Different Types of Eyeshadows

February 14, 2006

Today I will write about the various kinds of eyeshadows that are currently on the market.


Clockwise from top left:

Powder eyeshadows are the most common and also my favorite. They usually come in pots or pans and offer the most versatility in terms of finish – shimmery, satin, frosty, matte, glittery and metallic. Their shelf life is roughly 2-3 years and generally longer compared to cream eyeshadows and glosses. My favorite brand of powder eyeshadows are MAC and Stila.

Cream eyeshadows come in pots, tubes and even pen forms. They are great for those with dry skin and add a nice sheen. They are relatively sheer compared to powder eyeshadow and should not be layered on. The major downside to cream eyeshadows is that they can crease badly. This problem can easily be avoided by choosing one that dries to a matte finish. MAC Paints ($16) are good for this and they can also double as an eyeshadow base. When using cream eyeshadows, remember not to powder your eyelid before hand or it would look blotchy.

Pigments are basically loose powder eyeshadows. One cool thing about them is you can mix different colors together. When applying pigments, pack it on with a brush or fingers or apply wet for a more dramatic effect. A good loose powder eyeshadows should be finely milled, highly pigmented and adheres to the skin easily. Some good ones are MAC Pigment ($19.50) and L’oreal On-The-Loose powder ($6.50).

Eyeshadow pencils are super easy to use and great for beginners. All you have to do is color your lids just like you are drawing. They are also very portable and can be used for touch-ups. Make sure you pick one that is creamy and blendable. I really like Rimmel All Over Pencil (~$5).

Eye glosses are great for pictures, especially if you want to create that wet look you often see in magazines. However, I do not recommend using this when you go out. It can take some practice to master using eye glosses and if not handled well, can get really messy and smeary.

6 Comments

  • Reply Minna February 15, 2006 at 5:50 pm

    hey, what color eyegloss is that? i’ve never seen it before.

  • Reply Phyllis February 15, 2006 at 6:47 pm

    it’s a pro product and it’s available only at the mac pro store.

  • Reply Anonymous February 15, 2006 at 8:47 pm

    thanks alot !! IT REALLY HELPED <33333333333 i pick purple for my main color haha x__xx i just bought concealer for my eyeshadow to stay..but i dont think its really my skin tonee, does it really matter? since ill be puttin eyeshadow over it?

  • Reply Phyllis February 16, 2006 at 12:12 am

    well it would be best if you could match your concealer with your skin tone but if you’re just using it as a base, it should be okay.

  • Reply Anonymous February 19, 2007 at 9:47 pm

    Hi Phyllis. um I was wondering what do you think about the MAC Shadestick?

    Is that a good product to use for bginners like the eyeshadow pencils?

  • Reply Phyllis February 20, 2007 at 12:32 pm

    yes I have tried MAC’s shadesticks and I love them too! They are great as bases and eyeshadows and are super easy to use. The color range is also good so I’d definitely get a couple of these if I were you.

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