The Ultimate Guide to Eye Shadow

Oh, eye shadow, where would we be without you? You’re one of our very favorite makeup products. But there’s a whole lot more to eye shadow than what meets the, well, er, eye. Below, learn about the most common kinds of eye shadows and finishes as well as product picks and tips on applying. Consider this the ultimate guide to this daily makeup essential.

The Different Types of Eye Shadows

Thought there was only one kind of eye shadow? Think again!

Pressed powder: Powder eye shadows are the most common form of shadow available today. You can find them available in singles or in palettes alongside matching colors.

Cream: This type of eye shadow typically blends easily onto eyelids. You can wear hues alone or layer under a powder for extra oomph.

Loose powder: Loose pigments can pack a lot of punch. While they can be messy (talk about fallout!), you can’t beat the bold color payoff. For even more vibrancy, try applying pigment wet by using a damp brush.

The Most Common Eye Shadow Finishes

Yep, there’s a perfect eye shadow finish for every occasion.

Matte: These eye shadows are completely devoid of shine and sheen. This finish is ideal for when you want to add definition to your eyes or create a natural look.

Shimmer: Containing a touch of sparkle, these eye shadows are perfect for bringing out the color in your eyes. Try a white or nude shimmer shadow on inner corners and under brows to help highlight your features.

Satin: These silky powders and creams offer a subtle sheen, falling somewhere between matte and shimmer. Eyes can be effortlessly emphasized with a wash of gently gleaming color.

The Prettiest Eye Shadow Shades for Every Eye Color

Choosing the right eye shadow shades for yourself can be tricky—and leave you feeling overwhelmed. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. Majorly simplify your selection by leaving thinking about your eye color. When it comes to trying a new shade, look to your eye color as an easy indicator of what shadows will look the best on you. Are you more chocolate or emerald? Your eyes hold the answer!

If you have brown eyes…shades of purple and gold can make your eye color shine.

If you have blue eyes…bring out those baby blues with—you guessed it—even more blue.

If you have green eyes…try plum to make green eyes pop.

If you have hazel eyes…look closely and hazel eyes are a brownish green, meaning you can rock any colors that suit brown or green eyes.

The Best Eye Shadow Options from L’Oréal Paris

Ready to add a new eye shadow to your makeup bag? Try the options below!

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Paints Eye Shadow: Pair bright colors with each other by using this dual-ended eye shadow.

L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24 HR Eye Shadow: This powder-cream hybrid is available in 24 beautiful shades, ranging from Golden Emerald to Glistening Garnet to Perpetual Purple.

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Eyeshadow: This gel-to-powder eye shadow comes in 15 shades in both matte and shimmer finishes.

L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche La Palette Nude: Nude eye shadow is totally in right now—and this palette comes with 10 shades in three finishes.

How to Apply Eye Shadow

With a few tools in your train case, applying eye shadow can be a seriously simple affair.

Always prep your lids. Does your makeup tend to start migrating in the middle of the day? It’s time to add an eye makeup primer to your routine! Primer can help create a smooth base and prevent your eye shadow from creasing or fading.

Apply eye shadow with a brushes. Don’t use your fingers any longer! There’s a brush for every technique. Here’s what you need to know about using the most popular eye shadow brushes.

Flat: A shader with a flat shape is perfect for placing color on the eyelid.

Angled: Use a brush with a diagonal edge for putting powders along your brow bone.

Crease: Blend shadow into the crease of your eye with a fluffy tool to help define the shape of your eye and smoothly transition between shades.

Pencil: The pointed tip of this brush is just right for applying product to your inner corner or smudging along your lash lines.