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When it comes to eye makeup, using the right tools can make all the difference. Even the most high-end eyeshadows can look patchy or lackluster if they're applied with a subpar brush. On the other hand, a good quality eyeshadow brush can help you achieve a flawless and professional-looking eye makeup look. But with so many types of brushes out there, it can be overwhelming to know which ones to invest in. That's why we've put together a list of the 25 best eyeshadow brushes, covering everything from blending to precise application to shimmer and glitter. Whether you're a beginner or a makeup pro, this guide has got you covered. So let's dive in and discover the best tools for achieving stunning eye makeup looks.
Types of Eyeshadow Brushes
There are many types of eyeshadow brushes, each with its own unique shape, size, and purpose. Some of the most common types include blending brushes, crease brushes, flat shader brushes, angled brushes, and smudge brushes.
- Blending brushes are great for diffusing color and creating a seamless transition between different shades.
- Crease brushes are perfect for applying color to the crease of the eye and creating depth and dimension.
- Flat shader brushes are ideal for packing color onto the eyelid, while angled brushes are great for creating precise lines and angles.
- Smudge brushes are perfect for creating a smoky eye or for smudging eyeliner.
When choosing an eyeshadow brush, it's important to consider your specific makeup needs and the type of eye look you want to achieve. For example, if you're going for a smoky eye, you'll want to invest in a good smudge brush. On the other hand, if you prefer a more natural look, a blending brush might be the perfect tool for you. Ultimately, choosing the right brush comes down to personal preference, but having a variety of brushes in your makeup kit can help you achieve a wide range of eye makeup looks.
Best Eyeshadow Brushes for Blending
Whether you're a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, these brushes will help you achieve a flawless, blended-eye makeup look.
Morphe M433 Pro Firm Blending Fluff Brush
This fluffy brush is perfect for blending eyeshadows seamlessly. Its tapered shape allows for precise application and its firm bristles ensure even blending. This brush is a must-have in any makeup artist kit.
Sigma Beauty E40 Tapered Blending Brush
This soft, fluffy brush is perfect for creating a blended eye look. Its tapered shape allows for precise placement of color, and its bristles are soft enough to blend without removing any previously applied color.
Real Techniques Eye Shade + Blend Set
This set includes three brushes - one for applying eyeshadow and one for blending and one for eyebrows. The eyeshadow blending brush is perfect for creating a soft, diffused look. Its fluffy bristles ensure even blending without any harsh lines.
MAC 217S Blending Brush
This cult-favorite brush is a must-have for any makeup enthusiast. Its dome-shaped bristles allow for perfect blending, and its soft, natural fibers ensure a flawless finish. This brush is perfect for blending out harsh lines or creating a soft, smoky eye.
Bdellium Tools 776 Blending Brush
This brush is perfect for creating a seamless transition between different shades of eyeshadow. Its fluffy bristles allow for even blending without removing any previously applied color. Plus, its small size makes it perfect for blending in smaller areas of the eye.
Best Eyeshadow Brushes for Precise Application
Whether you're creating a winged eyeliner or a cut crease look, these brushes will help you achieve a flawless, precise eye makeup look.
EmaxDesign Eye Makeup Brushes Set
This set includes a variety of brushes for all your eye makeup needs, including a fine liner brush for precise application. The fine, pointed tip allows for the precise application of eyeliner or eyeshadow in small areas.
da Vinci Cosmetics Fine Liner Brush
This brush is perfect for creating a precise line, whether it's for eyeliner or a cut crease look. Its small size allows for precision, and its pointed round tip allows for versatility in the thickness of the line.
Sigma E06 Winged Liner Brush
This angled brush is perfect for creating winged eyeliner. Its small, angled bristles allow for precise application and its firm texture ensures a crisp line.
Real Techniques Everyday Eye Set
This brush collection set includes a variety of brushes, including a crease brush and a detailer brush. The detailer brush is perfect for precise application in small areas, while the crease brush allows for precise placement of color.
MAC 263 Small Angle Brush
This small, angled brush is perfect for creating a precise line, whether it's for eyeliner or a cut crease look. Its angled bristles allow for versatility in the thickness of the line, and its small size allows for precision in application.
Best Eyeshadow Brushes for Shimmer and Glitter
Whether you're a fan of shimmer or glitter, these brushes will help you achieve a flawless, glittery eye makeup look.
Sigma Beauty E57 Firm Shader Brush
This brush is perfect for applying shimmery eyeshadows. Its large, flat shape allows for even application of the product, and its dense bristles ensure minimal fallout.
