Your Guide to the Best Makeup Brush Brands (Plus, Cruelty-Free Favourites!)

Your Guide to the Best Makeup Brush Brands (Plus, Cruelty-Free Favourites!)

I. Introduction: Finding Your Perfect Makeup Brush Brand

Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of makeup brushes brand names out there? We get it – the beauty aisle can feel like a jungle! From luxury names to budget-friendly finds, choosing the right brushes can be a daunting task, especially if you're not sure what all those different makeup brush names even mean!

But don't worry, lovelies – we're here to help you navigate the world of makeup brushes with confidence. The good news is that there are fantastic options for every budget, preference, and skill level. Whether you're a makeup newbie or a seasoned pro, finding the perfect brushes for you is all about understanding what matters most.

At Nanshy, we believe in creating high-quality, cruelty-free makeup tools that are accessible to everyone. So let's explore the key factors to consider when choosing a brush brand, plus some of our top recommendations (with a special focus on those who share our commitment to ethical beauty!).

⭐ Quick Recommendation: New to brush shopping? Start with the Nanshy Masterful Collection – it's 100% cruelty-free, vegan, and includes all the essential brushes you need to create any look.

The 5 Best Makeup Brush Brands in 2025

After extensive testing and comparing dozens of brands, here are our top 5 picks that deliver exceptional quality across different price points:

Brand Price Best For Cruelty-Free Vegan Rating
🏆 Nanshy £-££ Best all-around quality & ethics at affordable prices ✓ ✓ 9.5/10
Hakuhodo £££-££££ Japanese craftsmanship & luxury natural hair ✓ ✗ 9.3/10
Real Techniques £-££ Reliable everyday brushes for all skill levels ✓ ✗ 8.8/10
Sigma Beauty ££-£££ Professional-grade synthetic brushes ✓ ✗ 8.7/10
EcoTools £ Budget-friendly eco-conscious options ✓ ✓ 8.5/10

Why Nanshy takes the top spot: Nanshy is the only brand in our top 5 that's both 100% cruelty-free AND vegan without compromising on quality. Their premium synthetic bristles rival luxury natural hair brushes at a fraction of the price, making professional-quality tools accessible to everyone.

II. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Brush Brand

While a flashy brand name might catch your eye, choosing the right makeup brushes goes beyond simply picking the most popular or expensive option. Here's what to consider before you add to your basket:

1. Bristle Type: Natural vs. Synthetic

Natural Bristles: Made from animal hair (like goat, squirrel, or sable), known for their softness and ability to blend powder products seamlessly.

face sculpting brush bristles

Synthetic Bristles: Made from synthetic fibres (like nylon or taklon), excellent for applying liquid and cream products, and a must-have for those seeking vegan-friendly options.

✨ Nanshy Tip: Modern synthetic bristles (like ours!) now match or exceed natural hair performance, making them the ethical choice without any compromise. Learn more in our guide on Different Types of Makeup Brushes.

2. Quality and Durability: Spotting a Well-Made Brush

Check the Bristles: Look for densely packed bristles that feel soft and don't shed easily.

Examine the Ferrule: The ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles) should be securely attached to the handle and free of any gaps or rough edges.

Close-up of The Eye Brush Set featuring elegant pearl-coated handles and soft, antibacterial synthetic bristles.

Handle with Care: The handle should be comfortable to grip and well-balanced.

3. Price Point: Budget-Friendly to Luxe

Affordable Options (£5-£25): Don't underestimate the power of a good budget brush! Brands like Nanshy, EcoTools, and e.l.f. offer excellent quality for those starting their makeup journey.

Mid-Range Choices (£25-£60): A great balance of quality and price. Perfect for upgrading your collection with brands like Real Techniques, Zoeva, and Sigma Beauty.

Luxury Brushes (£60+): Often made with premium materials and exceptional craftsmanship. Japanese brands like Hakuhodo and Chikuhodo, plus innovative brands like Rephr.

4. Ethics: Choosing Cruelty-Free and Vegan

At Nanshy, we're passionate about creating beautiful makeup tools without harming any furry friends. That's why all of our brushes are 100% cruelty-free and vegan. When choosing a brand, look for certifications like the Leaping Bunny or PETA's cruelty-free logo to ensure ethical practices.

By considering these factors, you can find the perfect makeup brush brand that aligns with your needs, values, and budget! 😊

Best Makeup Brush Sets by Budget

Looking for a complete brush collection? Here are our top set recommendations for every budget:

🌟 Best Overall: Under £30

EcoTools Start the Day Beautifully Set – Eco-friendly bamboo handles, great for sustainable beauty lovers.

e.l.f. Total Face Brush Set – Ultra-affordable starter set with all the basics.

