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The Spell-binding Stamina of Blue Eyeshadow

Kerrin Jackson — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 16:11:08 +0000

If you’re eager to understand why blue eyeshadow never fades from fashion’s fickle spotlight and how it has come to hold such a steadfast place in our makeup kits, stay tuned. Let’s dive into the blue together.

the spellbinding stamina of blue eyeshadow

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In This Episode We Cover:

Blue eyeshadow is more than just a color; it’s a fashion staple that somehow transcends decades with its captivating hues.
Its associations with rebellion, individuality, and the constant human endeavor to stand out and be unique in contrast to societal norms.
What a versatile choice blue eyeshadow is for anyone, irrespective of age, ethnicity, gender, or style, celebrating inclusivity in the world of makeup.

click here to read the transcript!

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Episode 60: Show notes

As I sat down to compile my research for a future project, a stroke of inspiration hit me.

That enduring classic of the makeup world, the one that we sometimes take for granted, blue eyeshadow, seems to be the ultimate style chameleon.

Having been immersed in the film and television makeup industry for over a quarter of a century, I’ve seen my fair share of trends come and go.

Yet, blue eyeshadow holds a unique place, constantly reinventing itself across the decades, while maintaining its allure. And massive popularity, let’s not deny it.

Indeed, blue eyeshadow is one of those timeless trends that seem to defy the boundaries of period and style.

It has been the silent confidant for the silver screen sirens and a loud statement for cultural icons who dared to stand out.

From the subtle pastel blues of the ’40s to the vibrant pops of aqua in the ’80s, this color has triumphed through the ages, emerging as a badge of rebellion against the mundane hues that we’re often told to adhere to.

Reflecting on its significance, I can’t help but wonder if, under its cool facade, blue eyeshadow also symbolizes a fight for autonomy and independence.

As I delve further into color theory, as I can tend to do (yes – it’s that important!) it becomes more than a tad evident why blue eyeshadow remains a staple.

Its striking contrast against our skin tones – regardless of the shade or texture of your skin – ensures it never fails to captivate.

However, there’s more to its story than just complementary hues on the color wheel.

This trend can be viewed as somewhat of an emblem of our cultural and societal shifts, mirroring our collective psyche’s evolution through the changing tides of fashion and self-expression.

The last century witnessed an intriguing evolution in the shades of blue that graced our eyelids.

They softened during the days of conservative glamor and burst forth with electricity during periods of societal upheaval and technological uprising.

Each shade carries with it an echo of history, a sentiment of the era it represents. That adaptation is also attributable to the advancements in the cosmetic industry, which have broadened the spectrum of available options and textures as never before.

Today, the world of blue eyeshadow can provide us with a vast, egalitarian playground where every shade, brightness, and texture is accessible to anyone eager enough to make a statement.

It offers an expansive way for individuals of any age, race, and gender to express themselves confidently.

In fact, thinking about it, blue eyeshadow today stands hand in hand with the classic red lipstick, both reigning supreme in the makeup hall of fame as all-time classic makeup looks from by-gone eras that undoubtedly stand the test of time. And these makeup choices are as relevant everyday today as they have ever been.

Now, I’ve watched this color ride the waves of change, and each time it surfaces, it seems fresher, more relevant than before. So whether you’re channeling a vintage vibe or crafting a modern masterpiece, blue eyeshadow is your trusty companion.

Drawing from decades of observation and practice, these techniques are bound to enrich your knowledge and skill-set and prepare you for any on-set curveballs.

It’s always a pleasure sharing these little nuggets of wisdom and insight with fellow enthusiasts who understand the power of a swipe of shadow to transform not just a look, but an attitude.

So let’s embrace these gems of the past and carry them into our ever-evolving craft.

Here’s to blue eyeshadow, a nod to the classics, a wink to the rebels, and a salute to perennial style.

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Episode Transcript

[00:00:02]: Doing a bit of research lately for a course that I’ve been putting together for quite some time now that focuses entirely on vintage or period makeup. When I had this light bulb moment and it kind of dawned on me.

