Eyeshadow For Beginners -

Learning how to apply eyeshadow for beginners can be a pretty easy task. Start by reading a comprehensive guide for beginners like this one. Then, after you master the basics, you can learn how to do more complicated eyeshadow looks, like a cut crease. Learning about the types of eyeshadow, finishes, brushes, and beginner tips is a great place to start.

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Types Of Eyeshadow

There are several different types of eyeshadow. Whether you’re shooting for an enticing yet simple look with one eyeshadow color or need the perfect smokey eye. Learning the various types of eyeshadow can help you discover what you need to get the desired look.

Powder Eyeshadow

Powder eyeshadow is sold in both singles and palettes. You can find powder eyeshadow from almost every brand, too. This eye makeup helps you build layer after layer for fantastic eyeshadow looks, like an ombre look. It’s very blendable, unlike some other formulas. You can find powder eyeshadow available in almost any finish.

NYX Ultimate Shadow Palette

NYX Ultimate Shadow Palette has all the neutral shades you’ll need. Not a fan of neutrals? There are plenty of other options available. This affordable eyeshadow palette is also available in Vintage Jean Baby if you want more blue shades.

I Know That’s Bright is the palette you’ve been searching for if you love bright colors and need plenty of glitter. No matter what your style, there’s an NYX Ultimate Palette to meet your needs.

Why You’ll Love It

The palette includes satin, metallic, and matte shades
Blendable
Buildable
Cruelty-free company

Check it out here!

Cream Eyeshadow

Cream eyeshadow has a cream-like consistency that perfectly balances powder and liquid. It’s easy to apply with your fingers and blends nicely into the skin. This shadow is less likely to crease as the day goes on.

Although cream eyeshadow is easier to apply, creating complex looks is more challenging. You’ll also find that it doesn’t blend well with other cream eyeshadow. Because it’s excellent for one eyeshadow look, cream eyeshadow is the perfect choice for beginners.

These usually have a satin finish. Because of the base, you can typically use them without an eye primer. Cream eyeshadows are also known for lasting longer than powder eyeshadows.

Julep Creme To Powder Eyeshadow Crayon

Julep’s Creme to Powder Eyeshadow Crayon is the ultimate choice for beginners. It glides across the eyelid like butter for easy application. Then, the shadow dries to a gorgeous powder finish for long-lasting looks you’ll love. You can find an eyeshadow stick available in every color you can imagine, but that’s not all you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love It

Waterproof
Available in matte and shimmer finishes
Enriched with Vitamin C
Crease-free formula

Check it out here!

Loose Eyeshadow Pigments

Loose eyeshadow pigments are sold in little pots. These small pots contain loose powder, which can be messy if you’re not careful.

To apply loose pigment eyeshadows, dip the brush only slightly into the pot. A little bit goes a long way with loose pigments.

These are often found in shimmer powder, but you can also find a matte formula.

Eyeshadow pigments are the same as eyeshadow powders. However, they don’t have the binder to keep them pressed into a palette, making them more pigmented than other eyeshadows. They have the same staying power as powder eyeshadow, and it’s recommended that you wear a primer with them. Apply them with a brush for the best results.

NYX Metallic Glitter

NYX produces one affordable makeup product after another. This metallic glitter is exactly what you’ve been searching for if you want to add some serious sparkle to your look. It’s guaranteed to take any makeup look up a notch, and it’s for more than just your eyelids. This makeup glitter can easily be dusted over your cheekbones for a gorgeous festival look, too.

Why You’ll Love It

Never tested on animals
Seriously pigmented
Easy application
Available in multiple colors

Check it out here!

Liquid Eyeshadow

Liquid eyeshadows are easy and foolproof, making them another great choice for beginners. They typically come in a tube with an applicator similar to a concealer. A few quick swipes, and you’re done. There’s no need to use a primer with most of these.

Blending liquid eyeshadows quickly is essential, as most dry in seconds, so that it willtake some practice. You can wear these on their own for a quick makeup look, or over your powder eyeshadow for a unique look.

