The Only Guide To Applying Eyeshadow That You'll Ever Need: Tips From The Pros

The makeup world is ever-evolving, with new tips, tricks, and products launching what feels like every day. And even for the makeup obsessed, this can mean staying on top of trends and application methods so that your look is timeless rather than dated. But at the same time, some makeup products can feel more intimidating than others. 

And never was this more true than with eyeshadow. While eyeshadow is considered a staple item that isn't going anywhere, it's come a long way from its origin story.

Eye makeup has been around since before the time of Cleopatra. But with so many options from powders to creams to liquids and even glossy looks, it's completely understandable if you walk down the makeup aisle and feel overwhelmed.

Probably the most traditional or classic option for eyeshadow is a pressed powder. Available in matte, shimmer, glitter, or pearlized shades, this is the brand standard you'll most likely find when you walk into any makeup store or down a beauty aisle at your local drugstore. While pressed eyeshadow powders are the standard, you can find loose powder pigments as well. 

If you're looking for something that can be easier to work with—including those that can be applied like powders—a cream or gel-based eyeshadow is a great option. These shadows can usually be applied with a brush, fingers, or a blending sponge. And in some cases, they're sold as eyeshadow crayons or pencils, which can make application significantly easier.

Depending on the brand, you may have heard of glosses marketed as "eye glass," "eye vinyl," or even "lid lacquer." A lid gloss is designed to give your lids high-wattage shine, similar to ultra-gloss lip color. These can be applied with fingers or a brush. These products come in a variety of colors and even in a clear option if you prefer to create a glossy effect over traditional eyeshadows. 

You'll note that we mentioned application methods for each eyeshadow category. The short answer to "which application method is best" is: It depends. See, so much hinges on what you find most comfortable and which tool(s) give you the best precision for your skillset. 

Some people will prefer to use their fingers to apply shadows, while others like the sharpness of eyeshadow brushes. Similarly, if you're the type who likes to use eyeshadow on places other than just your lids, you may find that a blending sponge is equally effective. And later in the article, we get into individual looks, which will also factor into what method you use.

While most eyeshadows can fall into one of the four categories we listed above, that doesn't mean that all shadow mediums are ideal for all skin types. For example, people with oily skin may find that creams, gels, or gloss shadows are more difficult to work with as they're more likely to slide throughout the day. 

If you're just wearing makeup for an hour or two, then focusing on richly pigmented shadows that don't fade 30 minutes after application is sufficient. But even if you're picking eyeshadow with staying power, there are times when a good lid primer is essential. 

In particular, if you're attempting to wear makeup for extended periods (i.e., all day for a wedding) or are going to be out in hot weather or hot lights where you're likely to quickly sweat it off, or you're attempting more stylized eye looks (think cut creases), a primer is essential. 

Smoky eyes are a classic option that every makeup wearer should master for their arsenal. Gargi Patel, the celebrity makeup artist behind Vasanti Cosmetics notes that you can create a smoky eye using just three colors. "Pick a deep tone like a deep brown/gray/burgundy hue, a highlighter color that is light and shimmery, and a neutral color like a soft pink, light brown, etc.”

For best results, use brushes because you need to diffuse the colors. Start by applying the neutral color as your all-over base across the entire lid. Then apply the deep tone just to your crease "starting from the outer corner of your eyes to about a third of your eye." Patel reminds us to "blend, blend, blend, and blend some more to avoid harsh lines."

Not everyone wants a bold eye, and that's OK. Moore notes that "liquid shadow formula is great when you want an overall glow and don't want too much color on your eye." She recommends applying it with a blender or sponge for a smoother finish.

She also notes that you can control the opacity if you "mix the liquid shadow with a bit of concealer using your hand as a palette…keep building the color on your lid until you achieve the desired result." 

Some people call this look an "eyelighter" (sort of like a highlighter—get it?). See, you're "carving" your eyelids with a shimmery shadow. This detail helps every eye shape catch the light in just the right places, thus making the orbs appear brighter and wide-awake. 

Often the most intimidating of eye looks to pull off, a glossy eye is very fashion-forward. Patel recommends picking an eye gloss with a shimmery, light color that you want to apply over your finished shadow look. "Use your finger to pick up the shimmery color and apply it to the middle of your eye, pick up more color if necessary to apply a second coat." 

Depending on who you talk to, glitter eyeshadow is either the most amazing thing to have in your kit or a headache. Glitter shadows (pressed or loose) require more prep work than regular shadows. For loose glitter, you're going to need to use what's known as glitter glue to ensure that the shadow adheres and stays where you want it. Also keep in mind that if you want to use glitter in your makeup looks, be sure that it's designed for body applications and that you're using glitter glue that's rated safe for your eyes. 

As any makeup artist will tell you, figuring out what works best for you, and what looks appeal the most to you is a bit of trial and error. While some specific guidelines should always be followed (i.e., applying makeup to clean and prepped skin), don't feel like the only way to apply makeup is by following your favorite influencer's tips.