Where Does Hair In Makeup Brushes Come From?

Carol’s quandary…I’m against fur and animal suffering, so being a makeup artist I’m very concerned about where the hair comes from for the makeup brushes; and if animals are harmed in the process?

The Right Brain’s response:
The answer to your question depends on what kind of brushes you buy. Like so many products, brushes started about being made from natural materials like animal hair. But over the years, as science has advanced, man-made alternatives were developed. Today you can buy synthetic OR animal hair brushes. If you’re interested, here’s a good place to start your search for quality non-animal Nylon bristle foundation brush.

Naturally hairy

But what about those brushes made from animal hair? Are the hairs gently plucked from the animals’ backs as they recline on a comfy sofa, quaffing tasty home-made morsels? We’re afraid not. At least in some cases, animal hair used in brushes comes from pelts, just like fur does. According to this manufacturer badger hair used in shaving brushes is collected from the animal’s pelt and not from shearing. Hair from boars (pigs) and sables are also commonly used in both makeup brushes and paint brushes.

The Beauty Brains bottom line

If you’re concerned about animal welfare, you might want to seek synthetic options. There are plenty of high quality alternatives to animal hair brushes. Shop around and you should be able to find a brush you can use in good conscience.