BS-MALL 18-Piece Makeup Brush Set Review: Worth It in 2026?
By Mubboo Editorial Team · Updated Jun 9, 2026 · 7 min read
Mubboo Verdict
🟢 BuyThe BS-MALL 18-Piece Set earns a Buy for makeup beginners and daily users — 4.6 stars from 59,000+ reviews, ultra-soft synthetic bristles, and a full-face kit.
Note: Shares a review pool with the upgraded Travel Case version, reflecting consistent quality across BS-MALL's lineup. Skip if you need professional-grade heft and specialized brushes. 💰 Coupon available on Amazon at review time for additional savings.
Pros
- Ultra-soft synthetic bristles, gentle on sensitive skin
- No shedding after multiple washes
- 18-piece set includes face, eye, and lip brushes
- Protective travel case keeps brushes organized
- Live Amazon coupon for additional savings
- 4.6-star rating from 59,054 verified buyers
- Vegan and cruelty-free materials
Cons
- Initial chemical odor, dissipates after airing out
- Lightweight handles feel less premium
- Not ideal for professional makeup artists
- Only one color option (rose gold/black)
Best for: Makeup beginners and everyday users building their first brush collection
Is this right for you?
Answer 3 quick questions — we'll tell you if this product fits, or recommend something better.
What's your makeup experience level?
How much do you want to spend?
Which brush feature matters most to you?
Key Specifications
| Brush Count | 18Standout |
|---|---|
| Bristle Material | Synthetic vegan fibersStandout |
| Handle Material | Alloy with rose gold finish |
| Case Included | Yes (soft black case)Standout |
| Cruelty-Free | Yes |
| Skin Type | All, including sensitive |
| Easy to Clean | Quick-dry, maintains shape |
| Shedding | No shedding after washes |
Softness and Blendability
8.5/10The ultra-fine synthetic bristles feel silky against the skin and pick up powders and creams effortlessly. Compared to stiffer budget brushes like BEAKEY, these provide a noticeably softer touch that minimizes irritation on sensitive eyelids.
For a natural, no-makeup look, the fluffy blending brush diffuses eyeshadow seamlessly — mimicking the performance of brands twice the price.
Daily scenario: applying foundation before a 9-to-5 office day, these brushes deliver an even, streak-free finish without tugging.
If you value a soft, comfortable application for everyday wear, this set is a standout at this price.
Incredible Value at Under $10
9.5/10for 18 brushes — each — the BS-MALL set undercuts nearly every competitor. The BEAKEY set rings up but includes only 10 brushes and sponges, not dedicated brow or lip tools.
Even BS-MALL's own 14-piece option lacks the precise eyeliner and lip brushes this set includes.
With the active Amazon coupon, the effective price dips even lower, making this the true budget champion for anyone building a starter kit.
If cost-per-brush matters to you, this is the unbeatable pick — grab it while the coupon lasts.
Dealing with the Initial Chemical Odor
7.5/10Out of the box, many users report a strong acetone-like smell from the synthetic fibers. This is common among ultra-budget brush sets, including the BEAKEY line.
The fix is simple: wash with mild soap, let them air out for 24 hours, and the scent vanishes completely — a one-time inconvenience.
If you're sensitive to smells or want an unbox-and-go experience, consider the BS-MALL Travel Case version, which has less packaging odor.
Plan for a quick wash-and-air routine before first use; the performance afterward makes it worth the brief wait.
Durability and Cleaning Over Time
8.5/10After dozens of washes, these brushes hold their shape and show zero shedding — a testament to the high-density bristles. Reddit's beauty forums (r/MakeUpAddictionUK) advise using baby shampoo for cleaning, which works perfectly here without breaking down the fibers.
In daily use, the rose gold alloy ferrules resist rust, and the handles remain intact even after accidental drops — a common mishap for beginners.
Compared to cheap unbranded sets that shed within weeks, this BS-MALL kit proves you don't need to spend + for lasting quality.
For a sub-$10 set, the longevity and easy maintenance are remarkable — a smart investment for daily face beat.
How BS-MALL Stacks Up Against Competing Budget Sets
8.5/10When pitted against the BEAKEY 10-Piece Set, BS-MALL wins on brush count (18 vs 10) and inclusion of specialized tools like a precise eyeliner brush. BEAKEY, however, adds two makeup sponges — a bonus if you love a sponge-blended foundation base.
Against BS-MALL's own 14-Piece Set, this 18-piece version adds crucial eye detail brushes, making it the better choice for anyone wanting full eye looks.
If you're willing to spend for a sturdy travel case and slightly heavier handles, the premium BS-MALL Travel Case version is the upgrade path.
For a complete starter kit with no extra fluff, this 18-piece set remains the smartest allocation of your beauty budget.
