Makeup Brushes & Tools

The way you apply your makeup can be just as important as the products you choose. At Farmers, you’ll find makeup brushes, sponges, applicators, mirrors, tweezers, and lash tools to help you create everything from quick everyday looks to more detailed finishes. Shop favourites from brands such as Real Techniques, Bobbi Brown, 1000Hour, MAC, and more - available online or in store with delivery across New Zealand and Click & Collect.

Essential Makeup Brushes

A few key brushes can make application smoother and more controlled:

  • Foundation Brush - Denser bristles that help spread liquid or cream foundation evenly. Many people like to buff or sweep in small motions for a natural-looking finish.
  • Powder Brush - Large and fluffy, ideal for applying loose or pressed powder and adding a soft veil of bronzer or blush.
  • Blending Brush - A soft, tapered eye brush that diffuses eyeshadow edges or blends concealer in smaller areas.
  • Angled Brush - Firm, angled bristles designed for precision tasks like lining eyes, defining brows, or detailing along the lash line.
  • Eyeshadow Brush - Rounded and slightly dense for applying colour across the lid, suitable for subtle washes or stronger pigment.

Makeup Tools & Accessories

Brushes are just one part of a complete toolkit. This category also includes:

  • Sponges and blenders for applying and pressing in foundation, concealer, or cream products.
  • Eyelash curlers to lift and shape lashes before mascara.
  • Tweezers and brow tools for tidying and shaping brows.
  • Mirrors and travel tools for makeup at home or on the go.

Makeup Brush Sets & Kits

If you’re starting fresh or updating your collection, brush sets can be a convenient option. Many sets include a mix of face brushes for foundation, powder, blush, and bronzer, plus eye brushes for applying and blending shadow or liner. A coordinated set takes some of the guesswork out of choosing individual tools and can be handy for travel or gifting.

Caring for Your Makeup Brushes

Looking after your brushes helps maintain their feel and performance over time:

  • Clean them regularly with a brush cleanser or gentle soap.
  • Rinse thoroughly, reshape the bristles, and let them dry flat or with the bristles pointing down where practical.
  • Store brushes in a holder, bag, or brush roll to protect the bristles between uses.

Clean tools can also help support good makeup hygiene in your routine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Makeup Brushes & Tools in NZ

Do I need different brushes for foundation and powder?
Many people find it useful to keep them separate. A foundation brush is usually denser to work with liquids or creams, while a powder brush tends to be softer and fluffier so it can lightly dust powder without moving your base.

What’s a good brush for blending eyeshadow?
A soft, tapered blending brush is commonly used for this. It helps soften harsh lines and creates smooth transitions between colours on the lid and in the crease.

Are makeup brush sets worth considering?
Brush sets can be a practical choice if you’re building a kit or replacing several brushes at once. They usually offer a selection of face and eye brushes designed to cover everyday application needs.

Can beginners use the same brushes as experienced makeup users?
Yes. Many high-quality brushes are designed to be straightforward to use, so even if you’re new to makeup, having a few well-shaped tools can make techniques easier to learn.

Are there brushes that may suit sensitive skin?
If your skin is easily irritated, you may wish to look for soft, synthetic bristles and check the product description for any notes about comfort or skin type. As with any beauty product, if irritation occurs, it’s best to stop using the item and seek advice if needed.