My Favorite Makeup Brushes & Storage Ideas

- Real Techniques Powder Brush

- MAC 129

- Sigma F80

- MAC 109

- MAC 266

- Sigma E30

- Sonia Kashuk Smudge Brush

- Sonia Kashuk Small Eyeshadow Brush

- Sonia Kashuk Large Crease Brush

- MAC 217

- Crown Pro Blending Crease Brush

Favorite Must Have Eye Brushes

This was requested by a few readers. Next up will be face brushes. :)

If I were stranded on a desert island and could only grab just a handful of eye brushes with me, it would definitely have to be these! These brushes are the magic sticks that make my eye looks the way they are. I noticed that most of these brushes have multiple uses to them (at least the way I use them) and I think that's why they're considered my favorites. :) Without further ado, let's get started! These brushes are in no particular order. :)

PS: Prices may vary on some brushes depending where you buy them.

Sigma E60 Brush ($11.00)

□ The is my favorite brush to apply my brow bone highlight. It seems a bit large but I personally like this because it also helps to blend the outer edge of your eyeshadow with the highlight color. So it almost does 2 jobs in one! :) It's also great for applying a quick sweep of eyeshadow on the lid.

MAC 266 Brush ($19.50)

□ Of course, I can't be without my angled brush. My eyebrows wouldn't look this way if it wasn't for this brush! I've also used this brush for applying eyeliner and defining my crease for when I do a cut crease look.

Loew Cornell Maxine's Mop (3/8) Brush (about $4.00)

□ This is probably one brush everyone needs! It's pretty much the best "all over the lid" brush and ideal for packing on color. It has a rounded top to it so it also blends outer edges really nicely especially if you're experiencing harsh lines.

Sonia Kashuk Small Eyeshadow Brush (about $5.00)

□ Another great "all over the lid" brush and another favorite of mine for packing on color. This one is a lot smaller so it applies nicely to precise areas of the lid, for example the inner eye corner.

Sigma E40 Brush ($11.00)

□ Say goodbye to harsh lines because you won't experience any if you have this brush! Sometimes I'll have this harsh edge between my brow bone and lid color and this brush effortlessly eliminates that. It's a pretty large blending brush so I use it mostly for blending rather than applying color. It also works nice to diffuse eyeshadow if you happen to overdo it.

Sonia Kashuk Smudge Brush (about $5.00)

□ This is like the baby of all my eye brushes. It's so small but it gets into places with precision and it gets the job done! I use this for smudging eyeshadow or eyeliner on my lower lash line and to set eyeshadow on my waterline. I'm not sure if this brush is still available since I can't find it anywhere. :(

EcoTools Bamboo Angled Eyeliner Brush ($3.00)

□ This is another brush that I can't thank enough for giving me clean eyebrows. I use this for applying concealer on my eyebrows to create really clean, sharp lines.

MAC 224 Brush ($28.00)

□ This is the queen of all blending brushes and my very first MAC brush I've ever purchased! Of course, this brush is what it is... a blending brush! Great for blending colors together and for applying color to the crease. It does the job of applying color and blending at the same time so it's one of those all-in-one type of brushes. I'm probably going to buy a back up of this brush just because I love it so much! It's definitely required to have this brush in everyone's collection from beginners to professionals.

MAC 217 Brush ($22.50)

□ I can't express how much I love this brush! I have a back up of this brush because I use it so much! I think if I had the choice to grab just one (eyeshadow) brush to use for the rest of my life, it would definitely be this brush. It's fluffy enough for blending but it has just the perfect amount of density for packing on and building up color. It's the most ideal eyeshadow brush anyone could ever ask for. I'm saying this to everyone who is starting out in makeup that if you're not sure what brush to get, this is definitely the best choice you could ever go with.