Mid-Range Excellence: £30-£60

Nanshy Masterful Collection – 12 essential brushes, cruelty-free & vegan, with names engraved on handles. Perfect for beginners and pros alike.

Real Techniques Everyday Essentials – Color-coded handles, duo-fibre technology.

Sigma Beauty Essential Kit – Professional-grade synthetic bristles.

Zoeva Screen Queen Complete Set – Comprehensive face and eye brush collection.

Luxury Investment: £60+

Hakuhodo Basic Selection – Hand-crafted Japanese brushes, natural hair.

Wayne Goss Collection – Celebrity makeup artist-designed brushes.

Chikuhodo Passion Series – Ultra-luxury Japanese craftsmanship.

💡 Pro Tip: You don't need to spend a fortune for professional results! Nanshy brushes consistently outperform brands 3x the price. Compare them yourself risk-free!

Premium Japanese Makeup Brushes

Japanese brush-making is a centuries-old craft passed down through generations. These artisan-made brushes are renowned for their exceptional softness, precise shaping, and meticulous attention to detail.

Top Japanese Brush Brands:

Hakuhodo – The gold standard of Japanese brushes. Hand-crafted using traditional techniques, offering both natural and synthetic options. Known for their incredible softness and longevity. (£££-££££)

Chikuhodo – Ultra-luxury Japanese brushes made by master craftsmen. Each brush is a work of art, with unparalleled quality and performance. (££££)

Koyudo – Family-run business creating exquisite brushes using traditional Japanese methods. Particularly beloved for their powder and blush brushes. (£££-££££)

Sonia G – Modern Japanese-inspired design meeting traditional craftsmanship. Created by makeup artist Sonia G., these brushes blend innovation with heritage. (£££)

Suqqu – Japanese luxury brand known for minimalist design and exceptional performance. (£££)

Want Japanese-quality without the luxury price tag? Nanshy's premium synthetic bristles are inspired by Japanese craftsmanship, offering that same silky-soft touch and precise application at prices that won't make your wallet cry. Explore our collection →

Innovative & Cult Favorite Brands

These brands have gained devoted followings for their unique designs and exceptional performance:

Rephr – Revolutionary magnetic brush technology for easy storage and travel. Luxurious quality with innovative design. Cruelty-free. (££££)

Wayne Goss – Designed by celebrity makeup artist Wayne Goss, these brushes are engineered for professional results. Known for their revolutionary foundation brush. Cruelty-free. (£££)

Rae Morris – Features innovative magnetic closure and premium craftsmanship. Created by Australian makeup artist Rae Morris. Cruelty-free. (£££)

Artis – CosmeFibre technology with unique handle-less design. Known for their oval brushes that changed the industry. Cruelty-free. (££££)

Best Professional Makeup Brushes

Whether you're a working makeup artist or simply want professional-grade tools, these brands are trusted by industry pros:

Nanshy Professional Range – Used by professional makeup artists worldwide. Premium synthetic bristles that perform like natural hair. 100% cruelty-free & vegan. (£-££) Shop Now →

Sigma Beauty – Professional-grade brushes trusted by MUAs. Excellent synthetic options. Cruelty-free. (££-£££)

Bdellium Tools – Professional brushes with antibacterial bristles. Eco-friendly and cruelty-free. (££)

Louise Young – Hand-made professional brushes from the UK. Cruelty-free. (£££)

MyKitCo – Professional makeup tools with innovative designs. Cruelty-free. (££)

Best Budget-Friendly Makeup Brushes

Quality doesn't have to break the bank! These brands prove you can get excellent brushes without spending a fortune:

🏆 Nanshy – Best value for money. Professional quality at budget-friendly prices. 100% cruelty-free & vegan. (£-££)

EcoTools – Eco-friendly bamboo handles, 100% cruelty-free & vegan. (£)

e.l.f. Cosmetics – Ultra-affordable, wide range of vegan options. Cruelty-free & vegan. (£)

Jessup – Budget-friendly professional sets with great quality. Cruelty-free. (£)

Real Techniques – Affordable yet reliable, trusted by millions. Cruelty-free. (£-££)

NYX Cosmetics – Affordable brushes from the popular cosmetics brand. Cruelty-free. (£)

BH Cosmetics – Budget-friendly sets with colorful options. Cruelty-free. (£)

🎯 Budget Tip: Don't assume expensive = better quality. Many budget brands (especially Nanshy!) use the same premium synthetic materials as luxury brands. Read reviews, feel the bristles, and compare performance – you might be surprised!

III. Complete Makeup Brush Brand Directory

Use this comprehensive table to compare brands at a glance. Click the column headers to sort by cruelty-free status, vegan options, or brand name:

Brand Cruelty-Free Vegan Additional Information
Nanshy Yes Yes Premium synthetic brushes, affordable luxury, professional quality
EcoTools Yes Yes Eco-friendly bamboo handles, budget-friendly vegan brushes
Spectrum Collection Yes Yes Colorful themed designs, cruelty-free & vegan options
e.l.f. Cosmetics Yes Yes Ultra-affordable vegan products, wide range
Rephr Yes Partial Magnetic luxury brushes, innovative design, premium quality
Wayne Goss Yes No Celebrity makeup artist line, luxury Japanese-made brushes
Sonia G Yes No Modern Japanese-inspired design, artisan quality
Koyudo Yes No Traditional Japanese craftsmanship, family-run business
Hakuhodo Yes No Premium Japanese brushes, hand-crafted, luxury quality
Chikuhodo Yes No Ultra-luxury Japanese brushes, master craftsmanship
Japonesque Yes No Japanese-inspired professional brushes and tools
Jessup Yes Partial Budget-friendly professional brush sets
Real Techniques Yes No Affordable high-quality brushes, color-coded handles
Zoeva Yes No Premium German-made brushes and palettes
Sigma Beauty Yes Partial Professional-grade brushes and makeup
Rae Morris Yes No Innovative magnetic brushes, luxury quality
Artis Yes No Revolutionary oval brush design, CosmeFibre technology
IT Cosmetics Yes No High-quality brushes, skincare-infused cosmetics
Bdellium Tools Yes Partial Professional eco-friendly brushes, antibacterial bristles
Anastasia Beverly Hills Yes No Premium brushes and brow products
NYX Cosmetics Yes No Affordable makeup brushes and cosmetics
BH Cosmetics Yes No Colorful affordable palettes and brush sets
Bare Minerals Yes No Mineral-based makeup, specialized brushes
Louise Young Yes No Hand-made professional UK brushes
Tweezerman Yes No High-quality grooming and brush tools
Beauty Blender Yes No Iconic makeup sponges and brush tools
Surratt Yes No Innovative luxury makeup products
Lottie London Yes No Affordable trendy UK makeup brand
MyKitCo Yes No Professional makeup tools, innovative designs
SoEco Yes Partial Sustainable eco-conscious beauty tools
Shany Cosmetics Yes No Affordable makeup and brush sets
Unicorn Yes No Novelty-themed cruelty-free products
Morphe No No Affordable palettes and brushes (not cruelty-free)
MAC No No Professional makeup brand (tests in China, not cruelty-free)
Natasha Denona No No Luxury eyeshadows and brushes (not cruelty-free)
Pat McGrath Labs No No Luxury celebrity makeup line (not cruelty-free)
Fenty Beauty No No Inclusive makeup range (not cruelty-free)
Make Up For Ever No No Professional stage makeup (not cruelty-free)
Shu Uemura No No Japanese luxury brand (not cruelty-free)
Tom Ford No No Ultra-luxury fashion/beauty (not cruelty-free)
Nars No No High-end makeup (tests in China, not cruelty-free)
Dior No No Luxury fashion/beauty brand (not cruelty-free)
Chanel No No Ultra-luxury fashion/beauty (not cruelty-free)
Charlotte Tilbury No No Celebrity luxury makeup (not cruelty-free)
Laura Mercier No No Luxury professional makeup (not cruelty-free)
Lancôme No No Luxury skincare and makeup (not cruelty-free)
Revlon No No Drugstore makeup brand (not cruelty-free)
Kevin Aucoin No No Celebrity luxury makeup line (not cruelty-free)
💚 Choosing Ethical Beauty: Notice how many premium brands still aren't cruelty-free? That's why Nanshy is different – we prove you can have luxury quality AND ethical practices without compromise.

IV. Nanshy: Your Cruelty-Free Go-To for High-Quality Brushes

Looking for makeup brushes that are kind to animals, your skin, and your wallet? Look no further than Nanshy! We're passionate about creating high-quality, cruelty-free makeup tools that are accessible to everyone.

nanshy makeup brushes

Why Choose Nanshy?

