
The kind of makeup brushes you use can transform your makeup application from a 5 to a 10!
There are some makeup brushes that most people are guaranteed to have, such as a flat brush for applying foundation, and several small ones for eyeshadow application.
However, adding a kabuki brush to your makeup bag can really take your makeup look to the next level.
This article will be covering what this wonderful brush is, and how it can be added to your makeup routine.
What Is A Kabuki Brush?
A kabuki brush is a makeup brush that has a very short handle with dense bristles and a rounded shape.
They are best used when applying products made from powder.
This is because the bristles are great for dusting the perfect amount of product on the skin, without making it look cakey.
While these brushes are mainly used for powders, some of them can also be used to apply certain liquid foundations to the skin.
You just need to be sure to not switch back and forth without washing the brush first, as the two products could mix together, resulting in a caked look.
The kabuki brush is named after Japanese drama theaters, which were known for the elaborate makeup that was worn by the performers.
The design of this brush would allow the smooth application of such heavy makeup on the whole face.
Why Are Kabuki Brushes So Good?
Kabuki brushes are great because of their smooth application on the skin.
The bristles on this brush are smaller than regular ones and are more packed together quite tightly, making them give better coverage.
Their smooth texture also makes them a good option for people who have sensitive skin.
They can also be used to apply bronzer and blush, and are great for blending products together.
How To Use Different Kabuki Brushes
As these brushes have gained popularity, they have evolved over time, and there are now a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from.
Below are some different kinds of kabuki brushes you can find, and you should use them in your makeup routine.
Round Kabuki Brush
Round kabuki brushes are best used when you want to add a setting powder after applying your makeup.
Setting powder can help your makeup stay in flawless condition from morning to night.
All you need to do is dip your round kabuki brush into your chosen setting powder, and dust it all over your face.
This will not only keep your makeup in place but will also give you a smoother, natural look, ensuring no cracks or caked-up areas come through.
Dome Kabuki Brush
This brush has a rounded shape on the head, but is slightly smaller than the traditional kabuki brush. It is perfect for applying blush, bronzer, and highlighter.
This brush can also be used to apply some setting powder in areas that are hard to reach, such as the sides of the nose.
The method of use is the same as the previous brush, just dip it into the product you are using, and brush lightly against the skin,
Flat Top Kabuki Brush
While flat top brushes are mainly used to apply liquid foundations, this brush can also be used to apply powders to the skin!
This is a versatile little tool that will have you obsessed with makeup application due to the softness of the bristles.
Unlike the other options, rather than dust and brushing the product onto your skin, you are to press the flat top onto your skin, and apply it like that for a flawless finish.
Angled Kabuki Brush
While the above options are great for giving you that flawless look, an angled kabuki brush can really up your contour game, enabling you to have that precise application on those areas you’d like to sculpt.
These work mainly for powder contour products, and simply apply your contour powder on your desired areas such as cheekbones, temples, and the sides of your nose.
Apply these contour shades with your angled brush, and blend them in with the rest of your makeup.
Related: How to apply highlighter and bronzer
How To Store And Look After Your Kabuki Brush

In order to keep your kabuki brush in the best condition, you must ensure to wash it regularly. The same goes for the rest of your makeup brushes.
Unclean brushes that keep getting re-used are breeding grounds for all kinds of bacteria that we then put on our faces.
Cleaning your brushes regularly will not only make sure your brushes stay in tip-top condition, but will also ensure your skin stays healthy.
The best way to do this is to use lukewarm water and brush cleanser, or a gentle soap.
Simply soak your brushes in lukewarm water, and massage some soap onto the bristles. Let them soak for a few minutes and then dry them with a towel.
Once they are dry, you should store them standing upward in a makeup jar or any jar you can find.
This is also how you should store your kabuki brushes.
Related: How to fix cakey makeup
Final Thoughts
Purchasing the best makeup products is only one of the steps to achieving your dream makeup look.
The kinds of brushes you are using are going to take you that step further, and including a kabuki brush into your makeup stock will only make your collection stronger.
As mentioned in this article, the bristles on these brushes are extremely soft and easy on the skin, so purchasing different styles and sizes of these brushes will ensure that each part of your makeup routine is applied perfectly and with care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Kabuki Brushes Worth It?
Kabuki brushes are known to be worth purchasing, as they are an extremely versatile makeup tool. They can be used for powders, liquid foundations, and contouring.
What Is The Difference Between A Kabuki Brush And A Regular Powder Brush?
Powder brushes are used for setting powder foundations mainly. They have loose bristles that are packed together to make one rounded brush.
A Kabuki brush has dense bristles that are less fluffy than a powder brush, making them better for a full coverage look.
Unlike powder brushes, kabuki brushes can also be used to apply liquid foundations.
Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API