MAC x Proenza Schouler 129SE Powder/Blush Brush ($38.50) is a short-handled version of the 129 brush, which is typically used for blush, though it can be used with other face and cheek products as well. It’s a medium-sized brush with a flared, domed-shaped brush head. The brush head is 1.25 inches / almost 4 centimeters in length, 1.5 inches / just over 3 centimeters in width, and 3/4 of an inches / 2 centimeters in thickness. It’s moderately dense with some spring/flexibility, but it doesn’t feel floppy or feathery.

I’m not a fan of MAC’s 129 in its permanent, original form, as the bristles are noticeably scratchy against the skin. The only time I ever reach for it is if a blush is so stiff and difficult to use that I need rough, scratchy bristles to dislodge the powder, but I’ll still use something softer and gentler against the skin to actually apply the color. If you do very gentle sweeps of the brush across the cheek at an angle, it doesn’t feel too scratchy, but practically speaking, I would rather use a brush that I didn’t have to worry about scratchiness regardless of how I used it.

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MAC 129SE Proenza Schouler Powder/Blush Brush

MAC 129SE Proenza Schouler Powder/Blush Brush

MAC 129SE Proenza Schouler Powder/Blush Brush

MAC 129SE Proenza Schouler Powder/Blush Brush