14 Best Face Mask Brushes, Applicators, & Mask Bowls of 2020

14 Best Face Mask Brushes, Applicators, & Mask Bowls of 2020

PUBLISHED: 07/16/2019 | UPDATED: 1/17/2020

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WRITTEN BY: TAMRYN BURGESS
Licensed Aesthetician 

This article may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy for more details. To learn more about how we selected the products featured on this list, check out our product review & research standards.

Once used only in professional spa settings, face mask brushes and mask applicator tools are now popular staples in many home skin care routines. It’s no surprise that face mask brushes have become mainstream because they can make your life (and skin) better in so many ways. 

Similar to makeup and foundation brushes (many makeup brushes can be used as a mask brush), a face mask brush is made out of silicon or fiber-based bristles and aids in the application of certain facial treatments. Not only do face mask brushes make the application of facial treatments such as masks and moisturizers a breeze, they also help to mitigate bacteria growth inside of your skin care products.

Before the face mask brush we all used our good old fashioned fingers to apply various products. The finger is the obvious choice; after all, it’s convenient, durable, heated, and (best of all) free! The problem with using your fingers to apply jarred skin care products is the potential for bacterial contamination (1). Even if you wash your hands thoroughly before use, there are still ways for your products to become contaminated and for bacteria to thrive. For example, the smallest traces of dirt under your nails can harbor bacteria and moisture from your hands after washing combined with warm humid bathroom conditions could also lead to bacterial growth (2). 

A well designed mask applicator, on the other hand, combats these issues by crafting their bristles out of materials that are either antimicrobial or materials which do not encourage bacterial growth. Face mask applicators typically come in two different types; bristle brushes or silicone wands. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages.

  • Brushes: Face mask brush bristles are made with either synthetic or animal fibers. Synthetic fibers are typically better at preventing bacterial growth than animal fiber brushes. Brushes can be used to mix and apply just about any skin treatment. A good mask brush is so soft on the skin and should feel like you are using a paintbrush. Because of the tiny bristles, face mask brushes require a little extra work to completely clean after each use. To make cleaning easier, you can leave your brush to soak in an organic makeup remover, organic cleanser, or DIY organic soap solution overnight.
  • Silicone Wands: Silicone wand face mask applicators come in single or dual-sided varieties. The main applicator is typically a flat piece of silicone shaped like a 2D brush. Some silicone brushes also have a massing end which helps stimulate the skin; not only a great stress reliever, but also collagen boosting (3). Silicone wands are much easier to clean than face mask brushes and are better at fighting bacterial growth. Because of this, they are better choices when multi-masking (applying 2 or more masks to different areas of your face) or using the wand to apply different skin care treatments in a single session. The biggest downside of silicone wands is that they simply do not feel as luxurious on the skin as face mask brushes.

The Best Face Mask Brushes & Applicators
When our team of beauty experts set out to find the best face mask brushes and applicators we determined that in order to be truly considered “the best” applicators must meet the following criteria: 1) Be well-crafted from high-quality materials 2) effective at preparing and applying various skin treatments such as masks, peels, and serums 3) Have positive reviews from our testers and online reviewers from across the web. In addition to that criteria, we also made sure to include cruelty free and vegan mask brushes as well. 

In our opinion, no face mask applicator is complete without a masking bowl. A good-sized and smartly designed masking bowl combined with the perfect applicator can truly transform your everyday skin treatments into spa rituals. Thus, we included a few of our favorite masking bowls in this list as well. 

Once you find the perfect applicator, be sure to check out our list of the best organic face masks, organic face peels, and organic serums to compliment your new skin care tools. Enjoy!

FILTER BY TYPE
May Lindstrom – Luxury Facial Mask Brush ($30)

May Lindstrom – Luxury Facial Mask Brush ($30)

A must-have luxury face mask brush crafted with vegan-friendly taklon fibers, recyclable aluminum ferrule and real sustainable wood. Ideal for creating your perfect facial treatment experience, this face mask brush makes application easier without the possibility of contaminating your face with bacteria through the use of your hands. Precise application allows you to use less of your favorite mask. The wood of the brush naturally swells when exposed to water, so drying properly is important.

