Review: Real Techniques Core Collection

I recently made a purchase from iHerb.com becuase my sister wanted to get the Real Techniques powder brush. Naturally, I jumped at the opportunity to get some items too so that we can combine our purchases to add up to $40 to get $10 off. I first learnt about iHerb through Jodi's video review on these brushes and she talked about where to get them at U.S. retail price.

iHerb.com is based in California so all their prices are in USD. The total bill came up to US$41.11 (including US$6 for international shipping) which was definitely a bargain considering that I got the core collection, stippling brush, blush brush and powder brush! And shipping was relatively quick to my surprise. I got them shipped to Singapore since that's where I currently am and the package came in slightly over a week.

Today's review is on the core collection with includes 4 brushes and a case.

The base it comes in folds behind into a brush stand.

It also folds into a simple travel/storage case.

Left to right: contour brush, pointed foundation brush, detailer brush, buffing brush.

The buffing brush is the main reason I got this set because so many people have said it's amazing to apply liquid foundation with. And I can't agree more! I use the buffing brush with my liquid foundations and it applies beautifully and in no time at all. It really blends out my foundation evenly which creates a really nice finish. 

This set is also great because I was really keen to try out the contour brush as well. I have only used this brush for contour and I love it for that purpose. Will definitely be trying it as a blush or undereye setting brush too.

These are fantastic face brushes that work really well. Both are cylindrical which makes them dense and just the perfect shape for various purposes. The bristles are also very soft on the skin and not scratchy at all! In terms of size, the buffing brush is great to do the whole face and the contour brush is just right for the cheekbones.

Here is just a size comparison of both brushes.

Next in the kit, we have the pointed foundation brush. I haven't used this brush yet but I do tend to use it as a concealer brush. The shape of the bristles look like they will be great for the undereye area. I do think it is a little tiny to do a whole face of foundation but since I generally don't use paddle brushes for foundation, I'm not really complaining about the small brush size.

Last but not least, we have the detailer brush. I actually use this brush to do highlighting around the inner corners of my eyes or as a lip brush. Since my skin is acne-prone and I do have alot of scarring, I just don't bother with spot concealing because it would just take me the whole day. So even though this brush is part of a face kit, I have found others uses for it.

These 2 brushes are flatter and allow for more precision as they are pinched at the ferrule. Like the other brushes, these are soft and they pick up cream products very well. Here's a look at them more closely.

Overall comparison in size.

Overall, I really do enjoy this set of brushes and I am able to find a use for all of them. The only problem with this brand is that brushes which come in a set are not sold separately so if you're only after one brush from the core collection, I don't think it's worth it. However, if you're just looking to try out Real Techniques brushes in general, this is a good set to get. I held back on getting the starter set(eye brushes) because I find they lack a blending brush plus I really don't need anymore liner or angled brush in my collection.

For you aussie girls, definitely check out iHerb.com to get Real Techniques and Physician's Formula because they are way cheaper than Priceline. If you plan do make a purchase on iHerb, feel free to use my discount code which is SFB053 for $10 off your first order of $40 or more, or $5 off orders less than $40. I was sent this code when I made my first purchase with them to "share with friends and family". Let me know if you've tried Real Techniques brushes and which are your favourites! Would definitely love to hear recommendations from you all. Till then, have a lovely weekend. (: