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12/01/2022
Types of Makeup Brushes and How Your Use Them

Concealer brushes, foundation brushes, lip brushes and mascara wands – it is easy to get overwhelmed and confused when trying to figure out what each different type of makeup brush does and why you need it.

We have made it easy for you! We have broken down the different types of makeup brushes, explained how to use them and which Burst Makeup Brushes are the best to buy!

Foundation Brush

A foundation brush is used to apply your base face makeup like your foundation or BB cream. If you invest in a brush then this is the brush to invest in because it is the foundation of your look, a good quality makeup brush will help you create a flawless look. 

Large Foundation Buffing Brush

Use this brush in fast circular movements to “air-whip” the foundation onto your skin, or to buff your foundation into a velvety finish after you have applied it. Perfect skin, every time!

Works great with a loose translucent powder to avoid a very powdery look.

PRO TIP: This brush can also be used with dry products like translucent powder, or cream and powder blushers, to achieve a very light application!

Small Foundation Buffing Brush

This brush is 14 mm in diameter and is made of synthetic/vegan hair.

Use this brush for anything! Liquid and cream foundation, concealer, contour, highlighter, primer — the list is endless. This is a fantastic all-rounder brush and a great investment!

PRO TIP: Versatile brushes like this one are vital additions to your brush collection; they save you time and money!

Make up Brush FD 03 - Small Foundation Buffing Brush

Stippling Brush

A stipple brush is used to create beautiful soft layers, it does this by adding texture to create a natural result. Depending on your mood you can create a sheer look or heavy coverage. This brush can be used for liquid, cream or powder products. 

Stipple Foundation Brush

This brush is made of exceptional quality synthetic hair and can be used with any type of foundation. It has a unique flat top to stipple foundation onto the skin.

With this revolutionary foundation brush, you can totally control the coverage of your foundation – from the lightest whisper of natural colour to glamorous full coverage!

Apply the foundation directly to the brush and spread the makeup in stippling and circular movements for a light and natural finish. Or if full coverage is what you’re after, apply the foundation directly to your skin and use the brush in stippling movements to create heavier coverage.

PRO TIP: Professional makeup artists agree that you’ll never use another foundation brush again! This is a must-have!

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Stipple Foundation makeup Brush - Synthetic makeup brushes online makeup brushes

Concealer Brush

Concealer brushes are, traditionally smaller makeup bruges that are used to apply and blend out liquid, cream and powder concealer formulas. The brushes are packed and flat, making it easy to apply and blend. 

Concealer Brush

This brush is made of synthetic/vegan hair to ensure that the oiliness of the concealing product does not affect the bristles of the brush.

It is designed to work on both small areas like imperfections, and also larger areas that may need concealing, like dark circles or pigmentation.

PRO TIP: This brush is perfect to double-up as a lip brush!

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Synthetic Concealer makeup Brushes - online makeup brushes

Powder Brush

A quality powder brush is a must have brush in any makeup brush collection. These brushes are often thick, full-fibered brushes that can be used for a range of different applications. 

Large Powder Brush

This brush is 23mm in diameter and is made of superior-quality synthetic/vegan hair. It is cut round from the front and sides so that it distributes your makeup evenly.Use this brush to apply loose powder, or to dust excess loose powder off the face. It can be used in side-to-side or circular movements.

PRO TIP: This brush is perfect to use on the face, but is also big enough to apply makeup to the body – a versatile investment!

Makeup Brushes online SS-01-Large-Powder-Brush makeup brushes online south arica

Standard Powder Brush

This brush is 19mm in diameter and is made of special grade white goat hair. It is cut round from the front and sides so that it evenly distributes makeup products.

Use this brush to apply loose powder, or in side-to-side movements to dust excess loose powder off the face. Try using it in side-to-side or circular movements to buff the powder onto the face for a perfectly matte finish!

PRO TIP: This brush can also double-up as a blusher brush for colour or definition!

Makeup Brushes Powder brush online

Blush Brush

A blusher brush is used to add colour and brighten up your skin. It is a fluffy brush that has a rounded or oval brush head. 

Soft Rounded Blusher Brush 

This brush is 15mm in diameter and is made of squirrel hair. It is cut round from the sides to distribute makeup evenly, and it is extremely soft with a luxurious feel on the skin.

Use this brush to apply your desired blush colour on the apples of your cheeks for a beautiful healthy flush. Use it in either side-to-side movements or circular movements to achieve the desired effect.

PRO TIP: This brush may also be used to apply bronzer or highlighter – it’s a versatile investment!

Tapered Blusher Brush

This brush is 13mm in diameter and is made of black goat hair.

Use it to apply colour to the cheeks, or for contouring, or to apply illuminator. It is a fabulous all-rounder!

PRO TIP: This brush is also part of our special contouring set!

Medium Round Blusher Brush

This brush is 15mm in diameter and is made of goat hair. It is cut round from the front and sides to distribute your makeup evenly.

