I remember the first time I picked up a kabuki brush—I had no idea what to do with it! It looked cute and fancy in my makeup bag, but I wasn’t sure if I should use it for powder, foundation, or something else entirely. If you’ve ever felt the same way, you’re not alone! Kabuki brushes are amazing multitaskers, and once you know how to use them, they can totally upgrade your makeup game.
A kabuki brush is a short-handled brush with dense bristles, perfect for applying powders, foundation, or bronzer seamlessly. It comes in various shapes—round, angled, domed, and flat—to suit different makeup needs. Use it to set makeup, contour, blend foundation, or add blush and highlight effortlessly.
Now that you know what a kabuki brush is, let’s get into the fun stuff—how to actually use it! Trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever did your makeup without one.
What Is a Kabuki Brush?
Okay, so what exactly is this little beauty tool? A kabuki brush is a short-handled brush with dense, soft bristles designed to buff and blend makeup effortlessly. Traditionally, they’re used for powder products, but modern versions work with liquids too! The key is the bristle density, which ensures smooth, even coverage without streaks or cakiness.
A classic kabuki brush has a rounded top, but there are also angled, domed, and flat versions that serve different purposes. The best part? These brushes make blending a total breeze, so your makeup looks flawless with minimal effort.
At the moment I am using this kabuki brush (available on Amazon). It works just as well as many of the more expensive brushes I’ve used in the past.
How to Use a Kabuki Brush
Now that you know what it is, let’s talk about how to use it! Depending on the type of kabuki brush, you can use it for different makeup steps.
Kabuki Makeup Brush #1: Round Kabuki Brush
This is your go-to for setting powder! A round kabuki brush is perfect for locking in your makeup without making it look heavy or cakey. Just dip it into the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Loose Setting Face Powder (available on Amazon), tap off the excess, and gently dust it all over your face for a flawless finish.
Kabuki Makeup Brush #2: Angled Kabuki Brush
If you love a good contour, an angled kabuki brush is a must-have. The slanted shape makes it easy to apply bronzer and sculpt your face. Use it with your favorite powder contour, tap off the extra, and sweep it along your cheekbones, jawline, and the sides of your nose for a snatched look.
Kabuki Makeup Brush #3: Dome Kabuki Brush
A dome-shaped kabuki brush is like the little sister of the classic round one. It’s amazing for applying blush, bronzer, and highlighter. Just swirl it into your compact powder or blush (available on Amazon), tap off excess, and lightly sweep onto your cheeks or anywhere you want a little glow. Bonus: You can also use it for setting powder in tricky spots like under your eyes and around your nose.
Kabuki Makeup Brush #4: Flat Top Kabuki Brush
If you want a brush that does it all, the flat top kabuki is your bestie. It works wonders with both liquid and powder foundations! Use it to buff and blend L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation, Lightweight (available on Amazon) onto your skin for an airbrushed finish. For powders, press the brush into your product and apply in circular motions for a seamless look.
How to Care for Your Kabuki Brush
No one wants a dirty brush messing up their skin! Makeup brushes can collect bacteria, so it’s important to clean them regularly. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should wash your brushes every 7 to 10 days. Simply use a gentle brush cleanser or mild shampoo, swirl the brush in lukewarm water, rinse, and let it air dry.
Now that you’re a kabuki brush pro, go ahead and add one (or a few!) to your makeup routine. Trust me, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Why not expand your knowledge even further by reading another makeup/beauty article here on Pink Femme? You can find them either via the menu at the top of the page or by clicking this link that will take you to the list of all the beauty articles.
When it comes to my choices for makeup and beauty products, I only use L’Oréal Paris (Available on Amazon). I have really sensitive skin and never once have I had any negative reaction to any L’Oréal product.
If you enjoy reading romance stories, take a look at my author page on Amazon where you will find all the novels that I have published so far.
Keep up to date with all my latest femme news with the fabulous Pink Femme Newsletter. Each Monday you’ll receive an email from me that will include a chapter from the novel that I am currently writing. I will also alert you to interesting information from articles that have not yet been published on Pink Femme. The Pink Femme Newsletter is the only place to see chapters from the novels before they are published. Sign up today: PINK FEMME NEWSLETTER.