The Velvet Luxe It Brushes are made with synthetic material and they all feel very soft. I've had them for about a year and I haven't experienced any shedding. The handles have a rubber texture and more weight to them compared to the ELF brushes, which makes them feel more luxurious. Also, the ergonomic, slim-pointed design makes them easier to hold and to store in my brush holder.
The bristles absorb alot of product so more product is going to be wasted, but the good thing is that it's not going to leave a cakey finish. There's something about these bristles that make them blend product into your skin effortlessly when used in a tapping motion. It just gives a beautiful blurring effect. I recommend using these brushes for thick, creamy products because they will help sheer it out and prevent it from looking heavy.
IT Brushes For ULTA Velvet LBD Bronzer Brush #319 ($40) - This one is the biggest, densest and firmest out of all the brushes. I use this to apply liquid foundation when I want a light finish. The size of the brush also makes it super quick to cover the entire face. It can also be used to apply powder bronzers like the name suggests, but I find that brushes with natural bristles are better at diffusing powder products, while those made with synthetic material are best at blending liquid and cream-based products.
IT Brushes For ULTA Velvet Luxe LBD Foundation Brush #302 ($38) - This one is not as dense as the #319 and has more flexibility, which makes it easier to buff in foundation. It also applies cream blushes and bronzers very well without leaving a concentrated amount of product on the cheek area. The Real Techniques Buffing brush (comes in a set for $17.99) is not as dense or firm, but it is worth noting that it doesn't absorb as much product and provides a more medium to full coverage. Therefore, I recommend the #302 for a more light finish and the Real Techniques one if you prefer more coverage.
IT Brushes For ULTA Velvet Luxe Soft Focus Sculpting Brush #315 ($34) - This one is slightly denser and wider than the ELF Angled Blush brush ($3). I love using the #315 to apply liquid foundation because the angled tip makes it easier to go under my eye area, which also makes it perfect to apply undereye concealer without having to grab another brush. It also fits on the cheek area nicely and is great for applying cream blushers and bronzers. As for the Real Techniques Sculpting brush ($9.99), it's a smidgen smaller and denser than the #315. I find that the RT one offers more coverage and control.
Bottom Line: The It Brushes for Ulta Velvet Luxe collection is great for applying cream-based and liquid products if you are looking for a light finish. You won't have to worry about over-applying with these brushes, especially if you tend to have a heavy hand. Also, they blend products like a dream.
Note: The It Brushes for Ulta is exclusively available at Ulta. The Real Techniques Buffing brush can be purchased in a set at Target, drugstore.com and Ulta. The Real Techniques Sculpting brush can be purchased individually at Target, drugstore.com and Ulta. The ELF Angled Blush brush can be purchased on their online store and Target.
*This post contains affiliate links. All products were purchased by me, using my own funds.
