Vegan VS Animal Hair Brushes

So, what's the REAL difference?

Ever picked up a makeup brush and wondered “is this ACTUALLY vegan?” You’re not alone. With so many options out there, it’s easy to get confused. Some brushes are made from animal hair (like goat or pony), while others use synthetic, cruelty-free materials, aka vegan brushes.

But which one’s better? Which one should you be using?

In this article, we’ll break down the differences in super simple terms. Whether you care about how your makeup looks, how your skin feels, or how animals are treated, we’ll help you figure out what works best for YOU. 

What Are Animal Hair Brushes?

Animal hair brushes are made using real hairs from animals like goats, ponies, or sables - yep, actual fur. They’ve been around for ages and are often used by pros because of how well they pick up and blend product. But while they’re known for their softness and performance, how the hair is collected (and the ethics behind it, you can learn more in our other article about cruelty-free) can be a dealbreaker for some. Let’s take a closer look at where they come from and how they actually hold up over time...

How they're sourced and the ethics behind it

Natural hairs (sable, goat, pony, etc.)

Animal hair brushes use real fur from animals like goats, ponies, and sables. They’re picked for their soft texture, which helps blend makeup really well. Goat hair is great for fluffy powder brushes, while sable hair is thinner and better for detailed work like eyeliner or lips. The type of fur used depends on how the brush will be used and how much it’ll cost you.

How they’re harvested and ethics behind sourcing

Here’s where it gets a bit complicated. Some brands say they collect the hair in a kind way, like by brushing or trimming the animals. But not every company is clear about how they really get it. In a lot of cases, the hair comes from animals that were killed, or it’s taken in ways that aren’t cruelty-free. That’s why a lot of people skip animal hair brushes and stick to vegan ones instead. If being cruelty-free is important to you, it’s a good idea to do some research before buying.

Characteristics & Performance

How they compare in softness, pigment pickup, blending

Animal hair brushes are naturally soft and excellent at picking up and blending powder products thanks to their textured cuticles. They create a diffused, airbrushed finish, especially for powders like blush, bronzer, or setting powder. However, they tend to absorb cream and liquid formulas, which can waste product and make blending more difficult.

Pros & cons (durability, cost, cleaning)

While they’re loved for performance, animal brushes require more care — they’re harder to clean, take longer to dry, and can shed over time. They also tend to cost more, especially with premium natural hair types. With proper upkeep, they can last years, but they’re not the most hygienic choice for sensitive skin or heavy product use.

What Are Vegan Brushes?

Vegan brushes are made without using any animal hair, not even a strand. Instead, they use synthetic bristles like Taklon, nylon, or other cruelty-free fibers designed to mimic the softness and flexibility of natural fur. These brushes are a go-to for people who want effective makeup tools and a clean conscience. They’ve come a long way in quality too, so you don’t have to sacrifice performance for ethics. Let’s break down what they’re made of and how they really stack up.

 

Materials Used in Vegan Brushes

Synthetic fibers (Taklon, nylon, vegan alternatives)

Taklon (what we use) and nylon are two of the most popular options in vegan brush manufacturing. Taklon in particular is known for being silky-smooth and super gentle on the skin, even better for those with sensitivities or allergies since it's naturally hypoallergenic. These fibers are also non-porous, which makes them more hygienic (bonus points!).

Other cruelty‑free or plant‑based materials

Some brands are experimenting with other sustainable options like recycled plastic or bio-based materials for handles and packaging. It’s not just about the bristles anymore, the whole brush can be a planet-friendly upgrade. Our brushes also fall in that category, as we not only use Taklon, but also sustainable beechwood in our handles.

Characteristics & Performance

How they compare in softness, pigment pickup, blending

Modern vegan brushes are seriously soft and often just as plush as animal hair (if not more). They tend to pick up less powder than animal bristles, but that’s not a bad thing. You get more control over product placement, which means fewer mistakes and less waste. For cream and liquid products, synthetics actually outperform animal hair by far, they won’t soak up your foundation or cream blush like a sponge. TL;DR: vegan brushes actually help you save more money in the long run. Win win.

