Every Real Techniques brush is color coded and labeled to serve as a guide for beginners, but that doesn’t mean the brushes are basic! Sam and Nic designed each brush to work in multiple areas of the face. The versatile design, paired with all-purpose taklon bristles (works with powder, cream and lotions) makes for a multitude of application options.

Here are a few of Sam + Nic’s favourite alternative techniques:

sculpting brush

Original: Apply a cream or powder contour under the cheekbones, jawline and temples.

Alter Ego: Buff on liquid foundation effortlessly with the dense, angled bristles.

deluxe crease brush

Original: Press powder or cream eye shadow over the lower eye lid, then blend out the edges.

Alter Ego: Evenly apply concealer under the eye (fits perfectly into the orbital bone) and around the nose bridge and nostrils.

202 angled liner

Original: Line eyes effortlessly with gel or powder eye liner.

Alter Ego: Fill in and shape eyebrows with a brow powder.

102 triangle concealer

Original: Use the flat side to smooth on concealer anywhere that you need more coverage.

Alter Ego: Flip brush and use the pointed triangle side to apply a color corrector under the eyes.

setting brush

Original: Sweep setting powder under the eye or apply a highlighter on the top of cheek bones and under brows.

Alter Ego: Press a powder eye shadow along the hairline to cover light or gray roots.

buffing brush

Original: Buff in moisturizer or primer over face for a smooth finish.

Alter Ego: Apply a self tanner along the face and neck with circular strokes.