Use this brush to apply your desired blush colour to the apple of the cheek for a beautiful, healthy flush. It can be used either in side-to-side or circular movements to achieve the desired effect.

PRO TIP: This brush is also ideal for applying bronzer or highlighter to the face!

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Medium Round Blusher Brush - Black Goat online makeup brushes

Contour Brush

A contour brush is used to contour along your cheekbones, forehead and jawline. They are usually large, flat brushes that have densely packed bristles. 

Flat Contouring Brush

This brush is 15mm in diameter and is made of soft sable hair.

Use it to create either a soft contour or a very strong contour. It is small enough to use on the sides of the nose, the jawline, and to create a beautifully-defined cheekbone. This brush could also be used on the eyes as a big intermediate blender.

PRO TIP: Use this brush in circular motions for a softer contour, or in side-to-side sweeping motions for a strong contour. It is also included in our special contouring set!

Slanted Contouring Brush

This brush is 13mm in diameter and is made of special-grade goat hair. It is cut on a soft slant and round from the sides to create the perfect defined cheek.

Use it in circular sweeping movements achieve the desired application. This brush can also be used on the apple of the cheek, or to create definition beneath the cheekbone.

PRO TIP: This is a versatile, all-rounder brush – the type that professional makeup artists know to invest in!

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Slanted Contouring Brush - White Special Goat online makeup brushes

Eyeshadow Brush

Eyeshadow brushes are used to apply eyeshadow, they are flat brushes allowing them to pick up eyeshadow and apply evenly. An eye shadow brush is another one of our must have brushes. 

Large Eyeshadow Dome Brush

This brush is 8mm in diameter and is made of superior-quality synthetic/vegan hair. It is cut round from the sides with a flat front.

Use this brush flat on the eye in sweeping motions to apply highlighter. Or use it to press the pigment into the skin when using darker colours to create a sultry, smoky eye!

PRO TIP: This brush can also be used as a large concealer brush, or even for contouring on smaller areas!

Large Slanted Eyeshadow Brush | Eye Makeup Brushes with Burst Makeup Brushes

Small Flat Dome Eyeshadow Brush

This brush is 4.5mm in diameter and is made of sable hair. It is cut round from the sides with a flat front.

Use this brush flat on the eye in sweeping motions to apply highlighter, or use it to press the pigment into the skin when applying darker colours.

PRO TIP: This brush is perfect for creating definition on the eye, and it is small enough to work underneath the eye. It is included in our 7-piece set!

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Small Flat Eyeshadow Brush - Sable online makeup brushes

Medium Dome Eyeshadow Brush

This brush is 6mm is diameter and is made of sable hair. It is cut round from the sides with a flat front.

Use this brush flat on the eye in sweeping motions for highlighter, or to help press the pigment into the skin when using darker colours. It is perfect for creating definition on and around the eyes.

<strong>PRO TIP</strong>: This brush is a professional makeup artist favourite, as it is small and flat enough to work under the eye to create that beautiful, sultry smoky look!

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Medium Dome Brush - Sable online makeup brushes

Mascara Brush

Mascara brushes are used to apply mascara to your eyelashes. Different types of brushes create different effects, allowing you to create the looks you want. 

Mascara Fan Brush

This brush is made of synthetic/vegan hair, and is shaped like a miniature fan to perfectly coat your lashes from root to tip.

We recommend using it with tube mascara for best results, but it can also be used in the place of a disposable mascara wand and carefully disinfected between each use.

Apply the mascara to the tips of the bristles, and then use the brush to coat your lashes in mascara with a painting motion.

PRO TIP: Try wiggling the brush from side to side as you stroke it up the eyelashes – this will both separate and define your lashes!

Mascara Wand

This is a standard-size mascara wand.

Use it to comb the eyebrows into place, and to remove clumps of mascara from the lashes for a perfectly-defined flutter!

This is a standard-size mascara wand.

Lip Brush

Lip brushes are long pencil like brushes that have soft bristles that form a tapered point and are used to apply your lipstick or lip gloss. 

Lip Makeup Brush Set

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Lip Brush Set (LB 01, CC 01) online makeup brushes
02/11/2021
How To Find Your Skin Type

In order to care correctly for your skin, you need to know what type of skin you have. Even the most expensive products won’t be effective if you are buying the wrong ones for your specific skin type. 

Skin types can be divided into the following categories

  • Normal
  • Oily/dehydrated
  • Combination
  • Acne-prone
  • Sensitive 
  • Mature

How do you know which one is your skin type? You could visit your local beauty salon and ask them to help or you could DIY it and try one of these methods.

The Bare Faced Method

Use a mild cleanser to cleanse your face and pat dry gently. Leave your skin bare for 30 minutes and examine your chin, cheeks, nose and forehead to see if they are “shining”. Wait another 30 minutes and see if the skin on your face is feeling parched. If your skin does feel tight when you try to smile – you have dry skin. If you notice a shine on your cheeks then your skin is oily but if the shine is on your nose and forehead then you have a combination skin. 