Pros & cons (durability, cost, cleaning)

Vegan brushes are easier to clean, dry faster, and are less prone to shedding. They're also more affordable than high-end animal hair options, making them perfect if you’re on a budget or just starting out. The trade-off? Some ultra-cheap versions might feel stiff or plastic-y, so it’s worth investing in a quality set for the best experience, like our Masterful Collection.

Key Differences Between Vegan & Animal Hair Brushes

Not sure whether to go with vegan or animal hair brushes? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you pick the right option based on your values, routine, and results you’re after.

Ethical Considerations

Vegan brushes are made with synthetic, cruelty-free materials and often carry certifications from groups like PETA. In contrast, animal hair brushes may come from goats, ponies, or sables, with unclear or unethical sourcing. As consumer demand grows for ethical beauty, vegan options continue to dominate. When you're searching for TRUE cruelty-free brushes, look for seals from third parties like PETA. You can learn more about that in our PETA-approved page.

Performance & Application

Powder products: 

Animal hair traditionally blends powder well due to its natural texture, but modern vegan brushes now match or exceed this performance.

Creams & liquids: 

Vegan brushes excel thanks to their non-porous bristles that don’t soak up product and give more control with less waste.

Overall blending: 

High-quality synthetics now mimic animal hair softness, making them ideal for both detailed and all-over applications.

Care & Maintenance

Vegan brushes are easier to clean and dry faster, with less risk of shedding. Animal hair requires gentler care and is more prone to damage. Over time, synthetic brushes tend to be more durable and low-maintenance.

Price & Accessibility

Vegan brushes are typically more affordable and widely available, from budget to luxury. Animal hair brushes cost more due to sourcing and rarity but don’t always outperform synthetic alternatives. For value and ethics, vegan brushes are the smarter buy for you.

Misconceptions & Myths

There’s a lot of talk out there about makeup brushes, and not all of it’s true. Some people still think animal hair brushes are always better, or that vegan ones are stiff and cheap, but that’s not really the case anymore. In this part, we’ll go over some of the biggest myths and set the record straight so you know what’s real and what’s just old info.

“Animal hair always outperforms synthetics”

Nope, not true. While animal hair brushes were once considered the gold standard (decades ago), synthetic brushes have come a LONG way. Today’s vegan bristles are soft, durable, and often outperform animal hair when it comes to applying cream or liquid products. Plus, synthetic fibers don’t soak up as much product, so you waste less and get a smoother finish. The truth? It’s not about animal vs. synthetic anymore, it’s about the quality of the brush, period.

“Vegan brushes are harsh or poor quality”

Like we said, that used to be the case years ago, but not anymore. Modern vegan brushes are super soft, gentle on the skin, and just as effective (if not better) than many animal hair brushes. High-quality synthetic bristles now mimic the feel of natural hair without ANY of the scratchiness. Sure, some cheap ones can feel a little stiff, but the same goes for low-quality animal brushes too. If you choose a good brand (like Nanshy, wink wink), you’ll barely notice the difference, except maybe in your conscience.

“Cleaning synthetics is harder”

Actually, it’s the opposite! Synthetic brushes are way easier to clean than animal hair brushes. Since they don’t have porous bristles like real hair, they don’t hold onto makeup, oils, or bacteria as much, which means they rinse out faster and dry quicker. Plus, they’re less likely to shed or get damaged during washing. So if you want low-maintenance brushes that stay fresh and last longer, vegan ones are the way to go.

“You need both vegan and animal hair brushes”

Not really. Unless you're SUPER specific about your tools, one good set of vegan brushes can do it all - powders, creams, liquids, you name it. Today’s synthetic brushes are multi-functional and designed to work across different products and finishes. So unless you’re a collector or just really into variety, sticking to quality vegan brushes can cover all your makeup needs.

“Synthetic brushes can’t blend powders as well”

False. While animal hair is known for picking up powders easily, modern synthetic brushes are designed to do the same and in some cases, even better. With improved textures and tapered tips, high-quality vegan brushes can blend powders just as seamlessly, without kicking up too much product or leaving streaks. It’s all about the brush design, not the hair type.