MAC 219 Brush ($24.50)

□ I use this brush in more ways than one. I use it to define my crease, smudging eyeshadow and eyeliner, and even for blending! It's another one of those brushes that have so many uses to them and that's why I love it! This brush is unlike any other pencil brush that I've tried because some were too flimsy and had very little density and others were too harsh for my eyes. This one is just perfect!

Sonia Kashuk Bent Eye Liner Brush (about $6.00)

□ This is such an amazing eyeliner brush. I've had this for years and years and it definitely changed my outlook on how to apply eyeliner. I never preferred applying eyeliner with an angled brush and using a bent brush is so much more easier. Perfect winged eyeliner every single time!

Bdellium Tools Bent Eyeliner Brush ($7.04)

□ Another great eyeliner brush. This one is a lot smaller than the SK brush so it's perfect for really precise eyeliner.

MAC 204 Brush ($13.00)

□ This is another staple brush that I need for doing my eyebrows. Of course this brush has different uses to them from eyebrows to eyelashes to... believe it or not... eyeshadow. Yes! Eyeshadow! I once had an eyeshadow that was really dry from accidentally applying water to it and creating a hard layer on top (it was a matte eyeshadow). I just used this spoolie to gently scrape off the hard layer and the eyeshadow was good as new! I know it's kind of random but who would've thought? :)

What are your must have brushes?

EcoTools Brushes Review

This set of EcoTools brushes is from The Everyday Collection that comes with five brushes and a case. EcoTools are not only great quality brushes at an affordable price, but also they are made of natural and recycled materials that are Earth-friendly and 100% cruelty-free. So by purchasing these brushes you’re not only getting more for what you pay for because of the multifunctional use of them, you’re also doing your part by helping the planet!

These brushes are made of really soft synthetic taklon bristles, bamboo handles, and recycled aluminum ferrules. The case itself is made of natural cotton and hemp that makes on-the-go organization for your brushes really simple and easy to use.

I bought this particular brush set because I thought every brush in it would give me more uses than what they are intended for. I'm all about versatility and I hardly ever use my brushes JUST for what their intended purpose is, which is why I thought this set would be perfect for me. For example, blending brushes aren't just great for blending out eyeshadow. I love using them as actual concealer brushes because it blends in nicely without looking cakey!

This set is particularly great for traveling or for on-the-go purposes because of the lightweight brushes and compact size (just about the length of my hand) but I do reach for them quite often when I'm doing my daily makeup routine. This brush set is retailed for about $10 and can be purchased at drugstores such as Walmart, Walgreens, and Riteaid.

This kit includes:
□ Concealer Brush - Great for applying concealer or packing on eyeshadow and pigments to the eyelid.

□ Eye Shading Brush - Great for applying a single color eyeshadow quickly across your eyelids. Blends out harsh lines easily and works great for applying color to your crease or highlight.

□ Detailer Brush - Can be used as a lip, eyeliner, or for a precision concealer brush. Can also be used for applying color to the inner corner of your eyes or for smudging eyeliner.

□ Angled Eyeliner Brush - Can be used for applying gel or cream liners, filling in eyebrows, or for applying precise concealer.

□ Angled Blush Brush - Great for applying brush and bronzer and can easily blend out any harsh lines.
 
□ On-the-Go Brush Case - Brushes fit perfectly into the case and makes it great for traveling while keeping your brushes all intact and clean.

DISCLAIMER: The products reviewed on this blog are based on the opinions and experiences of the author. This product was purchased by the author and in no way was this review influenced by the company of the product.

Sigma Beauty's Buffer F45 Brush - Review, Photos & Giveaway (CLOSED)

As some of you may know I'm a huge fan of Sigma brushes. I've been using their brushes for quite some time now and they are definitely a staple in my makeup routine. Some may say they are similar to MAC brushes but I think Sigma deserves credit all on its own for making great quality brushes and shouldn't really be compared to other brands. Sure there are similarities of other brushes that look the same but in my opinion Sigma truly stands out on its own. With that said I'm super excited to host yet another giveaway for my Facebook and Twitter fans out there for a chance to win Sigma's Buffer Brush!

