How do I choose a cosmetic applicator tip shape?
Start with the placement or spreading task and the formula, then compare tip geometry—flat bristled edge, oval tip, paddle or dual-ended silicone—using a numbered reference. Confirm contact material, tip size, flexibility and packaging on a sample; a photograph alone does not identify the material or prove performance.
| Contact geometry | PRETTY starting reference | What to confirm on the sample |
|---|---|---|
| Flat bristled edge | CAT-p043-pair — two flat brush profiles | Working width, exposed length and surface contact with your formula |
| Unequal oval tips | CAT-p047-r1c1 — dual-ended oval applicator | Role and dimensions of each end; density and flexibility |
| Rounded dual silicone tips | UP049 — lavender dual-ended applicator | Drawing sizes: 18 mm large tip / 9 mm small tip; formula placement on each end |
| Broad paddle / capped tip | EN022 paddle and capped-tool references | Contact material identity, usable length, cap clearance and cleaning access |
Choose the application task before the tip silhouette.
Placing concealer, spreading a cream, blending an edge and packing a kit accessory are different jobs. Start with the formula, the skin or packaging surface it meets, and the motion you want. Then compare a flat bristled edge, an oval tip, a paddle or a dual-ended tool. A photograph shows a silhouette; it does not establish whether the contact surface is fibre, foam, silicone or another material.
Read tip geometry as size, shape and role—not as a material certificate.
For bristled applicator brushes, record head width and exposed length the same way you read other brush drawings. For oval or silicone tips, record tip diameter or face size, exposed length and how the tip joins the body. UP049 is a documented dual-ended silicone example: the drawing records an 18 mm large tip and a 9 mm small tip for different placement areas. Do not assume both ends share the same task or flexibility.
Unequal ends need separate briefs.
CAT-p047-r1c1 pairs unequal oval tips on one body. Define the job of each end, then compare reach, control and cleaning separately. A dual-ended layout saves a second handle, but each tip still needs its own size, flexibility and packaging clearance. Prefer one written role per end over a single “multi-use” label.
Paddles and capped tips add packaging interfaces.
EN022 references include broad paddles and capped detail tips. For a loose tool, specify usable length and storage space. For a packaging-connected tip, identify connection and closure dimensions separately—catalogue photographs do not establish a tested bottle, cap or nozzle fit. Review joins, edges and cleaning access on the physical sample.
Test contact performance with the intended formula.
Use the same product and amount when comparing tip options. Record pickup or loading, placement control, spreading, residue and cleaning. Flexibility, surface finish and edge behaviour under pressure are sample properties; they are not proven by colour or a marketing silhouette. Repeat checks after the agreed care routine if that is part of the specification.
Send a quotation brief that names geometry and commercial units.
Include the selected reference (for example UP049, CAT-p043-pair or CAT-p047-r1c1), the job for each end, formula, preferred contact material, tip sizes to keep or change, quantity in pieces or sets, logo, packaging, destination and target arrival date. Typical brush MOQ guidance is 2,000 pieces or 1,000 sets; applicators are quoted for the agreed configuration. Development samples are charged and can be credited on a production order—confirm category, fee and schedule after the brief.
Technical references & scope
Sources & scope
The PRETTY records below support the product references in this guide. They are not independent certification, capacity verification or order-specific test results.
Plan your next step
Ready to discuss your project?
Tell us which brushes you want to develop, how they will be used and what you would like to customise. Add the points from this guide to your enquiry so we can review the specification and sample requirements with you.
Tell PRETTY the placement or spreading task, formula and preferred tip geometry. Start from an applicator reference below, then include tip sizes, contact material and packaging clearance in the sample brief.
Develop your applicator tip with PRETTY →Compare applicator tip referencesApply this to your product brief.
UP049 documents an 18 mm large tip and a 9 mm small tip on one lavender dual-ended silicone body—use those sizes as a comparison starting point, not as a universal tip standard.