Multi-Task Brush from Real Techniques by Samantha Chapman

I am sure most of you would have heard of the Pixiwoo sisters, one of the most successful beauty gurus on YouTube. Samantha Chapman who is the older sister, has launched a line of synthetic brushes called Real Techniques some time last year. I have been contemplating on ordering them for a while but to my surprise, Shins (the store) now have the brushes available locally.

The Multi-Task Brush is from the Travel Essentials set and it includes two other brushes, a narrow Foundation Brush and a Domed Shadow Brush. I have given away the foundation brush to my youngest sister and kept the remaining two brushes, which I quite like and have been using frequently.

My favourite brush from this set is the Multi-Task Brush, which they recommend for application of powder, blush and bronzer. I have not been using this brush as recommended and instead have been using it as a liquid or cream foundation brush. Let me just say that it works beautifully!

The bristles are made from taklon and the brush feels very plush, dense and soft. The extended aluminium ferrule feels light and comfortable. You are supposed to be able to stand the brush up on its own as the base is quite wide but I don't see much use for this function. The set also comes with a Panoramic Brush Case, which is a foldable, standing brush holder.

As mentioned, I use the Multi-Task Brush with liquid and cream foundations. What I normally do is to stipple on some product onto my face and then blend out with light, swirly motions. My foundations look flawless with this brush and it works better than a regular duo-fiber stippling brush (I have the 187 from MAC). As the brush head is so dense and soft, it blends everything like a dream.

I have washed this brush a few times and it doesn't bleed or shed. It dries relatively quickly for a synthetic hair brush too. I like the Multi-Task Brush so much that is has more or less replaced my other foundation brushes and I have been using this solely since getting it last month.

I purchased the Travel Essentials set from the Shins shop at RM135. Sadly, the Multi-Task Brush is not available individually and you'd need to get the whole set. It is a pretty fair deal though because the pricing in UK (where the brushes come from) is £20.99 but after adding shipping, it will be more expensive to purchase online.

PS:
Did you miss my blog birthday giveaway? Do have a look and join in the fun!

Chanel Foundation Brush #6

Chanel has recently revamped their makeup brush range and I was immediately drawn to the foundation brush and knew it had to come home with me. I got the Chanel brush two months' ago and have been using it regularly, rotating between my other favourite foundation brush from Bloom Cosmetics.

The Chanel Foundation Brush #6 is a paddle-shaped brush, with a solid black handle and I believe it consists of three toned fibers made of goat hair. It picks up liquid and cream foundations well but I do find that the brush absorbs a little more product than my Bloom brush probably due to its denser head. Application is smooth and comfortable although I do find the fibers to be a wee bit more rough than Bloom's.

Like most foundation brushes, it is best to use on well moisturised or prepped skin to avoid streaks or drag marks. When my skin used to be very dry and dehydrated, no brush would work and they all leave streaky lines or ugly patches especially on the flaky bits of skin. Thankfully, my skin has improved in the last few months and the streakiness is no longer an issue.

The BeautyCabby Tip "When using a paddle-head foundation brush, start with small, short strokes and then use patting motions to blend in the foundation better."

Overall, if you are in the market for a foundation brush, the Chanel #6 is a good option. It is available at most Chanel counters for RM126. This is not a bad price considering MAC brushes are often more expensive with lesser quality brushes.

I am so glad it's finally Friday! Are you up to anything fun this weekend? I'll be at home mostly because I'm really quite boring and like to spend my weekends catching up on sleep :-)

Softly Does It with Lunasol Cheek Brush

Okay, people... please be prepared to see the word "soft" appearing multiple times in this post because that's the only way to describe this lovely Lunasol Cheek Brush. In recent times, I have started to wear blush again and decided that I really need to get a good blush brush as well.

The first time I stroked this brush, I fell in love with its softness. The brush bristles are made with uncut 100% blue squirrel hair and is shaped almost paddle-like. It is quite a fluffy brush and I love using this with highly pigmented blush if I want a more natural look. The hairs are unbelievably soft and so delicate on my skin. The dark brown handle feels very comfortable and lightweight too.

Lunasol brushes are manufactured by Chikuhodo in Japan and they are one of the best brush-makers in the world. Chikuhodo also produces brushes for RMK and Suqqu, which other than makeup, are both known for their luxurious brushes too.

