Does a Flawless Makeup Look Require Brushes? An Expert Weighs In

Ever wonder if something you've seen trending on Beauty Tok is actually true or just a myth? In BAZAAR Beauty Busters, we speak with top makeup artists, dermatologists, aestheticians, and others to dispel or validate viral social media hacks and treatments. We also break down commonly asked beauty questions, plus feature tips and product recommendations straight from the experts.

Celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal is a true beauty industry veteran. With several decades of experience, which includes her namesake brand Mally Beauty, Roncal has amassed a high level of expertise—making her a trusted makeup artist for celebrities like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez.

In this installment of BAZAAR Beauty Busters, Roncal debunks the myth that a flawless makeup look can be achieved only by using brushes, sponges, or other tools. While applying your foundation, concealer, or eye shadows of choice with a tool is certainly less messy, TikTok beauty influencers and makeup artists have made finger-first application an ongoing trend, one that Roncal wholeheartedly embraces and swears by.

Follow along with the expert below as she shares her pro-application tips for using your hands to create an even and seamless makeup look. Watch the artist at work here or directly on Harper's BAZAAR's TikTok page.

And if you're looking to create your own tool-free look at home, check out some of these Mally-approved product picks.

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Mariah Morrison is the senior social media editor for Harper's Bazaar. She is a digital and social media strategist and content creator. She is a North Carolina native, skin-care aficionado, content creator, and dog mama to her fur baby, Blaire. Prior to working with Harper’s Bazaar, Mariah served in the United States House of Representatives for two years, working as a social media manager, digital strategist, and graphic designer for the House Democratic Caucus and the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis.

Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.

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