A kabuki brush is the ultimate solution to all your makeup concerns. It is an essential item in every makeup bag, as best kabuki brsuhes enables flawless application of various face makeup products. Kabuki brushes are known for their incredibly soft and fine bristles, resembling a magic wand. They effortlessly blend, contour, conceal, buff, and set products like bronzer and powder. With their densely packed bristles, they ensure seamless makeup blending for a natural-looking coverage. While traditional kabuki brushes have a rounded shape, modern versions come in a variety of shapes to cater to different needs.
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What is a kabuki brush?
A kabuki brush is a makeup tool characterized by its short handle (known as a stem) and a large head of densely-packed bristles. The bristles can be flat, rounded, angled, or slightly tapered, but they are all designed for effortless application of makeup over larger areas of the face. In essence, a kabuki brush is perfect for buffing on foundation, layering powder, applying blush and bronzer, or using as a final step to achieve seamless blending of all face makeup. With just one brush, you have a multitude of possibilities.
We have personally tested several highly-rated options to compile this carefully curated list of kabuki brushes that excel in the application, blending, and buffing of makeup. Our evaluation criteria included the angle of each brush, its ergonomic design for easy handling, and its ability to deposit makeup smoothly onto the skin. We also considered factors such as the size and type of bristles used in each brush. Furthermore, we cross-referenced our expert’s recommendations with the top-rated choices that we personally loved and that have received outstanding five-star reviews.
10 Best Kabuki Brushes in 2023 For A Airbrushed Look
Best Skin-Friendly kabuki brush
Daubigny Flawless Foundation Makeup Brush
Have you ever come across a magical enchantment that can transform your skin into the flawless canvas every makeup artist dreams of? Well, such magic exists in the form of the Daubigny Flawless Foundation Makeup Brush. This compact brush is designed to effortlessly glide any makeup product across your face, ensuring a smooth and even application. With this brush, blending makeup on areas like the nose, jawline, and other facial features becomes a breeze. In just 10 seconds, you can achieve a flawless look using this 60 mm super large kabuki foundation brush. Say goodbye to visible pores and fine lines as this mini kabuki brush flawlessly covers them, regardless of whether you’re blending powdered or liquid foundations, concealers, creams, blushes, or even highlighters. The best part? This brush doesn’t absorb any of the product, making it even more versatile and effective.
Pros
- Boasts over 200,000 dense synthetic bristles for optimal performance
- The bristles are soft and gentle on the skin, ensuring a comfortable application
- Delivers streak-free results, creating a flawless finish
- Easy to clean, maintaining hygiene and longevity of the brush
- Comes with a storage case, making it convenient for travel purposes
Cons
- The hexagonal design of the brush may be slightly challenging for some users to hold and use
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Best for Body
Goerti Professional Body Makeup Brush
Kabuki brushes are not limited to just the face. They are also incredibly useful for applying concealer, highlighter, or bronzer on other areas of the body, below the chin, for example, to add a radiant glow to the collarbone or to camouflage imperfections on the legs. One highly-rated kabuki brush available on Amazon features a curved shape that effortlessly follows the contours of the body, making this type of application a breeze. Additionally, the oversized handle of the brush is particularly advantageous when covering larger areas of the body.
Pros
- Contoured design
- Versatile application
- Large handle
Cons
- Can absorb excess product
Best for Foundation
Fenty Beauty Face & Body Kabuki Brush 160
Featuring an angled brush head and synthetic bristles, this brush from Ri-Ri’s line is a versatile choice for both powder and liquid foundation applications. Satisfied users have praised its ability to flawlessly apply and blend makeup, and they particularly appreciate its comfortable grip provided by the rounded handle. Not to mention, the pink bristles add a delightful touch of beauty.
Pros
- Excellent for facial sculpting
- Beautifully designed
- Provides a soft feel on the skin
Cons
- Shed bristles
Best Long-Lasting Bristles
Lamora Flat Top Kabuki Brush
Achieve a flawless complexion with the Lamora Flat Top Kabuki Brush. Designed to provide a luxurious feel on your skin, this brush features soft, dense, and silky bristles that effortlessly blend your makeup. Crafted with high-quality synthetic bristles and a sturdy wooden stem, the flat top brush head is perfect for applying and blending liquid foundation, contouring, and setting powders. Experience the luxury of this affordable kabuki brush and elevate your makeup routine to new heights.
Pros
- Sturdy wooden and copper handle: Provides durability and a comfortable grip.
- Long-lasting and silky bristles: Ensures a smooth and seamless application of makeup.
- Can be used as a blush brush: Versatile in its application, making it suitable for various makeup techniques.
- Vegan and cruelty-free: Made without the use of animal products and not tested on animals.
- Non-absorbent and does not trap excess product in the bristles: Helps prevent product wastage and ensures easy cleaning.
