Apothica Giveaway + Dear MizzJ: just what the heck is a kabuki brush??

Today's reader question comes from the lovely Elisse.  She always has the best reader questions!  Today, Elisse asked:

I was wondering if you could do a post on kabuki brushes - when and why do i use it, and in your opinion what's brushes would you consider a splurge or a steal?

Well Elisse, kabuki brushes are a cool name, for a fantastic tool.  Definitely it is essential for anyone to have a kabuki brush or something similar, in their makeup bag.  Kabuki brushes get their name from a style of Japanese classical theatre, which is known for its actors wearing heavy layers of stylized makeup.  Similar to its origins, kabuki brushes are used to apply powder foundation and blush to one's skin, but unlike its past, modern kabuki brushes are used mainly for obtaining a flawless, even, finish.

Kabuki brushes are characterised by their large, bulb-shaped brush, fine bristles, and stubby stem.  To use, simply tap out a bit of loose powder foundation, or blush, into the lid of your product, swirl the brush in it until coated, and apply.  The soft bristles and shape allow for even coverage, but it can also be used to create a strong flush of colour on your cheeks by concentrating colour on the apples and drawing a Nike swoosh shape up into your cheekbones.

Try to shop for brushes with soft, natural fibres and wash them gently with warm water and shampoo to ensure their longevity.  When shopping for quality makeup products, you should check out makeup and skin care site, Apothica.  Offering a huge range of beauty brands like GloMinerals, Clinique, Obaqi, and Yves Saint Laurent, Apothica seeks to only sell the highest quality products to its customers.  Check out these two great kabuki brushes I found off of Apothica:

Too Faced Kabuki Brush, $32

 

Hourglass Comestics Kabuki brush, $65

Want a chance to go on a shopping spree for kabuki brushes, skin care products, makeup and more?  Starting today, Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy and Apothica are proud to partner together and offer you a chance to win a $50 gift card redeemable at Apothica, SkincareRX, or SkinBotanica!  To enter, just do one, or more of the following things:

1. Write on Apothica's Facebook wall saying "I just visited Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy & I really like Apothica because ______" (Bonus entry if you sign up for their newsletter!)
2. Tweet @apothica:  "I just visited @mizzjblog & I really like Apothica because ______"
3. On Twitter RT "Tell @apothica what product you'd love to win & you could get a $150 gc from @mizzjblog!"
4.  Blog about a brand, or product you love on Apothica on your blog (provide me a link in the comments)

Whichever method you choose, be sure to leave a comment here telling me which methods you used to enter and your email otherwise you will not be counted!  This contest will run until 12 AM PST, February 16, 2011!  Good luck everyone!