Blue eyeshadow is always in style.

[00:00:57]: When you look back, it really is. Basically now anything goes, sure, but it had its moment in the pale powder blue form for a little blink of the eye in the nineties, in vibrant aquas and royal blue eyeliners in the eighties, shimmer baby blues in the 1970s and the twiggy dramatic crease line look in the sixties, the fifties, shades with very light blues and kind of greys as well, and same, same, but less in the 1940s.

And then even back, back and beyond that, the renaissance, restoration and wacky eras when makeup hid as many societal and private wrongs as it did enhance them.

Andy Warhol’s iconic Marilyn portrait, Xandra Rhodes, even the icon to inspire all icons, David Bowie himself, Liza Minnelli in Cabaret, Liz Taylor as Cleopatra, John Waters’ pretty flamingo herself, Divine, Christina Ricci in Buffalo 66, and who could forget Isabella Rossellini in David Lynch’s Blue Velvet, who was no subtle source indeed of inspiration, for the 1990s alternative femme waif musician extraordinaire PJ Harvey, and through to today’s blue eyeshadow flag wavers such as Euphoria’s Maddie.

It’s interesting to look at why blue eyeshadow is so ever present and what it has come to represent, and perhaps has always done so.

Rebellion, standing out, attention seeking, or perhaps just trying to separate oneself from the norm-neutral tones that we’re constantly told are flattering, blah blah, blah.

Come to think of it, do they represent women who struggle to stand up to gain autonomy and self-dependence against overly domineering male counterparts?

It’s an interesting study when you really start digging.

Actually, I think the real reason blue eyeshadow is so constantly present and reappearing like a revolving door in fashion history simply boils down to my old friend and much referred to color theory, and that is that it is one of the strongest contrasting colors to our own skin tones that for the most part and giving the theory a little leeway.

[00:03:25]: Our skin, regardless of tone or shade, is on the opposite side of a colour wheel to the color blue. I truly do believe that it all comes down to contrasting with the skin. It stands out, and in this day and age, I’m all for it.

There are, however, definitive shade shifts, at least in the last century when you look at fashion and trends, from the light and soft blue tones of the forties through to the sixties ish, when it really did break out of its shell and go vibrant, didn’t it?

But that was the 1960s breaking out, questioning our leaders, questioning authority, and the shimmer aqua blues powder blues of the seventies which turned royal blue and electric blue in the eighties when a blue eyeliner really had its moment. It’s also interesting when you look at those trends and shifts and also probably paired perfectly with technology and advancements within cosmetic fields and companies, too.

The graduation of shade colors broaden from the eighties onwards for the most part, and to the last few decades with the lush navies and really soft, deep shimmer blues, blue blacks and charcoal gray blue shades.
Definitely more tertiary tones today, which I suspect come to symbolize for me that we can all wear blue eyeshadow. No matter your age, race, gender, geographical situation, every shade, brightness and texture is available for you to adopt today.

[00:05:01]: And I think blue eyeshadow has never had more options for standing tall and keeping that crown right up there with red lipstick for the world of Makeup’s MVP award for yet another decade in history.

Now, if you love vintage makeup and want to learn more, I’ve got a little free guide for you that may just help you next time you’re working on a production set in a different time period from the modern day.

It focuses on three vital vintage makeup techniques that you might not have thought about when creating makeup looks from any historical period. So there might be one or two surprises there, and they might just solve some challenges that you’ll face in the future.

So if you want to grab that, go to themakeuprefinery.com vital vintage makeup and you can follow the instructions there and learn these techniques to take with you on your next period project and perhaps be a little bit ahead of the game.

So when these sometimes surprising challenges come up, you’ll know exactly what to do and you’ll be ready for them before they even get to you. Okay, that’s it for today. Nice short episode just singing my praise to the ever present trend that is blue eyeshadow.

Love it. All right, see you next time. Bye.