When I think of buffer (or kabuki) brushes I think of mineral foundation. I think it's because I'm so used to seeing the Bare Escentuals infomercial with their "swirl, tap, and buff" slogan. However, Sigma's buffer brush is great for many uses other than for applying mineral foundation. I've used this brush for setting my foundation with loose setting powder and for touching up my face with pressed powder. This brush is definitely great for an all-over-the-face powder brush and it's great for taking with you on the go for doing touch ups. The brush itself is fairly large and fluffy with natural bristles so I see it more as a powder brush over anything else though I don't see why you can't use it for blush or bronzer!
To purchase this brush click here ($19.00 USD).

PROS:

Great for loose and pressed powders
Buffs evenly
Makes foundation and powder look natural

Bristles are soft and doesn't feel scratchy

Great size for face powders with just the right amount of density

Travel-friendly

Inexpensive

Dries fast after washing

CONS:

Bristles shed during wash and applying powder but decreased after a few uses

FACEBOOK and TWITTER GIVEAWAY

One person will be chosen at random to receive a free Sigma Buffer F45 brush.

How to enter:
Must 'Like' TinaMarieOnline on Facebook
Must be a follower on Twitter (username: ktinass)
Leave a comment on designated Facebook status with the words 'Enter Me' and your Twitter username

*Open internationally

*One entry per person

*Comments on this blog post will not qualify

*Giveaway ends August 27, 2011 (11:59 PDT)

DISCLAIMER: In no way is this blog accepting any form of payment for products received by companies. The products reviewed on this blog are based on the opinions and experiences of the author. The products in this review were provided by the company.

(CLOSED) FACEBOOK GIVEAWAY: Sigma's Synthetic Face Kit + Review and Photos

Sigma Beauty's Synthetic Face Kit ($42.00) offers flawless, high definition makeup application. These brushes can be used for applying liquid, powder, and cream products without excessive absorption into its fibers because of the synthetic filament built into their bristles.

FIRST IMPRESSION: 

→ When I first opened my package I immediately noticed the cute drawstring bag where the brushes were placed. I also noticed the brushes included  brush guards. This is great for maintaining your brush's shape when they're not in use! It also includes a pamphlet that informs you about the brushes and about their affiliate program!

→ From my first initial reaction I noticed how amazingly soft the bristles were. I also liked that the handles were short because it fits really snug in my hand and it gives more control in application. They also look and feel very professional and you can tell they're made with really good quality.

Product Description:

F80 - Flat Top Kabuki
The F80 Flat Top Kabuki brush is perfect for applying and blending liquid, cream, and powder products onto the skin. The flat surface allows perfect buffing with flawless results. Synthetic Sigmax HD filament.

F82 - Round Top Kabuki
The F82 Round Top Kabuki brush simplifies precise makeup application under the eyes and around the nose. This brush is also perfect for achieving flawless coverage using liquid and powder products. Synthetic Sigmax HD filament.

F84 - Angled Top Kabuki
The F84 Angled Top Kabuki brush is the perfect brush for precise, yet blended application of products on the cheeks. It seamlessly applies cream, powder and liquid products. Synthetic Sigmax HD filament.

F84, F80, F82

F84 - Angled Top Kabuki - I like using this brush for applying blush and contouring. My first impression was that this brush was too dense for applying blush and I would end up over applying it. However, it provides just the right amount to your cheeks without it looking too overdone. I prefer to use it more for contouring because it provides precise application but still allowing you to blend out any harshness.

F80 - Flat Top Kabuki - This brush is great for applying liquid and cream products. It blends easily, giving a nice smooth finish to your face. It blends foundation well into your skin that it looks like you're not wearing any! I use this brush in a stippling motion to distribute my foundation and finish off with buffing motions to give it that airbrush look! I generally don't use powder foundations but I have used this brush to set my foundation with translucent power. I do have to say that I don't like it very much for powder because I feel like it applies too heavily, so liquids and creams are my best bet!