Stila Shimmer and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow

Stila Liquid Shadow is one of the best liquid eyeshadows on the market. It’s known for its fast-drying formula and strong pigment, making it a strong option for one-color eyeshadow looks. The metallic shimmer is perfect for a night out!

Why You’ll Love It

Lightweight
Minimum fallout
Available in over ten shades
Easy eyeshadow for beginners

Check it out here!

Eye Paint

Eye paint is similar to liquid eyeshadow. It comes in a tube with an applicator, perfect for a one-swipe dose of color. Eye paints can be found in every color and finish imaginable. Eye paints’ ease of application and simplicity in the makeup industry make them ideal products for beginners.

Blending can be challenging due to the rapid dry time. Eye paints dry in 2-3 seconds. The application can have a learning curve. Applying too much can lead to longer dry time and messiness.

Go Ho Water Activated Palette

This paint palette was designed for eyeliner, but it’s safe around your eyes, so you can easily use it as eyeshadow, too! The water-activated palette works like watercolor paint, ensuring you don’t wind up with more than you need. There are quite a few reasons you’ll love this hot product!

Why You’ll Love It

4 UV colors and 4 regular colors
Eyeliner brush included
Long-lasting
Use it anywhere, including your body

Check it out here!

Eyeshadow Sticks

Eyeshadow sticks are also called eye crayons because they are shaped like giant crayons. You won’t find a matte formula as often as satin and shimmer colors, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

To apply eyeshadow sticks, you color in your eyelid. You don’t need an applicator. The creamy formula blends right into your eyelids like a cream eyeshadow. These are easier to apply than cream eyeshadow, especially if you’d like to use more than one color.

e.l.f. No Budge Shadow Stick

e.l.f. is known for providing a comprehensive makeup line that’s affordable, Vegan, and cruelty-free. Their shadow sticks easily twist up to reveal plenty of pigment. A quick swipe across your lids will instantly help you pull off a beautiful look with minimal effort.

These shadow crayons include a built-in sharpener, ensuring you have everything you need and making them the perfect eyeshadow for beginners.

Why You’ll Love It

Long-lasting
Smudgeproof
Metallic finish
Vegan and cruelty-free

Check it out here!

Types Of Eyeshadow Finishes

Eyeshadows come in different finishes. The finish is the effect the eyeshadow has, just like paint comes in flat, matte, satin, etc. This can affect the color payoff, application technique, and more.

Matte

The matte finish is devoid of sparkles, glitter, etc. These are great for use as a base eyeshadow color. You’ll never have to worry that your eyeshadow looks like it’s too much. You can use them to create one eyeshadow look, smoky eyes, or more complicated designs.

There are downsides to matte eyeshadow. It tends to be more powdery than other finishes and more challenging to blend.

Satin

Satin eyeshadow finishes shine more than matte finishes, but not as much as metallic ones. You’ll encounter a satin finish quite a bit in cream eyeshadow. These are easier to blend than powder eyeshadow, have less fallout than metallic and glitter eyeshadows, and are great for a one-eyeshadow look.

Shimmer Eyeshadows

Shimmer eyeshadows have a shimmer finish between satin and metallic. They usually have a satin base with a touch of shimmer. They are easy to apply, but you should watch for eyeshadow fallout. Picking up some eyeshadow guards can help.

Typically, the application involves pressing the eyeshadow rather than swiping the color across your lids, as you would with powder eyeshadow. This helps the eyeshadow stay in place longer.

Metallic

Metallic eyeshadows were previously available only in bronze and silver. Now, you can find them in any color of the rainbow. These are the most pigmented eyeshadows, and they can also be found in a glitter formula. They are ideal for nighttime and graphic eye looks and a great way to showcase your creativity.

Glitter Eyeshadow

Glitter eyeshadow never goes out of style. If you love the look of glitter, pick up some eyeshadow pots in your favorite color. Glitter eyeshadow is sparkly and commands attention.

In pigmentation, glitter eyeshadow is as pigmented as metallic eyeshadow. It contains flecks of glitter similar to shimmer eyeshadows, but there is more glitter. Because of that, you’ll want to use the same pressing motion for application and learn how to deal with eyeshadow fallout.

