Real Techniques Limited Edition Brush Crush Volume II Collection

The countdown to Christmas is on and after wrapping countless gifts, trimming the tree and planning a holiday feast, you deserve fabulous new brushes to ring in the New Year. Instagrammable beauty tools have become very trendy so many brands have found creative new ways to style their handles, bristles and packaging. I’ve seen unicorn shades, mermaid motifs and tons of glitter but the Real Techniques Brush Crush Collection is decked out with icy metallic frost.

I own many Real Technique Brushes but these beauties exceed the quality of previous designs. The bristles are dense, durable, less floppy and extremely silky. The plush texture and fine fibers feel soft against the skin with no shedding.

The Powder Brush ($17.99) is my favorite! It was engineered to apply product with a smooth, even finish and help blur the look of pores. The Foundation Brush ($17.99) has an angled cut and flat surface to help buff in liquids and creams. Use small circular motions for flawless seam-free coverage. The Blush Brush ($17.99) is a great size for precisely blending color on the cheeks.

My preferred method of application is a Beauty Blender but the Diamond Sponge ($13.99) is ingenious! Use the bottom surface all over the face and switch to the pointed tip for application around the nose. The long triangular sections are perfect for applying powder, contouring bronzer or concealer and blending translucent powder after baking. Don't forget to dampen your sponge so it plumps up and softens for a smooth finish.

The Cosmic Sponge Duo ($14.99) resembles distant planets and the pack comes with 2 sizes. The material isn't as soft or as porous as the Diamond but if you prefer smaller applicators and don’t have many blemishes, they get the job done.

Real Techniques is available at: Jean Coutu, London Drugs, Walmart and farleyco.ca.