The Skincare Freak

Brushes comes in pink handles with the names printed on it. It's very similar to paddle brushes except it's round to the top and the name is quite fitting because you can move it around so easily. The brushes have weight to it - quite light on the handle and is heavy at the brush head part which is intended for added pressure I guess. It must be because of the density of the bristles too. Overall, the packaging looks very sturdy and in terms of production and materials used, these brushes are a little above the rest from Ecotools. There's very minimal fallouts with these brushes but yeah, from time to time, they do. 

So as I understand, the biggest one is for blending of base makeup, the medium one is for bronzing while the small one is for concealing and highlight. It's funny because I imagine and gave them each a different purpose. On first use, I use the medium one to apply my foundation then set it with a  pressed powder using the large one. The reason is that I was overwhelmed with the size of the buff brush so I opted for the smaller one to target hard to reach areas. I, then, used the smallest brush for concealing and guess what, they don't work for that purpose.

With few uses, I finally discovered where they work best. The ultimate buff is best for powder foundations both pressed and loose mineral products. I like that the size is huge so it covers a great amount of surface area. However, it doesn't really lessen blending time. I like how it makes my base look airbrushed but I don't like how the brush feels during application. It tugs the skin and I feel like I'm punching my face with this brush. Also, despite the density, it leaves streaks on the skin whether it's powder or liquid.

The same thing goes with the ultimate pop and ultimate cover. I thought the ultimate pop would work well for foundations given the size but it doesn't. I used it to blend my under eye concealer but all it did was leave streaks plus it stresses the skin underneath my eyes. I also find some of the hairs scratchy. And oh, it also absorbs a great amount of liquid product. It sort of work for powder contour and bronzer but you have to be patient in blending because IT. FREAKIN. TAKES. TIME.

The ultimate cover is completely pointless in my opinion. It's just like the ultimate pop but is way smaller. It doesn't work as a concealer brush and neither as highlighter brush. It might work with stick highlighter but the shape, size and the density of the brush is not very ideal as a highlighting brush. I personally would reach for my fan brushes because they work better and is more ergonomic.

So there. I'm quite disappointed with this brush set from Ecotools. Some did like these brushes but I just can't. Anyway, let me know if you have any ideas to make these work! Have a great day!

This brush came with a box which I already threw out because it got deformed during the shipping process. Still, I'm glad that the brush inside still looks okay.

I appreciate that Tarte is a cruelty-free brand and they also manufacture their products to be environment-friendly and practical. The bamboo handle is very light and unique but despite that, product doesn't look cheap and flimsy. The name of the brand is slightly embossed on the handle so that's good in case you're forgetful and you needed something to distinguish which is which. Though I doubt you'll ever forget lol.

 

Just so you are aware, there are imitations for Tarte brushes and I even found one for  this particular brush online! The difference is very distinguishable too. There's more white bristles on the fake one and the shape is more domed compared to the real one. The bamboo handle of the real looks more polished and well-made compared to the fake. Looking through photos, the fake one has a fluffier brush head as you look from the side corner. To be sure, just make sure to purchase from Tarte's website directly or trusted retailer.

The bristles are made of synthetics which are super, super soft. I cannot stress it further! The brush head is flat but still wide so it covers a huge area of the face so it definitely does the job so quickly.  The bristles are well-packed together, they also do not shed and they are dense but still fluffy so it distributes powder so evenly while making sure your contour is well-blended. I love the fact the it blends harsh lines so very well in a matter of few seconds. You definitely will need less effort and time with this brush. I have this contour kit I was thinking of throwing out because the shade and texture doesn't work for me. Just last week though, I gave it another try with this brush and you won't believe it - I'm keeping the contour kit! It just seemed to be waiting for the right tool after all!

Overall, I'm impressed with this Tarte Swirl Power Contour and Bronzer Brush! It's quite expensive for $34 but do not fret, Tarte's doing major sale from time to time so make sure to subscribe and get alerts! If ever you pay it in full price, I still believe that you are getting your money's worth because this brush is also an effective tool to blend not just your contour but your bronzer, blush and highlight as well! It's a brush that you can use for different purposes. Definitely, a must-have brush for me!