The Blotting Method

This is a quick and easy method to determine if you have oily or dry skin. Get a piece of paper towel or blotting paper and gently pat onto the different areas of your face. Hold the sheet up to the light and see how much oil (if any) is visible. If there is no oil, your skin is most likely dry. If there is oil on the forehead and nose then you have combination skin. If the paper is saturated in oil, you have oily skin. 

Skin Care Tips for Your Skin Type

Normal Skin

  • You probably don’t experience many breakouts. 
  • Your skin doesn’t react to new products. 
  • When the weather changes, your skin remains the same. 
  • You don’t feel the need to apply moisturizer all the time. 
  • Your skin is firm, with minimal fine lines and wrinkles.

If you have normal skin, skin care is simple because your skin responds well to most ingredients and you can really play around with new products until you find one you really love. 

Oily Skin

  • Your skin constantly looks like it is glowing. 
  • You have a constant collection of blotting sheets or mattifying powders. 
  • Makeup and skin care products don’t seem to “stay put”. 

Skin Care Tips

One of the biggest challenges with oily skin is trying to keep the shine under control. When you are looking for new products, avoid the following ingredients: mineral oil, petroleum and alcohol. Be on the lookout for products that are labeled non-comedogenic” – these won’t clog up your pores. Don’t skimp on the moisturizer because your skin still needs it, just look for ones that are oil-free. Clay masks are also really great for your oily skin!

Dry/Dehydrated Skin

  • Dry skin is flaky, sensitive, itchy and has cracks. 
  • The causes vary from lifestyle to environmental to skin conditions like eczema. 
  • Your skin will feel tight and be papery in appearance. 

Skin Care Tips

For those with dry skin you want to seal in the moisture but using a rich moisturizer a few times a day to help seal in the moisture. Stay away from harsh products that contain citrus oils or are heavily fragranced. Look for water-based products to use on your skin and make sure you are drinking plenty of water as this will also help your skin stay hydrated.

Combination Skin

  • If you can’t figure out your skin type, it is likely combination. .
  • You will notice that your skin is oily in some parts and dry in others – generally your T-zone will be oily with the rest of your skin dry. 

Skin Care Tips

Avoid alcohol-based products if you have combination skin. Treat the problem areas with spot treatment and then look for balancing creams to use on the rest of your face. 

Acne-Prone Skin

  • You get frequent breakouts or breakouts that just do not want to clear up. 
  • Acne prone skin can be oily or dry. 

Skin Care Tips

When treating acne prone skin, look for cleansers that are specifically formulated to treat acne. Use exfoliants and moisturizers that are designed to minimize breakouts. Avoid harsh cleansers that could further irritate your breakout, look for products with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, clay, benzoyl peroxide or retinol.

Sensitive Skin

  • Skin flushes easily.
  • You get frequent rashes or bumps on your skin.
  • Skin care products often leave your face burning. 
  • You react to fragranced products. 
  • Your skin has patches of dry, flaky and irritated skin

Skin Care Tips

Choosing skin care products for sensitive skin is very hard, you need to avoid any fragrances and irritants like alcohol or antibacterial ingredients. Focus on products with few ingredients that calm, heal and contain anti-inflammatory properties. 

Mature Skin

  • Not everyone’s skin ages at the same pace, so mature skin is not necessarily linked to your age. 
  • Your skin has wrinkles and is sagging. 
  • You have dark spots, dullness and dehydration.

Skin Care Tips

Skin care treatment for mature skin requires you to try to deal with past and future damage. Start to create an anti-aging routine with restorative treatments that are designed to  boost collagen, and protect your skin  against environmental aggressors and cell turnover.

Do you know what skin type you are?

13/10/2021
How to Build your Makeup Collection

If you are starting to build a makeup collection it can be overwhelming and expensive. Before you run out and buy all the makeup, take a moment to think about what you really need and want from your makeup. 

Building up your initial collection of makeup can be expensive if you don’t have a plan and you might end up with makeup you never actually use. 

You can build up your collection of makeup on a budget, with a little bit of planning.

1. You don’t need brand makeup for it to be good makeup

We are not saying avoid buying big brand names all together, rather we are saying that the smaller brands can be just as good as the bigger, expensive, designer brands. The biggest benefit of buying the cheaper brands initially is you can figure out what colours and products are going to work for you and your skin type. 

If you aren’t convinced, check out the ingredient list of the products you are considering – chances are you will find that there isn’t much difference between the designer brand and the smaller brand. 

2. Less is (Always) More

When it comes to makeup products less is more often than not more. It can be tempting to grab up every eye shadow, lipstick and mascara you see but this will lead to piles of products you probably don’t end up using.

Start out with a few of the basic items and then increase your collection slowly, adding only items you really want – even if you have spend a few months saving up for it. 

3. Start with the Basics

While your glitter eyeliner and shimmer and shine lip gloss are super pretty and brighten up your look – they aren’t essentials. You won’t find yourself reaching for your glitter eyeliner every day but you will need your foundation daily 

It might not be as fun to buy the basics but they are so important in your makeup collection because they allow you to create a range of fun looks. 

