MAC 190 Foundation Brush Review

Another MAC Brush review for you today. This time...the foundation brush. This was a gift from my sister and I'm so glad she got it for me because I have actually wanted a brush like this for awhile. The first MAC Brush I bought myself was the 187, which I bought because it was so multi-purpose and back in those days I wanted to be able to get multiple uses from my small brush collection. These days I have a ton of brushes and don't necessarily have that requirement for my brushes.

MAC claims:

Pro-quality. A foundation brush designed to create a smooth, even finish and a flawless look. Works well with any M·A·C foundation, including Studio Fix and Studio Tech. Use to apply, distribute and blend foundation into all areas of the face. M·A·C professional brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature wood handles and nickel-plated brass ferrules.

A while back MAC switched to synthetic brushes. I'm not as interested in the their brushes anymore except the ones that didn't change. This one was always synthetic so it hasn't changed at all. I've had mine for about two year anyway though. This is the classic shape of a foundation brush. Before Beauty Blenders and Buffing brushes became so popular.

I had a similar brush shape in an Eco Tools Foundation Brush and I think I thought it was good at the time...but looking back it was so small and left streaks often. I actually didn't like that brush much once I tried better brushes. I also have the Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush. It's not a good brush for foundation because it's so small but it can work for under-eye concealer which I don't really wear anyway so it sits neglected.

Clinique Foundation Brush, MAC 190, Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush

So I was very curious to try the MAC version. Which I really like. It's big enough...but not too big. And it works well and blends in foundation as long as you don't apply too much. It works well for liquid foundations and cream to powder etc.

And it's very soft. 

I really do like it. Buffing Brushes can exacerbate dry skin so they aren't for everyone. A beauty blender is not for everyone either. And I think that's where this brush comes in. I'm glad to have it in my collection because when I wear foundations I like to try it with different types of brushes. And I do like to rotate my brushes as well.

I used to think the MAC brushes were really boring. The black wooden handles and the nickel ferrule. These days I really appreciate the classic design. 

Overall...I like it and would recommend it if you like this style of foundation brush. It's a classic and one I'm really glad to have in my collection. The price can be kind of steep for just a foundation brush  ($35) BUT MAC brushes last years and years. I have 30 now and haven't had a problem with even one falling apart on me.