What kind of brush would be best for applying eyeshadow?

The best choice for applying eyeshadow is a flat, stiff brush. This type of brush is designed to pack on color effectively, allowing for greater precision and control during application. The stiffness of the bristles helps to lay down product evenly across the eyelid, making it easier to build up intensity and achieve a smooth finish. Flat brushes are particularly useful for applying a base eyeshadow or for creating sharp lines and defined looks, such as a cut crease.

While round, soft brushes are better suited for blending and diffusing edges, they do not apply product as densely as a flat, stiff brush. Fan brushes are typically used for light applications such as highlighting or dusting off excess product and are not effective for eyeshadow application. Paddle brushes are often used for blending or combining colors, but they lack the stiffness needed for the initial application of highly pigmented eyeshadow.