NYX Professional Makeup Pro Flat Detail Brush
This small, pointed brush is perfect for applying glitter to specific areas of the eye. Its small size allows for precision, while its dense bristles ensure minimal fallout.
Mypreface Mini Tapered Kabuki Brush
This multi-function brush is perfect for blending out shimmery or glittery eyeshadows. Its fluffy bristles allow for even blending without removing any previously applied color, and its small size makes it perfect for blending in smaller areas of the eye. Also works as a concealer brush for applying concealer to the lid or under the eye area.
Real Techniques Setting Brush
This versatile eyeshadow brush is perfect for setting powders and also for applying glitter to the inner corner of the eye. Its small size allows for precision, while its fluffy bristles ensure even application of the product without fallout.
Ecotools Precision Blush Brush
This brush is perfect for applying loose glitter to the eyelid. Its small size allows for precision, while its fluffy bristles ensure even application of the product without fallout.
Best Affordable Eyeshadow Brushes
These brushes may be budget-friendly, but they still offer great quality and performance, making them perfect for beginners and makeup enthusiasts on a budget.
Real Techniques Eye Makeup Brush Set with Case
The limited-edition makeup brush set contains 6 brushes that have been hand-selected to help create beautiful eyes. The bristles are made of luxurious cashmere and synthetic fibers and are completely cruelty-free. With its angled concealer brush, pointed shadow brush, detailer brush, blending brush, and angled liner brush, you can achieve any look you want for a stunning eye makeup finish
Wet n Wild Pro Brush Line Crease Brush
This brush is perfect for defining the crease. Its small size allows for precision, and its fluffy bristles allow for seamless blending. The bristles are made of synthetic fibers, making them easy to clean and maintain.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Blending Eye Brush
This vegan eyeshadow brush is perfect for blending shadows across the lash line. Its fluffy bristles allow for even blending without removing any previously applied color. The bristles are soft and gentle on the skin, making it perfect for those with sensitive eyes.
EcoTools Define & Highlight Duo
This set includes two brushes for the price of one. The define brush is perfect for packing on color, while the highlight brush allows for the precise application of highlighter. The bristles are made of synthetic fibers, making them easy to clean and maintain.
BH Cosmetics Eye Essential Brush Set
This set includes twelve brushes for the eyes and face. The brushes are perfect for all your eye makeup needs, from packing on color to precise application. The bristles are soft and gentle on the skin, making it perfect for those with sensitive eyes.
Best High-End Eyeshadow Brushes
These brushes may be a splurge, but they're worth the investment for their superior quality and performance, making them perfect for makeup enthusiasts and professionals.
Tom Ford Eye Shadow Contour Brush
This professional-grade brush is made with natural hair, making crease and corner eye shadow application a breeze. The handle is designed for ultimate comfort and balance - perfect for those precise makeup looks. Plus, the soft bristles ensure seamless blending and a smooth finish. High-quality construction guarantees that this brush will last you a lifetime, making it an essential addition to any makeup artists toolkit.
Bobbi Brown Eye Sweep Brush
This must-have brush is perfect for applying eyeshadows all over the lid. Its soft, natural bristles allow for an even application of the product, resulting in a beautiful finish every time. Plus, its full and rounded brush head makes it a great all-around tool you can use to easily apply base colors or blend out shades in your crease. The high-quality construction also ensures that this brush will last you a lifetime.
MAC 239 Eye Shader Brush
This brush is crafted with flat and synthetic bristles, making it perfect for packing on eyeshadows. Its unique shape allows you to easily blend out shades in your crease or build up intense color on the lid. Plus, its high-quality materials, birch wood handle, and nickel-plated brass ferrules make for a brush that's built to last. For the perfect smoky eye or your go-to everyday look, this is one brush you won't want to be without.
TREXD Eye Shadow Brush Set
This set is the perfect solution for all your makeup needs! Easy to store and carry, this set of five brushes is great for taking with you on the go. Whether you're going for a dramatic smokey eye or just need to freshen up your everyday look, these brushes have got you covered. Featuring all the essentials such as eyeshadows, eyeliners, eyebrows, foundations, blushes, and more - they'll help you add fresh color to your face in no time. Plus, they're suitable for all makeup looks and skin types so everyone can benefit from their versatile use.
Westman Atelier Eye Shadow II Brush
The Westman Atelier Eye Shadow II Brush is the best eyeshadow brush you'll find! Its fluffy bristles and rounded shape make it perfect for perfectly blending eye shadow for a seamless finish. Plus, it's made with superior quality materials; the handles are lacquered and crafted from sustainable hardwood birch from a Forest Stewardship Council Certified forest in Eastern Europe, while the bristles are handmade in Kumano, Japan using traditional techniques.
