How to apply make up without brushes: easy tips

The best beauty implements are sometimes the ones that are not in a professional makeup bag, but rather something within much easier reach: our own hands. We’re not saying it just for the sake of it. In the world of makeup there is a saying that experts often repeat in the backstage of major fashion weeks, which is that “the warmth of our skin is the best ally of cosmetic products”. By using our hands, our body temperature softens the waxes and oils that foundation and concealer contain, which means that the products do not just sit on the surface of our face, but blend in and emulsify with our skin, leaving a much more elastic, natural-looking, longer-lasting texture.

If you have left your makeup bag behind or if you are looking for a different finish, knowing how to apply makeup without brushes is a fail-safe method. Furthermore, mastering the art of applying makeup with your fingers will not only save space, but it will also allow you to work with textures in a way that no synthetic fibres can (always colder and stiffer). Let's take a look at how to turn an “OMG” situation into an expert technique. Take note!

Foundation and concealer: how to apply them without brushes

The secret to perfect skin without using any implements is precisely in the temperature, as we mentioned earlier. By warming the products with our fingertips, it becomes more malleable, meaning that it does not settle in our expression lines. Before starting, it is crucial to make sure your hands are perfectly clean and disinfected, in order to guarantee hygienic application, free of any impurities.

Let's start with the foundation. After moisturising your skin, apply the foundation in five key areas (forehead, nose, chin and cheeks). Spread the product outwards using gentle movements, and before it sets, dab it constantly with your fingertips, all over your face. This will help the makeup to truly blend in, get rid of marks and guarantee that the foundation will stay in place all day.

As for the concealer, this is where we need to be most careful. Experts recommend always using your ring finger, since it is the weakest one, and it will be therefore be best for delicately applying the concealer on the thin skin around our eyes. Dab it on gently so that the pigment blends with the dark circles without marking our expression lines. 

Eyeshadow and blusher using fingers: professional techniques

You need to know that using your fingers is by far the best option for applying cream or mousse products. Let's start with eyeshadow though. To apply eyeshadow, you just have to use your index finger to dab the colour onto the centre of your eyelid, and your (clean) middle finger to spread it to the edges. This will achieve a natural, smoky eye effect in seconds.

When including blusher and a tanner, smile to locate the “dimples” on your cheeks and apply the blusher by lightly pressing it on. In the case of a tanner, slide your finger along your temple bone, cheekbone and jawbone, tracing an imaginary “3” shape on each side of your face. Dab small amounts of the product in dots and then spread upwards in circular movements to lift your features. 

Fixing powders without brushes

Can powders be used without brushes? Yes, but if you need to make some shine, a cotton powder pad or puff will come in very handy. The only thing you need to do is press the powder lightly against your “T” area (forehead, nose and chin) without dragging it.

Finally, to seal the look in and get rid of any excess powder, rub the palms of your hands together to generate heat and then press down lightly on your cheeks and forehead without rubbing. This will achieve a much more compact, longer-lasting, and above all, natural look. 

Alternatives to makeup brushes

If you are unable to get the right finish with your fingers, there are some implements that will help with your precision. Take note!

• Blender sponge. Always moisten it before use so that it does not absorb too much of the product, and then dab your makeup on. You can also use the makeup sponge set according to your different needs. 
• Latex triangles. These classic sponges are perfect to get to the out-of-reach places, such as the crease of your nose and corner of your eye. 
• Eyeshadow applicators. They are the perfect solution to avoid mixing colours, and are ideal for the corner of your eye or to apply dark shadow to the roots of your lashes.
• Cotton buds. These are perfect for spreading eyeliner or cleaning up any mistakes when lining your lips.

As you have seen, you don't need brushes to apply makeup like a professional. Therefore, the next time you leave home without your brushes, don't fret, you can take control with your hands.