If you think finding the right life partner was stressful, have you even tried looking for the perfect eyeshadow? Oh yes, the ‘one-eyeshadow-for-every-look’ belief is a total myth that’s just waiting to be busted. Powder, cream, pigments… there are soooo many options and soooo little time (or $$$) to try them all. Plus, we’re trying to be sustainable and all. But, wait. Before you bat your eyelids furiously, we are here to save the day with our favourite luxe beauts.
Gather around ladies, the eyeshadow class is in session rn. And, we’re laying down the groundwork on how to pick the perfect formula for you.
Different Types Of Eyeshadows:
Pressed Powder
Say hello to the most versatile eyeshadow formulation — Pressed Powders. If you are new to the world of eye makeup, powders make for the perfect introduction. All thanks to the fact that they are highly blendable and easiest to use. You can directly pat the colour on your eyelid or use a brush for a more precise application.
We love: M.A.C Eye Shadow, Ciaté London 9 Shade Eyeshadow Palette, Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting EyeShadow 5 Color Palette, Huda Beauty Rose Gold Palette - Remastered
Pros
- Powders are great for beginners who are learning the basics of shading and contouring.
- Whether you have dry or oily eyelids, these powders won’t crease at all and can last all day long.
- They are available in a variety of finishes such as matte, pearl, metallic, glitter, shimmer and velvet.
- The best part is if you store these powders properly, they can last you all day long.
- Create a neutral, contoured eye look or a soft or dramatic smokey eye - the choice is yours.
Cons
- When it comes to pressed powders, fallout can be a problem.
- Don’t rub the powders on your lids or you will end up with fine lines or saggy skin.
Cream
For all the shimmer lovin’ ladies in the house, cream shadows are meant for you. As compared to other formulations, cream-shadows are a little thick in texture. But, we love them for their soft, dewy finish. Take a large shadow brush, dab it in your favorite shade and pat them on your lids to create a winning look.
We love: M.A.C Pro Longwear Paint Pot, M.A.C Cream Colour Base
Pros
- If blended properly, cream shadows will leave you with a seamless finish.
- These shadows are available in a variety of textures and finishes such as shimmer, pearl and matte.
- Cream shadows are extremely long lasting.
- For an intense look, you can use them as a base with other cream or powder eyeshadows. Pro tip: Topping creams with powder shadows prevents creasing.
- You can use a cream shadow to create monotone eyeshadow looks or a soft smokey eye.
Cons
- If you are a beginner, cream shadows may not be your best pick. Simply, because they are not easy to blend and tend to set quickly.
- If it's hot outside, avoid wearing cream-based shadows as they tend to melt down easily.
Shadow sticks
Do you love wearing eyeshadow everyday? But, the application ties you down? Meet your future favorite… Shadow Sticks. Think of these as a toned down version of cream shadows - they’re just super portable. To top it off, you don’t need a brush to apply this shadow. Slide the stick across your lids and blend it evenly.
We love: Ciaté London Skinny Shadow Sticks, Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick, Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes
Pros
- Shadow sticks are perfect to apply shadow on-the-go and also, for midday touch-ups.
- Since the stick works as an applicator, it can easily reach out to your lower lids and tear ducts.
- You can use these shadows as a base and also, top them up with a powder or another stick shadow for a more intense pay off.
- Just like their counterparts, shadow sticks are available in a variety of finishes - from pearl, shimmer to matte.
- Combine many shades together for a dramatic look or a single color for a subtle touch.
Cons
- Sadly, the formula tends to crease on oily skin. Use a primer underneath, or powder eyeshadow on top, to minimize the same.
- Softer textured sticks can tend to be a little fragile.
Pigments
Pigments are powder shadows on steroids that pack quite a colourful punch. In simple terms, these are powder shadows that come in loose forms. For an eyeshadow enthusiast, pigments are definitely a blessing - you can experiment with them as much as you want. Make sure you apply a primer before patting the loose powder on your lids.
We love: M.A.C Pigment
Pros
- Pigments are extremely multi-tasking. When mixed with the right products, you can use them on your cheeks, nails, lips and skin.
- If you are a makeup artist, loose powders/pigments are designed for you.
- Use them dry or mix the powder with water for perfect finish.
- Pigments don’t crease at all and are extremely long-wearing.
- Close your eyes (literally!) and trust pigments to create a dramatic look.
Cons
- Like powder shadows, pigments are also prone to fallout.
- If you have dry skin, pigments can dry your skin even further. And, that can lead to wrinkles!
