I was not so thrilled when I opened the package and the handle and brush fell out as separate pieces. However, tape held it until I could hot glue it and now it’s just fine. Obviously, all products occasionally have quality controls issues; this is to be expected. I’m just happy that I can say this unfortunate beginning did not predict my entire experience.

This powder brush is really full and dense. The dark hairs are not quite as fine as the previous brush I used nor does it taper quite so much so it feels a bit more aggressive on the skin but it’s certainly not painful or uncomfortable, just noticeable. I do not have super complex make up needs so all I can say is it applies my powder well, on bare skin or over foundation, and because the hair seems to hold the powder a bit better than my previous brush (and stays in place a bit more) so there’s less mess on the bathroom counter. It blends enough for my needs but, as I said, those needs are not complex.

I simply love that the Studio 35 Powder brush has barely lost any bristles. Where I was lint brushing my face after using my previous, more expensive brush, which would leave my face covered in fine hairs that were difficult to remove. Although some hairs have escaped onto the bathroom counter, I’ve only ever had one stubbornly stick to my face and because the hair is a little more coarse, it’s easier to remove, too. I had pretty much lost hope that any powder brush wouldn’t frustrate me with hairs falling out so to find that in a cheaper brush is awesome.

The handle on this powder brush is a bit shorter and a little thicker, too, than other brushes I’ve used. It’s still easy to grasp, however. It does seem like the brush will lose its shape over time as the hairs like to stay in the shape they take during use but since I have been storing is in the plastic pouch it came with, this helps to reshape it in between uses. Plus, the pouch works well for travel, makes it easy to find and ensures my brush stays clean. I have yet to wash the brush, because I do not usually wash my brushes, but I have read some reviews that suggest Studio 35 make up brushes get even better after washing. I will have to give it a try.

Overall, I think this is a quality product and wouldn’t even mind if I had to replace it more frequently than I have had to replace other brushes. It is half the price!