Leahlani Skincare – Leahlani Mask Brush ($18)

Leahlani Skincare – Leahlani Mask Brush ($18)

A beautifully designed face mask brush from a Hawaiian based artisanal skincare line. This mask brush is soft, easy to clean, fantastic for applying liquid masks and the perfect tool to complete your masking ritual. The wooden brush fits comfortably in your hands and glides on effortlessly across your face. True to Leahlani Skincare, this mask brush is eco-friendly and vegan. It's also great for applying facial peels, serums, and other treatments.

ELF Cosmetics – Pore Refining Face Mask Tool

ELF Cosmetics – Pore Refining Face Mask Tool

An affordable, yet effective dual ended multitasking tool that’s perfect for applying moisturizers, masks, cleansers and scrubs while also gently cleansing the skin. This face mask brush provides mess free application so you can save more of your mask for later use. The silicone spatula can also be used to apply foundation, and the pore refining brush can be used for blending color to create a flawless finish. To deeply cleanse pores, massage the face with the bottom brush using circular motions.

Annmarie – Face Mask Applicator Brush & Treatment Bowl Set ($50)

Annmarie – Face Mask Applicator Brush & Treatment Bowl Set ($50)

This mask treatment bowl and face mask brush set is beautifully handmade by a pottery artist out of Berkley, CA. Each bowl is hand stained and completely different from the next. Using this bowl feels so special and luxurious every time. Each mask treatment bowl is packaged in a gift box and attached to an applicator brush. The bowl is nice and big and allows for mess-free mask mixing. The applicator brush is made from vegan materials and has a fan shape to allow for smooth and easy application.

MV Organic Skin Care – Face Mask Applicator Brush ($15)

MV Organic Skin Care – Face Mask Applicator Brush ($15)

A lovely fan face mask applicator brush that makes mixing and applying a mask a breeze. It's well designed, beautifully crafted, and won't break on you over time. The fan brush can also be used to apply serums, facial treatments, and even a touch of blush. It's not too big, not too small, and very easy to use. While there are certainly other mask brushes out there, MV Organic Skin Care is a reputable organic brand that has a history of making top quality products.

Eminence – Face Mask Applicator Fan Brush

Eminence – Face Mask Applicator Fan Brush

This fan mask applicator brush is the perfect tool to apply various treatments, including face masks and peels. Crafted out of natural wood and vegan-friendly synthetic nylon bristles, this mask brush is excellent for beginners. The white color of the bristles comes in handy so you know when to wash the brush. The synthetic bristles are designed in a flat, fan design that glides smoothly over the face and neck. Allows for effective application so you can get the most out of your mask treatment.

LILFOX – Face Mask Brush ($20)

LILFOX – Face Mask Brush ($20)

A vegan and cruelty free taklon bristle brush that’s as durable as it is elegant. LILFOX aims to transform your skincare routine with contemporary and elegant aesthetic. This face mask brush was crafted with a thick wood handle, making mask mixing easy and allowing for precise application so you can enjoy a soothing and mess-free mask. The brush measures 6 inches long by 1 inch wide and feels soft when applying to the skin. Use it to apply mask in smooth strokes to face, neck and chest area.

Volition – Facial Mask Paintbrush ($18)

Volition – Facial Mask Paintbrush ($18)

A nice and sturdy face mask brush made with vegan-friendly synthetic bristles. This mask brush helps apply product accurately and smoothly for even and hygienic application. The bristles are super soft, yet rigid enough to paint on a thick mask. When used to apply peels and other treatments, the brush enhances the experience and makes it feel like a true self-care ritual. It's also stunning! The rose gold hardware, burnt orange bristles, and eggshell handle are pretty enough to put on display!

May Lindstrom – Face Mask Treatment Bowl ($40)

May Lindstrom – Face Mask Treatment Bowl ($40)

The ideal mask bowl to bring your skin potions to life. Stamped with a 24K gold May Lindstrom logo in the center, this bowl spares no expense. It's a well-sized mask bowl with a curved top which makes it easy to properly mix your mask without without spilling and creating a mess. It's weighty, beautiful, and something you'll want to display on your bathroom counter. This bowl can even be used a pretty little tea mug. It's handcrafted and should be washed after each use and handled with care.

Anne Semonin – Brush Applicator For Face Masks ($14.25)

Anne Semonin – Brush Applicator For Face Masks ($14.25)

An extremely soft face mask brush that feels luxurious on the skin. Anne Semonin is known for developing luxurious, highly effective skincare products and this brush is no different. Experience a silky application that’s kind to your skin without irritation. There will be no product to waste when using this brush as it helps evenly spread mask treatments without lumpy spots. With its super soft bristles that won’t fall out and a long, comfortable handle, this brush is the ideal mask treatment tool.