The brush does not mess up my foundation or setting powder when applying blush because the hairs are so soft and smooth, it glides really effortlessly across my cheeks. It seems to pick up the right amount of product each time and since it distributes blush so beautifully, I find that I can apply a sheer layer first and gradually build up more colour. It has not shed since I got it a few weeks' ago and washes without issues.

Overall, I am really happy with this brush and it is definitely my most precious and favourite face brush at the moment. The Lunasol Cheek Brush costs RM150 at Lunasol counters but for such a high quality, soft and durable brush, I don't find it overly expensive.

previously reviewed:

• Lunasol Eye Brush (L) N

Lunasol Eye Brush (L) N

Back in June, I posted about my favourite eye brushes and I now have another brush to add to the list. I purchased the Lunasol eye brush a couple of months' ago after browsing through their brush collection. I must admit that the quality of Lunasol brushes are simply sublime. I couldn't stop caressing them at the counter.

Lunasol brushes are manufactured by Chikuhodo in Japan and they are one of the best brush-makers in the world. Chikuhodo also produces brushes for RMK and Suqqu, which other than makeup, are both known for their luxurious brushes too.

The eye brush is made from 100% Canadian squirrel hair and honestly, I am not sure if different squirrel species will actually make a difference in quality. The bristles are uncut and very, very soft but not so soft as to fall apart. It does retain some firmness and this allows eye makeup to be patted on, blended out or swiped with ease.

The beauty about this brush is not only in its softness but also its shape. The L size is a bit larger and longer than most eye brushes but don't mind the size as I find it fits my eye well. I like to use this brush to lightly pat on colour and then use the tip to blend into my socket line.

Overall, I am really pleased with the Lunasol eye brush and have incorporated it into my daily eye makeup application. The brown handle is very lightweight and comfortable to hold. The soft bristles blend eyeshadows really well without compromising the pigment and integrity of the makeup.

The Lunasol Eye Brush (L) N can be purchased at Lunasol for RM98. The price may be expensive but for such a high quality brush, it is money well spent and it is still cheaper than most MAC eye brushes.

Fan and Flutter Your Lashes with KOJI Curving Eyelash Curler

The Koji Curving Eyelash Curler is relatively new in Malaysia because I've only started noticing this curler popping up in Sasa stores in recent months. The reason why I didn't get it before is because it retails at RM89.90, which is more expensive than either a Shu Uemura or Shiseido curler. However, I think Sasa is running a promotion on the Koji curler and at the time of writing, it costs RM59.90, which is a bit more reasonable.

This new packaging is an updated 2011 edition but I'm not sure if there are any differences in the actual product itself compared to its predecessor.

There is a brown casing included but I don't think I would have an actual need for it. It's a nice extra all the same. It also comes with two replacement pads and this is a huge plus point for me. I don't know if you have noticed but Shu Uemura curlers do not have replacement pads (they are not even sold separately) and once the rubbery surface starts wearing out, you'd have to bin the whole curler and get a new one.

At the moment, I am only using another curler regularly and that is the Shiseido one. Compared to the Shiseido curler, the carriage of the Koji curler is taller and slightly broader. The Shiseido has been my favourite for a long time but I now think the Koji curler may be taking over its place.

* Koji eyelash curler - front and back view *

The frame is slightly flatter and wider than most curlers, I find that the Koji curler rests against my eye quite comfortably. Thanks to it's 38mm width, it has the ability to grip all my lashes and can even reach the outermost corner, which is the part I have most trouble with. This is an area the Shiseido curler falls short on.

The method I use with the Koji curler is a fairly simple one. I just gently clamp on my lashes quite close to the roots, hold for a few seconds, and then repeat a couple more times throughout the length of my lashes. I get a more natural looking curl this way.

The illustration on the box shows that the curler has the ability to spread one's lashes in a curve similar to an opened Chinese paper fan. And yes, it really does spread out my lashes quite nicely. The rubber padding feels a little bouncier too but it's not as smooth as Shiseido's. I've read some people complaining that the Koji crimps their lashes but I have not personally experienced this.

The Koji eyelash curler has performed very well on me although it does take some getting used as the frame is quite different from other curlers I've tried. Overall, I am pretty satisfied with it and would recommend it to those who are looking for a flatter and wider frame. From what I've read, it is the no.1 bestselling eyelash curler in Japan so it may be worth while checking it out if you're in the market for a new curler.

