As a makeup artist or makeup lover you know you can never have too many makeup tools or brushes. There are new toys out every week so which ones should you beg for this year?

Here at LA Makeup we know that good tools are expensive but if you’re serious about your career as a makeup artist then it’s definitely worth investing some of those scare Euro in the good stuff.  Really it’s better to have a small kit with high-quality brushes than a bulging bag of brushes which fall apart on a client’s face!

· The Vogue bloggers loved this Lashlight Mascara from Too Faced Makeup. A light at the end of your mascara means no more black cheekbones.

· Kabuki Brushes; perfect for loose powder and if you’re tying mineral makeup they’re great.

· MAC 187: pricy but will last forever and blends everything perfectly.

· Brushes on the go: Boots have a great range of cheap but decent brushes for party touch-ups like this brush and mirror combo.

· Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual – everything you need to know about techniques and skills

· Beaut.ie Guide to Gorgeous – does exactly what it says on the tin

· Mason Pearson hair brushes are expensive but bring guaranteed shine. Do a search on Amazon or E-bay to find them at Stateside prices.

· For makeup on a budget try the Barbara Daly range at Tesco. Surprisingly good.

For more advice pop in and see us on Dame Street. Remember you don’t have to invest in a full makeup set all at once; build it up piece by piece during the year. Talk to other makeup artists and find out what they recommend too!

What was on your wish-list this Christmas?