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The 21 Best Makeup Brush Sets to Upgrade Any Collection

If you're reading this, it's probably time to buy some new makeup brushes.

By Tiffany Dodson

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.

  • Makeup Brush Set

    Most Popular Makeup Brush Set

    BS-Mall Makeup Brush Set

    $8 at Amazon
    Read more
  • Professional Brush Set

    Best Ergonomic Makeup Brush Set

    e.l.f. Professional Brush Set

    Read more
  • Major Tools Set

    Best Celebrity Makeup Artist-Approved Brush Set

    Patrick Ta Major Tools Set

    Read more
  • Essential Brush Gift Set

    Editors' Favorite Makeup Brush Set

    Sigma Beauty Essential Brush Gift Set

    Read more
  • Magic Mini Brush Set

    Best Every Day Makeup Brush Set

    Charlotte Tilbury Magic Mini Brush Set

    Read more

And as an added shopping bonus for you, 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 Gift Sets for the Ultimate Beauty Lover


Most Popular Makeup Brush Set

BS-Mall Makeup Brush Set

On Sale
Makeup Brush Set
Most Popular Makeup Brush Set

BS-Mall Makeup Brush Set

Now 20% Off
$8 at Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • On sale
  • Vegan
Cons

    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?

    Customer review:

    "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.

    Number of brushes included:14
    Types of brushes included:Blending, eyebrow, eyeshadow, powder
    Hair type:Synthetic
    Best Ergonomic Makeup Brush Set

    e.l.f. Professional Brush Set

    Professional Brush Set
    Best Ergonomic Makeup Brush Set

    e.l.f. Professional Brush Set

    Credit: e.l.f. Cosmetics
    Pros
    • Top-rated
    Cons

      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."

      Number of brushes included:12
      Types of brushes:Foundation, bronzer, concealer, eyelash and brow, blending
      Hair type:Synthetic
      Best Celebrity Makeup Artist-Approved Brush Set

      Patrick Ta Major Tools Set

      Major Tools Set
      Best Celebrity Makeup Artist-Approved Brush Set

      Patrick Ta Major Tools Set

      Credit: Patrick Ta
      Pros
      • Contains options for face and body
      Cons

        You'll find makeup brushes for both face and body in this six-piece set from celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta, which feature an elegant, gilded finish.

        Number of brushes included:6
        Types of brushes included:Contour, complexion, body, eyeshadow, lip, brow
        Hair type:Synthetic
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        Editors' Favorite Makeup Brush Set

        Sigma Beauty Essential Brush Gift Set

        Essential Brush Gift Set
        Editors' Favorite Makeup Brush Set

        Sigma Beauty Essential Brush Gift Set

        Credit: Amazon
        Pros
        • Set features durable handles
        Cons

          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.

          Customer review:

          "I love these brushes. So soft and work perfectly. Worth the price—also love the range of brushes in the set! :)" —Lizzie

          Number of brushes included:12
          Types of brushes included:Face and eye
          Hair type:Synthetic
          Best Every Day Makeup Brush Set

          Charlotte Tilbury Magic Mini Brush Set

          Magic Mini Brush Set
          Best Every Day Makeup Brush Set

          Charlotte Tilbury Magic Mini Brush Set

          Credit: Nordstrom
          Pros
          • Includes carrying case
          Cons

            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.

            Customer review:

            "This is an absolutely stunning set. Beautiful red velvet case with perfect size brushes." —Candlelover20

            Number of brushes included:4
            Types of brushes included: Eye blender, smudger, power, precision
            Hair type:Synthetic
            Best Foolproof Makeup Brush Set

            Jenny Patinkin Women's Sustainable Luxury 6-Piece Dual-Ended Makeup Brush Set

            Women's Sustainable Luxury 6-Piece Dual-Ended Makeup Brush Set
            Best Foolproof Makeup Brush Set

            Jenny Patinkin Women's Sustainable Luxury 6-Piece Dual-Ended Makeup Brush Set

            Credit: Saks Fifth Avenue
            Pros
            • Includes faux leather carrying case
            Cons

              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.