What Users Say
4.6★ · 59,054 Amazon reviewsAmazon Buyers
4.6★ · 59,054 reviewsAmong 59,000+ verified Amazon reviews, the BS-MALL 18-Piece Set consistently earns praise for its soft bristles and smooth, streak-free application. Many buyers call it an amazing value for a complete beginner kit. The most common complaint is a chemical smell upon opening, but airing out resolves it. Lightweight handles and occasional stray bristles are also mentioned, though overall satisfaction remains high at 4.6 stars.
Reddit Community
Reddit's beauty community, particularly r/MakeUpAddictionUK, emphasizes that high-quality brushes don't have to cost a fortune. A recurring piece of advice is that basic brush cleaners like baby shampoo work as well as expensive formulas, keeping synthetic bristles soft and lasting. Users also stress that natural skin texture is normal, so this affordable set's blendability helps achieve a natural finish rather than heavy cakey results. For budget-conscious beginners, the consensus is that this BS-MALL set delivers performance that rivals pricier brands.
YouTube Reviewers
YouTube reviewers like Marlena Stell (210 brushes tested) and Haley Kim both stress that bristle softness and density matter more than brand name. Marlena notes high-density brushes are better for precise blending, while Haley highlights that drugstore brushes can produce professional results when used correctly. Aditya Madiraju even demonstrates using a single brush for foundation, concealer, and contour — proving that technique beats price. This BS-MALL set, with its dense, soft bristles, fits this expert advice perfectly.
Buy this if…
- Makeup beginners. Complete set with labeled brushes and easy-to-follow shapes.
- Everyday makeup wearers. Soft bristles for a comfortable daily application routine.
Skip this if…
- You frequently travel and need a sturdy hard case. → Buy the BS-MALL 18-Piece with Travel Case on Amazon instead — The premium version includes a sleek, durable travel case and slightly heavier handles.
- You prefer makeup sponges over brushes for foundation. → Buy the BEAKEY Makeup Brushes Set with 2 Sponges on Amazon instead — The BEAKEY set adds two latex-free sponges for a sponge-blended base, at a comparable price.
Consider These Alternatives
BS-MALL 14-Piece Makeup Brush Set
$8.99
A smaller, even more affordable 14-piece option from BS-MALL for basic application.
BEAKEY Makeup Brushes Set with 2 Sponges
$7.98
A popular budget alternative including two makeup sponges for foundation lovers.
BS-MALL 18-Piece Makeup Brush Set with Travel Case
$24.99
The premium upgrade with a durable travel case and sturdier handles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BS-MALL 18-Piece Brush Set worth $9.99?
Absolutely for beginners. You get 18 synthetic brushes covering all face and eye needs, plus a travel case — per brush. With 4.6 stars from 59,000+ reviews, it outperforms many + sets. The active Amazon coupon makes it an even better deal. Just budget time for the initial wash to eliminate the temporary odor.
How does the BS-MALL set compare to the BEAKEY set?
BS-MALL offers 18 brushes versus BEAKEY's 10; BS-MALL includes specialized brow and lip brushes that BEAKEY lacks. BEAKEY includes two makeup sponges, which some prefer for foundation. Both have synthetic vegan bristles and hold up well to washing. For a full brush-only kit, BS-MALL wins; for sponge lovers, BEAKEY is a solid alternative at a similar price.
What are the most common complaints about BS-MALL brushes?
The most frequent complaint is a strong chemical smell right out of the package — washing and airing them out solves it within a day. Some users find the handles lightweight and less luxurious compared to heavy wooden alternatives. Occasionally a brush may arrive with a stray bristle, but shedding after washes is rare, and customer service is responsive.
Are these brushes cruelty-free and vegan?
Yes, the bristles are 100% synthetic and vegan. BS-MALL confirms the brushes are cruelty-free, and no animal hair is used. The soft nylon fibers are designed to mimic natural hair while being more durable and easier to clean. This makes them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
How do I clean the BS-MALL brushes?
Use a mild soap or baby shampoo and lukewarm water. Swirl the bristles gently, avoiding water above the ferrule to prevent handle damage. Rinse thoroughly, reshape, and lay flat to dry. Reddit's beauty community recommends cleaning them once a week for daily users to maintain softness and prevent product buildup.
Can these brushes be used for professional makeup artistry?
While they perform well for personal use, professional artists may find the handles too lightweight and the variety insufficient for advanced techniques like detailed cut creases or multiple contouring shades. For a pro kit, consider the BS-MALL Travel Case version with heavier handles, or invest in specialized brushes from brands like Morphe or Sigma.
About this review
Mubboo Editorial Team — independent US-market consumer research. We cross-referenced 59,000+ verified Amazon reviews, expert video evaluations, and Reddit community advice to bring you this honest product review.
How we evaluated this product
Our methodology combines data from 59,000+ verified Amazon buyer reviews, community discussions across Reddit beauty forums, and insights from three YouTube makeup experts. We analyzed bristle softness, shedding resistance, brush variety, and real-world durability based on long-term user reports. No paid placements — our picks come from genuine buyer experiences and independent research.
Affiliate disclosure (FTC §255): When you buy through links on this page, Mubboo may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our full disclosure policy.