The 7 Best Vegan Makeup Brushes

When it comes to beauty, there seems to exist a maxim that natural beauty products are ultimately better because synthetics are harmful to our health and the planet. When it comes to makeup brushes, though, those wishing to avoid animal hair brushes can turn to synthetic vegan makeup brushes to help them craft their looks.

There are plenty of reasons to choose synthetic brushes, the obvious one being that they're a great way to ensure that the sourcing of the bristles used in your brush was cruelty-free. Although natural, cruelty-free brushes do exist, they're harder to come by and are often a little pricier. Most natural bristle brushes contain fur or hairs from animals, some of which have been killed for those furs. In my experience, they're easier to wash, last longer, can blend liquid makeup better, are hypoallergenic, and cost less. Sounds pretty ideal, right?Unfortunately, cheaply made synthetic bristles can be rough to the touch (ouch!) and feel plastic-y. Finding the right synthetic makeup brush is usually a game of trial and error or being willing to accept less than the best — except when you have me on your side.I've tried my hand at many natural brushes and brush sets that are disappointing, but these seven brands stand out as winners. So build up your synthetic brush collection with these vegan makeup brush brands.

1. Too Faced

Too Faced Teddy Bear Hair 5-Piece Brush Set, $65, Sephora

Too Faced's cult-status Teddy Bear Hair brushes are some of the softest, most supple brushes that I've ever touched in my life. Their five-piece brush set is an affordable way to get some luxury beauty tools in your collection, especially if you're an eye makeup enthusiast.

2. Alima Pure

Alima Pure #8 Itahake Brush, $18, alimapure

This line of Taklon fiber brushes is a favorite and their powder brushes dominate my makeup bag. When it comes to brushes for facial powders, they really can't be beat.

3. W3ll People

W3ll People Deluxe Lip Brush, $22, Amazon

W3ll People's line of brushes stands out because of their impeccable shaping that makes application a breeze. Their lip brush comes with a cover, so it's perfect to stash in your purse for on-the-go touch ups and their foundation brush feels (and works) like heaven.

4. Inika

Inika Vegan Professional Makeup Brush Roll, $75, Birchbox

Inika is a natural, vegan brand that's found favor with makeup artists, professional and amateur alike. These facial powder brushes are fluffy and luxurious, while the eye makeup brushes give you good control. This limited edition brush roll isn't likely to last long.

5. OCC

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Tapered Blending Brush, $22, N ordstrom

I first fell in love with OCC thanks to its lipstick brushes and haven't stopped falling since. Get precise application and a good range of brushes that's comprehensive, not overwhelming.

6. Urban Decay

Good Karma Optical Blurring Brush, $32, Sephora

Urban Decay's makeup line has more than its fair share of fans, but I think everyone should be flocking to it for its brushes. Made with the cosmetic-obsessed in mind, their cruelty-free brushes help you go a step beyond basic and create special effects.

7. Eco Tools

Eco Tools Starter Set, $16, A mazon

If you're just a baby beginner with cosmetics, then Eco Tools is the perfect place for you to start cutting your teeth when it comes to brushes. It has just about every brush imaginable and the quality you're getting for the extremely affordable price is unbeatable.

So go forth and feel better about your makeup application routine!

Images: Pixabay; Courtesy Brands

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