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Brushes · Tools

MAC Cosmetics Foundation Brush 170

by MAC Cosmetics · #2 of 5 in brushes

The MAC 170 Foundation Brush is a makeup artist staple that delivers a smooth, streak-free, airbrushed finish with liquid and cream foundations.

4.6
Editor scoreExceptional
  • Softness8.5
  • Blending9.0
  • Durability8.7
  • Value for money9.1
  • Streak-free foundation application
  • Airbrushed finish
  • Professional makeup artist quality
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Overview

The MAC Cosmetics 170 Foundation Brush is a professional-grade tool designed specifically for flawless liquid and cream foundation application, part of MAC's renowned 100 Series brush collection that makeup artists worldwide trust. Featuring a dense, flat-top head crafted from soft synthetic fibers, this brush is engineered to pick up and distribute foundation evenly across the skin without absorbing excess product, ensuring every drop of your base makeup goes exactly where it belongs. The synthetic bristles make it an ideal choice for cream, liquid, and even some gel-based formulas, offering a smooth, streak-free finish that mimics an airbrushed look while remaining gentle enough for daily use on all skin types.

What sets the 170 Foundation Brush apart is its versatile, tapered shape that allows for precise buffing and blending into the contours of the face, including around the nose, under the eyes, and along the jawline where seamless coverage matters most. The firm yet flexible bristle construction gives users control over product intensity, allowing for a buildable application that ranges from sheer, natural coverage to a fuller, more polished look depending on technique and pressure. Its wooden handle is ergonomically balanced, providing comfortable grip and precision during use, whether you're a professional artist working on clients or a beauty enthusiast perfecting your personal routine at home.

Durability and hygiene are also key strengths of this MAC staple, as the synthetic fibers resist product buildup and are easy to clean with standard brush cleansers, maintaining their shape and performance wash after wash. Because the bristles don't absorb liquid formulas the way natural hair brushes might, the 170 ensures more product stays on the skin rather than getting trapped in the brush, making it a cost-effective choice for those who want to maximize their foundation usage. As a long-standing favorite in the MAC Cosmetics lineup, this foundation brush represents a perfect blend of functionality, craftsmanship, and reliability, making it an essential addition to any makeup collection focused on achieving a polished, professional-looking complexion every time.

Key features

  • Synthetic densely-packed bristles for liquid and cream foundation
  • Flat, rounded-edge brush head for streak-free blending
  • Short handle for precise control
  • Hygienic, easy-to-clean synthetic fibers
  • Buffs product into skin for airbrushed finish

Specifications

Bristle Type
Synthetic
Brush Shape
Flat rounded
Handle Length
4.5 inches
Recommended Use
Liquid & cream foundation
Country of Origin
Imported

What we love

  • Flawless, even foundation application
  • Works well with liquid, cream, and stick foundations
  • Durable synthetic bristles resist product buildup
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Professional-quality finish at home

What to know

  • Higher price point than drugstore brushes
  • Bristles can shed slightly in first few washes
  • Not ideal for powder products
  • Handle may feel short for some users
4.6out of 5

The verdict

The MAC 170 Foundation Brush is a makeup artist staple that delivers a smooth, streak-free, airbrushed finish with liquid and cream foundations. Though pricier than alternatives, its durability and flawless application make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their base makeup routine.

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Foundation Brush 170Editor score 4.6/5Check price