A Low-down on Kabuki Brushes – All that you need to Know

A kabuki brush, often referred to as the mushroom brush has a rounded head with dense bristles on a short stem. However, there are kabuki brushes with a flat head too. Traditionally, the brushes were made of goat or horse hair, but now, synthetic materials have replaced animal hair.

Origins of kabuki brushes

Kabuki brushes are named after a form of Japanese theatre that goes back to the 1600s. This style of drama was characterized by actors who wore elaborate makeup for each performance. Before each act, the actors were required to wear heavy makeup that focused on the role they were to play. The makeup was Kesho, white powdered rice that was applied evenly on the faces with short stem brushes. These came to be known as kabuki brushes.

Usage of kabuki brushes

A kabuki brush for powder is primarily used to apply loose powdered makeup on large surfaces of the face. This might include face powder, blush or foundation. The broad and rounded head helps to blend the powdered makeup evenly and smoothly on the skin. This gives a very natural look since the foundation, or the powder is buffed into the surface in a perfect coverage.

While the regular kabuki brushes have rounded heads, there are ones that have angled, dome, and flat shaped heads, each having a different effect when makeup is applied with them. It is, therefore, necessary to choose the one that suits you with care.