              Number of brushes included:6
              Types of brushes:Cream complexion, powder, shadow, brow, eye detail
              Hair type:Synthetic
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              Best Artist-Level Makeup Brush Set

              Hourglass Cosmetics Vegan Brush Collection (Limited Edition)

              Vegan Brush Collection (Limited Edition)
              Best Artist-Level Makeup Brush Set

              Hourglass Cosmetics Vegan Brush Collection (Limited Edition)

              Credit: Hourglass
              Pros
              • Includes carrying case
              Cons

                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.

                Number of brushes included:17
                Types of brushes included:Foundation, powder, crease, tapered blender, shadow, angeled liner
                Hair type:Synthetic
                Best Grippy Makeup Brush Set

                Laruce Tami Professional Makeup Brush Set

                Tami Professional Makeup Brush Set
                Best Grippy Makeup Brush Set

                Laruce Tami Professional Makeup Brush Set

                Credit: Amazon
                Pros
                • Includes hard shell storage/travel case
                Cons

                  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.

                  Number of brushes included:5
                  Types of brushes included:Medium tapered blending, tapered, smugder, powder
                  Hair type:Synthetic
                  Best Makeup Brushes for an Airbrush Effect

                  It Cosmetics Your Beautiful Basics Airbrush 101

                  Your Beautiful Basics Airbrush 101
                  Best Makeup Brushes for an Airbrush Effect

                  It Cosmetics Your Beautiful Basics Airbrush 101

                  Credit: Ulta Beauty
                  Pros
                  • Vegan
                  Cons

                    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.

                    Number of brushes included: 5
                    Types of brushes included:Powder, foundation, concealer, eyeshadow
                    Hair type:Synthetic
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                    Most Stylish Makeup Brush Set

                    Tarte Cosmetics Secrets From the Amazon Brush Set

                    On Sale
                    Secrets From the Amazon Brush Set
                    Most Stylish Makeup Brush Set

                    Tarte Cosmetics Secrets From the Amazon Brush Set

                    Now 31% Off
                    Credit: Tarte Cosmetics
                    Pros
                    • Vegan
                    Cons

                      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.

                      Customer review:

                      "Handles are long and easy to hold." —Katy W.

                      Number of brushes included:3
                      Type of brushes included:Complexion, angled cheek, shadow
                      Hair type:Synthetic
                      Best Makeup Brush Duo

                      Pat McGrath Labs Divine Brush Duo

                      Divine Brush Duo
                      Best Makeup Brush Duo

                      Pat McGrath Labs Divine Brush Duo

                      Credit: Pat McGrath Labs
                      Pros
                      • Eco-friendly
                      Cons

                        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.

                        Customer review:

                        "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.

                        Number of brushes included:2
                        Types of brushes included:Powder, blurring
                        Hair type:Synthetic
                        Best Makeup Brush Set for Beginners

                        Kosas Complete Brush Collection

                        Complete Brush Collection
                        Best Makeup Brush Set for Beginners

                        Kosas Complete Brush Collection

                        Credit: Kosas
                        Pros
                        • Vegan
                        Cons

                          Anyone who's new to makeup will love receiving this vibrant five-piece set from Kosas that includes all the basics they'll need for an impactful look.

                          Number of brushes included:5
                          Type of brushes included:Powder, face detailer, contour fan, angled cheek, eye
                          Hair type:Synthetic
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                          Best Makeup Brush Set for Travel

                          Luxie Beauty Brush Set in Rose Gold (30-Piece)

                          Brush Set in Rose Gold (30-Piece)
                          Best Makeup Brush Set for Travel

                          Luxie Beauty Brush Set in Rose Gold (30-Piece)

                          Credit: Luxie Beauty
                          Pros
                          • Features carrying case
                          Cons

                            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.

