Sigma SS252 Large Shader Brush

Of my shader brushes, the SS252 is probably my least favorite. But don't let that fool you- it is a great brush (I just have an incredible array of shading brushes). Shape-wise, this is the classic shader brush, longer rather than wider. It is a pretty large brush, taking up about a third of my lid space, but has absolutely no blending abilities. However, this brush is meant for packing on the color- not blending it in. I actually don't think this brush picks up color very well, which is why I use it more for cream products than powders.

HANDLE

The SS252 boasts another great Sigma handle- great length and a very thick handle compared to my other shader brushes. It matches all of my other Sigma/MAC brushes with the matte black finish and silver logo.

BRISTLES

This is where packing on the color is hard with this brush. It has bristles like an eyeliner brush. Instead of the fluffy hairs that pick up loose shadow and can get other shadow, these glide along, not getting any traction on the powder products. The bristles and shape make this awesome for cream and mousse-like products, and it is more efficient than my smaller cream brushes. The bristles are smoother rather than softer, but they are definitely not harsh on the eye. The shape of this brush is also awesome with a rounded edge, making it easier to get rid of harsh lines near the crease as opposed to using a square shaped brush.

BUILD QUALITY

Because of the density of this brush, it is rather stiff, contributing to its issues with picking up powder. I do really like the density as it makes the brush look and feel great. You cannot see into the well-secured ferule at all and the hairs are always together, no strays. I have also never had any shedding with this brush. The ferule looks well attached and it is, even though there is not really any unusual movement with a brush like this.

APPLICATION

Like I stated before, I really hate this brush for picking up color. But for cream products, it really shines. Since it is a third of my eyelid, it takes very little effort or time to get the product all over the lid. When all of my other crease-defining brushes are dirty, I usually gravitate towards this one and use the top of it- the top picks up color much more than the shading side.

FINAL OPINIONS

Overall, I like this brush. I think it is extremely dupable and not a good option if you are looking for a brush to pack on powder products, but if you have it, I can see some use coming out of it. Because I have smaller eyes, I actually prefer the SS194 for cream products as it is smaller and can get in the corners, but this one does work, too. It is currently not available for individual sale, but is available in Sigma's infamous brush set.