The LC Collection Review: Are These Brushes Worth the Investment?

If you’ve been eyeing the LC Collection, you’re probably wondering whether these brushes live up to the hype and the price tag. The LC line includes three core brushes — LC 01, LC 02, and LC 03 — each designed for a specific step in your makeup routine. After testing them for several weeks, I’m sharing my honest take on how they perform for blending, foundation, and eyeshadow, and whether they’re a smart investment for your kit.

The LC Collection sits at a higher price point than standard drugstore brushes, but the materials, weight, and design suggest a more premium experience. The question is: does that translate to noticeably better makeup application? Let’s break down each brush and see if the LC Collection is worth it.

LC 01: The Foundation Brush That Sets the Standard

The LC 01 is a dense, flat-top foundation brush that promises a streak-free, airbrushed finish. In practice, it delivers exactly that. The bristles are incredibly soft yet firm enough to buff liquid or cream foundation into the skin without absorbing too much product. I found that using small circular motions with the LC 01 gave me a smooth, even base in about half the time I’d spend with a sponge. It also works well for blending concealer under the eyes, though you’ll want to use a tapping motion to avoid tugging.

One tradeoff: the LC 01 is not ideal for powder foundation. Its dense bristles pick up too much product, leading to a cakey look. Stick to liquids and creams, and you’ll get a flawless finish that rivals airbrush results. If you already own a solid foundation brush like Brush 14, the LC 01 is a step up in softness and precision, but not a must-buy if you’re happy with your current tool.

• Best for: liquid and cream foundation, buffing, and blending concealer.
• Avoid for: powder foundation or very thick creams.

LC 02: The Blending Brush That Does It All

The LC 02 is a versatile, medium-sized eyeshadow brush with a tapered dome shape. It’s marketed as a blending brush, and it earns that title. The bristles are soft enough to diffuse harsh edges without disturbing the pigment underneath, yet firm enough to pack color onto the lid. I used the LC 02 for both crease work and all-over lid application, and it performed admirably in both roles. For a quick one-brush eye look, it’s hard to beat.

However, the LC 02 is not a precision brush. If you need to place a small detail shade or cut a sharp crease, you’ll want a smaller brush like Brush 38 or a pencil brush. The LC 02’s size is best for medium to large eyes; those with smaller lid space may find it a bit too large for detailed work. Still, for blending and general eyeshadow application, the LC 02 is one of the best brush set for blending I’ve tested.

• Best for: blending crease colors, applying wash of color to the lid, and softening edges.
• Pair with: a smaller detail brush for precise placement.

LC 03: The Angled Brush for Precision and Contour

The LC 03 is an angled, slightly tapered brush that works well for both eyeshadow and face contouring. The bristles are cut at a precise angle that allows you to apply shadow along the lower lash line or carve out a defined cheekbone. I found it especially useful for placing a darker shade in the outer V of the eye and then blending it out with the LC 02. The angled shape also makes it a solid choice for applying highlighter to the brow bone or the tops of the cheeks.

The main downside is that the LC 03 is not as soft as the LC 02. The stiffer bristles are intentional for precision, but if you’re used to ultra-soft brushes, the feel on the skin may take some getting used to. It’s also not the best for blending — it’s a placement brush, not a blender. If you already own a good angled brush like Brush 01, the LC 03 offers a similar experience with a slightly more refined shape.

• Best for: outer V definition, lower lash line application, and face contouring.
• Note: stiffer bristles mean more control but less softness.

How the LC Collection Compares to Other Brush Sets

When stacked against other luxury makeup brushes, the LC Collection holds its own. The handles are weighted and comfortable, the ferrules are double-crimped for durability, and the bristles show no shedding after weeks of use and washing. Compared to the Shodō eye set, which focuses on Japanese-style precision, the LC Collection feels more versatile for everyday Western makeup routines. The Shodō set excels at detailed eye looks, while the LC brushes are better suited for quick, blended application.

If you’re building a minimalist brush collection, the LC 01, LC 02, and LC 03 cover foundation, blending, and precision work — a solid three-brush starter kit. The price is higher than a typical brush set, but the quality justifies the cost for anyone who applies makeup daily. For occasional users, a more affordable set like the core eye set might be a better value.

• LC Collection vs. Shodō eye set: LC is more versatile; Shodō is more precise.
• LC Collection vs. core eye set: LC is higher quality but more expensive.

The LC Collection is a worthy investment for makeup enthusiasts who value soft bristles, thoughtful design, and reliable performance. The LC 01, LC 02, and LC 03 each serve a clear purpose and work well together. If you’re ready to upgrade your everyday tools and don’t mind the higher price, these brushes will not disappoint. For beginners or those on a budget, the LC Collection might be overkill — but for anyone who wants a professional finish at home, it’s money well spent.