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

Thankfully, we're sharing some essential how-to's, along with tips from industry pros so that you'll always have the perfect eye look!

Before we dig into what you should know when applying eyeshadow, let's start by talking about the most common types of eyeshadow you'll encounter. Depending on the formulation, some options might be more beginner-friendly, while others will require a slightly sharper learning curve. For a full list of our favorite natural options—check out our eyeshadow roundup here.

Powders can be applied with your fingers or brushes. You can also increase the intensity or turn them into liner shades by using a damp brush. Depending on the quality, powders can have serious staying power and be richly pigmented so that they appear true on all skin tones. 

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. One drawback: If you don't prime properly, the formulation leaves this shadow medium more likely to crease. Similarly, those with oily skin and lids may need to engage in more prep work to prevent colors from shifting throughout the day.

While the idea of a liquid shadow can seem intimidating, this option can offer megawatt color payoff. Normally, liquid shadows are sold in tubes similar to lip gloss, including a traditional lip-gloss-style applicator. However, you can still apply liquid shadows with brushes, fingers, or blending sponges. In most cases, a little liquid shadow goes a long way. These shadows tend to dry down as well, meaning that you're less likely to experience creasing or shifting with wear. 

One drawback of this shadow type is that it can often feel like you have something on your eyes depending on the quality of the gloss you pick. Of all the options, eyeshadow glosses probably have the steepest learning curve as it's easy to apply too much and look greasy rather than on-trend. 

Essentially, what's "best" is what works for you.

Regardless of whether you're paying the equivalent of a cellphone bill for the latest Pat McGrath Labs eyeshadow palette or you're a budget makeup aficionado stocking up on Wet 'n Wild or E.L.F. Cosmetics, there are a few key features you should look for to get the most out of your eyeshadow. 

No matter how much you spend, you want an eyeshadow that's true to the advertised color. This means that inky blacks appear that way on all skin tones. Or, that you don't need to swipe endless amounts of product on your lids to get a great color payoff. 

Similar to pigmentation, you shouldn't have to feel like your eyeshadow won't last if you don't use it with primer. While a good lid primer can do wonders for long wear (think prepping for a wedding day or wearing makeup on a hot summer day), you shouldn't have to reach for a primer every time you want to wear shadow. 

Unless you're the type who only wears one shadow color on your lids at a time, you'll want a shadow that plays well with others. Whether you're creating a smoky eye, cut crease, or just a pretty ombre effect, you want to pick an eyeshadow that blends easily. 

Global makeup artist Natasha Moore notes that "...the cream formula will not last as long as a powder. It's important to apply an eyeshadow primer to your lids first. Let it dry. Then apply the cream shadow."

Makeup is all about self-expression and ultimately you should apply makeup in a way that makes you happy with what you see in the mirror. In general, there aren't any hard rules regarding application. But some guidelines can help you create a timeless look or expertly recreate eyeshadow trends or styles: 

If makeup is art, your face is the palette. Trying to apply makeup to dirty skin is the ultimate no-no. A makeup artist (MUA) wouldn't begin to apply makeup to your face without first cleansing it, and neither should you. Keep in mind that this applies to your brushes, sponges, or fingers too. 

Depending on who you talk to, you don't always need to pick a primer specifically marketed as an eyeshadow base. New York–based MUA Justyna Santiago adds that she likes to "use concealer to carve out my eyebrows, then apply the concealer all over my lid. Make sure it is blended evenly so that there is no excess product. Then take your favorite translucent powder with an eyeshadow brush and set it." For some clean options, check out our favorite concealers here.

Whether you're all about timeless styles like a bomb smoky eye or you want to tackle an on-trend graphic eye, these tips will help you ace your look every time: 

Finish by applying the light color above your crease starting from the inner eye up to the edge. Note this color can also be your brow bone highlight. 

As your shadow collection grows, you'll learn that these can often be used as a substitute for other makeup items. A popular option is to turn your eyeshadow into a liner. Santiago turns her shadows into liners by using a spatula or tweezers to scrape a bit of shadow onto a flat surface: "I spray setting spray and mix. Then take an angle brush or a liner brush and apply!" A bonus from using setting spray is that your liner won't fade with wear throughout the day. Note: You can also dip or spray your brush with water if you prefer. 

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. Take it from makeup artist Alexandra Compton, product development manager at Credo: "By adding a wash of shimmer to the lid, light is actually catching the particles of iridescent pigment and reflecting back, like thousands of tiny mirrors creating the illusion of brighter eyes," she tells mbg. 

If this is your first attempt, less is more. You can always add more gloss if needed, but applying too much at first means you'll need to start over. 

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. Or you can go for the pre-blended route, in which case we love options that use sustainably minded glitter—such as this biodegradable option.

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. Makeup is personal, and the colors and styles that work best for you might not work for everyone else.