Where I got it: I bought this on iherb.com for USD$29.99 along with the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge for USD$6.00. If you are interested, here is my refer-a-friend code: ZLS699 or use this link to save $5 for your first order! I have also seen them in Life Pharmacies and Farmers. So after conversion and everything, my bank account was set back NZD$45.73.
What I got: I picked up the Real Techniques Sam’s Picks Exclusive Brush Set and Miracle Complexion Sponge. The brush set contains 6 brushes including the Multi Task Brush, Setting Brush, Buffing Brush, Pointed Foundation Brush, Essential Crease Brush (set exclusive) and Fine Liner Brush. Real Technique brushes are ultra-plush, synthetic bristles are hand-cut and 100% cruelty-free. They are all in extended aluminum handles are light and easy to use.
How I find it:
Multi-Task Brush: For effortless application of powder, blush and bronzer. Not available separately, only in travel essentials set. I love using this multi-task brush with a finishing powder. The bristles are soft and fluffy enough to apply powder gently to the skin without moving the foundation underneath. I have also used this with my blush and bronzer, but since I already have a brush for those, I decided that I will keep brushes for a single purpose so I don’t have to worry about using different brushes for different products.
Setting Brush: Complete and look with a controlled dusting of powder or highlighter. Available by itself. I like to use this small setting brush to set my under-eye concealor as it is small enough to get into the small area and fluffy enough to apply powder lightly. I have also recently been using this with my Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder as a highlighter on my cheekbones, down my nose and on my cupid’s bow.
Buffing Brush: Ideal for full coverage application of powder and mineral foundation. Not available separately, only in core collection. I have been using this to buff in my liquid foundation and it works wonderfully! I apply the liquid foundation directly on my face, then use this buffing brush with small circular motion to work the foundation in. It gives a really flawless look on the skin. I also use this with mineral or powder foundation with the same small circular motion to buff the products in. Lovely soft and dense bristles.
Pointed Foundation Brush: Use with liquid foundation to build custom coverage. Not available separately, only in core collection. Not the most commonly used brush for me because I prefer to use the buffing brush for foundation more than a flat foundation brush. This brush is also a little small for the entire face. I would use this for concealing my under-eye circles and to build up coverage with foundation on more precise areas.
Essential Crease Brush: Soft, tapered design for effortless contouring. Not available separately, exclusive to this set. I seldom do a full eye makeup so I have found another use of this crease brush. I lightly dip this into my contouring shade to contour my nose. The shape and size of this brush is perfect and I can sculpt my nose easily and perfectly I love it.
Fine Liner Brush: Ultimate tool for precision application of liquid or cream eyeliner. Available by itself. I use this with my MUD gel liner (my only gel liner in a pot). I dip this into the gel to coat it, then I get rid of the excess on the back of my hand, then draw my eye line.
Miracle Complexion Sponge: Optimize your beauty routine with this 3-in-1 multi-functional sponge. Rounded sides blend large areas of the face with a repeated dabbing or “stippling” motion. Precision tip covers blemishes and imperfections. Flat edge for the contours around the eyes and nose. I like to use this sponge damp and with a pressing motion to even out my liquid foundation. I have also used this damp to spread out my stick foundation (Maybelline Fit Me). I have tried using it dry but it doesn’t seem to work so well. The tip is great for applying concealor under the eye area with a patting motion.
Overall: I really like Real Techniques brushes and I think I will be getting some more! They are affordable and the quality of the brushes are pretty good! The brushes are easy to clean and dries quite fast. I have no problems with bristles falling out or the shape deforming. The down side is that some brushes are not available by itself and only available in a set. I will be purchasing more of these brushes in the future!