Class 2: Makeup Masterclass on Makeup Tools for Beginners
When you're new to makeup or maybe you're a seasoned pro but haven't gotten around using makeup brushes it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of brushes, sponges and gadgets out there. What do you actually need? Which tools are worth investing in? And how do you actually use them without making a mess?
In this masterclass, Adorn Cosmetics founder Briony Kennedy shares her go-to makeup tools for beginners, explaining the role of each brush, how to avoid the pitfalls of poor-quality tools, and how to care for your brushes so they last.
Whether you're just starting out or upgrading your old kit, consider this your expert-backed guide to the essentials only makeup tools list.
Why Brush Quality Matters More Than You Think
Not all brushes are created equal. Using low-quality brushes (or worse, the sponge-tip applicators from a drugstore compact) can wreak havoc on your skin. Think: microtears, irritation, uneven makeup application and clogged pores.
Synthetic bristles, like those used in Adorn’s cruelty-free range, are gentle on the skin, durable, and designed to work with cream and powder products alike.
We recommend upgrading to the 15 Piece Makeup Brush Set, a 15-piece vegan set that covers every stage of your routine from eyes to cheeks to flawless base.
If you’re after a smaller starter set, begin with just a few essentials (we’ll break those down shortly) and build from there.
The Only Makeup Tools List Beginners Really Need
Here’s a simplified makeup tools list for beginners that gives you everything you need to apply your products confidently and beautifully.
Foundation Brush
Let’s start with one of the most important tools in your kit: a good foundation brush. The right brush can make or break your base. You want something dense but soft, with the ability to blend liquid or cream products seamlessly into the skin.
Briony’s go-to? The Kabuki Foundation Brush. This best-selling, vegan-friendly brush buffs your foundation into the skin for a natural, even finish—no streaks, no patchiness, no cakey look.
If you prefer a cream foundation or blush, you’ll love the Cream Makeup Brush. It’s ideal for blending out cream formulas effortlessly across cheeks, forehead, or anywhere you want a diffused glow.
Powder Brush
For setting powder or mineral foundations, opt for a large, fluffy brush that can lightly dust product across the face without disturbing your base.
The 15 Piece Makeup Brush Set includes multiple sizes, so you’ll always have the right brush for setting, bronzing or sweeping on highlight.
Blush + Contour Brush
A slightly angled or tapered brush works beautifully for blush and contour placement. The key is soft bristles and a shape that hugs the curves of your cheeks without creating harsh lines. For blush and contour brush you can use our Mineral Powder Brush, a true multi-tasker.
Eyeshadow Brushes
At minimum, you’ll need one fluffy blending brush and one flat shader brush. These will take care of most beginner eye looks, from a soft everyday shimmer to a smoky moment. Our 15 Piece Makeup Brush Set includes multiple eyeshadow makeup brushes to choose from. Or checkout the 5 Piece Eyeshadow Brush Set.
Shop: 5 Piece Eyeshadow Brush Set
Choosing the Right Brush for Each Formula
One of Briony’s top makeup tools for beginners tips is knowing which brush suits which product.
- Creams and liquids (like foundation or cream blush) work best with denser, flat-topped or domed brushes. They help press the product into the skin without leaving harsh edges.
- Powders, like bronzer or blush, benefit from softer, fluffier brushes that allow for buildable coverage and a more airbrushed effect.
- Eyeshadow requires precision, so a set with smaller, purpose-built eye brushes is worth the investment.
The Best Brush for Minimising Pores and Blurring Texture
Want that airbrushed, smooth-skin finish? Reach for a densely packed brush like the Kabuki Foundation Brush. Its unique dome shape blends product seamlessly while blurring the appearance of pores, texture and fine lines.
For mature skin especially, using a brush that smooths without dragging or settling into creases is key. Pair it with your favourite mineral foundation for a flawless, skin-like finish that stays put all day.
How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes
Dirty brushes = a recipe for breakouts and patchy makeup.
Brushes trap not just makeup, but dead skin cells, oil and bacteria, all of which can end up back on your face. Regular cleaning not only helps maintain skin health, but also prolongs the life of your brushes.
Briony recommends cleaning your brushes once a week if you’re using them daily. And don’t worry—it doesn’t have to be a chore.
Try the Natural Makeup Brush Cleaner, made with antibacterial witch hazel and zero nasties. It’s gentle on your brushes but tough on grime, making quick work of even your most-used foundation brush.
Quick clean tip: Spray cleaner directly onto the brush, then gently swirl on a clean towel or cloth until no product remains. Let them air dry completely before use.
Final Tips for Beginners Building Their Brush Kit
When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to feel like you need every tool on the shelf. But the truth is, a well-curated selection of high-quality brushes will serve you better than a dozen cheap alternatives.
Here’s Briony’s advice:
- Invest in multi-taskers: A kabuki brush can be used for both liquid foundation and powder. The right blending brush can do crease, lid and under-eye work.
- Don’t skip care: Well-maintained brushes can last for years. Make brush cleaning a weekly ritual.
- Choose cruelty-free, vegan tools: Not only are they gentler on the skin, they’re kinder to the planet too.
If you’re building your kit, start with the essentials: foundation brush, powder brush, a couple of eye brushes and choose quality over quantity. The right makeup tools for beginners don’t just make application easier, they elevate your whole makeup experience.
With Adorn’s vegan, ethical, and pro-level brushes, you can apply your makeup with confidence, knowing that what you’re using is kind to your skin, animals and the environment.
Shop Briony’s brush essentials:
Watch All Masterclass Episodes:
Masterclass 1: Skin Prep - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 2: Makeup Tools - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 3: Foundation - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 4: Concealer & Eye Primer - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 5: Brows - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 6: Contour - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 7: Blush & Highlighter - WATCH HERE
Masterclass 8: Eyes & Lips - WATCH HERE