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Surefire Tricks to Combat Oily Eyelids Effectively

Kerrin Jackson — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 19:09:52 +0000

Whether you experience your own oily eyelids, or someone that you are applying makeup to, they really can cause a challenge. Getting eyemakeup to stay on, and stay in place can be near-impossible. So let’s take a look at some of the causes and ways you can manage oily eyelids with your makeup applications.

surefire tricks to combat oily eyelids effeectively

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In This Episode We Cover:

Exploring some of the causes of oily eyelids.
Some of the products you can use to prep the skin and combat oily eyelids prior to makeup.
The one thing you should avoid at all costs if you have oily eyelids to contend with.

click here to read the transcript!

.

Episode 53: Show notes

After many years of working as a film and TV makeup artist, I’ve encountered countless individuals struggling with oily eyelids.

It’s a common frustration that can wreak havoc on your makeup application, leaving you feeling like nothing will stay in place.

So I wanted to take a look at some of the challenges and surefire tactics that you can use to combat oily eyelids effectively.

From understanding the causes of oily eyelids to prepping the skin and choosing the right makeup products and techniques, we’re gonna cover it.

What Causes Oily Eyelids?

So, what causes oily eyelids, you may ask?

It could be due to genetics, hormonal shifts, overactive sebaceous glands, skincare products, diet, or stress levels.

What Can I Use to Combat Oily Eyelids?

Once you identify the issue, it’s important to prep the skin effectively.

From witch hazel to makeup primers like Mac Prep and Prime, NARS Eye Primer, and Mac Paint Pot, there are various products and techniques to combat oily eyelids.

For beauty makeup, using a soft pencil liner and opting for waterproof mascaras can be game-changers.

And remember, avoiding eye creams, moisturizers, or anything in the hydrating oil or moisturizer world near the eyes prior to applying makeup is crucial. If this topic resonates with you and you have some surefire products you love for this situation, feel free to share your own product solutions with me on Instagram at @themakeuprefinery.

I hope you found these quick tips helpful and that they will elevate your makeup game.

Click here to listen to this episode!

Links & Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode Transcript

[00:00:02]: The other day I applied a makeup to someone who it just felt like nothing would stay in place on their eyelids. It’s ironic, isn’t it? Because usually, this is the place we want to add moisture and add dewiness to to hydrate.
But every once in a while, you come across someone who fights the exact opposite at battles with their eyelids.

[00:00:27]: So how do you manage oily eyelids effectively and get makeup to stay on?
Well, that’s exactly what we’re going to explore in this episode.

[00:01:10]: But first, I think it’s important to understand why this might be happening.
What causes oily eyelids anyway?
It could be any number of things, from genetics and hormonal shifts for an individual to an overactive sebaceous gland. And yes, these glands are active in and around your eyelids, so it is actually possible that they overproduce sebum, which results in oily eyelids.

[00:01:37]: Some skincare products may cause this response in the skin on your eyelids as well. And even diet and stress levels can trigger excess oil production within your eyelids and in makeup.

[00:01:50]: As you probably well know, this can absolutely wreak havoc with your morning application, from no corrective or beauty makeup ever going on, let alone staying in place on the eyelids to prosthetic appliance makeup, not adhering to the eyelids and just sliding around. Even with the strongest glues available non the market today, oily eyelids can create a challenge for makeup on the eyes.

So let’s take a look at some products and techniques you can use to nip that in the bud, and not only to identify that the person you are about to make up has oily eyelids, but how to combat it before you get any makeup products to their eyes, so that when you do, it’s going to go on like a dream.
And stay where it’s put.

[00:02:43]: Of course, once you have identified that a client or performer indeed has oily eyelids, and this may simply come from visual cues or even a quick, subtle wipe with a blotting paper once they’re in the chair. Or they may even just tell you straight out, especially if it’s an ongoing challenge for them in their day to day life.

But acknowledging this before you start makeup is a must to save you from your day of chasing it.

