Honestly, I’ve always been pretty easygoing when it comes to makeup brushes. Like, as long as it gets the job done, I’m not really complaining, you know? But it wasn’t until someone introduced me to stippling brushes—aka those genius little brushes that are packed with two layers of bristles—that I realized the secret to creating a smooth, IG-worthy makeup look is all about using the right tool (and, okay, the right technique). Hear me out…
Unlike traditional foundation brushes that have a single layer of bristles, stippling brushes have two: the longer, top bristles help pick up your cream/liquid products, while the bottom, more densely-packed bristles tap the product onto your skin. You know those paintings that are made up of teeny dots? Yeah, that’s the technique you want to use with stippling brushes—instead of long, broad strokes, you quickly dab the brush along your skin for a seamless, almost airbrushed-like finish. (Need a visual? This YouTube breakdown is a great place to start.)
So if you’re looking for a new brush to up your foundation, blush, or contour routine, do yourself a favor and give one of these top-rated stippling brushes, below, a try. It might take you a hot sec to get used to the technique, but the finished look is def worth the extra time.
The smaller size of this stippling brush means it’s perfect for reaching tighter, more precise areas (think: around your eyes and nose). Technique aside, I also love that it’s cased in a super-pretty rose gold color that’ll look good on any makeup vanity.
Looking to try the stippling technique with your foundation? Go for this brush from Smashbox—the larger size helps you cover more ground faster, and the soft bristles leave you with sheer-to-full coverage (depending on how much product you use).
Technically you can use this stippling brush with any liquid or cream makeup products, but the many ~glowing~ reviews on Ulta suggest looking towards this bb for smooth, natural-looking blush application. Trust: If you’ve had a hard time blending cream blush in the past, the stippling technique is about to become your solution.
At $3, this drugstore stippling brush is much cheaper than the other options on this list, but don’t get it twisted—it still does an excellent job at stippling everything from liquid foundation to cream contour. Pro tip: Starting with a small amount of product will give you more control (you can always add more if you need it).
The coolest thing about this stippling brush—besides the fact that it helps you create streak-free foundation and blush looks with ease, ofc—is that it’s made with recycled materials and renewable bamboo. Bonus: The bristles are super soft on this one, and it’s especially great for subtle, no-makeup makeup vibes.
The medium size and perfectly packed bristles on this stippling brush makes it a great entryway for newbies. Try it with your blush, your bronzer, or your foundation—just play around while you’re getting used to the technique and discovering what works best.
If you need a makeup tool refresh and you want to add a stippling brush to your collection, you might as well grab this super-convenient set from Elf. You get one of the brand’s most-loved stipple brushes, plus a nice assortment of eyeshadow, blending, and concealing brushes, for a v reasonable $15. Win-win.