Once you have the essentials you can add a couple of fun items to your collection.  

4. Check the sales

Sales are well worth the wait. Most retail stores have regular sales on their makeup brands, including the bigger brands. Keep an eye on your local stores for when they have makeup sales but try to focus on buying only the products you really need – it can be tempting to just buy everything you see on sale. 

5. Kits are great, but be careful

Large kits can be very appealing. All those colours in one palette can seem very tempting but be careful. Don’t be lured in by super cheap palettes and kits because the quality might not be great and you might end up not being able to use some of the products. If you are looking for a kit it might be safer to invest in a designer one that you can trust. 

What are the makeup essentials?

The below items should be in any kit. They will help you to create a range of different looks from natural to bold and dramatic. 

Liquid Foundation

As the name suggests, a liquid foundation is the starting point for any great makeup look. It might take you some experimenting to find the brand that works for your skin type and colour but it will be worth it. 

Concealer

Concealer is great to cover up those dark circles under your eyes, reduce redness and hide blemishes. When you are looking for a concealer try to find one that is light and wont look too cakey on your skin.

Eyebrow Pencil

Don’t underestimate your eyebrows. Having a quality eyebrow pencil in your collection helps you to shape your eyebrows and create a fuller look. You want to find an eyebrow pencil that you feel comfortable using as it will make it easier to create the perfect set of brows.

Eyeshadow

Eyeshadow is obviously an essential in any makeup kit. Start with some basic shades that you can blend easily to create the looks you want. 

Eyeliner

Eyeliner allows you to really define your eyes but the choice as to whether you use a liquid or a pencil is up to you. Both work equally well but some prefer the pencil and for others the liquid works better. 

Mascara

Mascara is another must-have item. Mascara is a quick and easy way to create an instant lift in your look. It is worth it to spend a little more on a quality mascara – it really can make a huge difference in your overall look. 

Blush

Adding foundation to your skin does also remove a lot of the colour on your face – blusher puts that colour back but be careful not to create round clown cheeks! You don’t need to pile on the blusher for it to be effective – a few gentle strokes is often all you need. 

Lipstick or Lip Gloss

Lipstick are a great feel good makeup item – add some bold red lips and you instantly feel a little more confident. They are also an easy way to add a little colour to your look. They are also one of the more affordable makeup items, which means you can afford to build up a collection of your favourites. 

Makeup Brushes

All the makeup in the world is only as good as the brushes used to apply it! Investing in a quality set of makeup brushes makes applying your makeup so much easier. If your budget is tight invest in one brush at a time, but this is not an area you want to go for the cheapest set you can find.

What is your favourite makeup essential?

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browse our selection of brushes online!

16/09/2021
All You Want to Know About Eye Makeup Brushes

All you want to know about eye makeup brushes: A beginners guide.

Eye makeup is now front and centre, with masks still a mandatory accessory. To perfect your eye makeup you need a set of eye makeup brushes to help you. Burst Makeup Brushes has a collection of eye makeup brushes that have been specifically designed to help you perfect your eye makeup.

Soft Dome Crease Brush : Do you want to create the classic smoky eye look? This is the perfect brush to help you.

This brush is 8mm in diameter and is made of special-grade white goat hair. It is dome shaped with a delicate feel on the skin to create soft definition in the crease of the eyelid.

Use it to pack on a strong highlighter or shimmer on the eyelid.

Buy this eye makeup brush here.

Soft Dome Crease Brush | Eye Makeup Brushes with Burst Makeup Brushes

Dome Blender : This brush was designed for eye makeup but it is the most versatile brush you will own. It is, without a doubt, the one brush you need to have in your collection.

This makeup brush is 7mm in diameter and is made of superior-quality synthetic/vegan hair.

It is cut round from all sides, and so it is exceptionally soft and works beautifully in the delicate eye area.

Use it to blend away any hard edges in your makeup application, or to apply your eyeshadow colour.

Eye Shadow Brush | Eye Makeup Brush with Burst Makeup Brushes
Large Eye Shadow Dome : This is another one of our versatile eye makeup brushes. I can double up as a concealer brush as well as a contouring brush for smaller areas.
This brush is 8mm in diameter and is made of superior-quality synthetic/vegan hair. It is cut round from the sides with a flat front.
Use this brush flat on the eye in sweeping motions to apply highlighter. Or use it to press the pigment into the skin when using darker colours to create a sultry, smoky eye!
Eye Makeup Brushes | Eye Makeup Brushes with Burst Makeup Brushes
Kabuki Pencil Brush : Adding highlighter to the inner corner of your eye can make a big difference in your look, really making your eyes sparkle.

This brush is 6mm in diameter and is made of superior-quality synthetic/vegan hair.
This brush is cut round from all sides and features a sharper tip – so it is ideal to blend eyeliner, or to create a dark definition in the corner of the eye and underneath the bottom lash line.

