A Beginner’s Guide to Finding the Ideal Set of Eyeshadow Brushes
A good set of eyeshadow brushes is the key to flawless application. In this makeup brush guide, we will go through the different types of eyeshadow brushes that everyone should start out with in their makeup bag.
How do you choose a set of eyeshadow brushes?
When choosing a set of eyeshadow brushes, consider the shape and its density. You want to choose a brush that has soft, high quality bristles. From creating a soft wash of shadow across the lid to creating the ultimate cut crease, you’ll need to make sure you have the best tools to do so. Look out for brushes that are made with vegan materials, and that are cruelty-free.
How many brushes for eye makeup should you have?
You don’t need to have a lot of brushes for eye makeup to create the best makeup looks. Here is a list of brushes you should have in your collection:
1. Fluffy Blending Brush
A fluffy blending brush is a must-have for anyone seeking seamless eyeshadow application. The domed shape makes it a breeze to blend, helping you create a variety of looks from a sultry, smoky eye or a soft, everyday look.
2. Flat Eye Brush
A flat eye brush is specifically designed to pack both powder and cream eyeshadows effortlessly onto the lid, making it perfect for when doing a cut crease look.
3. Brow Brush & Spoolie
A brow brush and spoolie has angled bristles on one end of the brush that are perfect for filling in and shaping your brows. The spoolie end of the brush enables you to brush through your brows, which is essential for a natural-looking brow.
4. Smudge Brush
A smudge brush is a must-have eyeshadow brush to help blend and smudge powder eyeshadows and liners, allowing you to achieve a stunning, sultry smoky eye with ease.
Is a set of eyeshadow brushes worth it?
Investing in a set of eyeshadow brushes is definitely worth it, especially if you enjoy doing eye makeup or want to achieve professional-looking results. Here are some reasons why:
1. Variety of Brushes for Different Techniques
A set of eyeshadow brushes usually includes a range of brushes designed for specific tasks, such as blending, packing, smudging, or defining. This versatility allows you to experiment with various looks and techniques, from natural to dramatic.
2. Improved Application
Using the right brushes can make your makeup look better and more professional. A good blending brush, for example, can create seamless transitions between colours, while a flat shader brush is ideal for packing on pigment.
3. Cost-Effectiveness
Buying a set of eyeshadow brushes is often more economical than purchasing individual brushes, especially if you’re starting to build your own collection. Sets often include only the most essential brushes, saving you money in the long run.
4. Long-Term Investment
High-quality makeup brushes, when properly cared for, can last for years. This makes them a worthwhile investment if you frequently wear makeup.
When It Might Not Be Worth It
If you only use a few eyeshadow brushes or prefer minimal makeup, a large set might have brushes you don’t need. In that case, buying a few singular brushes could be a better option for you.
How To Clean Your Makeup Brushes
How to Use the Brushworks Makeup Brush Cleaner
What you’ll need:
- Brushworks Instant Makeup Brush cleanser
- Makeup cloth or an old towel
- Your dirty makeup brushes
Step 1: Prep
Lay out the makeup cloth or old towel on a flat surface and grab all the makeup brushes you want to clean.
Step 2: Spray the Brush Cleanser
Hold the brush pointing downwards and spray the brush cleanser over the bristles.
Step 3: Swirl the Brush
Once coated, swirl the brush in circular motions onto the cloth to remove makeup residue. Continue swirling until the bristles are clean, and repeat the steps again if you have to.
Step 4: Ready for Use
The bristles will be dry to the touch and be ready for immediate use—no rinsing needed!
How To Clean Your Eyeshadow Brushes With Household Items
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your brushes for eye makeup in good condition and ensuring they last a long time. Follow this step-by-step on how to wash your makeup brushes:
What you’ll need:
- A silicone makeup brush cleaning bowl
- Mild soap (baby shampoo, dish soap or gentle face wash)
- Lukewarm water
- Towel
Step 1: Fill the Brush Cleaning Bowl
Place the brush cleaning bowl in the sink, fill with some mild soap and then fill up with lukewarm water.
