The year 2026 is set to welcome the comeback of maximalist makeup looks. Expect bright colors and eye-popping editorial styles made possible by graphic eyeliners, vibrant eyeshadows, glimmering glitters, and more. Undeniably, one of the key secrets to achieving these looks is not just the makeup itself, but the brush.

To help you decide which local makeup brushes are truly worth the investment, the author tested these collections over several months, from personal wear to professional client use. Here are the honest verdicts.

These collections from Strokes topped the list. Known for their patented amber marble handles, the brushes are designed with ergonomic grips that allow comfortable handling and precise control. They feature soft yet dense faux goat hair that blends makeup smoothly without the uncomfortable tusok-tusok feeling. After six months of testing, the strong bristles showed no shedding.

If you want to try one brush first, Brush #3 Foundation is a safe choice for achieving a seamless blend of foundation, whether liquid or cream. Brush #4 Contour is also worth picking up. With its curated geometric bristle shape, it mimics the natural flow of the jawline and cheeks, making it ideal for cream or liquid contour and bronzer application. Meanwhile, the complete Eye Series Collection is a reliable companion for creating creative and detailed eye makeup looks.

Handmade by artisans, this collection is one of the softest yet strongest on the list. Made with ultra-fine synthetic bristles, the brushes deliver pro-grade performance and can be used with creams, liquids, and powders. Since the brushes are dual-ended, they require extra care when storing.

If you want to try one brush, the LC-19 Contour Brush is a good starting point. It features a slim angled brush for precise cheekbone sculpting, while the other end is designed for nose contour. Another standout is the LC-20 Blush Brush. While one end is meant for cream blush, the author enjoyed using it as a liquid foundation brush due to its similarity to Makeup by Mario’s F4 brush. The other end is a rounded powder blush brush that diffuses color beautifully for a healthy flush finish.

This is one of the most sought-after collaborations of 2025. The collection gives off a luxurious, premium feel and includes some of the densest and strongest brushes tested. While some reviews mention a prickly sensation, the author did not experience this. The brushes were also used on clients, and no negative feedback regarding discomfort was received.

Since the brushes come in sets rather than individual pieces, starting with the Flawless Face Set is recommended. It features the Jumbo Buffer, Conceal and Perfect Duo Brush, and Airbrush Smoothing Puff. With these three tools, achieving a flawless makeup base is easy.

This is the most beginner-friendly collection on the list. The Kitsune brushes are multi-use and feature antimicrobial bristles that feel soft and smooth on the skin. They blend makeup easily and effortlessly. Their petite size also makes them ideal for travel. However, for professional makeup artists, the shorter handles may pose a challenge for certain techniques.

If you are not ready to purchase the full set, starting with the T01 Spatula Brush and the T3 Complexion Cream Brush is recommended. The Spatula Brush works best for skincare and foundation application, while the Complexion Cream Brush is suitable for blush, bronzer, and contour.

If you prefer fluffier, fuller, and bigger brushes for faster application, this collection may not be for you. Designed to deliver an airbrush finish, the bristles provide smooth application across liquid, cream, and powder formulations.

Instead of getting the full set, you can start with the JE04 Angled Cheek Brush and the JE06 Dual-Ended Detailing Brush. The JE04 is ideal for achieving a sculpted look, while the detailing brush works well for creating natural-looking eyebrow makeup. Since the brushes feature light beige bristles, frequent cleaning is recommended to keep them looking fresh and to prevent color stains.

From everyday wear to full editorial looks, the right brush can change how makeup applies and performs on the skin. After months of testing, these local brushes prove that good tools are not just about aesthetics, but about comfort, control, and consistency. As beauty trends grow bolder, having brushes you can rely on makes all the difference.