If you’ve been following my beauty adventures, you’ll know I’ve been on something of a crusade to find the perfect makeup brushes. My MECCA COSMETICA Brush With Success review covered one very promising contender, and I’ve spent the past couple of months putting another collection through its paces: MECCA MAX.
I’ve been curious to see how the two ranges compare, particularly because MECCA MAX comes in at a much friendlier price point, with individual brushes starting at $10. After a couple of months of regular use, I’ve got some thoughts on the collection, including a few sets that might be worth keeping in mind when Christmas shopping rolls around.
The new collection features 22 shapes and sizes, developed with input from the MECCA Artistry team. The brushes have had a design refresh, with ultra-soft vegan bristles and updated construction intended to improve product pickup, control and application.
For me, a brush needs to feel good against my skin and make applying makeup easier. There’s little point investing in a beautiful foundation if the tool you’re using leaves you fighting to blend it properly. After years of trying different brushes, I’ve become particularly interested in the shapes and little design details that make everyday application less of a production.
The details that make a difference
The revamped range includes an enhanced Angled Complexion Brush, designed to follow the natural contours of the face. It’s the sort of shape that makes sense for working around the nose and other fiddly areas where blending foundation can be a challenge.
The collection also introduces three new eye brushes, developed in response to feedback from the MECCA Artistry team. Eye makeup can demand a fair bit of precision, particularly when you’re working with smaller areas, so having shapes designed for greater control is a welcome addition.
I’m also interested in the two new double-ended brushes. My makeup bag tends to become ridiculously overcrowded whenever I travel, as I convince myself I’ll need almost every product I own for a weekend away. Brushes that do double duty are a practical solution, leaving a little more room for the products I inevitably squeeze in at the last minute.
The bristles are another important consideration. MECCA MAX has refined the brush construction, density and fibre composition across the range, with soft vegan fibres designed to suit each brush’s intended purpose. Comfort matters when you’re using brushes around your eyes and across your face every day, and I always appreciate tools that feel pleasant against the skin.
Which brush set is right for you?
Alongside the individual brushes, MECCA MAX has introduced three curated sets. These are particularly appealing if you’re starting a collection or want to give someone a useful beauty gift without spending a fortune.
Brush Fundamentals set, $76 (valued at $148)
With nine face and eye brushes, this is the most comprehensive of the three sets. I’d look at it for someone building their collection or wanting a broader selection of tools for everyday makeup. It’s also a good option if you’re shopping for a beauty enthusiast and aren’t entirely sure which individual brushes they’d prefer.
All Eyes On You set, $32 (valued at $56)
Five eye brushes for $32 makes this the most budget-friendly set. It’s worth considering for anyone who loves experimenting with eyeshadow or wants more options for detailed eye makeup. It would also make a lovely present for a makeup-loving teenager who’s building their first collection.
Cover Your Bases, $58 (valued at $102)
This set includes five complexion brushes, making it the one to investigate if foundation, concealer and other base products are the main focus of your routine. If you already have your favourite makeup formulas sorted, updating the tools you use to apply them is a useful way to refresh your kit.
Individual brushes start at $10, too, so you can pick up a single tool without committing to a full set.
After a couple of months of regular use, the MECCA MAX brushes have earned their place in my makeup routine. I love that the collection combines thoughtful design with a price point that makes it easy to add to your kit, whether you’re after a specific brush or looking to build a collection from scratch.
If you’ve been meaning to upgrade your makeup tools, this is a range I’d happily recommend checking out. With individual brushes starting at $10 and sets from $32, you can find the shapes that work for your routine without blowing your beauty budget. And if you’re already thinking about Christmas presents, these are the sort of practical beauty buys that are just as lovely to give as they are to unwrap.
In her spare time, she likes long walks down the makeup aisle and performing in Brisbane theatre. You can follow her adventures on Instagram and TikTok @thebeautypalate.
