shedding.

  • Material: Natural hair (sable, goat) or high-quality synthetic fibers (Taklon, nylon).

  • Durability: Brushes that maintain their shape and softness after repeated washes.

  • Ergonomics: Comfortable handles, well-balanced weight, and precise application.

  • Ethical Standards: Cruelty-free, vegan, and sustainably sourced materials.

Top brands in 2025 consistently meet these criteria, delivering brushes that appeal to both professional makeup artists and everyday enthusiasts.

2. Leading Makeup Brush Brands in 2025

A. Sigma Beauty

  • Strengths: Innovative synthetic fibers, precise blending, strong ferrules.

  • Why Experts Love It: Sigma pioneered high-quality synthetic bristles, ideal for foundation, contour, and eyeshadow applications.

B. MAC Cosmetics

  • Strengths: Luxury natural hair, professional-grade quality, ergonomic handles.

  • Why Experts Love It: MAC brushes are industry standards in studios and fashion shoots for their consistent pigment pickup and blending ability.

C. Morphe

  • Strengths: Wide selection, affordability, and trending designs.

  • Why Experts Love It: Popular among influencers and makeup enthusiasts; offers large sets suitable for beginners and pros alike.

D. Zoeva

  • Strengths: European craftsmanship, cruelty-free, high-end feel.

  • Why Experts Love It: Perfect for eyeshadow and face blending; luxurious feel comparable to premium luxury brushes.

E. Real Techniques

  • Strengths: Soft synthetic fibers, accessible pricing, cruelty-free.

  • Why Experts Love It: Combines affordability with professional performance; ideal for makeup enthusiasts who value ethics without sacrificing quality.

F. High-End Artisanal Brands

  • Strengths: Limited-edition, handmade brushes with bespoke designs.

  • Why Experts Love It: Collectors and professional makeup artists often invest in these for unmatched performance and tactile experience.

3. What Sets the Best Brands Apart?

  • Consistency: Brushes maintain their shape, softness, and pigment pickup across sets.

  • Innovation: Hybrid synthetic-natural fibers are trending, combining cruelty-free ethics with performance.

  • Ergonomics & Design: Lightweight handles, tapered bristles, and multi-functional brushes enhance professional workflow.

  • Durability: High-end brands withstand frequent washing without shedding or fraying.

  • Transparency: Brands that disclose sourcing and manufacturing processes gain consumer trust.

4. People Also Ask

Q1: Are luxury brushes better than affordable ones?
→ Luxury brushes often offer superior materials and craftsmanship, but several mid-range brands provide comparable performance with synthetic cruelty-free fibers.

Q2: Which brushes do professional makeup artists use?
→ Many professionals use a mix: MAC for precision, Sigma for blending, and boutique artisanal brushes for specialty work.

Q3: Are synthetic brushes as good as natural hair?
→ High-quality synthetics now rival natural hair, especially for liquid and cream products, with added benefits of being cruelty-free and easier to clean.

Q4: How many brushes does a professional set need?
→ Typically 12–24 brushes cover foundation, contour, blush, eyeshadow, and blending needs. More specialized kits can include double-ended and angled brushes.

5. Final Thoughts

The question “what brand has the best makeup brushes” doesn’t have a single answer. In 2025, top brands are defined by performance, innovation, ethical standards, and professional approval rather than price alone. Whether you prefer Japanese synthetic precision, Italian artisanal luxury, or cruelty-free European designs, the best brand is one that combines durability, comfort, and consistent results across your makeup routine.

Investing in high-quality brushes enhances application, improves makeup longevity, and elevates your overall beauty experience — no matter your skill level.

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