Cons
- Slight shedding after regular use: Some shedding of bristles may occur over time with frequent use.
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Best Budget
e.l.f. Cosmetics Makeup Kabuki
If you’re on a budget and looking for an affordable kabuki brush, this option is perfect for you. Despite its low price, it doesn’t compromise on quality.
E.l.f. is known for consistently delivering affordable and high-quality products, and their kabuki brush is no exception. It follows the traditional short handle design, providing a comfortable grip. Additionally, E.l.f. maintains its commitment to being cruelty-free, ensuring that the brush is ethically produced.
The synthetic bristles are exceptionally soft, comparable to those found in more expensive brushes. Whether you’re using wet or dry formulas, this brush will get the job done efficiently.
Pros
- Versatile for wet or dry use
- Soft and gentle on the skin
- Affordable price
- vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Has traditional flat handle
Cons
- Plastic Handle
- Shed bristles
Best Premium
Kinoko Brush by Hakuhodo
If you’re seeking luxury, exceptional quality, and an original Kinoko brush, then this product is perfect for you. It is designed and crafted in Japan, the same region where the first brushes were created centuries ago. While it comes with a high price tag, it represents the epitome of quality and craftsmanship in the world of brushes, akin to Chanel in the fashion industry.
This brush offers a medium to full coverage application and is versatile for both powder and finishing products. Its roundish and compact shape is not only cute but also convenient for on-the-go use.
Pros
- Authentic and original kabuki brush
- Excellent quality
- Made in Japan
Cons
- Highly expensive
- Not suitable for use with liquid makeup
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Best Drugstore
Flat Top Kabuki Foundation Brush By KESHIMA
Experience consistently flawless and silky-smooth skin without any streaks or uneven patches using this remarkable kabuki brush of exceptional density and superior quality. What sets it apart is its unique ability to provide a hassle-free makeup application. The Flat Top Kabuki Foundation Brush, crafted by Keshima, boasts a remarkably soft texture that feels like feathers against your skin. Additionally, it is designed to be non-absorbent and effortless to clean. Moreover, the brush undergoes a meticulous 7-step process to prevent shedding, ensuring long-lasting and durable bristles. This indispensable tool should be a staple in every makeup kit, particularly for blending and buffing experts seeking an outstanding option.
Pros
- Premium synthetic fibers that are both soft and of superior quality.
- Features a luxuriously silky and densely packed flat brush head.
- Highly recommended for achieving medium to full coverage in makeup application.
- Perfect for contouring, applying foundation, blush, and highlighting.
- A vegan product, adhering to ethical and cruelty-free standards.
- Can also be utilized as a stippling brush for specific makeup techniques.
- The immense number of positive reviews on Amazon, totaling 30,889, serves as a testament to the product’s remarkable popularity among satisfied customers.
Cons
- While cleaning the brush, there is a possibility of bristle shedding.
Best Travel-Friendly
EcoTools Retractable Kabuki
This portable kabuki brush by EcoTools is designed to be travel-friendly, featuring retractable bristles and a convenient lid that protects them from being crushed in your purse or makeup bag. It is generally effortless to clean; however, caution should be exercised to prevent the aluminum case from rusting in case it comes into contact with moisture.
EcoTools stays true to their name by producing products that align with their commitment to being cruelty-free and environmentally sustainable. In addition to these values, they prioritize the creation of high-quality brushes.
Pros
- Cruelty-free.
- Soft and densely packed bristles
- Features excellent travel-friendly design.
- Effectively prevents the bristles from crushing.
- Made from recycled materials.
Cons
- Some users may find the size of the brush to be too small for their preferences.
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Best for liquid foundation
Wet n wild Kabuki Brush
Your quest for the ideal kabuki brush concludes here. Introducing the wet n wild Kabuki two-toned Brush, ingeniously crafted with a flat top head and densely packed bristles, ensuring optimal formula application. This brush excels at retaining any cream, powder, or liquid formula without excessive absorption. Its synthetic bristles are gentle on the skin, while the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, facilitating the creation of a seamless and flawless look, free from any cakey finish. Furthermore, it is important to note that wet n wild cosmetics are entirely cruelty-free, as they do not partake in animal testing.
Pros
- Great for blending in liquid foundation.
- Perfect for everyday use
- value for the money
Cons
- Bristles smells weird
Best Self Tanner
Beauty by earth self tanner Kabuki Brush
This brush is exceptionally useful for reaching those tight spots and crevices that a self-tanning applicator mitt may struggle to access, such as the hands, fingers, toes, and face. It serves as an excellent blending brush for achieving an even and quick tan, regardless of whether you’re using a tanning lotion, self-tanner lotion, tanning foam, tanning water, tanning mousse self-tanner, or any self-tanner for the face. Treat it as you would a blending brush for makeup, utilizing it to seamlessly work the sunless tanner into your skin. With its eco-friendly BAMBOO HANDLE, it fits perfectly in your hand, enabling you to effortlessly create a smooth and flawless look without any unwanted cakey finish.
