How to Use an Oval Makeup Brush: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
An oval makeup brush might look unusual at first glance — almost like a miniature hairbrush — but it’s one of the easiest and most effective tools for flawless makeup application. If you’ve seen it used by beauty influencers and wondered what the hype is about, then let me fill you in.
From foundation and contour to blush, this guide will show you exactly how to use an oval makeup brush like a pro, whether you're a makeup newbie or a seasoned enthusiast.
What Is an Oval Makeup Brush?
An oval makeup brush is a beauty tool with a head made of densely packed synthetic fibres, arranged perpendicular to the stem. This unique design allows for a smoother, streak-free finish, mimicking the natural movement of your fingers but with the precision and polish of a professional brush.
Because it's made with man-made bristles, the Foundation Buffer 111 oval brush is:
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Cruelty-free and vegan
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Perfect for all products - cream, liquid & powders
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More hygienic
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Efficient at product distribution without soaking it up
Why Choose an Oval Brush?
So, why opt for an oval brush over a traditional flat brush or sponge?
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Even coverage: The densely packed fibres apply product smoothly without streaks.
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Less product waste: They don’t absorb much product, making your foundation or bronzer last longer.
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Effortless blending: You can blend product into the skin with minimal effort.
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Great for beginners: The shape and motion feel intuitive, even if you’re new to makeup.
How to Apply Foundation with an Oval Makeup Brush
Foundation is where the Foundation Buffer 111 oval makeup brush truly shines. Its ability to cover large areas quickly while blending seamlessly makes it a must-have in your routine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Dispense foundation onto the back of your hand or a palette.
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Lightly dab the bristles of a large oval brush into the product.
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Begin applying at the centre of your face — typically the T-zone — and work outward.
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Use gentle sweeping or buffing motions to blend the product across your:
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Forehead
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Nose
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Cheeks
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Chin
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Jawline and neck
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Tip: Small circular motions can help blend more evenly and avoid visible lines at the jaw and hairline. Don't force the brush, go gentle, gentle.
How to Contour Using an Oval Brush
An oval brush makes contouring easier and more controlled, thanks to the domed and flexible bristles that naturally follow the contours of your face.
How to Contour Your Face
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Use the Foundation Buffer 111 and dip it into a cream bronzer.
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Locate the hollow of your cheeks — right beneath the cheekbone.
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Draw a soft line diagonally from your ear towards your nose.
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Blend using small, circular or back-and-forth motions to diffuse the edges.
Adding Definition to the Forehead and Jawline
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For the forehead: Apply bronzer along the hairline, using gentle arcs.
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For the jawline: Sweep bronzer just under the jawbone to create a sharper silhouette.
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For both areas, use soft, upward blending motions to avoid harsh lines.
Optional: Contouring the Nose
With whatever bronzer remains on the brush, lightly run it down each side of the nose and dot the tip to subtly shape and define.
How to Apply Blush with an Oval Brush
Applying blush with an oval brush is quick, simple, and gives a natural glow without harsh edges.
Easy Blush Application
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Smile to locate the apples of your cheeks.
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Using the Foundation Buffer 111, apply blush in a gentle swoosh motion right on the rounded part of the cheek.
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Blend into your existing contour using soft circular motions.
Avoid spreading the blush too wide — you want to concentrate colour near the apple of the cheek and softly fade it out.
Pro Tips for Using An Oval Makeup Brush
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Clean your brushes regularly: Synthetic bristles should be cleaned weekly using a brush cleanser or gentle shampoo.
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Don’t overload the brush: A little product goes a long way — especially with creams and liquids.
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Blend, blend, blend: The magic of an oval brush lies in the blending — always soften the edges for a natural finish.
Brush Up Your Technique
An oval makeup brush may look unconventional, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a game changer. Whether you're applying foundation, sculpting your cheekbones, or adding a touch of blush, this brush offers speed, precision, and a flawless result every time.
Otis x
