Measurement
- Head: 3 cm H x 2.5 cm W x 1.5 cm D (1.2 in H x 1 in W x 0.6 in D)
- Handle: 13.5 cm L (5.3 in L)
Review & Usage
MAC 159 Duo Fibre Blush Brush is a small tapered, paddle-shaped brush that features a blend of natural and synthetic fibres. It is designed to be used with highly pigmented blush and highlighting powders. The small head and soft bristles pick up just the right amount to deposit a thin veil of powder on the area of the face with precision. Besides the intended purpose of this brush as a blush brush, I have used it to apply foundation, primer, concealer, and bronzing powder with great results as well. When the brush is used to apply foundation, it will take a little longer to blend the product on the entire face compared to other traditional foundation brushes due to its small size. And since the bristles are not very dense, I would recommend using it with only liquid foundation with light texture (such as MAC’s own Face & Body foundation) and padding on to the skin in short strokes rather buffing in. If you like to apply your foundation using a round stippling brush but wish it came in a traditional paddle-shaped head instead, MAC 159 is your answer! :)
When used as a blush brush, it does, no doubt, work great with highly saturated blushes but I find that it applies normal blushes with decent pigmentation just as well. It allows you to slowly build up the intensity on the cheeks without overdoing it at once. When used as a contour brush, the tapered head deposits the product perfectly in the hollow of the cheeks while the fluffy bristles blend the hard edges out effortlessly as you apply. The small head is excellent for applying a highlighter above the cheekbones as well.
The duo fibre design allows for versatility — you can use this brush with powder, liquid, and creams. You can also dampen the brush a little before your foundation application to achieve a long-lasting wear and an almost skin-like finish. The bristles are easy to clean but they do shed a tiny bit during the first few washes. I did not experience any bleeding at all, however.
Do you know of any dupes?
Real Techniques Duo-Fiber Contour Brush! (http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod5220131) Less dense but the shape is very similar! :)
Hey Jaa! this sounds like a lovely brush thank you so much for sharing. xx
Any time, Fiona! :D
This looks like a great multi-tasking brush! I prefer fluffy but not too dense brushes for foundation as that gives a more natural finish compared to dense ones! Will check this out! Great review as always! :-)
Thanks, Divya! Are MAC brushes priced reasonably in India?
I like the look of this. I want to try it!
The shape is very unique! Worth a try imo! :)
Given the price point, it’s great that it can be used for different tasks. :)
Agreed! :) I’m always happy to know that my brush can perform multiple tasks so I don’t have to carry a whole lot when I travel! :)
Hi Jaa! I have this brush but haven’t had the best luck with it as a blush brush or highlighting brush for some reason, but now after reading your post, I want to give it a second shot :). Lately, I’ve been using the 159 to apply loose powder underneath my eyes to set undereye concealer. For that purpose, it works really well!
That’s a good idea, Carolyn! I should try to use it to set my u/e concealer, too. I think the softness of the bristles will work brilliantly for the job! :D
I’ve actually had my eye on this brush, so this review is very timely! I think it’s a yes at this point. :)
Yayyy! :D I’d love to hear your thoughts once you try it!
Gah! I just want to reach out and touch the photos…
I think I may have a brush fondling problem… ;-)
LOL, you do! And so do I! Hahaha!