Palettes, singles, mattes, frosts, creams or powders – eye shadows provide us with endless options! These seemingly simple products can open up your eyes like no other and can even switch up your look in a single swipe. However, applying eye shadow isn’t the easiest thing in the world. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Which Formula To Use

As with all products, those with oily lids should choose powder formulas, while those with dry skin should veer towards creams. For smoky eyes, we recommend using a cream formula as it is easier to blend. Bright, coloured eye makeup can be achieved with powder shadows as they are usually more pigmented and intense.

How To Choose The Right Shade

When it comes to makeup, literally anything works! However, if you really want your eyes to pop, follow these guidelines. Brown eyes sparkle when paired with purple shadows, while grey eyes look best with navy blues. Those with blue eyes, can opt for soft, grey shades, while green-eyed beauties should go for shimmery browns.

What Tools You Need

Stiff, flat brushes work best for powder shadows. For cream formulas, feel free to use your fingers.

When To Apply It

One of the biggest mistakes you can make, is doing your eye makeup at the end of your beauty routine. At this point, if any of your eye shadow falls on to your cheeks, you will have to wipe off all your foundation, concealer and blush! Instead, do your eyes first and then your face.

How To Prep Your Eyes

Eye shadow primer is a life-saver. Not only does it prevent shadow from slipping off oily lids, but also deepens and intensifies the colour of any shadow. Pat it on 2 minutes prior to applying your shadow. Another hack we’ve learnt is to apply moisturizer to our cheeks before putting on our shadow. This way, if any powder falls on to your face, you can swipe it away easily with a wet cotton pad.

Where To Apply It

For single colour shadows, apply the pigment from your upper lash line right up to the crease of your eye. If you are choosing 2 colours, swipe on the lighter shade on the lid and the darker one slightly above the crease. Reverse this order if you want to make your eyes look smaller.

 For 3 colour palettes, follow the above steps and then apply the darkest shade on to the crease area. For bold ladies who love 4 colours, add the fourth shade to the outer corner of your eye.

How To Apply It

Do you always sweep your eye shadow on? Try dabbing the colour on to your lid instead. Not only will it makes the shadow stay on longer, but will also make the shade look richer. And remember, blending all your shades together seamlessly is absolutely essential!

Whether it’s a vibrant pop of colour or a sultry eye, these tips are guaranteed to help you nail your look!