Types Of Eyeshadow Brushes

You’ll need the right tools to pull off the perfect look. There are plenty of eyeshadow brushes to choose from. For graphic looks, for example, you will need a liner brush. However, if you’re an eyeshadow beginner, these are the essential brushes you’ll need to get started.

Blending Brush

A blending brush is typically a small, fluffy brush. You’ll use this brush to blend the colors after you apply them to your eyelid. Brushes with packed, dense bristles will not work. Instead, the bristles should be long and fluffy.

Crease Line Brush

Your crease line brush will not be as densely packed as other brushes, but it won’t be as fluffy as your blending brush. The unique shape and short bristles make it ideal for applying eyeshadow along your crease.

Precision Concealer Brush

A precision concealer brush is an excellent choice for applying eyeshadow. It gives you the control to place pigments along your lid carefully. You can also use this to contour around your eye!

Flat Shader Brush

A flat shader brush is the most common brush used for eyeshadow applications. These brushes come in various sizes. Large brushes can help you achieve one eyeshadow look quickly, while smaller brushes are perfect for your next smoky eye.

How To Apply One Color Eyeshadow For Beginners

The easiest way is to use a cream or eyeshadow stick and your fingers. This is perfect if you have zero tools but need to apply eyeshadow. One-color shadows are also great for minimalist makeup or days when you’re in a hurry.

Dip your fingers into the cream eyeshadow and swipe it across your lids. Since most people don’t need a primer for cream eyeshadow, this is a one-step application process.

Eyeshadow Tips For Beginners

As you delve into the makeup world, you’ll find quite a few looks you love. Ensuring your eyeshadow game is on point is essential to pull those looks off. These eyeshadow tips for beginners will help you have flawless eye makeup.

Always use an eye primer if you have one
Learn whether you have oily eyelids
Take the time to learn your eye shape
Watch YouTube videos to learn new tricks and hacks
Practice makes perfect
Make sure that you take the time to learn new eyeshadow techniques and practice them
Start small, and then work your way up to more complicated looks
Throw out the applicator that comes with eyeshadow (use your brushes)
Champagne-colored eyeshadow matches every eye color
Light colors open your eyes, dark colors make them appear more closed

Learning your eye shape is one of the most important things you’ll need to do. This will help you determine which eyeshadow and eyeliner colors to use. After learning your eye shape, you need to find complementary colors. When unsure, remember that neutral colors work well with almost any eye color.

FAQ

Does eyeshadow expire if unopened?

Yes, eyeshadow does still expire if left unopened. Store it in a cool, dry place to make it last as long as possible. It can then last for up to three years. Over time, the chemicals in makeup start to break down.

Does eyeshadow stain clothes

Yes. Eyeshadow is designed to be pigmented. Its rich colors make it likely to stain your clothes. This doesn’t just apply to eyeshadow; all makeup can stain clothing. If you’re already dressed, wear a robe when applying makeup.

Does eyeshadow go bad

Yes, eyeshadow does go bad. It goes bad 12-24 months after opening. On the back of the jar is a number such as 24m. This will tell you how long you have before it expires. Unopened eyeshadow can last up to three years.

Which eyeshadow palette is best for beginners?

Pick up a nude eyeshadow palette to start with. Neutral colors work with any eye color and skin tone. The palette includes various colors to pull off a few different looks. You can use your nudes as an eyeshadow base when you upgrade to more vibrant colors.

Do I need an eye primer?

Yes, you need an eye primer. This is especially true if you have oily eyelids. An eye primer helps your eyeshadow stay in place longer than it would. A setting spray can also help your look last all day.

What is the eyeshadow base used for?

An eyeshadow base is used for the rest of your look. This color underneath your eyeshadow often shows through when you apply glitter eyeshadows. These also help cover imperfections, such as spider veins or discoloration.

Can I use concealer as eyeshadow primer?

You can, but you need to be careful. Remember that less is more. You don’t need much concealer. These are usually thicker than eye primers, so it’s important to use only a small dab of concealer and blend it over the eye area.