Fingers Vs Tools: Which One Applies Make-Up Better?

I’M TORN

Elton J Fernandez

Celebrity Make-Up Artist

 

“Fingers are actually the most-used tool in the industry. And they really are great because they warm up the product, and cause it to melt and blend better into the skin. However, because I do make-up professionally, and often have to touch more than one face at a time, I prefer to use brushes. I’m not a big fan of the beauty blender because if the blender is not washed and dried properly, it can trap a lot of bacteria. It’s more sanitary to use brushes because they’re easy to clean and dry quickly. But, honestly, I love using fingers as long as I’m not cross-contaminating between products and faces. Like I mentioned earlier, they’re great for dabbing products like blush, or tapping concealer, as the warmth helps the product glide better. So yeah, I’m a little torn because as a professional, it’s more hygienic to use tools, but on myself, I don’t mind letting my fingers work their magic!”

 

I’M SOLD

Namrata Soni

Celebrity Make-Up Artist
 

“I rely heavily on make-up brushes and blenders. The kind of tools I use depends on the product I’m using. For foundation, concealer, or corrector, I use a Beautyblender or a sponge because it’s the first layer of make-up and the base needs to be flawless. If you use a powder or full-coverage foundation, it needs to be buffed into your skin for a subtle glow. [Confession: sometimes I do use my fingers, but I ensure that my hands are washed properly, or I use an antibacterial serum before starting.] Back to tools: Beautyblender is great for applying blush and highlighter, too, as it lends a soft, natural finish...like you’re naturally flushed. Sometimes, when you use beauty tools, it can look like you’re wearing too much make-up, so blending is key. If you want to create a smokey eye (or anything that involves more than smudging on some cream shadow), you need a make-up brush—or two—for shading and detailing. There’s a reason every make-up artist’s kit is stocked with a million different tools...because flawless looks don’t just happen on their own!”

 

Beautyblender The Original Blender, ₹2,000

 

Sephora Retractable Compexion Brush, ₹1,900

 

Vega Silicone Sponge, ₹250

 

THE TAKEAWAY
General rule of thumb (LOL, we had to): Use a sponge for foundation, a brush for tapping on powder, and fingers for cream blush or regular eyeshadow. But, if you’re just never gonna get around to cleaning your tools once a week, you shouldn’t use them at all.