Step 2: Wet the Brush
Wet the bristles with lukewarm water, holding the makeup brush with the bristles facing down to avoid water getting into the ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles).
Step 3: Swirl the Brush
Gently swirl the brush over the silicone bowl, which is uniquely designed with textured ridges and grooves. These features help buff the brush, effectively removing any makeup residue.
Step 4: Rinse the Brush
Rinse the brush under lukewarm water, continuing to hold the bristles facing down. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear. Repeat if needed.
Step 5: Dry the Brush
Gently squeeze out excess water from the bristles with your fingers, then reshape the brush head. Lay the makeup brushes on a towel to dry and angle them downwards to prevent water seeping into the handle and loosening the glue.
Brushes for Eye Makeup: Expert Tips for Beginners
- Clean Regularly: Wash your eyeshadow brushes with a gentle brush cleanser or baby shampoo at least once a week to remove product buildup and bacteria.
- Dry Properly: Lay brushes flat to dry to prevent water from seeping into the handle and loosening the glue.
- Store Safely: Use a brush holder or pouch to protect the bristles and keep your makeup brushes organised.
- Start with Neutral Shades: Practice your technique using neutral eyeshadows, such as light browns, as it’s easier to learn with neutral shades compared to bold and bright colours.
- Blend, Blend, Blend: Always blend your eyeshadow thoroughly to achieve a seamless finish.
- Use A Light Hand: Apply gentle pressure to avoid harsh lines and ensure a smoother application & make sure to use little product at a time to avoid overloading the area, which can be harder to fix.
- Experiment Gradually: Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try experimenting with different eyeshadow techniques, such as cut creases or halo eyes.
Great makeup brush sets with Soinvogue
Finding the right set of eyeshadow brushes can completely transform your makeup game. Once you know the different types of brushes and how to use them, blending, adding detail, and getting creative with your looks becomes so much easier. Having the right tools not only makes your routine simpler but also takes your makeup to the next level, helping you nail those polished, flawless finishes.
Ready to build your collection? Start with the basics and see the difference for yourself! It’s time to experiment, have fun, and create eye looks that truly stand out with Invogue. Shop here to discover all the eyeshadow makeup brushes and build your collection now!
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About
Eyeshadow Brushes
1. What is the best way to store eyeshadow brushes?
Proper storage is essential to keep your brushes in good condition. Use a brush holder to store your brushes upright to protect the bristles from getting bent, or store them in our brush shield.
2. How often should I replace my brushes for eye makeup?
High-quality brushes can last for years with proper care. However, if the bristles become frayed, lose their shape, or shed excessively, it’s time to replace them.
3. Can I use one brush for multiple eyeshadow shades?
Yes, but clean the brush or wipe off excess product between different eyeshadows to avoid mixing shades and creating a muddy look.
4. What’s the difference between a crease brush and a blending brush?
A crease brush is smaller and designed for applying shadow precisely into the crease. A blending brush is fluffier and used for diffusing and blending shadows for a seamless look.
5. Can I use a flat eyeshadow brush for blending?
A flat brush is ideal for packing on colour but not as effective for blending. For best results, use a blending brush to soften edges and transition between shades.
6. How can I prevent eyeshadow fallout while applying makeup?
To minimise fallout, tap off excess product from your brush before application. Alternatively, apply eyeshadow before your foundation, so you can clean up any fallout easily.
7. Do I need a separate brush for cream and powder eyeshadows?
While some brushes can work for both, it’s better to have dedicated brushes for cream and powder products to maintain their texture and avoid mixing formulas.
8. Why is cleaning brushes so important?
Regular cleaning removes product buildup, bacteria, and oils, which ensures better application, preventing skin irritation, and prolonging the life of your brushes. Make sure you clean those brushes!