Kabuki Pencil Brush | Eye Makeup Brushes with Burst Makeup Brushes
Medium Dome Eyeshadow Brush : Our makeup artists love this brush because it is small and flat, making it ideal to work under the eye to create a beautiful, sultry, smoky look.

This brush is 6mm is diameter and is made of sable hair. It is cut round from the sides with a flat front.

Use this brush flat on the eye in sweeping motions for highlighter, or to help press the pigment into the skin when using darker colours. It is perfect for creating definition on and around the eyes.

Makeup Brushes South Africa, Johannesburg, Gauteng, Medium Dome Brush - Sable online makeup brushes
Large Slanted Eyeshadow Brush : This is not just another makeup brush – it is an investment in your makeup brush collection.

This brush is 9mm in diameter and is made of sable hair. It has a slanted top and is very soft.

Use it as an eyeshadow blender, concealer, or even a contouring brush. It is ideal for any artistic makeup applications.
Large Slanted Eyeshadow Brush | Eye Makeup Brushes with Burst Makeup Brushes
02/09/2021
Spring 2021 Looks

Hello Spring!

The new season is the perfect time to breathe a little new life into your beauty routine. Winter was all about moody colours, dark pigments and floating eyeliner designs, Spring is all about growth and adventure with bolder eyes, lips, and brow styles. These are just a few fun Spring looks for you to try out.

There are a few looks and styles that are always popular, like winged and smoky liner, but there are also a lot of new looks that are making their way to the social media feeds of those in the know. . From colorful eyes to subtle accents, these are just a few of our favourite popular spring looks. 

Dewy Skin

The theme this spring is less is more. By opting for lighter foundation, it means that your skin is able to breathe more and you are able to create a lighter more natural look, which is very growing in popularity. 

To create the dewy skin look, you can use a water-infused tinted moisturizer and then when you apply the lightweight foundation, you can use a beauty blender to stipple on product when your skin is still slightly damp from the moisturizer. 

You can add an extra dewy look by adding a bright blush, creating fresh flush to your cheeks. 

Thick brows

Credit

If you follow celebs like Dua Lipa and Lily Collins, you will have seen this full brow trend. When you create thick, fluffy arches they work perfectly to frame your face. To keep your bushy brows in place, you can apply some full control hairspray to keep them in place all day long.  When you are applying your brow products, do so in strokes so that they mimic your natural hairs, brush with a clear hair gel that will both fluff and set them. 

Smoky Liner

Credit

Heavy eyeliners are making a big comeback and they are so easy to replicate. All you need is a black eyeliner pencil and a heavy hand – meaning that  both makeup newbies and artists alike can replicate this look. 

To create this look pack on bold liner around your eyes and then soften it out on the edges. 

Bold Colours

Credit

Spring is all about being bright and bold, right? So pack away the dark winter colours and haul out more vibrant pigments like yellow, greens and blues. To create the clean, structure eye look that is going to be popular in Spring, use a little micellar water to clean up your look. If you don’t have one already, invest in a pallette that features some fun vibrant colours. 

Colour Blocking

Credit

Spring is all about bold colours – you don’t have to stick to just one colour, you can combine a few successfully. Colour blocking allows you to incorporate fun, bold looks into your everyday makeup. To pull this look off, pair two shades and the buff one of them out while still keeping the other colour clean and structured.

Which one of these looks is your favourite?

19/08/2021
Minimal Makeup Tips

“The simplest things are often the truest.” -Richard Bach

Creating minimal looks is becoming more and more popular as minimalist lifestyles grow in popularity. 

Minimalistic looks focus on enhancing your natural beauty. It does not mean you use no makeup, instead it means using less makeup more strategically to let your natural features really shine. 

Start at the beginning: reduce your makeup collection

If you use makeup daily you probably have a rather large collection of makeup – a lot of it probably collecting dust. Take some time to clear it. 

  • Check the expiration dates of the products and get rid of anything that is past its expiration date. (Make up generally lasts about 6-12 months). 
  • Get rid of the products you don’t use any more. Very often we buy something thinking we like it or need it, only to discover we don’t but it sits in our collections, gathering dust. Get rid of it. 
  • Start a routine using just the basics. There are a few items of makeup that you will use every day, put a list together and focus on those items only. 

Minimalist Makeup Tips

Stock up on the basics.

You need a cleanser, makeup remover and moisturizer – this is where your makeup journey begins, regardless of whether you are going minimal or not. Making sure you are looking after your skin properly means you will need less foundation and makeup in general. 

Our reusable makeup erasers are the perfect addition to your minimal makeup collection. 

Go makeup free for a day.

If you do currently wear makeup every day it might seem impossible to go “naked” but it is often the best thing for your skin. Not only does it allow your skin to breathe better, it is also a good way to cut back on the makeup you are using. 

Bronzers are your friend.

A good bronzer can take your look to the next level.  Investing in a matte bronzer will help you contour your face while still keeping your look natural.

Eyebrows frame everything.

