Natural vs. Synthetic Makeup Brushes
Ever wonder why makeup brush prices are anywhere from $4 to $200? It has a lot to do with how it is made.
I am ashamed to say this, but when I first dipped my toes into the makeup pond, I knew nothing about makeup brushes. I didn’t realize there was more than one brush, and I didn’t think I was supposed to clean the one eyeshadow brush that came with my palette. Are you screaming in horror yet?
I like to comfort myself with the thought that I wasn’t the only one. And thinking about it now, I want to help some of you who haven’t the slightest idea about the intricacies of makeup brushes. Using the right brush (or the wrong one) can determine your look entirely. Our brush guide provides a breakdown of how to use the brushes in our signature brush kit, though not all brush kits come with instructions or an understanding of how each one works.
There are two types of makeup brushes:
Natural: bristles made with animal hair from squirrels, goats, sables, ponies, boar, raccoons, badgers, etc. Sometimes, the bristles are a blend of multiple animal hair types.
Synthetic: bristles are made from polyester and nylon. Synthetic brushes do not use animal hair and are considered vegan and cruelty-free.
The Difference
Initially, natural brushes were considered the top choice for makeup enthusiasts and professionals seeking precision and flawless looks. Natural brushes effortlessly pick up powders, making them exceptional for blending. High-quality natural brushes typically last long and get softer with time and proper care.
The challenge with natural brushes, however, is the ethical concern regarding the use of animal hair. Some experts will vehemently argue animals are not harmed when taking their hair, while others deem the process well within the realm of animal cruelty. An additional issue with natural brushes involves bacteria that often get trapped in them (though I’d argue this is a legitimate concern for any makeup and skincare tool). Dead skin cells also tend to get trapped in the natural brushes (did you scream in horror again just now? I totally winced while typing this). Along that vein, there is the additional concern of allergic reactions from rubbing animal hair onto the skin. These prevailing issues have led to a growing demand for alternatives.
Synthetic brushes offer a cruelty-free, sanitary option appealing to newbies and enthusiasts. With bristles made from polyester, nylon, and taklon, synthetic brushes tend to absorb less product, making them easier to clean and less likely to inhibit bacteria. These brushes are also more affordable since the materials are easily accessible. What we love the most about synthetic brushes as makeup lovers is how easy it is to apply liquid foundation and creams.
Some professionals and enthusiasts swear by natural brushes because they are incredibly soft. However, technological innovations have made synthetic brushes a formidable competitor. Beauty brands like Pinkaya have merged the best of both types to create the ideal brush: exceptionally soft to the touch, holds product well, doesn’t shed, is more affordable, easy to clean, vegan, and cruelty-free.
While it could be said in the past that there is no substitute for natural brushes, we know that couldn’t be further from the truth with the innovation of synthetic alternatives.
