Brush 01 vs Brush 05: Which Concealer Brush Gives a Crease-Free Finish?

Choosing the right concealer brush can make the difference between a flawless, airbrushed look and a creased, cakey mess. Under-eye skin is delicate and prone to fine lines, so the brush you use matters just as much as the formula. Two popular options from Rephr are the Brush 01 and the Brush 05, each designed with different techniques in mind.

In this comparison, we’ll break down the shape, bristle density, and application style of both brushes. Whether you prefer a precise, targeted approach or a softer, buffed finish, understanding the strengths of each brush will help you get the most out of your concealer.

Brush 01: Precision and Control

The Brush 01 is a small, flat concealer brush with a slightly tapered tip. Its compact shape allows you to place concealer exactly where you need it—covering blemishes, brightening the inner corner of the eye, or hiding dark spots. The bristles are firm enough to press product into the skin without absorbing too much, which is ideal for liquid concealers that need to stay put.

Because the brush head is small, you can work in thin layers, building coverage gradually. This reduces the risk of applying too much product at once, which often leads to creasing. The flat shape also makes it easy to blend concealer along the tear trough without dragging the skin. If you prefer a precise, controlled application, the Brush 01 is a solid choice.

• Best for spot concealing and precise under-eye application
• Firm bristles work well with medium-to-full coverage liquid formulas
• Small head helps you avoid over-application and creasing

Brush 05: Soft Blending and Seamless Finish

The Brush 05 features a domed, slightly rounded head with softer, more flexible bristles. It’s designed for buffing and blending concealer into the skin, creating a seamless, natural finish. The larger surface area covers more ground quickly, making it a good option for brightening the entire under-eye area or blending out concealer after spot application.

Where the Brush 01 excels at precision, the Brush 05 shines at softening edges. If you tend to get a visible line where your concealer ends, this brush helps diffuse that transition. The softer bristles also make it more forgiving on dry or textured under-eye skin, as they apply less pressure. However, because the bristles are softer, you may need to build coverage in layers to avoid moving product around too much.

• Great for blending and softening concealer edges
• Softer bristles are gentle on delicate under-eye skin
• Works well with lightweight or hydrating concealer formulas

Which Brush Should You Choose?

Your choice between the Brush 01 and Brush 05 depends on your concealer formula and your preferred technique. If you use a thicker, full-coverage concealer and want to target specific areas like dark circles or blemishes, the Brush 01 gives you the control you need to avoid creasing. It’s especially effective when you tap the product in rather than swipe it across the skin.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, more natural look with a hydrating concealer, the Brush 05 helps you blend quickly and evenly. It’s also a great companion for setting powder, as the domed shape can gently press powder into the concealer without disturbing it. For many makeup lovers, owning both brushes offers the best of both worlds: precision where you need it and blending where you want it.

• Use Brush 01 for targeted, high-coverage concealer application
• Use Brush 05 for a soft, blended finish with lightweight formulas
• For a crease-free look, always apply concealer in thin layers and set with a small amount of powder

Both the Brush 01 and Brush 05 are excellent tools for concealer, but they serve slightly different purposes. If you want precision and control to prevent creasing, go with the Brush 01. If you prefer a soft, blended finish that looks natural, the Brush 05 is your best bet. For a complete under-eye routine, consider pairing either brush with a setting powder and a puff like the Puff Trio to lock everything in place.