Best Kabuki Brushes of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Kabuki brushes are a type of makeup brush that originated in Japan. They are characterized by their large, dense bristles and short handle, which make them perfect for applying powder products like blush, bronzer, and setting powder. Kabuki brushes are incredibly versatile and can be used to achieve a variety of different makeup looks. They are also known for their high-quality construction and durability, making them a favorite among makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, a Kabuki brush is an essential tool for any makeup bag.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

e.l.f. Kabuki Face Brush Cover #TOP 1
e.l.f. Kabuki Face Brush
ftb score rating icon 9.9
EcoTools Retractable Face Makeup Brush Cover #TOP 2
EcoTools Retractable Face Makeup Brush
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Retractable Kabuki Face Brush for Travel and Home Use Cover #TOP 3
Retractable Kabuki Face Brush for Travel and Home Use
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Kabuki Brushes

#TOP 1

e.l.f. Kabuki Face Brush

I0093806
Black - Kabuki Face
1 Count (Pack of 1)
e.l.f. Kabuki Face Brush Cover
e.l.f. Kabuki Face Brush, Synthetic Haired, Versatile, Compact, Applies Bronzer, Powder, or Highlighter, Soft, Absorbent, Wet or Dry Product, Compact, Travel-Size, 0.64 Oz

The e.l.f. Kabuki Face Brush is a versatile and compact brush that applies bronzer, powder, or highlighter with precise and controlled application. The synthetic haired brush is soft and absorbent, perfect for use with wet or dry products. It is designed to be travel-size and is easy to clean or wipe daily. Additionally, it is cruelty-free, vegan, and free from harmful chemicals such as Phthalates, Parabens, Nonylphenol, Ethoxylates, Triclosan, and triclocarban.

What We Like
Soft bristles
Durable quality
Good coverage
Budget-friendly
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Too fluffy for some
#TOP 2

EcoTools Retractable Face Makeup Brush

1214
Green
1 Count (Pack of 1)
EcoTools Retractable Face Makeup Brush Cover
EcoTools Retractable Face Makeup Brush, Kabuki Brush for Foundation, Blush, Bronzer, & Powder, Travel Friendly & Perfect for On The Go, Eco Friendly, Synthetic & Cruelty Free Bristles, 1 Count

The EcoTools Retractable Face Makeup Brush is perfect for on-the-go makeup application with its full, soft bristles that are gentle on sensitive skin. The brush is best used with powders and bronzers and comes with a cap for mess-free storage. It is handcrafted with eco-friendly materials and sleek bamboo handles. Additionally, it is cruelty-free and vegan, made with synthetic Taklon bristles and recycled aluminum and plastic to reduce waste.

What We Like
Soft bristles
Retractable design
Easy to clean
Durable quality
Eco-friendly materials
What We Don't Like
Quality may vary
Coverage range smaller
#TOP 3

Retractable Kabuki Face Brush for Travel and Home Use

Black
Retractable Kabuki Face Brush for Travel and Home Use Cover
Makeup Brush Kabuki Face Brushes Retractable Travel Blush Kabuki Brush Portable Flawless for Foundation, Powder Blush, Bronzer, Buffing, Liquid, Cream, Cruelty Free with Cover(1PCS)

The Retractable Kabuki Face Brush is a travel-friendly makeup brush that comes with a protective cover to keep the bristles clean. Its soft and dense synthetic fibers are cruelty-free and perfect for sensitive skin. The brush is multi-purpose and can be used for full coverage of powder foundations, mineral blending, contouring, and finishing for a natural and perfect look. Its lightweight and durable aluminum tube has a retractable baking paint design, making it easy to clean and stylish to use.

