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Most women don’t want to be weighed down. If you like the finish of a liquid foundation, yet find it too heavy, consider switching to a mousse foundation, which looks like a liquid but goes on light as air. Since you need the right application tool, you’ll want to reach for a synthetic-bristled brush, which won’t absorb your foundation so you can put it right where it should be: on your face.
Real Brushes
Just as eye shadow, blush and lipstick each have their own role in your makeup routine, both synthetic and real brushes are best for certain jobs. Real brushes are made from badger, squirrel, pony and/or sable hair. These brushes provide very even blending, especially for powder foundations. The only drawback is that they have a tendency to absorb liquid makeup products, which is why they are more for powder makeups such as blush and eye shadow.
Synthetic Brushes
Synthetic brushes are made from materials such as polyester. Unlike natural brushes, synthetic brushes don’t have the little uneven, porous areas that can soak up a liquid foundation. That’s why synthetic brushes may be best for use with a mousse foundation -- since the foundation has a liquid base, a synthetic brush will soak up less foundation. These brushes also are easier to clean, which can be an added bonus since foundation brushes require frequent cleaning.
Buying the Right One
Synthetic brushes aren’t a one-size-fits-all sort of product. While synthetic bristles are best for your mousse foundation, that doesn’t mean all synthetic-bristled brushes are going to be right for your skin. A high-quality synthetic brush should not lose bristles easily and also should apply your mousse foundation evenly. When you are considering purchasing a brush, always rub it on the top of your arm to test it. If bristles come loose or the brush does not feel as if it covers your skin evenly, look for a different brush option.
Brush Size
The size of your synthetic-bristled mousse foundation brush depends on what you’re using it for. If you’re a put-makeup-all-over your face gal, you’ll need a larger foundation brush because it covers more area faster. However, if you just need a little underneath your eyes and on your nose and chin, you can get away with a smaller, rounded foundation brush to give you the most control.