Availability:

The Koji Curving Eyelash Curler is available in Sasa for RM89.90 (regular retail price). I got mine at a promotional price for RM59.90.

Ecotools Bamboo Bronzer Brush

A couple of weeks ago, I came across the Ecotools bronzer brush at a local mall and immediately snapped one up. I know Ecotools brushes cost twice as much here compared to The States but they are still cheaper than most brands.

I like the fact that Ecotools is an earth-friendly company. It also makes me feel a little bit better that no animals were harmed in the production of their brushes. The bristles are made from synthetic taklon, the handles from bamboo and the ferrules are recycled aluminium.

I have a few face brushes made from synthetic hair and know that they tend to be rather soft. The Ecotools bronzer brush does not disappoint in the softness department. In fact, it has the softest bristles amongst the other face brushes in my collection. My sensitive skin definitely appreciates this.

The brush head is really dense, fluffy and large. I am not sure how well it will work with bronzers as I don't use them but the domed head works really well with mineral makeup and compact powders. From what I've read, quite a few people use the brush with liquid foundation and it works equally well.

I mostly use the brush with loose mineral makeup. I can buff the foundation on fairly quickly and it always seem to deposit the right amount of product. It blends like a dream and provides a really beautiful finish.

No doubt it is a big, fat brush and I see many people complaining about the size of the handle. But it honestly doesn't bother me and I do appreciate the slightly hefty weight in my hand. It just seems to balance better when I swirl and buff powders on.

The first time I washed it, I was quite prepared for the long drying time since it is such a large, dense brush. Just remember to dry it laid flat or downwards because you will not want water to seep into the ferrule as this will loosen the bristles and you'll start experiencing shedding. If you plan to use it with liquid foundation, you'd need to wash it out more often.

This is now my favourite multi-purpose powder brush. I have tried it with normal loose powder (non-mineral type), compact powder, highlighting powder and blush (with a light hand), and it works with all of them. I am already thinking about getting another so I don't mix too many products or colours on one brush.

Overall, this gets two big thumbs-up from me.

I bought the Ecotools Bamboo Bronzer Brush at Shins for RM65. I was going to recommend Makeup Masala if you're interested in ordering online but I don't think she has a shop anymore.

My Favourite Eye Brushes

Eye makeup may be one of the trickiest cosmetics to apply and it certainly helps when you have the right tools at hand. I honestly never knew the importance of makeup brushes until I started working. As a student, I used to just dab on stuff with my fingers and call it a day. That was many, many moons ago.

Today, I will take you through several of my current favourite eye brushes.

From left to right:

1. Stila Brush #15 (Double-Sided Crease & Liner Brush)

This is one of my older brushes and I got it when Stila was available locally. I normally use the tapered end to create a "v" on the outer corner of my eye. It can double up as a liner brush by either using it damp or dry to smudge along the upper and lower lash line. The flat or paddle head is mostly used to lay colours on certain parts of my lid or to apply an allover wash. I like to take this along when I travel because it is essentially two brushes in one. Just remember to keep the little round plastic sleeve if you plan to store it upright because you wouldn't want one end to get smooshed.

2. MAC 213SE (Fluff Brush)

I cannot remember which limited edition set I got this brush from. I like using this to apply an allover shade across the lid. It is soft and feels really nice. The head is quite dense so you can also use this to pack on eyeshadows.

3. MAC 239 (Eye Shader Brush)

I think this is one of MAC's bestseller brushes and rightly so. It has a dense, rounded head and is perfect for patting on colours in specific areas of the lid. I also use this to smudge darker shades along my upper and lower lash line. I have a few eyeshadows with poor colour pay-off and this brush allows me to build the colours more intensely. The fibers are fine but dense. You can also use this with emollient or cream-based products.

4. MAC 217 (Blending Brush)

This is an all-rounder brush that can be used to pat on colours or to blend. You can probably complete a whole look with this brush alone. Like the MAC 239, it can be used with cream-based products. You can use it damp to pick up pigment powders as well. The bristles are firm and can get a little scratchy but I have no complaints otherwise.

5. MAC 219 (Pencil Brush)

I use this to smudge or blend dark shades on my upper and lower lash line. The tip is pointed and it allows more precise application. It can be scratchy if used directly on the waterline so I wouldn't recommend it for that purpose. I also use this to highlight the inner corner of my eye with a pearly or shimmery pale shade.