What We Like
Soft, dense synthetic bristles
Retractable design for portability
Cruelty-free, ethical choice
Good for liquid and powder products
Compact size, great for travel
What We Don't Like
Somewhat stiff for application
Unpleasant odor reported
#TOP 4

LORYP Retractable Makeup Brush Set

Black
LORYP Retractable Makeup Brush Set Cover
LORYP Retractable Makeup Brush Black Kabuki Foundation Brush for liquid Cream and Powder Makeup 2 Pack Travel Makeup Brush Set

The LORYP Makeup Brush Set features two portable, retractable brushes that make applying makeup a breeze. Designed with dense bristles, these brushes are ideal for blending both powder and liquid foundations, ensuring a flawless finish every time. You’ll appreciate the no-shed, vegan materials that provide ultimate comfort while working on your makeup. Plus, the travel-friendly design keeps your brush clean and protected, making it easy to maintain and perfect for on-the-go use. With these versatile brushes, you can effortlessly achieve different looks, from natural to dramatic, anywhere you are.

What We Like
Hygienic covered brushes
Soft and fluffy
Good quality for price
Perfect size and performance
Surprisingly good material
What We Don't Like
Brush fell out
Cap closure not smooth
#TOP 5

SONN Kabuki Self Tanner Brushes

SONN PRODUCTS
ST-BFB
Combo Pack
SONN Kabuki Self Tanner Brushes Cover
SONN Self Tanner Brushes - Body and Face Kabuki Brush Applicator for Fake Tan, Lotion, Makeup, and Sunscreen, Back Brush Applicator for Sunless Tanner and cream (Combo Pack)

The SONN Kabuki Brushes are ideal for achieving a flawless self-tan. With ultra-soft, vegan bristles, these applicators provide a streak-free finish, ensuring a natural look. The long handle design allows you to easily reach your back and other tricky areas, eliminating the hassle of awkward tanning gloves. Versatile in use, they work well with various tanning products, including lotions and mousses, and can even be used for makeup application. Plus, they are easy to clean and durable, making them a great investment for anyone looking to maintain a beautiful tan effortlessly.

What We Like
Soft and dense bristles
Easy to reach back
Even and natural finish
Durable and easy to clean
Perfect for tricky spots
What We Don't Like
Longer application time than mitts
Requires flexibility for best use

Flat Top Kabuki Brush for Liquid, Cream, and Powder Foundation

Flat Kabuki Rose
Rose
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Flat Top Kabuki Brush for Liquid, Cream, and Powder Foundation Cover
LAMORA Foundation Brush for Liquid Makeup - Kabuki Face Brush for Cream, Powder, Blush, and Concealer - Flat Top Blending, Buffing, Stippling Brush

The Lamora Flat Top Kabuki Foundation Brush is a professional quality synthetic makeup brush that is super dense and perfect for buffing or stippling liquid, cream, or powder foundation. The bristles are soft, silky, and won't trap or absorb excessive amounts of product. With this brush, you'll achieve a smooth and flawless foundation finish that looks airbrushed. Not just another "Amazon" makeup brush, this brush is affordable and comes with outstanding customer service, including beauty tips and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.

What We Like
Soft bristles
Good value for price
Even product distribution
Durable and easy to clean
Flawless finish
What We Don't Like
Hard to clean thoroughly
Diminished bristle density
#TOP 7

Yrarbil 3PCS Kabuki Brush Set

Pink
Yrarbil 3PCS Kabuki Brush Set Cover
Yrarbil Foundation Contour Powder Brush Set, 3PCS Premium Travel Kabuki Makeup Brush for Blending Setting Buffing with Liquid, Powder and Cream

The Yrarbil Kabuki Brush Set is a versatile trio that includes a foundation brush, contouring brush, and powder brush. These brushes feature short handles for a comfortable grip, making them easy to carry in your makeup bag or purse. Crafted with soft synthetic bristles, they are perfect for blending, setting, and buffing various makeup products, ensuring a smooth application on your skin. The high-quality bristles are gentle and cruelty-free, providing you with a luxurious experience while achieving a flawless makeup look.

What We Like
Soft bristles
Travel-friendly size
Affordable price
Multipurpose functionality
No shedding
What We Don't Like
Short brush length
No information on bristles
#TOP 8

Sigma Beauty F80 Flat Kabuki Brush

F80-1
Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Sigma Beauty F80 Flat Kabuki Brush Cover
Sigma Beauty F80 Flat Kabuki Brush – Flat Top Kabuki Foundation Brush and Professional Grade Makeup Brush with Ultra-Soft Fibers for Blending Liquid & Cream Makeup Products (Black, 1pc)

The Sigma Beauty F80 Flat Kabuki Brush is a professional-grade makeup brush made with exclusive Sigmax fibers, which features a flat top head with soft and dense fibers to apply flawless, buffed foundation without any absorption of product. It is perfect for blending liquid or cream products onto forehead and cheeks evenly and smoothly, avoiding makeup streaks, lines, and splotches.