We have spoken about eyebrows a lot, that is because they are so important.  Your eyebrows frame your whole face – don’t neglect them. Use our brow brush to help you create the look you want using very little (if any makeup).

You can do amazing things with mascara.

If you have a good mascara, using it on its own can be more powerful than you think. It can open your eyes up and make them the focal point of your face. 

Its all in the lips.

A fun idea is to keep the makeup on your face minimal and then brighten things up with a bold lip colour. But that said, adding a tinted lip balm or a lip gloss can be just as effective. 

Never minimize the SPF

Sunscreen is never an option – it is always essential. 

Your skin type is important.

If you don’t know what your skin type is, you need to find out. It will make a difference in the products you buy and how you use them so it is more important than you think. 

Stick to the basics. 

Once you have cleared your collection, focus on keeping just the items you actually use on a regular basis.  

09/08/2021
Powerful Women in Beauty

August is Women’s Month in South Africa. At Burst we are always celebrating the amazing women around us. But this is a great time to celebrate women in beauty who have come before us and made a way for us to follow.

Makeup works with fashion – the two combined make powerful, bold statements, allowing women to shine their light brighter. 

The beauty industry has a history of strong women who have started their own business and built powerful, iconic brands that have had a lasting influence on the industry. 

We are highlighting just a few of these strong, powerful women. 

Estée Lauder

Probably the most iconic of all the women in beauty, Este Lauder was Inspired by her chemist uncle. She started out by working with him to mix lotions and skin products and it was in 1953, she created her first fragrance, Youth Dew. Youth Dew was a little different to the French perfumes that were popular at the time in that it was a bath oil and perfume all-in-one. This product became and instant success and there was no stopping Este Lauder from there. One of her more famous quotes “I have never worked a day in my life without selling. If I believe in something, I sell it, and I sell it hard.”

Essie Weingarten

Another popular brand, Essie, was started by Essie Weingarten who, in 1981, took 640 pounds worth of her Essie nail polish to Las Vegas. She left samples of her 12 original colors in the most luxurious casino hotels and salons in Las Vegas. It took only 10 days for everyone to call her back and place an order. Word quickly spread and suddenly Essie was a world wide success. She took nail polish to the next level by including vibrant shades, nudes, and metallics in her collection. 

Bobbi Brown

Not only is Bobbi Brown known for her makeup line, she has also written 8 successful books – amazing, right? Bobbi Brown started out as a makeup artist and only officially launched her Essentials line in the 90’s, her aim was to simplify makeup for busy women. She did this my creating 10 lipsticks and a small selection of foundation sticks – allowing women to create a collection of basics.

Sonia Kashuk

Sonia Kashuk used her experience in fashion design as her inspiration for her beauty empire. Her career began in New York in the ‘80s and she has built a successful beauty brand based on color, shape, and form. She has worked with Cindy Crawford since the model was 17 years old and collaborated on Cindy Crawford’s Basic Face in 1996. Kashuk’s was the first makeup artist to bring luxury but affordable makeup to the mass market at Target.

Pat McGrath

Often referred to as the most influential makeup artist in the world, Pat McGrath has no formal training or qualifications. Despite that she has worked on shoots for publications like i-D and big name designers like  John Galliano and Jil Sanders, She has created extreme editorial looks and is best know for her inventive looks that use bold colors. Pat is also very involved in supporting young talent and runs Instagram contests, giving the winners the opportunity to work with her during  fashion week. She’s recently launched her first beauty product.

Odile Gilbert

Oldie Gilbert is old school but unforgettable. She started her career in the early ’80s and has worked with countless famous designers from Helmut Newton to Steven Klein and has years of experience backstage for  Chanel, Christian Dior, and John Galliano. She is well known for her larger than life creations and if she did not already have enough success she launched a line of hair accessories in 2001.

Sally Hershberger

Sally Hershberger is the queen of celebrity hair. When she opened her salon in New York City, she charged $600 for a cut which was the most price at the time. She rose to fame as the it-girl-slash-model of perfectly undone hair, creating Meg Ryan’s signature shag. She changed hairstyling forever.

Michelle Phan

Michelle Phan opened up the world of beauty to a whole new audience by becoming the ultimate  Youtube influencer in 2007. Many attribute the spike in DIY beauty content creators to Michelle.  She has collaborated with big name brands like Lancome and L’Oréal, and has her own beauty subscription service. 

Emily Weiss

Emily Weiss launched her blog, Into the Gloss in 2010. The motivation for this blog came about because Emily felt that the was no authentic, honest coverage of the fashion industry.  She not only does product reviews but has featured high-profile women like Gigi Hadid and Cindy Crawford. During these interviews she showcases behind the scenes of peoples lives. When Emily launched her first product line Glossier, it was met positively and is a huge success. 

Charlotte Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury is a British makeup artist with an editorial background. She has worked with Kate Moss, Mario Testino, Tom Ford, Gisele Bündchen, to name a few. Charlotte went on to launch a sucessful YouTube channel in 2012 and has built an almost cult like following of women of all ages. Following the success of her YouTube channel she went on to launch a chic line of products in 2013.