Sorella Apothecary – Face Mask Brush ($28)

Sorella Apothecary – Face Mask Brush ($28)

A soft and luxurious dual mask brush that will make you feel like you’re at the spa. One side of the brush has larger bristles, making it perfect for applying product evenly to your face, while the other side of the brush is smaller and perfect for gently distributing product around the eyes and lips. The synthetic bristles allow easy application and are less likely to harbor bacteria. Get inspired to start a zen-like ritual with this gorgeous face mask brush. Cleanse the brush and air dry.

Odacite – Facial Mask Applicator Brush ($27)

Odacite – Facial Mask Applicator Brush ($27)

One of our favorite brushes for facial peel application! It's sturdy, uniquely designed for easy handling, and the vegan bristles are super soft and angled for a smooth mask application every time. It's a great brush for mixing masks because the bristles are sturdy and structured to allow for even mixing of the product. The only downside is that odd-colored masks may tint the white brush bristles after extended use. To avoid this soak or clean thoroughly after each use.

TruSelf Organics – Bamboo Mask Brush & Bowl Set ($13)

TruSelf Organics – Bamboo Mask Brush & Bowl Set ($13)

A high quality, yet affordable mask brush and bowl set. This set includes a durable bamboo mixing bowl, a bamboo measuring spoon and a bamboo brush applicator, all of which are vegan. This eco-friendly bamboo utensil set takes the mess and hassle out of your skincare routine. The bamboo mixing bowl is ideal for mixing your mask, while the bamboo brush makes application a breeze. If you have any mask left over, you can cover and store your mixing bowl for up to 5 days in your refrigerator.

Canyon Rose – Face Mask Brush

Canyon Rose – Face Mask Brush

Take the spa home with you and use this soft and silky face mask brush. Perfect for applying masks and foundation makeup, this mask brush is made from bamboo, which has a low impact on the earth’s resources as it’s a highly sustainable plant. The bristles on this brush are synthetic and 100% animal cruelty free. The mask brush allows you to apply mask treatment product evenly without wasting too much due to excess use or absorbing into the brush. Doesn’t feel scratchy or itchy on your skin.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ABOUT

Q: Can you use a makeup brush for face masks?

A: You can certainly use a makeup brush to apply a face mask; however, some makeup brushes are really meant for that purpose. Additionally, to prevent cross-contamination and potential bacterial growth, it may be best to have a separate brush for your makeup and for your face masks.

Q: What do you use to apply a face mask?

A: Many people simply use their fingers to apply a face mask. While using your finger is the easiest (and most affordable) option, it may not be the most hygienic. Some of the risks of using your fingers to apply face masks are the potential for cross contaminating your face mask with bacteria from your hands, uneven product application, and unnecessary product waste.

Q: How do you clean a mask brush?

A: Cleaning a mask brush is quite simple. You can use a facial cleanser, gentle soap, or dedicated makeup brush cleanser to gently loosen mask residue and other grime from the brush. Follow by rinsing and drying thoroughly. Store your brush in a dry location (away from the humidity of the shower) to prevent bacterial growth.

SOURCES & REFERENCES

1. Microbiological Safety and Cosmetics
https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/potential-contaminants-cosmetics/microbiological-safety-and-cosmetics

2. (2008) Bacteriological quality of skin‐moisturizing creams and lotions distributed in a tropical developing country
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1046/j.1365-2672.2001.01456.x

3. (2018) Ready for a close-up: The science behind face massage rollers
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/11/181109101446.htm

PRODUCT BADGES LEGEND
100% NATURAL

100% NATURAL

The product contains only natural ingredients (non-synthetic or lab created). It does not contain anything artificial or synthetic.

100% ORGANIC

100% ORGANIC

The product has been formulated with 100% organically sourced and/or certified organic ingredients.

GMO FREE

GMO FREE

This product does not contain ingredients which have been genetically modified.

GLUTEN FREE

GLUTEN FREE

All of the ingredients contained in the product are free from gluten, wheat, and ingredients which are commonly contaminated with gluten.

VEGAN

VEGAN

The product is made without animal products or byproducts such as beeswax, honey, milk, eggs, etc.

CERTIFIED ORGANIC

CERTIFIED ORGANIC

The product has received an official organic certification from a third party organization such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA Certified Organic), ECOCERT, Australian Certified Organic, and others.

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