6. Urban Decay 24/7 Brush (Shadow Pencil Blending Brush)

This is a recent purchase and it's already one of my favourites. It is designed to be used with UD's 24/7 Shadow Liners but I find it to be the perfect brush to smudge or blend any eyeliner. It is soft yet stiff enough to feather out colours. The synthetic fibers are made from PET (recycled plastic bottles). I like the fat purple handle too because it is less boring than the usual black.

7. Laura Mercier Pony Tail Brush (Blender Brush)

This brush is very soft and feels incredibly nice on the eye. I use it to blend, blend and blend. It doesn't matter if you use circular or wiping motions as it works beautifully with any type of blending you do. I use this to apply a wash of colour over the eyelid quite often and also to highlight below the brow. This is another brush I'd bring along when travelling. This brush is 3 years old and it still looks good.

8. T. LeClerc Brush #5 (Large Crease Brush)

I have had this brush for nearly ten years and it still looks new! It is my favourite blending brush because the hairs are super soft and it fits into my crease perfectly. Besides blending, I can use it to lay on colours, highlight and swipe. I also like the fact that it's held up well over the years and I don't think I've seen this thing shed before.

9. NARS Brush (Angled Eye Shader)

This is a recent acquisition and is a really lovely brush. The fibers are made from pony hair and are very soft. I use this to shade the crease area and to line my upper or lower lash line. It can also be used as a highlighter around the inner corner of the eye. Creating smoky looks with the brush is quite simple too.

10. Shu Uumura 6oB (Natural Badger Angled Brush)

I use this as an eyebrow brush and it is quite precisely angled for that purpose. The bristles are firm but not scratchy. I use it with a powder colour to fill in and define my eyebrows. It can also be used to smudge harsh pencil brow liners to create a more natural look.

11. Inglot 30T (Bent Eyeliner Brush)

This is one of the best brushes for gel liners. The bent edge lets me see my eye better so I can draw a more precise line closer to my lashes. The tip is fine and pointed so creating a wing or flick at the end is fairly easy. You can go as thick or thin as you want with this brush.

12. MAC 209SE (Eye Liner Brush)

I have waxed lyrical about this brush before and I absolutely love using gel liners with it. It is quite an idiot-proof brush and I think it would be suitable for newbies to eyelining. The fibers are firm enough but do not feel hard or uncomfortable. I could never use gel liners until I discovered this and I have actually improved in applying eyeliners all thanks to this little brush. You can use it with liquid or ink liners that come in a pot. I have even used it damp with powder eyeshadows to intensify the colour and to draw along the lash line.

Acquiring good brushes can get expensive but if you care for them well, they will last a long time. Over the past thirteen years or so, I have collected a number of wonderful brushes as well as duds. My recommendation would be to try them out in person. But if you are not able to, do your research and read reviews because there are resources online that can help you make a decision. These days, there are many fantastic and affordable options out there so it's not necessary to plonk money down on expensive brushes. Just look around and shop wisely :-)

Using Stuff I Hardly Use and Liking Them

I like having days off during weekdays, especially when it's a public holiday. But le hubby and I usually have some form of errand to run during such days and this means going out under the hot mid-day sun. Knowing that I'll be out and about in the terrible heat, I decided to go for a minimal makeup look that is less prone to meltdown.

Since getting the Shu Uemura mousse base in BB Beige (limited edition shade), I have only used it a total of 2 times. That was because I was using my fingers to apply and it went on really heavy and streaky. I could never get it to blend out properly.

Today, I decided to whip out my trusty Beauty Blender sponge and the mousse went on like a dream. Just ignore the slightly discoloured bottom as I had not washed the sponge at the time the photo was taken.

I Can Finally Use Gel Liners!

I am so freakin' excited that I just had to take photos and blog about this. You see, I am absolutely useless at applying eye liners, even pencils which are supposed to be the easiest. I purchased Maybelline's gel liner last year after reading a number of good reviews because I've always loved the winged liner look but could never get it right. Never. It was bloody hopeless and I gave up after a few tries.

Anyway, I was rooting through my brush collection this evening and came across a MAC brush I never knew I had. I think it came with the Tartan limited edition brush set I purchased around Christmas time. I was in an experimentative mood and thought, oh, what the heck... I might as well give it a shot.

And am I glad I did.