What We Like
Incredibly soft bristles
Flawless foundation application
Good for hard-to-reach areas
Durable and retains shape
Great for various foundations
What We Don't Like
Minor bristle shedding
Requires some effort to buff
#TOP 9

GOERTI Self Tanner Brush

HZ-925
Pink gold
1 Count (Pack of 1)
GOERTI Self Tanner Brush Cover
Self Tanner Brush GOERTI Body Makeup Brush for Flawless Leg Makeup, Foundation Brush Makeup Brush for Face Body Makeup Brushes for Self Tanner Kabuki Brush for Body Blend Brush for Tanning Mousse

The GOERTI Tanner Brush is designed for effortless application of self-tanner on your face and body. Its unique shape allows you to reach all areas, ensuring an even and streak-free finish every time. The brush's soft bristles help the product absorb better into your skin, preventing waste and enhancing the tanning effect. Whether you're using lotion, mousse, or bronzer, this brush provides a smooth application, making it easy for you to achieve a natural-looking glow quickly. Its versatility makes it a great tool for both beginners and professionals alike.

What We Like
Soft, firm bristles
Smooth, even finish
Great for tricky areas
Easy to clean
Durable, no shedding
What We Don't Like
Handle may flake
Some bristles may come out
#TOP 10

Kabuki Brush for Self Tanner Cream Bronzer Brush

0929184
Brown
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Kabuki Brush for Self Tanner Cream Bronzer Brush Cover
Beauty by Earth Self Tanner Brush - Kabuki Brush for Body, Foundation Brush Makeup Brush for Fake Tan, Sunless Tanner Makeup Brushes, Self Tanning Mitt for Self Tan, Self Tanning Mousse Blending Brush

This kabuki brush is perfect for applying self-tanner, bronzer, powder makeup, cream blush, and liquid foundation to your face and body. Its soft vegan bristles make it easy to achieve a streak-free application with any self-tanning product, while the bamboo handle adds a touch of natural elegance to your makeup collection. You no longer need to use a self-tanner mitt, as this brush will help you blend your tanning lotion or foam evenly. As a bonus, you can also use it as a liquid foundation brush for liquid makeup. This product is backed by a satisfaction guarantee from a family-owned Texas-based business.

What We Like
Plastic-free materials
Soft and dense brush
Even application
Multi-use for products
Easy to clean
What We Don't Like
Requires practice for best results
Can tire hands during use
Buying Guide Image

The Ultimate Kabuki Brushes Buying Guide

Introduction

Kabuki brushes, also known as Kabuki makeup brushes, are an essential tool for any makeup enthusiast. These versatile brushes are typically used for applying and blending foundation, powder, and blush, but can also be used for a variety of other makeup applications. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right Kabuki brush for your needs. In this article, we will provide some tips to help you make an informed decision.

Consider the Bristles

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Kabuki brush is the type of bristles. Kabuki brushes can be made with a variety of bristles, including natural hair and synthetic fibers. Natural hair bristles are typically made from goat, sable, or pony hair, and are known for their softness and ability to pick up and distribute product evenly. Synthetic bristles, on the other hand, are made from man-made materials such as nylon or polyester and are often more affordable than natural hair brushes. Synthetic bristles are also typically easier to clean and are less likely to shed or irritate sensitive skin.

Determine the Shape and Size

Kabuki brushes come in a range of shapes and sizes, and the right brush for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. For example, a round Kabuki brush is great for applying and blending foundation, while a flat Kabuki brush is ideal for contouring and highlighting. Kabuki brushes with a tapered tip are also great for applying powder and blush, as they can easily reach the contours of your face. In terms of size, a larger Kabuki brush is typically better for applying and blending foundation, while a smaller brush is better for contouring and highlighting.

