Better Tools, Better Results

Typical discussions about the “perfect” eye shadow brush normally involve the same slew of criteria: How soft is it? How densely packed are the bristles? Very rarely does anyone ask how small the brush is. If you are new to eye shadow application or have small eyes, little eyelid space or hooded eyes—anything that makes eye shadow application challenging—a smaller brush will serve you well. Why? A small brush makes for precise application, so you can reach every area of your eye with ease. And if you’re having a problem defining your crease, it will allow you to deposit the darker shade only where you want it.

The densely-packed brush by Studio Tools (a Target brand) also makes it easy to “pack on” the color to create vibrancy. Of course, the Studio Tools Smudge brush can also be used for smudging eyeshadow or eyeliner to a smoky effect. And the price is just under $2, nowhere near the typical range for brushes. This brush is not soft, nor is it meant to be; denser, precision brushes are supposed to be stiff so that you can move your eyeshadow around and control the application whereas fluffy brushes deposit a sheer amount of pigment to larger areas. The Studio Tools Smudge brush has been an integral part in my learning to create complicated, multi-toned looks and I hope it helps you as much as it has me!

Doin' the Wedge

Any makeup aficionado has used one of these babies to apply liquid foundation but they can be a convenient tool in other steps of your makeup routine. Here are some alternate uses I have found:

Can't get the perfectly-shaped, cat eye look? After applying eyeliner (pencil or liquid/gel--before it dries) to the outer portion of your eye, use one of the sides of the sponge to parallel your eyebrow and (gently) drag the eyeliner up. Voila! This will also create a lifted look to your eyeshadow.

Annoyed with eyeshadow fall out? With one hand, hold a sponge under your eye while applying your shadow. This way, you don't have to deal with powder getting into any under eye lines or creases in to save your under eye area from black eyeshadow.

Gloopy mascara giving you spider lashes? Use the sponge to wipe off any excess before applying. It won't tear or get on your wand the way a tissue will.

Wedge sponges can also be used to blend makeup. The only thing one shouldn't with a wedge sponge is continuously reuse it with properly washing it first. Please not that my tips only work with sponges of this particular shape. A bag can be purchased from drugstore.com at whooping $2.69 for a bag of 32. If you are allergic to latex, these are your best bet. Wedge sponges are readily available in many drug and mass retailer stores!