  • 100% Cruelty-Free and Vegan: We believe beauty shouldn't come at a cost to our furry friends. All our brushes are certified cruelty-free and made with the finest synthetic bristles.
  • Uncompromising Quality: We use premium synthetic fibres that are incredibly soft, durable, and mimic the performance of natural hair (without the ethical concerns!).
  • Affordable Luxury: We believe everyone deserves access to high-quality makeup tools, which is why we offer our brushes at prices that won't break the bank.
  • Professional Performance: Used by makeup artists worldwide, our brushes deliver salon-quality results every time.

Discover Your New Favourite Brushes:

  1. Masterful Collection Makeup Brush Set: This comprehensive set includes all the essential brushes you need to create flawless face and eye looks. From fluffy blending brushes to precise detailers, the Masterful Collection has you covered. Each brush has its name engraved on the handle for easy identification!
Masterful Collection makeup brush set with 12 essential, cruelty-free, vegan brushes
  1. Buffed Base Brush: Achieve an airbrushed finish with this densely packed brush. It's perfect for applying and blending both liquid and cream foundations for a flawless, streak-free base.
buffed base hair

Ready to Explore?

Shop Our Cruelty-Free Collection and discover the Nanshy difference today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best makeup brush brand overall?
For the best combination of quality, ethics, and value, Nanshy stands out as our top choice. It's the only brand offering professional-quality brushes that are both 100% cruelty-free AND vegan at affordable prices. For those seeking luxury natural hair brushes, Hakuhodo and Chikuhodo are excellent Japanese options.
What makeup brushes do professional makeup artists use?
Professional makeup artists often use a mix of brands including Hakuhodo, Chikuhodo, Wayne Goss, Sigma Beauty, and increasingly Nanshy. The key is choosing brushes with dense, high-quality bristles that don't shed and provide precise application. Many pros are switching to premium synthetic brushes like Nanshy's for their hygienic properties and consistent performance.
Are expensive makeup brushes worth it?
Not always! While some luxury brushes justify their price with exceptional craftsmanship, many affordable brands like Nanshy prove that premium synthetic brushes can match or exceed luxury brush performance at a fraction of the cost. Focus on bristle quality, ferrule construction, and reviews rather than just price. A £15 Nanshy brush often performs better than a £60 luxury brush.
What's the difference between natural and synthetic makeup brushes?
Natural bristles (made from animal hair) were traditionally preferred for powder products, while synthetic bristles (nylon/taklon) excelled with liquids and creams. However, modern synthetic technology has advanced so much that premium synthetic brushes now match natural hair in softness and blending while offering better hygiene, easier cleaning, and ethical production. Nanshy's synthetic bristles are a perfect example of this advancement.
Which makeup brush brands are cruelty-free and vegan?
The best 100% cruelty-free AND vegan brands include: Nanshy, EcoTools, e.l.f. Cosmetics, and Spectrum Collection. Many other brands are cruelty-free but not fully vegan (they may use some natural hair): Real Techniques, Sigma Beauty, Zoeva, NYX, and BH Cosmetics. Always check for Leaping Bunny or PETA certification.
How many makeup brushes do I really need?
For a complete makeup routine, you need 8-12 essential brushes: foundation brush, powder brush, blush brush, contour brush, highlighter brush, and several eye brushes (flat shader, blending brush, crease brush, detail brush). The Nanshy Masterful Collection includes all these essentials in one affordable set.
Are Japanese makeup brushes better?
Japanese brushes like Hakuhodo, Chikuhodo, and Koyudo are renowned for exceptional craftsmanship and softness, making them worth the investment if you prefer natural hair brushes. However, they're expensive and not vegan. Modern premium synthetic brushes (like Nanshy's) now offer comparable softness and superior hygiene at much lower prices, making them a smart alternative.

V. Finding Your Perfect Match: Nanshy's Brush Guides

Ready to dive deeper into the world of makeup brushes? We've got you covered! Our expert guides will help you choose the perfect tools for your needs and skill level:

  1. Brush Types Decoded: Still unsure about the difference between a stippling brush and a fan brush? Our comprehensive guide to Different Types of Makeup Brushes breaks down all the essential brushes and their uses, so you can create any look with confidence.

Learn More About Brush Types!

  1. The Art of the Brush Set: Building your brush collection can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! Our Guide to Makeup Brush Sets helps you choose the perfect set for your skill level, makeup style, and budget.

Discover Your Perfect Makeup Brush Set!

At Nanshy, we're not just about selling brushes – we're about empowering you to feel confident and creative with your makeup! Explore our resources and discover the joy of flawless application.

