fan brush

A fan brush is one of the most practical makeup tool essentials around. It's often used to apply a setting powder for a soft-focus, weightless kind of finish, but that's not the only reason this multi-tasking makeup brush is so great. See five other reasons to become a fan of the fan brush.

1. Mistake eraser: By design, a fan brush fans away product. So if your powdered makeup products (especially eyeshadow) are leaving flecks behind, a light swipe of the fan brush can easily wipe away the excess.
2. Blusher/bronzer: If you want just a sheer touch of blush or bronzer on your cheeks — or you tend to have a heavy hand when it comes to makeup — a fan brush will enable you to create a softer look. In turn, use the brush's flat shape to assist in contouring where needed.
3. Powder foundation: Get a more precise powder foundation application when using a fan brush.
4. Diffuser of colour: Break out that fan brush to blend out harsh lines or to create new shades with your powder cosmetics. Tip: use it with darker shades to tone them down or with a highlighter to provide a luminous effect.
5. Skincare applier: Make a mask or peel go on all the more smoothly with a fan brush. Better yet, you'll get nice coverage without using a lot of product.

More St. Tropez...

Last night at the LA premiere of The Switch, Jennifer Aniston's subtly smoky eyes and dark eyelashes really stood out. It wasn't a crazy different look for the actress, but it's a totally wearable look, day or night. Chanel makeup artist Angela Levin worked with the actress to create her red carpet look. Lucky for us, we know what went down. And now, so do you:

After using a palette of rich brown and copper shadows and black liner, Levin applied three coats of Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara in Noir ($52) to make Jen's blue eyes pop. The secret lies within layering. "I applied one coat, then brushed out the lashes, a second coat, again brushed out the lashes, and finally a third coat using a fan brush," said Levin. Easy!