Brushes used to paint on color and lightener come in a variety of sizes and types. As a hairstylist, do you know what the best use for each is?! I’ve got to be honest, it took me a while to learn this. I’ve tried so many brushes and thrown out more than I can count because I didn’t love the quality or the feel of them in my hand while working.
Root touch-ups demand precision and control so there is little to no overlap onto previously colored/lightened hair (think about those pesky areas that are hard to keep from overlapping, especially on a bleach service.) The best brush for root touch-ups is one that is shorter and more rigid. My favorite brushes for precision applications are the Firm Bristle 2 pack from Fromm.
All-over applications require quickness, precision, and saturation. Feather brushes are soft and come in a variety of widths to ensure timing is maintained while applying the product. The soft bristles on these Fromm 2 1/4″ brushes are ideal for global applications and perfect for clients who are a bit more tender-headed during root touch-ups. This is my go-to daily use brush.
Balayage and foilyage need softness but also the ability to saturate. Think about those money pieces and bright pops that need some extra attention, you need the right tools to make it look 112% perfect. There are a few different styles to create this look, including foam brushes, paintbrushes, and blending brushes (I even bought brushes from Home Depot to try at one point, which I do not recommend because they usually contain some metal around the handle). Softer-looking applications are easily achieved using an extra soft and extra-wide brush such as the Soft Wide Paint Brush from Fromm. It’s got a seriously comfortable handle and makes balayage applications a breeze plus it’s easy to clean which is a BONUS!
These recommendations are based on my experience behind the chair and trying out multiple tools since becoming a licensed cosmetologist in 2015. Use what works best for you and your clients, as always.
Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.