F82 - Round Top Kabuki - Out of all three brushes, this is the brush I use the least. Not that this isn't a great brush. I just find that its features generally have the same purpose as the other two and I don't really need to use it unless I have to. It allows you to buff your foundation just like the Flat Top would and it's great for contouring just like the Angled Top. That's why I usually tend to reach more towards the other two brushes because they're more distinct. My main uses of this brush is to blend foundation and powder into areas around the eyes and nose, basically areas that your standard foundation or powder brush can't reach.

FINAL THOUGHTS:
→ I've been using these brushes everyday since for a couple of weeks now and so far I really like them. I haven't had any problems with using them and they definitely live up to their standards. There's no shedding within the bristles except for maybe 1 or 2 strands when I was washing the Flat Top Kabuki. Other than that the bristles stay in place and they don't fray even after several washes. I think the entire kit is very suitable for everyone because of the multiple uses you get out of them. So there's really no right or wrong way to use these! I definitely recommend this set!

GIVEAWAY TIME!!

Enter to win your own set of Sigma's Synthetic Face Kit!

How To Enter:
1. You must 'Like' Tina Marie Online page on Facebook.

2. Leave a comment on the giveaway status on Facebook with the words 'Enter Me' and your e-mail.
*Comments on this post will not qualify
*Only one entry per person
*Open internationally
*Winner will be chosen at random
*Deadline to enter is July 17, 2011 11:59 (PDT)

DISCLAIMER: In no way is this blog accepting any form of payment for products received by companies. The products reviewed on this blog are based on the opinions and experiences of the author. The products in this review were provided by the company.

Bdellium Tools Review & Photos

Besides collecting makeup, I love to collect makeup brushes. I'm always looking for new brushes to add to my collection and I love to branch out and try all different kinds of brands. I've always believed that it's not all about the kind of makeup you use. High end or drugstore, makeup is makeup! What's important is having the proper tools to help you achieve the looks you desire! The quality of your brushes can make all the difference in the outcome of your looks. Bdellium Tools (pronounced del-ee-yuhm, the "b" is silent) are antibacterial and eco-friendly handmade brushes made up of both natural and synthetic bristles. I've been testing these brushes out for a few weeks now and here's what I have to say about them!

Bdellium offers 4 different product lines:

Maestro Series → Black painted handles, nickel plated brass ferrule that gives it more shine, has a more professional look to them.
Studio Line → Yellow painted handles, made to give you optimum control and comfort.
Travel Line → Same luxurious yellow painted handles in a more compact form.
Green Bambu → Eco-friendly brushes with handles made from bamboo, synthetic vegan bristles, hypoallergenic, 100% cruelty-free.

The difference between these collections of brushes compared to most brushes is their implementation of anti-bacterial technology. What is anti-bacterial technology? According to Bdellium's website, "Cutting edge anti-bacterial technology guards against harmful bacteria, fungus and mold which will bring you the utmost hygiene and assist in creating a germ-free environment. All of the materials used in the anti-bacterial process are non-toxic and safe to the environment." All of Bdellium's brushes except their Green Bambu line are treated with anti-bacterial agents. Having anti-bacterial treated brushes does not make them any different than your other brushes. You use them the same way and clean them like you would normally. For more info about their brushes check out their FAQs page.

To purchase Bdellium Tools click here.

 #964M Maestro Series - All purpose blusher brush ($13.26)

After several uses & washes, MAC eyeshadow for size comparison

→ (Mix of natural and synthetic bristles) I've used this as a face and blush brush. I do have to say that I prefer to use it to apply blush rather than powder due to its size. I do however think that it's a great universal brush when you're traveling and you don't want to take too many brushes with you because it's fluffy enough to apply face powder but it provides just the right amount of density for applying blush. I'm a little particular when it comes to face brushes especially since I don't like the feeling of scratchy bristles or when bristles fall off and they get stuck to my face. This brush on the other hand gives me no problem. However, I did experience a little bit of shedding when I washed them. It didn't lose too many bristles but I typically like to see no shedding.

