Eyeshadow is a powerful element in makeup, capable of transforming your entire look by enhancing the natural beauty of your eyes.
With an array of colours, finishes, and formulas available, eyeshadow allows for endless creativity. Whether you prefer a subtle wash of colour or a bold, dramatic statement, understanding the different types of eyeshadow and how to use them is key to mastering this makeup essential.
Types of Eyeshadow
- Powder Eyeshadow: The most common type of eyeshadow, powder eyeshadow is versatile and easy to blend. It comes in various finishes, including matte, shimmer, satin, and metallic. Matte shades are ideal for creating depth and definition, while shimmers and metallics are perfect for adding sparkle and highlighting certain areas of the eye.
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- Cream Eyeshadow: Cream eyeshadow provides a rich, pigmented finish with a smooth texture. It’s excellent for creating a more intense, dramatic look and can be used as a base for powder eyeshadow to enhance longevity and colour vibrancy. However, it may crease on oily lids, so using a primer is recommended.
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- Liquid Eyeshadow: Known for its high pigment and staying power, liquid eyeshadow is typically applied with a wand or brush. It dries quickly and often has a shimmery or metallic finish, making it perfect for creating bold looks or using as an eyeliner alternative. However, it requires a steady hand and quick blending to avoid harsh lines.
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- Loose Pigment Eyeshadow: Loose pigment eyeshadows offer intense colour payoff and can be used for a variety of effects, from soft washes to bold, artistic designs. They require a bit more skill to apply and can be messy, but the results are worth it for those looking to make a statement.
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- Stick Eyeshadow: Stick eyeshadow is a convenient option, especially for on-the-go application. It offers a cream-like texture in a solid form, making it easy to apply directly to the eyelid. It’s ideal for quick, simple looks and can double as an eyeliner.
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Choosing Eyeshadow for Your Eye Shape and Colour
Selecting the right eyeshadow according to eye shape:
- Hooded Eyes: Opt for matte shades in the crease to add depth and avoid shimmer in this area, as it can accentuate the hooded skin. Use lighter shades on the lid and darker shades on the outer corner to open up the eyes.
- Almond Eyes: Almond-shaped eyes can pull off almost any eyeshadow look. To accentuate this shape, use a medium shade in the crease, a darker shade on the outer corner, and a light or shimmery shade on the lid.
- Round Eyes: To elongate round eyes, focus on darker shades at the outer corners and blend towards the temples. Avoid bringing the shadow too far inward, which can make the eyes appear more rounded.
- Monolid Eyes: Monolids benefit from a gradient effect, with darker shades near the lash line and lighter shades towards the brow bone. Use a tight line of eyeliner to define the eyes and add dimension.
Eye Colour
Selecting the right eyeshadow according to eye shape:
- Brown Eyes: Brown eyes are versatile and can wear almost any shade. Warm tones like gold, copper, and bronze bring out the natural richness of brown eyes, while deep purples and blues add a striking contrast.
- Blue Eyes: Orange-toned shades, such as peach, copper, and bronze, contrast beautifully with blue eyes, making them appear more vibrant. Cool tones like grey and silver also complement blue eyes.
- Green Eyes: Red-toned shades, like burgundy and mauve, make green eyes pop. Earthy tones such as brown, taupe, and gold also work well, enhancing the natural warmth of green eyes.
- Hazel Eyes: Hazel eyes can be highlighted with greens, golds, and browns, which bring out the varied colours in the iris. Purple shades can also add a striking contrast to the green and brown tones in hazel eyes.
Do’s and Don’ts of Applying Eyeshadow
Do’s:
Prime your eyelids: Always apply an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base, prevent creasing, and ensure your eyeshadow lasts longer.
Blend well: Blending is key to achieving a seamless look. Use a soft, fluffy brush to blend out harsh lines for a more natural finish.
Layer colours: Start with a light shade all over the lid, then add depth with darker shades in the crease and outer corner. Highlight the brow bone and inner corner with a light, shimmery shade.
Experiment with different brushes: Different brushes serve different purposes. A flat brush is great for packing on colour, while a tapered brush is ideal for blending in the crease.
Don’ts:
Don’t overload your brush: Start with a small amount of product on your brush and build up the intensity gradually. This helps in avoiding fallout and ensures better control.
Avoid using shimmer in the crease: Shimmery shades in the crease can make the eyes look puffy. Reserve shimmer for the lid or the inner corner.
Don’t forget to clean your brushes: Dirty brushes can harbour bacteria and lead to breakouts or infections. Clean your brushes regularly to maintain hygiene and ensure smooth application.
Avoid applying too much product at once: It’s easier to add more eyeshadow than to remove excess, so start with a light hand and build up as needed.
Hygiene and Storage
To keep your eyeshadow in top condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ensure the lids of cream and liquid eyeshadows are tightly closed to prevent them from drying out. Powder eyeshadows generally have a longer shelf life, but it’s important to replace them if you notice any changes in texture, smell, or performance.
Clean your eyeshadow brushes at least once a week with a gentle brush cleaner or mild shampoo. This not only helps in preventing bacterial build-up but also ensures that your colours remain true and don’t get muddied by previous shades.
Conclusion
Eyeshadow is a versatile and creative component of makeup that can enhance your eye shape and colour. By choosing the right type and shades, and following proper application techniques, you can create stunning looks that suit any occasion. Remember to adhere to the do’s and don’ts for optimal results, maintain good hygiene, and store your products correctly. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make the most of your eyeshadow collection and keep your eye makeup looking flawless.
