Eyeshadow is one of the most fun and creative items of makeup! But different consistencies serve different purposes. Find out which is best for getting the look you want.
Eyeshadow is one of the most fun and creative items of makeup! But different consistencies serve different purposes. Find out which is best for getting the look you want.
When to Use a Cream Eyeshadow
Cream eyeshadows are best used for an uncomplicated eye look. Generally, products with a creamy consistency are a bit difficult to layer. For this reason, cream shadows aren't the best for crazy smoky eyes.
But creams do have amazing staying power when applied as a single wash of colour or as a base. Due to their consistency, cream eyeshadows wear well on their own and are relatively long-lasting even when applied with fingertips. They’re great for versatility and on-the-go use and touch-ups.
Here are some great cream shadow options that come in a variety of shades to help you create whatever look you’re going for:
- Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow
- Clarins Ombre Iridescent Cream-to-Powder Eyeshadow
- Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick
When to Use a Pressed Eyeshadow
A pressed eyeshadow is generally your best bet as far as ease of use, versatility, and layering. Pressed shadows, when properly prepped with an eyeshadow primer, are often the easiest to apply to create just about any look you could be going for. Go for a sexy, smoky night out; an everyday neutral eye; or an avant-garde neon moment.
Richly pigmented pressed shadows are some of the best products to have in your makeup collection. These products can function as not only eyeshadow but also liner, brow powder, or contour powder in a pinch. Having a solid neutral palette of pressed shadows on hand is a must for any makeup junkie.
Some of our favourite pressed shadows:
- theBalm Nude Dude Volume 2 Eyeshadow Palette
- BECCA Ombre Rouge Eye Palette
- Jane Iredale In the Blink of a Smoky Eye Kit
When to Use a Loose Eyeshadow
Loose mineral shadows are incredibly pigmented and provide a really rich hue. When applied with a damp brush, the colour can last for ages, leaving you with a super-opaque eye look. These types of shadows are often valued by pros for this very reason.
Loose glitters are often the glitter of choice for pros as well, as they can create much more definition due to their opacity when applied damp.
Loose shadow application, however, can be time-consuming and difficult for beginners. Be sure to practise with your loose shadows before applying them in a time crunch. You don’t want to wind up with a face—or worse, an outfit—covered in colourful, shimmery dust!
Some of our favourite loose shadows:
Check out our full eyeshadow selection for all the options you could ask for, in any consistency you like!