                            Number of brushes included:30
                            Types of brushes included:Tapered blending, flat contour, large powder, foundation, small angle eye, brow and lash
                            Hair type:Synthetic
                            Best Makeup Artist-Approved Brush Set

                            Westman Atelier The Brush Collection

                            The Brush Collection
                            Best Makeup Artist-Approved Brush Set

                            Westman Atelier The Brush Collection

                            Credit: Credo Beauty
                            Pros
                            • Handcrafted in Japan
                            Cons

                              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.

                              Number of brushes included:9
                              Types of brushes included:Liquid blender, foundation, concealer, blending, powder, eye shadow, lip
                              Hair type:Synthetic
                              Most Customizable Makeup Brush Set

                              Real Techniques Everyday Essentials

                              Everyday Essentials
                              Most Customizable Makeup Brush Set

                              Real Techniques Everyday Essentials

                              Credit: Ulta
                              Pros
                              • Features a sponge for added precision
                              Cons

                                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.

                                Customer review:

                                "These brushes are amazing and so easy to work with—absolutely a must." —Lexie

                                Number of brushes included:4
                                Types of brushes included:Foundation, concealer, blush, highlighter, shadow
                                Hair type:Synthetic
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                                Best Makeup Brush Set for Complexion

                                Rose Inc The Complexion Brush Gift Set

                                On Sale
                                The Complexion Brush Gift Set
                                Best Makeup Brush Set for Complexion

                                Rose Inc The Complexion Brush Gift Set

                                Now 35% Off
                                Credit: Rose Inc
                                Pros
                                • Includes cylinder case
                                • Vegan
                                Cons

                                  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.

                                  Number of brushes included:4
                                  Types of brushes included:Foundation, concealer, blush, bronzer
                                  Hair type:Synthetic
                                  Best Value Makeup Brush Set

                                  Real Techniques Eye Shade and Blend Duo Pack

                                  Eye Shade and Blend Duo Pack
                                  Best Value Makeup Brush Set

                                  Real Techniques Eye Shade and Blend Duo Pack

                                  Credit: Ulta
                                  Pros
                                  • Under $10
                                  Cons

                                    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.

                                    Number of brushes included:3
                                    Types of brushes included:Base shadow, deluxe crease, angled brow
                                    Hair type:Synthetic
                                    Best Makeup Brush Set for Definition

                                    Artistique Brush Trio

                                    Artistique Brush Trio
                                    Best Makeup Brush Set for Definition

                                    Artistique Brush Trio

                                    Credit: Surratt Beauty

                                    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.

                                    Number of brushes included:3
                                    Types of brushes included:Sculpting, classic smoky eye, classic eye
                                    Hair type:Natural
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                                    Most Gift-Worthy Makeup Brush Set

                                    Artis Elite Gifting 8-Piece Holiday Makeup Brush Set

                                    Elite Gifting 8-Piece Holiday Makeup Brush Set
                                    Most Gift-Worthy Makeup Brush Set

                                    Artis Elite Gifting 8-Piece Holiday Makeup Brush Set

                                    Pros
                                    • Includes brush cleaner and travel bag
                                    Cons

                                      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.

                                      Number of brushes included:8
                                      Types of brushes included:Elite 3 Brush; Elite Oval 7 Brush; Elite Oval 3 Brush; Palm Brush; Mini Elite Oval 7 Brush
                                      Hair type:Synthetic
                                      Best Eco-Friendly Makeup Brush Set

                                      EcoTools Vibes Makeup Brush Set

                                      On Sale
                                      Vibes Makeup Brush Set
                                      Best Eco-Friendly Makeup Brush Set

                                      EcoTools Vibes Makeup Brush Set

                                      Now 10% Off
                                      Credit: Amazon
                                      Pros
                                      • Top-rated
                                      Cons

                                        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.

                                        Customer review:

                                        "Great gift—got these for my friend for Christmas and she loved them! Super soft!" —Mykenzie

                                        Number of brushes included:4
                                        Types of brushes included:Foundation, concealer, powder, angled crease
                                        Hair type:Synthetic
                                        Lettermark
                                        Tiffany Dodson
                                        Associate Beauty Commerce Editor

                                        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.

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