The key to achieving a beautiful eye makeup look is having the right brushes. Good eyeshadow brushes can make a huge difference.
There are seven types of eyeshadow brushes that I think every girl needs. In today’s post, I’ve put together a guide and recommendations on my favorite go-to brushes.
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Related Post: Best Makeup Brushes for Foundation
Must Have Eye Makeup Brushes
1. Fluffy blending brush
A fluffy blending brush is the first brush I reach for when doing my eye makeup. It is the perfect brush for blending the transition shade.
This brush has long, soft bristles and is tapered into a dome. It is a must-have for softening harsh lines on the crease and brow bone.
Recommended fluffy blending brushes:
Sigma E40 Max Tapered Blending Brush
Photo: Sigma Beauty
Morphe M504 Large Pointed Blender Brush
Photo: Ulta
2. Dense dome crease brush
A dense dome crease brush is a stiff yet soft brush designed for packing color onto your crease. Its shape makes it excellent for blending colors along the contours of your eyes.
This brush is a must-have, especially if you have hooded eyes, as it provides precision and control, allowing for seamless color application and blending to enhance the eye shape.
Recommended dense dome crease brushes:
Morphe M433 Pro Firm Blending Fluff Brush
Photo: Ulta
Sigma E25 Max Blending Brush
Photo: Sigma
3. Small tapered blending brush
A small tapered blending brush is designed with a sharply tapered tip, perfect for precisely applying shadow to the outer corner of the eye. You can even use this brush for diffusing color into the crease. This brush is particularly useful for achieving precise looks, such as cut creases, and is also great for people with hooded eyes.
Recommended brushes:
Sigma E45 Small Tapered Blending Brush
Photo: Sigma
4. Flat shader brush
A flat shader brush is a dense and stiff brush designed for packing color onto the eyelid. It is a must-have for applying shimmers, glitters, or cream shadows.
This brush is particularly essential for individuals with long nails, ensuring a clean and controlled application. If your nails are short, using your fingertips is an alternative method for applying shadow to your eyelids.
Recommended flat shader brushes:
BK Beauty A505 Shimmer Brush
Photo: BK Beauty
Sigma E55 Eye Shading Brush
Photo: Sigma
5. Small angled liner brush
A small liner brush is a versatile tool that can be used in different ways. It’s perfect for defining and contouring the outer corner wing, and you can achieve a sharp wing using gel liner or even eyeshadow. This brush is also great for tightlining your eyes.
Recommended small angled brushes:
Sigma E65 Small Angle Brush
Photo: Sigma
BK Beauty N11 Ultimate Angle
Photo: BK Beauty
6. Pencil brush
A pencil brush is ideal for precision work. It has stiff, short bristles that come to a point. This brush is perfect for applying color to the inner corner of your eye, smudging eyeshadow along the lower lash line for a smokier look, and achieving a defined cut crease. Its pointed tip allows for detailed application, making it a must-have tool for various eye makeup techniques.
Recommended Pencil Brushes:
BK Beauty 210 Mini Pencil
Photo: BK Beauty
Sigma E30 Pencil Brush
Photo: Sigma
7. Smudge brush
While a pencil brush can be used for smudging eyeshadow along your lash line, a dedicated smudge brush is my go-to for this purpose. It’s great in not only smudging eyeshadow but also in softening up eyeliner for a more blended and effortless look.
Recommended smudge brushes:
BK Beauty 204 Smudge It
Photo: BK Beauty
Sigma E21 Smudge Brush
Photo: Sigma
What are your must have eye makeup brushes? Let me know in the comments below!