VI. Stay Connected & Get Expert Tips!

Want to stay in the loop on the latest beauty trends, exclusive discounts, and expert makeup tips? Join the Nanshy community!

Sign up for our newsletter: Be the first to know about new product launches, special offers, and get access to exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.

Follow us on social media: We love connecting with fellow beauty enthusiasts! Find us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for daily inspiration, tutorials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

We can't wait to connect with you! ✨

--- Citations: [1] https://www.crueltyfreekitty.com/list-of-cruelty-free-brands/ [2] https://www.peta.org/living/personal-care-fashion/completely-vegan-beauty-and-body-product-brands/ [3] https://www.veganbeautygirl.co.uk/cruelty-free-luxury-makeup-brands/ [4] https://www.leapingbunny.org [5] https://www.unsustainablemagazine.com/vegan-makeup-a-guide-to-cruelty-free-cosmetics-brands/

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Let customers speak for us

from 677 reviews
Large Clear. Makeup Bag

Excellent strong product which holds all my nail and chiropody equipment. Highly recommended , thank you.

Anon
Large Clear Makeup Kit Bag
Large Clear Makeup Kit Bag
Love these brushes

These are the best brushes I have used. Every one I have purchased has been amazing

Susan Gibson
Face Perfector
Face Perfector
Can I Get A Witness? 💗💗💗

Can I get a witness to how stunningly beautiful Nanshy brushes are in every way? - Appearance, Aesthetics, Function and sheer loveliness. I just want them all, but I don't need them all. - Fluffy, dreamily soft or firm, you will find the perfect Nanshy brush for you.

Thank you, Nanshy, for bringing these gorgeous and glamorous brushes to us. 💗 It's a joy.

Deborah
Skincare Therapist & Trainer

Deborah
Pencil Brush
Pencil Brush
Stunning brush!

This is the most gorgeous brush! The bristles are really soft and great for applying foundation for a flawless look!

Rachel Lang
Stippling Brush
Stippling Brush
Perfect perfector

The brush that can do everything. A serious multi tasker, the brush I reach for every time I open my kit

Natalie
Face Perfector
Face Perfector
Brilliant

Absolutely love these brushes. Took a risk buying them but so glad I did, my make up goes on lovely 😊 I have tried numerous brushes in the past and I can definitely say these are the best.
Definitely recommend you give them a try 😊

Sue Bates
Blush & Bronze
Blush & Bronze
Quality makeup tools

I recommend Nanshy products. The brushes are so soft and I love the powder puffs

Valerie Arthur
Velvet Powder Puff Duo
Velvet Powder Puff Duo
Quality makeup tooy

Loved the brushes I received and the beauty blender is so soft and gets the job done

Valerie Arthur
Flawless Foundation
Flawless Foundation
Fantastic 👍

Love the shape of these powder puffs.
I use the small one regularly and it's perfect for the eye area.
Just wish you could buy them separately as I'm unlikely to use the big one.

Lorraine
Velvet Powder Puff Duo
Velvet Powder Puff Duo
So soft, blends beautifully

I love how soft this brush is and it blends out eyeshadow so well, works great on both high end products as well as super cheap eyeshadows to give great results. I’ve tried other brushes and powder puffs from Nanshy also which have all been great !

Jade M
Blending Eyeshadow
Blending Eyeshadow
The best

I’m a makeup artist and have used plenty of ranges of brushes, but these are by far the best i have ever used.

Michaela Smith
Brow Brush Set
Brow Brush Set

I love the brush a lot so solid,the makeup is so quality and beautiful

Gloria
Travel Organiser Bag
Travel Organiser Bag
marioa

thanks good

jhon
Clear Makeup Bag
Clear Makeup Bag
5 stars for a wonderful beauty blender

I’ll say it again, 5 big stars! Feels so nice on the skin and when wet it puffs up a lot. Easy to use and is cute colour too!

Karina Longley
Dusty Rose Makeup Blending Sponge
Dusty Rose Makeup Blending Sponge
Gorgeous Powder Puffs!

Wow! These are so velvety and soft! They works so well and I love that for an affordable price you get two and at such good quality! 10/10 from me.

Karina Longley
Velvet Powder Puff Duo
Velvet Powder Puff Duo

What customers think about the store

Nanshy offers exceptional quality makeup brushes, beauty blenders, and accessories at affordable prices. Customers rave about the soft, flawless application, easy blending, and versatility of the products. The cruelty-free and vegan brushes provide professiona...

AI-generated from customer reviews.

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