Now, your next step is prepping the skin as best you can to bring it back to a dry state, like prepping a canvas that is ready for painting. While I tend to use a lot of what’s affectionately known as Blue Kiehls, and this I am absolutely sure would combat oily eyelids, well, it’s important to know that it does contain menthol and may be quite irritating to an individual’s eyelids, so tread carefully there.

[00:03:39]: I also like to use witch hazel, as it is known to tighten pores and minimize sebum. It also acts as a natural sweat deterrent, so it’s a great choice to help minimize oily eyelids. Now, some folks swear by more makeup-friendly removers, such as micellar water, but.

[00:03:58]: For me, this always has me wary because the idea of putting a makeup remover on the skin with the end goal of putting makeup on on top of it just seems counterintuitive. But hey, if it works for you, then go for it.
So once you have astringed, removed, cleansed, prepped the skin, the next step for beauty makeup would no doubt be a fine priming of the eyelids.

And I view this step as bringing the skin back to neutral ground, as if your canvas is ready for paint. After this step is complete, Mac Prep and Prime and 24 Hours Extend are the most popular makeup primers that can help your eye makeup get to work.
And some other primers of choice are the Nars Clear Primer, Hourglass Primer, and Anastasia Beverly Hills Eye Primer, which is another one of my favorites.

[00:04:54]: Now, be sure to work fast and get your primer down in a fine blended layer quickly. Some primers can get creepy and sort of pick up on themselves if you work too slowly. So get it on effectively and move on to something else while you wait for it to dry if it needs to.

[00:05:12]: Like if you have to do a nail polish, that might be a good task that’s completely removed from the eyes or cover a tattoo or something, but use that time well.

And if your person is young in age, you can even do a light powder set at this point as well, which will give you an added layer of absorption on those eyelids. But I would keep this away from older clients, as less is really best when we’re talking layers on the lids.
And I’m sure you can understand that.

[00:05:41]: An always favorite of mine in these instances is the Mac Paint Pot. These go nowhere ever and are usually my go-tos for eye makeup that has to last a long time – regardless of oiliness or not. But if you do come across a client or performer with oily eyelids, MAC Paint Pot is going to help you.

I love Painterly and Tailor Grey for middle of the road, neutral base shades and Soft Ochre, which will create more of a highlight base on the lid and then I can intensify the look or do what I want from there.

[00:06:18]: I also suggest using a soft pencil liner if you’re going to do eyeliner and blending with a soft brush as opposed to using a liquid liner in case you have any movement during the day. A soft blended look is far more easily disguised than a clean liquid line that may not look so clean. With this scenario, a few hours into your day and as far as mascara would go, I would veer towards waterproof everything and keep it clean.

[00:06:48]: And one last word for you to keep in the back of your mind, as sometimes this can be totally overlooked and if so, will set you up for failure, I’m afraid.
But do not repeat, do not be tempted to use any eye creams, moisturizers, or anything in the hydrating oil or moisturizer world anywhere near the eyes prior to applying your makeup.

[00:07:17]: If your person is already dramatically oily in their lids, adding more emollient will only increase the challenge that you’re facing and everything will slide around on that lid all day long.

Kerrin [00:07:29]:
So keep that stuff till the end of the day when it does really all come off okay.
And that’s it for how to effectively combat oily eyelids.

That was kind of fun to brush over. And if you have some other surefire products you love for this situation, please dm me on instagram and tell me, educate me. Share the wealth.
I’m @themakeuprefinery and in the meantime, if you love hearing this troubleshooting guide and you’d like some more eyeshadow tactics, you might like my free guide that will expose you to ten common eye makeup mistakes and what to do instead.

Kerrin [00:08:08]:
And you can find that at https://themakeuprefinery.com/eye-makeup-mistakes I’ll be sure to include the link in today’s episode show notes that you can always find at the bottom of the podcast episode as well.

[00:08:24]: You can just read the episode description and find a link that usually reads something like Episode Website and that’ll take you straight to the show notes page.