Laura Mercier

The name Laura Mercier is synonymous with perfect skin. She started her makeup journey when she was just 17 years old in her France. Laura moved to New York in 1985 to join the team that launched Elle in the U.S. Her work has appeared in various magazines and fashion campaigns from Bergdorf Goodman to Bloomingdale’s and she has worked closely with Madonna. Mercier started her cosmetic line in 1996 and her values include natural beauty and creating the “flawless face,” – values that have stood the test of time.

Who are some of your favourite women in beauty?

Burst Brushes have a range of quality makeup brushes and makeup products for both the professional makeup artist to those just starting out on their makeup journey. 

Browse our collection of brushes online and add a few of our brushes to your collection. We also have a range of amazing lipsticks and mascara for you to add to your collection. 

We have made shopping online for makeup brushes simple and easy!

21/07/2021
How To Do a Skin Detox

The world is completely upside down right now. We are all a little stressed and anxious about a lot of things. This takes its toll on our skin and can leave it looking dull and as tired as we feel. The good news is that a skin detox can help to breathe life back into your skin, allowing your skin to recover and get back it’s natural glow.

What is a Skin Detox?

Part of the skin’s function is to protect the body against excessive water loss and infection. It is also involved in helping to regulate the body’s temperature, insulation and Vitamin D production. When your skin gets dirty and your pores clogged up, your body is not able to adequately do what it needs to do. This is what causes it to look dull and tired. If you are not detoxing your skin regularly you will also notice that it looks inflamed and red with an increase in blemishes.

A skin detox allows you to purge your skin of all the dirt and grime that has collected and settled on it. Once the impurities have been cleaned out your pH levels will be restored and your skin will start to look brighter and healthier. During your skin detox, it is likely that your skin will break out. It might also break out, then clear up and break out again. This is normal and is part of the detox process.

Why do you need to detox?

There are a few factors that are likely to contribute to the need for a skin detox.

  • Stress. For many when they get stressed it shows up in their skin in the form of pimples, inflammation and redness.
  • Congestion. If you wear heavy makeup daily or work in an environment where you are exposed to pollution (like a restaurant), your skin will get congested and this results in dehydrated and dull skin.
  • Too much sugar. An excess of sugar can lead to skin inflammation and is one of the leading contributors of acne.
  • Bad habits. Smoking, drinking, not getting enough sleep or not drinking enough water can all contribute to the state of your skin.

How to do a skin detox.

There are a few easy things you can do to help your skin detox and restore it to it’s natural glow.

A well-balanced diet

Diet plays a really big role in the state of your skin. During a detox it is best to ditch all the fried foods, sodas and excessive sugar. Replace them with more fresh fruit and vegetables. Try to include broccoli, bananas, walnuts, pears and avocados – these will all help to restore your skin’s glow.

Exercise

Working out is an important part of your detox process. When your skin sweats and your heart rate is increased it helps to flush out the toxins and impurities. Try to get your heart rate up a few times a week when you are detoxing.

Facial Treatments

Book yourself a detoxing facial at your local beauty salon or dermatologist. You can do a face mask or two at home but investing in a proper facial is a great way to really clear out those pores.

Double Cleanse

You can add a double cleanse to your daily process, even when you aren’t detoxing. This process involves a pre-cleanser and then a cleanser. The pre-cleanser eliminates any pollutants that may have accumulated throughout the day which makes the cleanser’s job a lot easier.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is always a good way to bring some life back to your skin. When you exfoliate you remove flaky skin cells and remove any dead skin, leaving you with clear skin.

Hydrate properly

Adding a serum to your skin will help to hydrate your skin while it is detoxing. When your skin is hydrated correctly it allows for other products to be absorbed better. Increasing your water intake will also obviously help top flush out the toxins and leave your skin looking healthier.

Make some lifestyle changes

During a detox, reduce (or stop) smoking, limit the amount of alcohol you are drinking and make sure you get enough sleep. Cutting down on processed sugar is also a good idea. If you are struggling with sweet cravings, have a few pieces of dark chocolate or grab some fruit

Burst Brushes have a range of quality makeup brushes and makeup products for both the professional makeup artist to those just starting out on their makeup journey. 

Browse our collection of brushes online and add a few of our brushes to your collection. We also have a range of amazing lipsticks and mascara for you to add to your collection. 

We have made shopping online for makeup brushes simple and easy!

12/07/2021
Shop Makeup More Sustainably

#PlasticFreeJuly is celebrated around the world every year. The aim of this movement is not necessary to stop all use of plastic but rather for us all to be more mindful of what we are consuming when it comes to plastic. 

It can feel overwhelming to try get rid of all the plastic currently in your make up drawer or even your bathroom for that matter. So don’t focus on getting rid of it all – start small and make one small change at a time. Living sustainably also doesn’t mean never buying anything in plastic but rather it is about being aware of what type of plastic it is – can it be recycled? Is there maybe a glass or tin alternative? Can you reuse the container?

