Yes makeup brushes continue to be a core tool in beauty routines, despite competition from sponges, fingers, and multi-use applicators. The makeup brushes market is growing steadily, thanks to social media tutorials, pro-quality demand, and consumer interest in vegan, sustainable, and affordable brush sets. 

The global makeup brushes market size was valued at USD 1.47 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 1.45 billion in 2025 to reach USD 1.98 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.74% during the forecast period (2025-2030). The growth is supported by the elevation of beauty tools to premium status, with consumers increasingly investing in high-quality brushes. The market is also benefiting from rising preference for vegan, cruelty-free, and multifunctional brushes, reflecting ethical values and functional beauty expectations among modern users.

Let’s dive into who’s buying brushes, how they’re changing, and what really matters when choosing one.

Why are makeup brushes still popular when beauty blenders and fingers work too?

Because brushes offer precision, control, and cleaner application especially for powders and detailed work.

Sponges and fingers can absolutely work (and in some cases, work better), but brushes aren’t going anywhere. Here’s why:

• Brushes = control. For eyeshadow blending, contouring, and brow work, nothing beats a brush.

• Less product waste. Brushes often absorb less product than sponges.

• Better for powders. Especially blush, bronzer, highlighter, and setting powder.

• More hygienic. Easier to clean than sponges, and they dry faster.

• Pro tools = pro results. Even casual users appreciate the difference in finish.

So while beauty sponges may dominate for foundation or concealer, brushes are still essential for a polished, full-face look.

What types of makeup brushes are most in demand?

Multi-functional, beginner-friendly, and cruelty-free brushes are leading the way.

Consumers are getting savvier. They want tools that work and align with their values. Here are the most popular categories in today’s brush market:

• Foundation brushes – flat, kabuki, or stippling styles for smooth base application

• Blending brushes – especially fluffy eye brushes for seamless transitions

• Angled brushes – for contour, blush, or brows

• Fan brushes – for light dusting of highlight or shimmer

• Travel brush sets – compact, value-driven kits that do it all

• Vegan and synthetic brushes – gaining traction over animal-hair varieties

The current trend is toward brush sets that offer good quality, ethical materials, and versatility often sold with branded cases or cleaners.

How do synthetic brushes compare to natural-hair brushes?

Synthetic brushes have come a long way and for most users, they’re now the better option.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Natural-hair brushes were once the pro standard but modern synthetic fibers now match or outperform them in softness, flexibility, and longevity. Plus, many consumers avoid animal-derived products for ethical reasons.

Who is driving demand in the makeup brush market pros or casual users?

Both but the casual user segment is exploding, especially due to influencers and beauty tutorials.

Thanks to platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok:

• Beginner users now understand the purpose of each brush

• Teens and Gen Z are building brush collections early

• Home users want pro results without booking makeup artists

• Makeup brands offer bundled brush kits as upsells or collabs

At the same time, makeup artists and content creators continue to invest in high-end or performance-driven brushes fueling demand in the pro segment.

What are the current trends shaping the makeup brush market?

Several shifts are redefining the category:

1. Sustainable materials – Bamboo handles, recycled packaging, and biodegradable brush heads are gaining traction.

2. Cruelty-free & vegan claims – Many consumers actively avoid animal hair brushes.

3. Smaller, curated sets – Instead of bulky kits with 20+ brushes, buyers prefer 5–10 that do it all.

4. Brush cleaning tools – From mats to electronic cleaners, maintenance add-ons are becoming popular.

5. Influencer collaborations – Limited edition brush sets co-created by makeup artists or influencers are big sellers.

6. Tech-integrated brushes – A niche but growing category (think: sensors for pressure or app-connected tutorials).

Brushes aren’t just about utility anymore they’re part of a personal brand, aesthetic, and routine.

Are makeup brushes worth investing in or is it fine to go cheap?

It depends on your needs, but investing in a few good brushes is usually worth it.

Here’s how to think about it:

• Daily use = mid-range is smart. You don’t need luxury brushes, but avoid $1 brushes that shed or scratch.

• Specialty brushes = invest. A great blending brush or contour brush can make a real difference.

• Beginner? Go for a mid-priced set with essential shapes (foundation, blush, crease, etc.).

• Pro user? Quality, durability, and consistency matter more than price.

Cheap brushes may save you upfront but they often wear out faster, don’t perform well, and can make application harder.

Which brands are leading the makeup brush market right now?

Here are a few that consistently perform well across price ranges:

Budget-Friendly:

• Real Techniques

• EcoTools

• E.l.f.

• BH Cosmetics

Mid-Range:

• Morphe

• Sigma Beauty

• Zoeva

• ColourPop (brush collabs)

High-End/Pro:

• MAC Cosmetics

• Hakuhodo

• Wayne Goss

• Artis

• Surratt Beauty

Each of these brands caters to different segments but all benefit from strong visibility in influencer content and online tutorials.

Final Thoughts: Are makeup brushes still relevant in today’s beauty market?

Very much so and more important than ever for users who care about quality, sustainability, and results.

While beauty blenders and minimalist trends have shifted how people apply makeup, brushes remain a cornerstone of beauty routines for both beginners and pros. They’ve simply evolved:

• More sustainable

• More inclusive (in terms of price, skin tone, and accessibility)

• More design-forward and functional

If you want a smoother, more polished finish or just want your makeup to look better and last longer makeup brushes are still your best friend.