Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
If you're reading this, it's probably time to buy some new makeup brushes. Press On Nail Polish
Ultimately, your makeup look is only as good as the tools you decide to sweep, swirl, and blend products on your face with.
Whether you choose to create a bold smoky eye, or opt for barely-there beauty, using one of the best makeup brush sets can mean the difference between a practically flawless face and an uneven final look. Even if your friend or family member is new to regular makeup use, surprising them with a brush set from top brands like Sigma Beauty, Charlotte Tilbury, and more, can take application routine to new heights.
And as an added shopping bonus, many of these tools are available for under $100, which means you're getting a little more bang for your buck. These natural- and synthetic-hair brush bundles are so luxe, we won't blame you if you decide to scoop up a couple sets just for yourself—and put off cleaning your most-loved brushes a little longer.
Here, the best makeup brush sets that can make just about anyone feel like a pro.
Related: The Best Makeup on Amazon Worth Adding to Cart
This complete makeup brush bundle—which includes a number of essentials for the face and eyes—has over 116,000 satisfied customer reviews from Amazon shoppers, with nearly a five-star rating. And did we mention the 14-piece set is available for under $10?
"I love this set. If you are looking for a complete, everyday makeup brush set, I highly recommend this one, especially if you're a beginner wanting to learn all the little brush functions without spending a fortune to play around with techniques. I was pleased to receive the brushes in their own travel case and individually wrapped. The bristles are soft enough for a smooth application and firm enough not to leave streaks, which is always desirable." —Latosha R.
Whether you opt for no makeup-makeup or decide to try something a little bolder, this well rounded set from the cosmetics experts at Sigma Beauty has you covered. Not only does it contain tools for foundation, concealer, and powder, but you'll also find a mix of large and small angled options (plus a couple eye specific brushes) to seamlessly complete your next look.
"I love these brushes. So soft and work perfectly. Worth the price—also love the range of brushes in the set! :)" —Lizzie
Here's a fluffy, five piece set that's meant to mimic the effect of airbrush makeup, and contains designated brushes for your foundation, concealer, eyeshadow, and powder.
Here's an all-inclusive set from the pros at Hourglass that makes it seamless to replicate your favorite TikTok or runway beauty look. In addition to 17 tools to choose from, many of these brushes are dual-ended for added extra blending power.
Beauty enthusiasts are raving about this ergonomic 12-piece set from e.l.f, with one satisfied customer writing, "Already in love with e.l.f products but their brushes are so freaking amazing! They are soft and great quality, they are very durable, super easy to clean, and helps blend makeup smoothly! Definitely going to buy another set."
This professional-level set from Rose Inc will bring a smile to any makeup lover's face this season, which features an angular design that's perfect for flawless foundation, concealer, and blush application.
Since each of the brushes in this set—which include two for face, one for brows and liner, and more—are dual-ended, it's almost like they're getting two for the price of one.
If you're gifting a friend or family member who isn't one to spend a ton of time crafting their cheek and eye contours, surprise them this streamlined and travel-ready brush set from Charlotte Tilbury.
"This is an absolutely stunning set. Beautiful red velvet case with perfect size brushes." —Candlelover20
This limited-edition, gilded brush set for eyes and face is almost too pretty to use, and makes applying pigmented blush or well-placed shadow a total breeze.
"Handles are long and easy to hold." —Katy W.
This five-piece set of synthetic complexion brushes is perfect for blending out creams and powders, and their signature handle designs ensure they won't accidentally slip out of your fingers mid-swipe.
Since this well-rounded rose gold brush set includes its own zippered storage pouch, it's easy to quickly pack them all in a suitcase for your next getaway.
Add some variety to your makeup tools with this top-rated brush set—that over 1,100 Ulta customers love—which nicely contains a bonus angled sponge for optimal blending.
"These brushes are amazing and so easy to work with—absolutely a must." —Lexie
If you're looking to live more sustainably, consider this best-selling brush set from EcoTools. Not only are the brushes made from recycled aluminum and plastic with bamboo handles, but its bristles also feature rounded edges for easy makeup application.
"Great gift—got these for my friend for Christmas and she loved them! Super soft!" —Mykenzie
Makeup icon Gucci Westman created this streamlined set of synthetic brushes that include one for foundation, concealer, blending, and powder, plus two eyeshadow brushes, and a smaller tool for the lips.
Designed by makeup legend Pat McGrath, this synthetic set includes a pair of ultra-soft powder and blurring brushes with slightly tapered bristles for more precise application.
"I mainly bought this for the powder brush but was [happy] to get the smaller brush as an added bonus! The quality of these brushes are amazing and of course the packaging is beautiful." —Lindsey B.
This set of three pro-level brushes include staples to define cheek contours, blend out eyeshadow, and emphasize you lash line with ease. And to get the most out of your natural hair brush set, try washing your them once a week with a conditioning shampoo.
This ergonomic brush set nicely contains all the essentials—from the makeup brushes themselves to two bottles of foam to cleanse them—making it an extra ideal gift for the artist in your circle.
Here's a professional-level brush collection that's made in Japan, and sophisticated enough for of any countertop. The set even includes its own magnetized plate that makes keeping track of your tools a breeze.
This is the best $9 you'll ever spend on a set of makeup brushes. Blend your cut crease like an expert with this three piece brush set that's ideal for powder, cream, or liquid-based eyeshadows.
Ultimately, the best beauty tools are the ones that work for you. While a sponge or your fingers can make for easy and even blending, the makeup brushes feature a number of shapes and sizes for mess-free and precise application depending on your needs.
Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.
The 64 Best Luxury Gifts of 2023
43 Special Gift Ideas for Her 30th Birthday
24 Stocking Stuffers That Make a Big Impression
57 Gifts No One Will Believe Are Under $20
70 Gifts for Wives That Show How Much You Love Her
Gifts for Husbands That Show How Well You Know Him
30 Buzzy Skincare Gifts We're Freaking Out Over
The 25 Best Gifts for Pregnant Women
51 Gifts Under $50 for Affordable Indulging
61 Gifts for Grandma That Will Make Her Day
17 Luxury Gift Baskets to Charm Discerning Tastes
A Part of Hearst Digital Media
We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back.
Makeup Brushes Vegan ©2023 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.