#945S - Contour brush ($8.76 USD)

After several uses & washes, MAC eyeshadow for size comparison

→ (Natural fibers) At first I thought this brush was too small to contour my big cheeks. I was wrong! This brush is great because it gives you precise application without making your face look too chiseled (if you know what I mean!). The dome shape makes it easy to contour and easy to blend out as well. I also like to use this brush for highlighting my cheek bones because the size is just right. This brush also did not have any fallout when using it but I did experience quite a few shedding when washed.

#716S - Smokey eyeliner brush ($7.51 USD)

→ (Synthetic bristles) This brush is soft with medium density. I find that it doesn't distribute eyeshadow very well compared to other pencil-shaped brushes that I have but it is great for smudging eyeliner and eyeshadow. I'm also very particular when it comes to pencil brushes because I feel like some of them are too scratchy. But since this is made of synthetic bristles, it feels very soft.

#936B - Concealer brush ($6.77 USD)

→ (Synthetic bristles, bamboo handles) This concealer brush has really soft bristles which makes applying concealer under my eyes a breeze! I typically REFUSE to use a concealer brush to apply concealer under my eyes because I feel like most of the time they are tugging or scratching my delicate eye area. That is one thing I cannot stand! That's why I usually settle for using my fingers, a blending brush, or a sponge to apply concealer. This brush however is amazing! The bristles are soft and flexible and it applies concealer so smoothly. It's also very lightweight which gives you full control of the brush and you don't over apply your concealer.

#708B - Bent eyeliner brush ($5.76 USD)

 → (Synthetic bristles, bamboo handles) This brush is by far my favorite eyeliner brush at the moment. I have quite a few eyeliner brushes and a couple of them have a bent head as well. However the bristles on my other eyeliner brushes are nothing compared to this brush. The only thing I would change is probably the length of the handle. I prefer to hold my brushes from a distance and this brush isn't long enough for me. However, I love the fact that the bristles are extremely thin which gives me full control of my eyeliner. I also love the density of the bristles because the problem with some of my other eyeliner brushes is that their bristles lose it's shape and they spread apart over time. The bristles on this brush stay put and bounce right back even after several washes.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

→ These brushes are made with really great quality and are inexpensive. They apply and blend your makeup so effortlessly. If you were to hold these brushes in your hands you would think they would cost more than what they are. You can tell right off that bat that the brushes are made so well and I love that they're sleek and have a professional look to them. I would definitely consider these brushes high-end.

DISCLAIMER: In no way is this blog accepting any form of payment for products received by companies. The products reviewed on this blog are based on the opinions and experiences of the author. The products in this review were provided by the company.

Sigma Brushes Review + Photos

You can find reviews for Sigma Brushes almost anywhere! Whether it's on YouTube or on someones blog, you can pretty much guarantee you'll find enough sufficient information about all of their brushes. I thought I would provide my own review for my readers about these brushes since they are highly talked about in the beauty blogging community.

Sigma Brushes are a brand of brushes that are of great quality at affordable prices that won't break the bank. Since receiving these brushes, I washed and used each one of them and I have to say that these brushes do work and perform well with great expectations. Many people believe these brushes are comparable to MAC brushes, and I couldn't agree more. The quality from the bristles to the handle are professionally made individually with great care.

I received the Sigma Essential Brush Kit (face + eyes) which included the brush roll. This kit contains 12 brushes (5 face brushes, 7 eye brushes) that sells for $99 including the brush roll or $79 without (someone correct me if I'm wrong). At this price, with such great quality, these brushes are well worth every penny.

