How to Foil Eyeshadow

While there are plenty of makeup trends that allow your eyes to do all the talking, there is one technique, in particular, that has been making major waves in the beauty world. Foil eyeshadow, we’re looking at you! A great way to give your eye makeup a sensational pop of color, the foiling method is all about giving your lids a super-shiny, metallic finish—without buying any new products. Follow along as we give you the 4-1-1 on the eyeshadow foiling method.

WHAT IS FOIL EYESHADOW?

Before we introduce you to the art of foiling eyeshadow, let’s make sure you know exactly what it is. The foiling method consists of mixing your eyeshadow with a makeup base such as primer or setting spray to give your shadows a metallic finish and help them really stand out. Foil eyeshadow is also perfect for those who are looking to achieve maximum color payoff and lasting color. Because you mix the shadow with a priming or setting product, you can trust it won’t be fading or smudging. Now, do you understand why we can’t stop swooning over this trendy makeup technique?

HOW TO FOIL EYESHADOW

Okay, it’s time to foil. Below, we’re sharing a step-by-step neutral eyeshadow tutorial that will transform you into a foiling expert in no time!

What you’ll need:

Eye makeup primer

Fluffy eyeshadow brush

Small angled brush

Eyeshadow shader brush

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche La Palette Nude in Nude Intense

L’Oréal Paris Le Liner Signature Easy-Glide Mechanical Eyeliner, Waterproof in Noir Cashmere

L’Oréal Paris Bambi Eye Washable Mascara, Lasting Volume

Get the look:

STEP #1: PRIME, PRIME, PRIME

Before you reach for any eyeshadow shades, it’s essential to kick things off with eye makeup primer. Eye makeup primer works wonders to give your lids a smooth canvas for an easy makeup application that goes the distance. If you’re all out of eye makeup primer, a dab of concealer or foundation will make a great stand-in.

STEP #2: DUST ON A MATTE EYESHADOW

To help create a bit of dimension with your foil eyeshadow look, dust the dark plum eyeshadow shade all over your lid and slightly into the crease. Follow up by using the small angled brush to dust the same eyeshadow shade onto your lower lash line.

STEP #3: MIST YOUR MAKEUP BRUSH

The key to achieving a stunning foil eyeshadow look is to giving your pigment a shiny finish. And of course, this is where your makeup setting spray comes into play. Mist your makeup brush with setting spray until it’s damp. Keep in mind a super-wet makeup brush can ruin your eyeshadow shade, creating hardpan on top. So, always keep your misting on the light side.

If you don’t have makeup spray, apply a small amount of primer to the bristles instead.

STEP #4: FOIL IT

Next, you’ll need to dip your makeup brush into your eyeshadow palette, making sure to do so before the brush dries. Using your eyeshadow shader brush, pick up the palette’s mauve-pink shade.

STEP #5: APPLY YOUR EYESHADOW

Gently swipe the mauve-pink shade all over your lid. The color should look ultra-shiny and much more pigmented than it does on its own.

STEP #6: BRING ON THE LINER

Amp up your eye makeup with the help of a black liner along your lash line. Add a flirty touch with a flick at the outer edge of your eye.

STEP #7: MASCARA TIME

No eye makeup look is complete without volumizing mascara. Sweep your lashes with a few coats of mascara for a curled and lifted effect. Voila!

HOW TO FOIL EYESHADOW WITH WATER

Beyond the method above, there’s a hack of sorts you can do with just water. While it won’t last quite as long on its own, you can still amp up your shadows—just make sure to layer eye primer underneath. Simply get a flat shader brush wet with a bit of water, then use it with a shimmery eyeshadow.

Congratulations, you’ve officially mastered eyeshadow foiling technique! Head over to our article, Best Eye Makeup and Eye Shadow Trends for 2020, for more of what’s on-trend.