 

How to Choose the Right Brush for You

With so many brush options out there - vegan, animal hair, fluffy, dense, angled, flat - it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, choosing the right makeup brush isn’t about picking the “best” one overall... it’s about finding what works best for you. From your makeup style to your skin type and personal values, a few small decisions can help you build the perfect brush collection. Let’s break it down so you can find your perfect match without the stress.

1. Consider Your Makeup Style

Are you into full glam with flawless foundation and sculpted contour? Prefer soft, everyday makeup with natural finishes? Or maybe you love getting creative with bold colors and unique looks? No matter your style, vegan brushes have you covered. They’re especially great for cream and liquid products - like foundation, concealer, and cream blush - because they don’t soak up excess product like animal hair does. Plus, many high-quality vegan brushes now blend powders beautifully too, making them a solid choice no matter how simple or bold your makeup routine is.

2. Skin Sensitivity & Allergies

Got sensitive skin or prone to breakouts? Vegan brushes are a gentle, skin-friendly option. Unlike animal hair, which can trap bacteria, oils, and allergens in its porous texture, synthetic bristles are non-porous, meaning they don’t hold onto product buildup as much. This makes them easier to clean and way more hygienic, especially for acne-prone or reactive skin. If your skin gets irritated easily, switching to vegan brushes could make a big difference in both comfort and cleanliness.

3. Budget & Sustainability Priorities

Shopping on a budget? Or trying to make more eco-friendly choices? Vegan brushes check both boxes. They’re usually more affordable than high-end animal hair brushes, making them perfect if you're just starting your kit or don’t want to spend a fortune. Plus, many vegan brush brands now focus on sustainable materials - like recycled handles or eco-friendly packaging - so you can reduce your beauty footprint while still getting top-tier performance. If you care about cruelty-free beauty and conscious spending, vegan brushes are definitely the way to go.

4. Testing before You Buy

Before committing to a full set, it’s always a good idea to try out a vegan brush or two (we recommend our Flawless Foundation brush) - especially if you’re new to synthetic tools. Check how the bristles feel on your skin, how well they pick up product, and how they perform with your favorite formulas. Some stores even have testers available so you can feel the softness and flexibility in person. If you're shopping online, look for detailed reviews or try a smaller starter kit from a trusted cruelty-free brand. A little testing goes a long way in finding the perfect match for your routine.

So, Which Brush Type Is Right for You?

Remember: you don’t need to be vegan to use vegan brushes. Cruelty-free is for everyone who cares about better beauty choices - whether that’s for animals, your skin, your wallet, or the planet. The truth is, both vegan and animal hair brushes can get the job done, but if you’re looking for something ethical, budget-friendly, and easy to care for, vegan brushes are a no-brainer. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding tools that feel good, work well, and align with what matters most to you.

FAQs About Vegan vs Animal Hair Brushes

What makes a brush “vegan”?

A vegan brush is made without any animal-derived materials - especially in the bristles. Instead, it uses synthetic fibers like Taklon or nylon and is created without animal testing or cruelty at any stage of production.

Do vegan brushes hold pigment less?

Vegan brushes may pick up slightly less pigment than animal hair brushes - especially when it comes to powders - but this can actually be a good thing. It gives you more control and less fallout. For creams and liquids, synthetic brushes often perform better.

How do you clean each type properly?

Vegan brushes are easier to clean because synthetic fibers are non-porous and don’t trap product. Use gentle soap and lukewarm water. For animal hair brushes, use a mild shampoo and be extra careful, as the bristles are more delicate and porous. You can learn more in our blog on how to clean your brushes like a pro.

Can synthetic brushes mimic animal hair?

Yes! High-quality synthetic brushes are designed to feel just as soft and perform just as well as natural hair. Some even outperform animal hair, especially for liquid and cream formulas - without any cruelty involved.

How long do vegan brushes last?

With proper care, vegan brushes can last just as long as (if not longer than) animal hair brushes. Since synthetic bristles are less prone to shedding and damage from cleaning, they tend to hold their shape and performance over time. Just be sure to clean them regularly and store them properly.

Do professional makeup artists use vegan brushes?

Absolutely. Many pro MUAs now use vegan brushes ONLY, especially those who work with clients who prefer cruelty-free or hypoallergenic products. High-quality vegan brushes are more than capable of delivering professional-level results - no compromise needed.