Le Metier de Beaute Powder Brush

There are several techniques for applying face powder; deciding which one to use often depending on the desired result and effect. There are even more types of powder brushes. Most of my top favorite powder brushes are ones with a dense flat head (Hakuhodo 527, Stila #21) that pushes the powder into the skin so it doesn't accumulate. This is, of course, more of a setting technique. Finishing often means getting a gossamer airbrushed look and diffusing any obvious lines (Hakuhodo Large Angled Face Brush, Louise Young LY07, NARS Botan or Ita). There's also the need to flick any extra loose powder before it settles (that's where something like Sue Devitt's powder brush becomes essential- it's so small enough not to go get into areas where it's not needed).

I've only had this Le Metier de Beaute Powder Brush a couple of weeks now and washed it exactly twice so far. But as it's quickly becoming a favorite and since I'm trying to fit in as many individual brush reviews before I start posting my brush guides hall of fame lists, I figured I can talk about this LMdB brush and at least explain why it's so great.

The Le Metier de Beaute Powder Brush is on the big and fluffy side, though not as humongous as my Louise Young. The head is only slightly curved, so there's a lot of contact with the skin if you press it parallel to your face. Thus, it does as good a job at pushing powder as a flat top.  The Le Metier brush is well-packed and very soft. You can see it's close in size and shape to Smashbox #2 and Bobbi Brown Face Blender. However, it's much softer and has a tighter feel. All the reasons that made me think both Smashbox and Bobbi's were nice but not quite perfect are now even more apparent, as I have a brush that got it absolutely right, making it a wonderfully versatile tool both for a good powdering and for finishing, buffing and airbrushing.

The brush feels great to hold and handle, even though it's on the short side, as are all Le Metier de Beaute makeup brushes. It's made of natural goat hair and is balanced enough to be a proper power tool. The quality and craftsmanship is great and I've experienced no bleeding during bath time.

Bottom Line: superb.

Le Metier de Beaute Powder Brush ($65) is available from Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and select Nordstrom locations as well as online. I received mine free of charge from the company.

All photos are mine.