What this tool does
Mask Brush hides or reveals layer content without permanently erasing pixels.
Isolate objects, colors, and precise areas before editing only the pixels you need.
How to use it
- 01
Open an image and choose Mask Brush from the left toolbar.
- 02
Select a layer mask, paint to hide content, switch the mask action to reveal, and refine with a soft edge.
- 03
Review the result at 100% zoom. If the change is too strong, undo it and repeat with a lower intensity.
What you can make
- Blend two images seamlessly
- Hide a background non-destructively
- Control where filters and effects appear
When to use it
Use Mask Brush when pixels should be hidden or revealed without deleting the underlying image. It is the safest choice for background removal, local composites, gradual blends, and edge corrections that may need revision after the layer is placed over a different color or photograph.
Key controls
- Mask target
- Confirm that the mask thumbnail, not the image pixels, is active. A clear target prevents accidental painting on the artwork itself.
- Hide and reveal
- Paint black to hide, white to reveal, and gray or reduced opacity for partial transparency. Swap colors often while refining an edge.
- Hardness and opacity
- Use a harder brush for products and architecture, a softer brush for natural transitions, and low opacity when building gradual blends.
Worked example
After selecting a person, create a layer mask instead of deleting the background. Paint black around the remaining background, switch to white to restore clipped sleeves, and use a smaller soft brush around hair. Test the mask over white, black, and the intended final background.
Common mistakes
Painting on the image layer while believing the mask is active.
Using a fully soft brush around every edge, including hard objects.
Checking the mask on only one background color.
Frequently asked questions
Does a layer mask permanently remove pixels?
No. The original layer remains intact while the mask controls which areas are visible. Painting white on the mask can reveal hidden pixels again at any time.
Why does the edge have a dark or light halo?
The mask may include pixels contaminated by the previous background or use the wrong softness. Zoom in, reduce the boundary, and repaint problem areas while previewing the final background.