Here's How Makeup Artists Achieve Flawless Eye Shadow Looks Every Damn Time
Professionals make applying eye shadow look way too easy—any time I find myself scrolling through makeup TikTok, I become instantly dumbfounded by how little time and effort it appears to take artists to complete a full, intricate look. Granted, I know these videos are condensed into a short-form reel for the platform, but it still takes a certain level of skill to be able to pull off that kind of artistry in such a short amount of time.
Sure, foundation application can be a breeze when you have a great sponge or brush, but I'll timidly admit that eye shadow is where I struggle most. How do the pros make every eye look so flawless, you ask? Well, don't look at me. I'm turning this one over to them. I asked three celebrity makeup artists to reveal their best-kept secrets. I'll give you a hint, it involves a super clean canvas and the right brushes.
"Good, soft eye shadow brushes will always be one of the most important elements to a flawless eye shadow application," says celebrity makeup artist Melissa Hurkman. "You'll also want to use a string eyeshadow primer before applying any eyeshadow. This will help enhance the colors of the shadows and help them stay all day long without creasing. Set your primer with a soft powder highlighter or a base shadow before the application—preferably, something neutral. This will prevent any skipping of product during the blending process."
So the mastery is possible and that comes straight from the source. For the inside scoop, keep scrolling below. These are without a doubt the best eyeshadow brush sets that even celebrity makeup artists swear by.
Cara Lovello, Celebrity Makeup Artist
Celebrity makeup artist Cara Lovello never stops using this classic set for her eye looks. This six-piece set is perfect for an ultra-glamorous eye or every day look. Lovello's advice is as follows, "Use the fluffy blending brush and a soft brown shade [beforehand] and buff it through your crease as a transition shade before deepening the color in your crease!"
Editors and makeup artists alike can't say enough good things about Real Techniques. Lovello says these are hands-down the best drugstore-priced brushes she has ever used. Fellow makeup artist Renée Loiz is also a huge fan.
Renée Loiz, Celebrity Makeup Artist Founder of Color May Vary
Melissa Hurkman, Celebrity Makeup Artist
A quick search revealed all Nyx brush sets to be sold out and according to Hurkman, it's clearly for a good reason. "Nyx Cosmetics carries one of the widest arrays of brushes I've seen a company carry. These brushes are not only extremely affordable, but they are amazing quality as well! I stock up on these whenever I feel the need to spruce up my brush collection."
More Eye Shadow Brush Sets We Love
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Shawna Hudson is a beauty, wellness, lifestyle, and travel writer with over 10 years of experience. She graduated from California State University, Fullerton, with a degree in journalism and has written for other publications such as Bustle, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Elite Daily, and more. She is currently a beauty writer atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing and hopes to continue feeding her (completely out-of-control) beauty obsession as long as she can. Stay up to date on her latest finds on Instagram @shawnasimonee.
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