If you are trying to live a little more sustainably, we have put together a few ideas for you to try this #plasticfreejuly.

Upcycle storage: Instead of buying new storage, use upcycled glass jars, tins or gift boxes. Add your brushes to a little glass jars so they are easy to see and access. Line your lipsticks up in a little gift box and store your eye shadows in a funky tin. We have created a whole Pinterest board dedicated to upcycled makeup storage. 

Ditch the makeup wipes: You do not need piles of cotton pads to remove your makeup with. Cotton pads are not a sustainable product and there are much better options. You can get one of our reusable makeup removers, it will last you years and you wont have to worry about remembering to add cotton buds to your trolley every month. This is a much friendlier option and actually works so much better.  

Pay attention to the packaging: When you are buying new products, check the packaging. Can it be recycled? If not is there a possible glass alternative? Is there an option to refill packaging? Wherever possible try to find products that use as little packaging as possible. You don’t have to give up your favourite makeup products, just look for options that are kinder to the environment. 

Minimize your routine and products: A good beauty routine doesn’t have to be long and complicated to be effective, if you use a few quality products it can be just as effective. Take a look at the products you are using, do you really need them all? Can you cut down on a product or two? If you don’t want to give up the brand you are using, cutting out one product can make your routine more sustainable. 

Use what you have before buying more: This one is a hard one for the die-hard makeup lovers but as tempting as it is, try to only buy more makeup when your current makeup is finished. Do you really need 10 shades of lipstick – or can you make do with 2 or 3?

Shop local: Support, small local brands – like Burst Makeup Brushes!

Burst Brushes have a range of quality makeup brushes and makeup products for both the professional makeup artist to those just starting out on their makeup journey. 

Browse our collection of brushes online and add a few of our brushes to your collection. We also have a range of amazing lipsticks and mascara for you to add to your collection. 

We have made shopping online for makeup brushes simple and easy!

10/06/2021
How To Detox Your Skin

The skin on your face takes a beating, every single day. It is the one part of your body that is constantly exposed to the elements. It is also the one part of our bodies we take for granted the most! You probably haven’t even considered a skin detox but it might be time to consider one.

When to do a skin detox.

If you listen to your body, it will tell you exactly what it needs and when.

If your usually glowing skin has started looking dull, it might be time for a detox.

If you are suddenly dealing with a painful breakout, it might be time for a detox.

If your normally dry skin is now extra oil, yup you guessed it, time to detox.

Other signs also include skin discoloration, eye puffiness, inflammation or redness. Basically anytime you notice any negative changes, you want to try out a detox.

What is a skin detox?

A skin detox is a lot more than simply applying a mask once a month, or even once a month. While a regular mask should be a part of your skin care routine, a skin detox needs to take it to the next level and focus on more than just a mask.

Check what you are eating

What we put into our bodies, shows on our skin. The more processed food (and sugar) you eat the more dull your skin is going to appear. But we know it happens, especially during the time of a pandemic – eating healthy is often the first thing to go out the window. If you are noticing that your skin is not looking great, look at what you are eating!

Try as much as possible to ditch the fast food, sugar and other overly processed food as a part of your skin detox. Add more fresh fruit and veggies to your daily diet and add in some omega-3-fatty acids, like avocados, walnuts and olive oil. Leafy greens are so good when you are doing a detox of any kind, try to add them to as many meals as possible throughout the day.

If you do have intolerances, you definitely want to avoid those foods completely as they can trigger skin breakouts, inflamed skin and even rashes.

Hydrate constantly

Water is so important and when you are trying to detox it becomes even more important. For many getting that daily water in is a struggle but it is a struggle that is worth it. You can add some citrus or cucumber to the water to change up the flavour. Do what you need to get it in though because it really is vital to your detox.

A good idea is to add apple cider vinegar to your first glass of water for the day. Apple cider vinegar has so many benefits and can help your detox process.

Skincare

Once you have ditched the take out and added some water, it is time to look at your skincare routine and make a few changes to your skin detox. When you are detoxing your skin, you want to really shift your focus to cleansing and clearing out all the impurities.

This means adding in a deep cleanse to your skin at night using an oil cleanser. An oil cleanser allows you to get a really deep clean but remember to take off all your makeup first!

Once you have cleaned your skin properly, apply a clay mask. Clay masks are so good for deep cleaning your skin. You can also do a charcoal mask which will balance out any oiliness. Peels are also great options when you are doing a skin detox because they peel away dead skin, encouraging new growth.

Don’t forget about the rest of your body during a detox. You can dry brush your entire body, removing dead skin and detoxing the skin.

If it is at all possible, avoid makeup while you are trying to detox your skin. If you do need to wear makeup, try keep it as minimal as possible and make sure you remove it thoroughly.

Don’t forget to follow us on facebook or instagram to stay up to date with what we are up to during lock down.

browse our selection of brushes online!