My Review: Real Techniques Stippling Brush

What is It? 

The packaging of the Real Techniques Stippling Brush states that "a final step is a perfect finish. This dual-fiber brush is the trade secret for creating airbrushed, high-definition results with all types of makeup."

Claims/Features: 

• Look pixel-perfect even in harsh light
• Ultra-plush, synthetic taklon bristles are hand-cut and 100% cruelty-free
• Self-standing for easy storage
• Extended aluminum handle is light and easy to use

Product Link:

• http://realtechniques.com/shop-collection/your-finish-perfected/stippling-brush

Price/Availibilty: 

• $9.99 at Ulta/Ulta.com  http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/stippling brush

• £11.99 at Boots/Boots.com http://www.boots.com/en/Real-Techniques-Stippling-Brush_1253416/

Dupe For:    

MAC 130 Short Duo Fibre Brush

• $ 42.00 at MAC Counters/maccosmetics.com  http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/146/7186/Products/Brushes/Face/130-Short-Duo-Fibre-Brush/index.tmpl

• £29.00 at MAC Counter/ maccosmetics.co.uk http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/130-Short-Duo-Fibre-Brush/index.tmpl

Things to Rave About:

1) Soft and Defined Bristles: The brush hairs are very flexible and bendable, containing individualy defined bristles that create a bouncy and gentle touch on the skin. The feel is just right, as it is not too soft where the bristles collapse in contact with the skin, meanwhile the fibers do not feel rough or prickly. The distinctly separated bristles prove to be great for fine tuning and finishing touches.

2) Durable: The skunk-white fibers at the tip of the brush head remain spotless after numerous uses, displaying no signs of any foundation stains. No bleeding or shedding has occurred, and the bristles wash not only entirely clean, but easily, and dry quick due to the synthetic material.

3) Reaches into Contours/Crevices: The head of this stipple brush is much smaller and stouter than the typical stippling brush due to this brush's short hairs and the small surface area covered. These features allow the brush to maneuver with exceptional control around the face and fit into smaller spaces and crevices.

4) Multipurpose: This brush's smaller head with the short bristles permit makeup application to occur with a much lighter and controlled hand, because you are working with less amount of fibers that also are much shorter than the norm. The ability to use a lighter hand, a feature very rare for a foundation brush, allows flawless blush, bronzer, and highlighter application.

Things to Rant About:

1) Not Dense Enough to Buff: This brush does not contain the required amount of bristles to create a "solid" looking head that powerfully buffs and blends foundation into the skin.

2) Demands More Time: Due to the smaller size and surface area of the brush head, less area of skin will be covered with each blending effort.

Is it For You?  

Yes, if you will allow the extended time and effort to stipple or lightly bounce the foundation onto the face to achieve an airbrushed finish. No, if you prefer to get foundation on as fast as possible by forceful buffing.

Ratings:  

• Price: 9/10
• Performance: 8/10 
• Packaging/Applicator: 8/10 
• Durability: 10/10 
• Repurchase? Yes

Have you tried this brush? I'd love to hear your thoughts!