Pros
- Sustainable design
- Soft and dense bristles
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Versatile application
- Sensitive skin friendly
- Also Best for contour/bronzer
Cons
- Shed bristles
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How Should I Use a Kabuki Brush?
The process is quite straightforward!
- First, delicately glide the bristles across the product, ensuring they are lightly coated.
- Then, either buff the powder onto the skin or gently dot the liquid foundation onto the skin and evenly distribute it using broad circular motions.
- Keep in mind that various types of Kabuki brushes are available, and their uses vary accordingly. The flat top Kabuki brush and rounded brushes are utilized in circular motions for general application, while angular and dome-shaped Kabuki brushes are specifically designed for contouring. They are ideal for accentuating the cheekbones, nose, or jawline with precision.
How to Choose the Right Kabuki Brush for Your Needs
Material
Traditional kabuki brush bristles are crafted from goat or horse hair, which guarantees a smooth and user-friendly experience. However, if you prefer to explore alternatives to these types of brushes, you can opt for those made from synthetic materials without having to compromise on quality.
Shape
The shape of a kabuki brush holds significant importance, particularly when considering a brush that conforms well to your skin.
Round
RoundThe brush effectively covers expansive areas of the skin, making it an ideal choice for applying mineral foundations, powders, blushes, and bronzers. With its long wooden handle and soft, densely packed bristles, it ensures smooth and effortless application of makeup onto the skin. Moreover, it excels in stippling, contouring, and blending techniques, further enhancing its versatility.
Angled
An angled kabuki brush is the ideal tool for achieving an airbrushed finish. It seamlessly pairs with various types of makeup, including liquid, mineral, powder, and cake formulations. Its unique design allows for precise application, enabling the brush to reach close to the skin and effectively cover imperfections. The bristles of this brush should be densely packed, ensuring a flawlessly polished appearance with every makeup application.
Flat top
The flat top kabuki brush excels in situations where a substantial amount of pigment needs to be applied to a specific area. Unlike a round brush, the bristles of a flat top brush do not disperse, resulting in a concentrated deposit of makeup. This characteristic allows for precise application, as it enables you to follow the angles of the face with greater precision compared to other brush types.
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Density
Dense kabuki brushes are designed to offer extensive coverage, effectively concealing enlarged pores. When used with dry or powder-based makeup, these brushes deliver an airbrushed, matte finish. Moreover, they provide a smooth application for wet foundations. Additionally, dense brushes minimize makeup absorption, ensuring even distribution across the face. Among kabuki brushes, those with a length of 60 mm are considered the ideal choice.
Handle
When it comes to the handle of a kabuki brush, the choice depends on your specific needs. If you are an avid traveler, a kabuki brush with a short handle would be the most suitable option. The compact size ensures convenience during your journeys. On the other hand, as a professional or a beginner, a brush with a long handle provides several advantages. It offers a better grip, facilitating ease of use and allowing for precise application.
How do you deep clean a kabuki brush?
To maintain clean and hygienic kabuki brushes, it is important to follow a simple step-by-step cleansing routine:
- Opt for a fast-drying brush cleaner for a quick cleaning process.
- Place a few drops of the cleaner on a tissue and clean the sides of the brush, followed by gentle strokes from the ferrule (the metal part) to the tip of the bristles. Repeat this process until no residue remains on the tissue.
- Since the solution is fast-drying, the brush will be ready to use immediately after cleaning.
- If a fast-drying brush cleaner is unavailable, rinse the brush gently with lukewarm water.
- Apply a small amount of soap or shampoo to the bristles and gently massage it in.
- Rinse the brush thoroughly and apply a conditioner to keep the bristles soft and supple.
- Finally, allow the brush to air-dry naturally. It is not advisable to use a blow dryer, as this may cause frizziness or diminish the shine of the bristles.
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FAQs on Best Kabuki Brushes
What is so special about a kabuki brush?
A Kabuki brush makes achieving even foundation coverage much easier. The short handle gives so much more control when you blend, and the dome shape makes it easy to work mineral make-up over the contours of the face and around tricky areas such as the nose.
What is best use of a kabuki brush?
A kabuki brush is used to apply any sort of powder make-up on large surfaces of the face (foundation, loose powder, face powder, bronzer, & blush). Because of its design, the brush applies makeup evenly on the skin.
How often to replace kabuki brush?
We recommend replacing your makeup brushes about every 1-3 years. For upkeep, makeup brushes should be washed weekly – whether it’s application brushes, blush, bronzer or eyeshadow