F30 Large Powder
"Very Dense with a rounded top. Ideal to apply powder porducts on face and body."
→ Made with natural bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ Very soft bristles
→ How I use this brush: Setting loose and pressed powders.
→ Overall: 5/5

F50 Duo Fibre
"Specifically designed to generate an "airbrushed" finish when used to apply liquid foundation. It can also be used to apply blush, hihglight shades and loose pigments."
→ Made with synthetic and natural bristles
→ Maximum shedding of all brushes when washed (5+ bristles)
→ How I use this brush: Applying liquid foundation, blush, MAC MSF, and highlighting powders.
→ Overall: 4/5

 F40 Large Angled Contour
"This angled shape makes this brush ideal to apply blush or contour shades."
→ Made with natural bristles
→ Hardly any shedding when washed (1 bristle)
→ Very soft bristles, less dense than MAC 168 brush.
→ How I use this brush: For contouring and highlighting.
→ Overall: 5/5

 F60 Foundation

"Can be used to apply liquid or cream foundation. It is also recommended to apply moisturizers and conceal large areas."
→ Made with synthetic bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ Very soft bristles
→ How I use this brush: Concealing large areas, applying foundation in tight areas such as the nose and under eye area.
→ Overall: 5/5

E55 Eye Shading

"Soft and dense with a rounded finish. Can be used to apply pressed or loose eye shadows and pigments. Ideal to build intense color on the eyelid."
→ Made with natural bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ Wider than MAC 239 but has the same use.
→ How I used this brush: Packing on color, applying a single color quickly and easily, applying pigment wet.
→ Overall: 5/5

E70 Medium Angled Shading
"Angled, tapered, flat top. Ideal to apply highlight shades underneath the eyebrow and on the inner corners. Can also be used to a precise application of darker shades on the crease area."
→ Made with natural bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ How I use this brush: Applying a crease color in one quick easy step.
→ Overall: 5/5

E30 Pencil
"Precise application of color on the crease, outer corner, and upper and lower lash line. Also ideal to smudge out pencil liner."
→ Made with natural bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ Less dense, more give and more pointy than
MAC 219.
→ How I use this brush: Smudging eye shadow on lower/upper lashline, defining crease.
→ Overall: 5/5

E40 Tapered Blending
"Rounded and tapered top. Specially designed to apply and blend color on the crease."
→ Made with natural bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ Supposedly MAC 224 dupe but completely different brushes, less dense, longer bristles, more fluffy.
→ How I use this brush: Blending colors together, blending harsh lines.
→ Overall: 4/5

E60 Large Shader
"Flat shape is ideal for application of cream formulas and eye shadow primers. It also works great with loose eye shadows or pigments. Can be used to apply color all over the lid or precisely on the lash line."
→ Made with natural bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ How I use this brush: Applying primers, packing on eye shadow.
→ Overall: 5/5

F70 Concealer
"The rounded, tapered, flat shape makes this brush ideal to conceal the under eye area. It is also recommended for a precise application in small areas."
→ Made with synthetic bristles
→ No fall out when washed
→ How I use this brush: Concealing under eye area and blemishes.
→ Overall: 5/5

E05 Eyeliner
"An extra-fine tipped synthetic fiber brush that delivers a precise, firm, even stroke to line the eyes."
→ Made with synthetic bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ How I use this brush: For applying gel/cream liners.
→ Overall: 5/5

E65 Small Angle
"Essential for the application of gel or cream eyeliner on the upper and lower lash line. This brush is also excellent for filling out the eyebrows."→ Made with synthetic bristles
→ No shedding when washed
→ How I use this brush: Filling in eyebrows even though I prefer my MAC 266.
→ Overall: 5/5



DISCLAIMER: In no way is this blog accepting any form of payment for products received by companies. The products reviewed on this blog are based on the opinions and experiences of the author. The products in this review were provided by the company.