These shadows remind me of Play-doh in the container, but they go on like a powder and give a very soft look. I do not find them to be hard to work with like most people have implied. I use 2-3 swipes and I have a nice color. I maybe would prefer to use a brush but I find my finger gives best color. I wouldn't recommend these with out primer or base, and I would caution not to expect heavy coloring. Out of all my eye shadows, I like the light and subtle colors these provide.