Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Chikuhodo Z-2 Highlighter Brush

I've been wanting to discuss this brush for some time...it's a bit ironic because the designated purpose of this brush is to use it for highlighting. I own a lot of highlighters, but I generally use liquid ones. I do have a couple of powder ones, but it's an area of my makeup stash that I'd like to expand on. 

If you're new to my blog, Chikuhodo are the manafacturers of Suqqu brushes and they create their own brushes, which are only available in Japan. I've reviewed the Z-5 and the Z-8 (if you're interested in reading about the Z series).

So a little more about the Z-2:

Hair: it's made from 100% grey squirrel hair. Of course it's soft and the bristles feel so divine against your face.

Density: It's pretty dense, but the shape of the actual head, it's very tapered, so the effect of applying the powder is very light, but it can pack on the color. The shape of the brush is definitely unique in terms of what I have in my stash, the only other face brush that's pointed is the Becca 53, which is synthetic and used for liquid foundation.

Ferrule and handle: it's black, long and it's very sturdy. It's in line with the other Chikuhodo brushes I own such as the Z-5 and the Z-8.

Why is this so amazing?: I think the best way to describe it is to apply highlighter, whether it's on your cheeks, bridge of your nose, or wherever, it's important to have a precise application. I've felt in the past with cheek/blush brushes I tended to overapply or the placement of the highlighter was more spread out, in part due to the shape of the brush I've used in the past. I can either use the tip of the brush for narrow areas, or use it on its side for slightly larger areas. Due to the softness of the hair, it's pretty difficult to over-apply, but u can definitely easily get the perfect application if you ask me.   

Total price: $105. (price which is approx: $85 + tax + shipping + fees). 

Is it necessary?: Probably not if you have a pointed brush, or own a slanted face brush for bronzing, but I like it since it makes it pretty easy to apply powder highlighter. In my case, this brush is motivating me to buy a couple more powder highlighters. 


a closeup of the brush head


Becca 53, Chikuhodo Z-2
L to R: Becca 53, Shu Goat 18, Chikuhodo Z-2, Shu 20H, and Chikuhodo Z-8


10 comments:

  1. I would love to have a chikuhodo brush. It's on my lemmings list. That brush looks sooo soft.

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  2. squirrel hair? i think i ll pass :/

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    1. well they are high end brushes...it's not for everyone i guess. they're pretty amazing <3

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  3. Are you located in the US? From where do you purchase your Chikuhodo brushes?
    Thank you!

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    1. a friend did me the favor of getting them. :)

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  4. However good your makeup your brush matters a lot for smooth and superb application.thanks for the knowledge on the brushes and their utilities.

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  5. Oooooooh This brush looks so nice! I think I need this. And Squirrel Hair is common in cosmetic brushes. It doesn't bother me at all.

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    1. it doesn't bother me at all either, but i know some people aren't too keen on animal hair (understandable).

      squirrel hair is pretty common, but grey squirrel are generally used in higher end brushes because they are soft and tapered.

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  6. Where did you get this! I have been wanting to try their brushed in ages! Couldn't find them any where

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    1. through someone i know that was in japan at the time. it's only sold domestically there.

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