Choose the Right Handle

The handle of a Kabuki brush is another important factor to consider. A comfortable, sturdy handle is essential for applying makeup evenly and smoothly. Look for a brush with a handle that is easy to grip and control, and that feels comfortable in your hand. You may also want to consider the length of the handle, as a longer handle can be more comfortable to use and can provide better control and precision.

Look for Quality

When it comes to choosing a Kabuki brush, quality should be a top priority. A high-quality brush will be made with durable materials and will be built to last. It will also be gentle on your skin and will not irritate or cause breakouts. To ensure that you are getting a high-quality brush, look for a reputable brand and read customer reviews before making your purchase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right Kabuki brush can be a challenging task, but it is an important step in achieving a flawless makeup application. Consider the type of bristles, the shape and size, the handle, and the overall quality when making your decision. By following these tips, you can choose a Kabuki brush that will help you achieve the perfect look every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is special about a kabuki brush?

The special design of a kabuki brush allows for even application of makeup on the skin. Its large head makes it suitable for applying makeup on larger areas of the skin, such as the neck and cleavage.

2. Is a kabuki brush a foundation brush?

Yes, a kabuki brush is an all-in-one tool that can be used to apply foundation, powder, or bronzer. It is versatile and can be used for various makeup applications.

3. What kabuki brush is used for foundation?

A flat kabuki brush is commonly used for applying foundation. Its flat top allows for even distribution of foundation and tinted moisturizers, resulting in an airbrushed, non-cakey look.

4. Can I use a kabuki brush with liquid foundation?

Yes, a kabuki brush is suitable for use with liquid foundation. It is a versatile makeup brush that can be used to apply mineral makeup powders, blushers, and liquid foundation. It provides an even application for a flawless finish.

5. What style of brush is best for liquid foundation?

For liquid foundation, a flat brush is recommended as it allows you to paint the product on, providing high coverage. Buffing brushes can also be used in small, circular movements to achieve medium to full coverage with an even, streak-free finish.

6. Is a round or flat kabuki brush better?

A flat-top kabuki brush is better for applying liquid or cream products like cream blush, bronzer, or foundation. On the other hand, a round or domed kabuki brush is great for applying powder makeup, such as powder foundation, blush, or finishing powder, especially on larger areas of the face.

Editor's Notes

During our kabuki brush research, we found 48 kabuki brush products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 196,111 customer reviews through our big data system to write the kabuki brushes list. We found that most customers choose kabuki brushes with an average price of $7.61.

The kabuki brushes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of kabuki brushes, including e.l.f., EcoTools, Banidy, LORYP, SONN PRODUCTS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Kabuki Brushes Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand e.l.f. EcoTools Banidy LORYP SONN PRODUCTS Lamora Yrarbil Sigma Beauty GOERTI Beauty by Earth
Skin Type Dry All All Normal All, Sensitive All All Suits All Skin Types All All
Item Form Palm Brush Wand Wand Retractable Wand Wand Contouring Brush, Powder Brush, Foundation Brush Brush Palm Brush Brush
Bristle Material Taklon Taklon Nylon Nylon or Polyester Nylon or Polyester Synthetic Synthetic Nylon Nylon -
Recommended Uses For Product For Setting Powder, For Highlighting For Bronzer, For Blush, For Foundation, For Blending For Blush, For Foundation For Foundation Skin Care, Salon For Foundation, Blending, Contouring, Highlighting, Tanning For Contouring, For Bronzer, For Blush, For Setting Powder, For Foundation, For Blending A kabuki makeup brush that simplifies the application of liquid and cream foundation, allowing for customizable, medium to full coverage For Contouring, For Primer, For Self Tanner, For Concealing, For Bronzer, For Setting Powder, For Foundation, For Blending, For Highlighting, For Tanning -
Material synthetic Aluminum Aluminum Synthetic Bristle Synthetic bristles (either Nylon or Polyester) Synthetic weasel_hair Plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene -
Number of Pieces 1 1 1 2 2 1 3 1 1 -
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult All Ages Adult -
Color Black - Kabuki Face Green Black Black - Rose Pink Black Pink gold -
Brush Length - 3.7 Inches 1.9 Inches 4.13 Inches 12.5 Inches 5.71 Inches - 6.14 Inches - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy