BRUSH UP ON HIGH-TECH BEAUTY TOOLS

FROM large, fluffy brushes for applying powder, to fan shapes for highlighting cheeks, and densely-acked styles to buff it all in, there is a brush for every step in your make-up regimen. Here, we put some of the latest styles to the test . . .

RAINBOW BEAUTY: The Rain Glow Fan Brush was created by sisters Sophie and Hannah Pycroft. They launched Spectrum Collections in their garage, after spotting a gap in the market for bright brushes.

Best for: Instagram addicts.

PERFECT FOR TEENS: At Dutch home store Hema, you’ll find holographic ferrules (the metal bit that joins the brush and the handle), along with blue and purple synthetic bristles.

Best for: Young teens.

TWO-IN-ONE: Revolution has a range of double-ended brushes in its Flex range that bend in the middle to allow you more control. Best for: Budget buyers.

SCULPTING TOOLS: The brand Masqd, made by Boots, bears a resemblance to the popular Real Techniques Original Collection. Prices are similar, but Masqd feels more lightweight.

Best for: Trend lovers.

SMOOTH FINISH: The eight brushes in the Oval Mastery Set look a bit like large toothbrushes, but will apply almost any product smoothly. Best for: A flawless base.

THE REAL DEAL: Sisters Sam and Nic Chapman launched Real Techniques in 2011 and since then they have taken the US, Ireland and Britain by storm. Their new minis are decent-sized with tiny handles, ideal for travelling.

Best for: Make-up on the go.