Eyeshadow Brushes FAQ
Eyeshadow brushes are an essential tool for achieving flawless eye makeup looks. From blending to packing on color, having the right brush can make all the difference. However, with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here we've answered some frequently asked questions about eyeshadow brushes and helped you find the perfect tools for your makeup bag.
What is the difference between natural vs synthetic brushes?
When it comes to eyeshadow brushes, there are two main types of bristles: natural and synthetic. Natural bristles are typically made from animal hair, such as goat or squirrel, while synthetic bristles are made from man-made materials like nylon or taklon.
One of the main differences between the two types of brushes is the way they pick up and apply products. Natural bristles tend to be more porous, which means they can hold onto more powder or pigment. This makes them a great choice for blending or applying sheer layers of eyeshadow. Synthetic bristles, on the other hand, are often denser and more firm, making them ideal for packing on color or creating sharp lines.
Another factor to consider is the ethics of using animal products. If you prefer to use vegan or cruelty-free products, synthetic brushes may be a better choice for you.
What to look for in a good eyeshadow brush?
When shopping for eyeshadow brushes, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Bristle shape: The shape of the brush will affect how it applies eyeshadow. A fluffy, dome-shaped brush is great for blending, while a flat, angled brush is ideal for creating precise lines.
- Bristle density: A more densely packed brush will pick up more product, while a looser brush will give you a more sheer application.
- Handle length: The length of the brush handle can affect how easy it is to control. A shorter handle may be easier to maneuver, while a longer handle can provide more leverage.
- Quality: A good eyeshadow brush should be well-made and durable. Look for brushes with secure ferrules (the metal part that attaches the bristles to the handle) and bristles that don't shed or splay.
How many eyeshadow brushes do you need?
The number of eyeshadow brushes you need depends on your personal preferences and the types of looks you like to create. However, there are a few basic brushes that every makeup bag should have:
- Fluffy blending brush: This brush is essential for blending out harsh lines and creating a seamless gradient of color.
- Flat packing brush: Use this brush to apply eyeshadow to the lid, packing on color for a bold look.
- Angled liner brush: Perfect for creating sharp lines or winged eyeliner.
- Detail brush: A small, precise brush is great for adding highlight to the inner corner of the eye or lining the lower lash line.
Overall, investing in a few high-quality eyeshadow brushes can make a world of difference in your makeup application. By considering the type of bristles, the shape and density of the brush, and the quality of the product, you'll be well on your way to creating flawless eye looks.
How to clean and care for your eyeshadow brushes?
If you're an avid makeup lover, you know the importance of keeping your tools in tip-top shape. One of the most important tools in your arsenal is your eyeshadow brushes. Not only do they allow you to create stunning eye looks, but they also need regular cleaning to keep bacteria at bay and maintain their quality over time. In this review, I'll be sharing my top tips for cleaning and caring for your eyeshadow brushes.
First and foremost, it's crucial to clean your brushes regularly. Ideally, you should clean them after every use, but if that's not possible, aim for at least once a week. To get started wet the bristles under warm water and add a drop of mild shampoo. Gently swirl the brush in your palm to work up a lather, being careful not to tug or pull at the bristles. Rinse the brush thoroughly, ensuring that all soap has been removed. Finally, gently squeeze out excess water and reshape the brush, laying it flat to dry.
Another essential tip is to avoid submerging the entire brush in water. This can cause the glue that holds the bristles in place to weaken and ultimately lead to shedding. Instead, focus on cleaning only the bristles and handle, being careful not to get water inside the ferrule (the metal part that connects the bristles to the handle).
If you're short on time, you can also use a quick-drying brush cleaner that's specifically designed for this purpose. Simply spritz the cleaner onto the bristles and wipe them clean with a cloth. Not only does this method save time, but it's also incredibly convenient for those who need to clean their brushes on-the-go.
Lastly, always store your brushes in a dry and cool area. Avoid storing them in a damp bathroom, which can lead to bacteria growth and cause the bristles to become brittle. Instead, store your brushes upright in a brush holder or lay them flat in a drawer.
Final Thoughts
A good quality eyeshadow brush can make all the difference in your makeup game. Investing in high-end brushes from trusted brands is a great way to ensure you get superior performance and lasting results with each application. With proper care and maintenance, these tools can last for years so that you never have to worry about running out of options when it comes time to create the perfect look. So don't be afraid to splurge on yourself - invest in an eye shadow brush set today and take your beauty routine up a notch!
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Justyna Sokalski
Justyna Sokalski
