Stippling Brush: What Is It, And When Should You Use It?

The market for makeup brushes is booming and is on track to be worth $2352.43 million by 2027 (via Global News Wire). These figures aren't exactly surprising. After all, a large variety of makeup brushes are on offer. Of course, brushes have different uses. Some brushes are specifically tailored for concealer, while others are designed to work better with a shimmering blush. Likewise, they come in various shapes and sizes, so there is something to suit every need. For example, a concealer brush will likely be made of synthetic hair and be small to get the best coverage.

However, there may be some brushes that you are not familiar with, such as stippling brushes. Closely associated with visual art like drawing and painting, stippling is a term used to describe a pattern that uses lots of small dots that are close together. So what exactly is this brush all about?

A stippling brush is used to apply a makeup product in a series of small dots, just as it's used in painting. The brush is typically made of synthetic bristles, which means it won't be soaking up the product like a natural hair brush would due to the absence of hair cuticles (via HQ Hair). This feature allows for fuller coverage and for more of the product to be distributed onto the skin.

But what about the structure of the brush? Interestingly, a stippling brush is made up of two different layers of bristles of two different lengths, which each boast their own unique qualities. The two layers work together in harmony. The first layer picks up the product, while the bottom layer helps to apply it effortlessly on your skin. This unique design makes a stippling brush different from brushes that only use one layer of bristles.

Another unique feature of stippling brushes is how they are used to apply the product in small dots, much like the artistic technique. This grouping of dots helps create a flawless finish with liquid-based products, arguably making it better than a traditional foundation brush. However, this brush also has other tricks up its sleeve. A stippling brush also does an excellent job at "minimizing pores, acne scars, and covering blemishes," explains celebrity makeup artist Billie Gene (via Makeup). This feature makes it a great choice if you want to achieve good coverage and conceal any perceived imperfections on your skin.

Of course, all of this is possible thanks to the unique design and brush bristles. Together, they can help you to get the best results from your favorite makeup products. However, that leaves two questions. What makeup products work best with a stippling brush, and when should you use it? Now, we'll break down some of the best products to use with this handy tool.

A liquid-based foundation is perfect for use with a stippling brush. The design of the brush, paired with the synthetic bristles, will allow for a flawless finish and provide high levels of coverage. Once you try it, you may never want to return to your old foundation brush. And applying foundation using the brush is relatively simple, too.

All you have to do is add some product to the tip of your brush and dab the foundation in the areas you want to cover. Next, simply blend the foundation into your skin using the same dabbing motion, followed by some gentle swirling motions. Repeat this process until you achieve your desired look. Now, you should be left with a seamless finish. A stippling brush works well with both cream and liquid foundations. However, you should ensure that you wash it regularly to prevent bacteria build-up and to keep your brush clean.

Of course, there are also other makeup products that you can use with a stippling brush. While it is more commonly used to apply foundation, you can also use it to apply cream blushes and bronzers. Cream products have a thicker and smoother consistency, making them a great choice for those synthetic bristles. As with your foundation, you can achieve good coverage. You should use a gentle swirling motion to apply your blush. However, you may need to change brush size when applying these products, as you will cover a smaller area than when you apply foundation.

Likewise, a stippling brush is also a great choice if you want to work with several layers of makeup (via Colorescience). This makes them an extremely versatile option and likely an item that you'll want to add to your makeup bag. Stippling brushes come in plenty of different sizes, so you could even buy one for each product you use. However, one brush is also sufficient, provided that you wash it regularly.