M.A.C #168S Large Angle Contour Brush

The shape fits the face well, making it easy to apply blush and highlighter. The bristles are sturdy and won't wear out. However, the color payoff is weak compared to the bristles, so you'll need to apply blush more strongly. Honestly, this might not be the best option.

I bought this for shading. I tried it out at the store. Just swipe it over the area you want to shade and it creates a beautiful shadow.

I've been a MAC brush fan since I was a student. I own three of these, including the short size that came in a brush set. I mainly use them as blush brushes; I keep one of the short ones in my pouch for overnight stays, and the other one I use at home depending on my mood. The long-handled one is probably almost 20 years old...I'm amazed. It holds powder well and is really easy to use. You can also quickly apply highlights with the pointed tip. I could probably replace it soon, but it's still perfectly usable with just the occasional wash with brush cleaner, so I'll continue to use it as is. The bristles of the short brush feel a little stiff.

I was so impressed with the MAC concealer brush that I decided to get one too, but...hmm, it was harder and smaller than I thought. I was planning to use it for shading, but it's so tight that it feels like I'm only using it in a small area...I was hoping for a larger, fluffier brush. I also wanted to use it for blending...I regret not checking it out in store. I thought maybe I should use it for blush or highlighter, but it was so tight and hard that it didn't feel very nice...hmm, what should I do?

This brush was recommended to me when I was buying MAC shading products, and I was interested in it. I was unsure whether to get natural or synthetic bristles, and after comparing it with other brands, I decided to buy it, and I'm so glad I did! The shading is now noticeably cleaner. The angled cut and not-too-big size make it easy to use. It's gentle on the skin and doesn't irritate. It makes me want to try other MAC brushes.