And that’s it for today. I hope you enjoy your day no matter where it takes you and what it brings. And I’ll see you next time. Bye.

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Eyeliner Vs Eyeshadow: What’s Best for My Hooded Eyelids?

Kerrin Jackson — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 21:32:31 +0000

Recently I’ve been noticing an alarmingly high amount of women over 40 that 1) still struggle with eyeliner 2) struggle with eyeshadow or both. So I decided to put together this post to help you understand how different these eye makeup products really are for us over 40s folks. And why it might be time to say goodbye to that black lower eyeliner you’ve been depending on since the 90’s.

It’s okay to change your makeup.

There, I said it.

As women, not only do we put ridiculously immense pressure on ourselves about our looks – why wouldn’t we with media images setting obscenely unrealistic and altogether unattainable looks to aim for?

But we can end up relying on the products, makeup looks and techniques that we used in our much younger years. Sometimes out of necessity, or familiarity and convenience, but also, out of a sense that, yep this is how I look my best!
Now, while that may have been true when you were a delicate 20-something, it may not be so true now, decades later.

So again, I am thrilled to remind you that it’s okay to change your makeup.

Now that you’ve been given permission to evolve and yes – change your makeup choices, let’s take a look at one of the biggest challenges we all seem to face when it comes to an over 40 face.

Your eyes. And more specifically, the hooded eyelid.

Yep, it was probably around the age of 45 that I noticed almost overnight, the skin on my eyelids giving up hope. Giving up gravity’s pull, and giving in to the laws of physics.

So this post purely focuses on comparing eyeliner and eyeshadows and how they relate to your hooded eyelids.

I hope it helps you make some changes for the better and see that hooded eyelids aren’t the end of the world. They do actually allow you to get creative with eye makeup, and yes – you can still look and feel fab!

This post may contain affiliate links, such as Amazon, that I may earn from qualifying links. This means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

The Challenge of Hooded Eyelids

For those of you reading who may be under 40, here is a word of enlightenment on the subject of hooded eyelids. Not the most flattering of terms, a hooded eyelid basically refers to the excess skin that can create an overhang or hood onto your eyes.
Hooded eyelids can give your eyes the appearance of being smaller than they actually are, and that you look tired, or older than you actually are.

It happens with age, or genetic predisposition, as the skin on your eyelids loses it’s elasticity.

If you are really up for resolving your hoods for good, a surgical procedure, called a blepharoplasty can open up your eyes once and for all.

If you’re like me, and surgery is not on the cards, makeup can be a far more user-friendly and back-pocket-friendly solution.

So, never fear; dermatochalasis (the scientific name for hooded eyelids) can be minimized by using makeup very strategically to create an illusion of depth where the skin on your eyelid hangs over your eye’s original crease line.

Now, as we get into using eye makeup to sculpt, or re-sculpt our eyelids to camouflage the hooded eyelid appearance, you might be thinking of your favorite eyeliner to do the job.
Eyeliners create a solid, dramatic effect on the eye, right?

Well, yes, but they may not be the best, or most flattering solution for hooded eyelids.

Let’s take a look at why.

Why Eyeliner Might Not Be Ideal

I know an eyeliner might be your first stop when you apply your eye makeup in the morning. But, here are some reasons and different ways you may want to reconsider if you do have hooded eyelids and you’re relying on a pencil liner to soften them.

1. Aging Effect

When you apply a pencil eyeliner heavily, it can actually be aging to your eyes. It can be unflattering and add years instead of taking them off.
The thick line of your eyeliner can weigh down your eyelids, and end up accentuating any sagging skin.

2. Smudging and Transfer Issues

Because hooded eyelids cause skin on skin, where the fold of the hooded skin is occurring, this can result in light friction happening on your eyelid.

If you have a pencil line or liquid eyeliner on your eye, there is a good chance that you’ll experience the eyeliner transferring to the upper hooded area of your eyelid. So essentially, you’ll get that weird double eyeliner look, when you haven’t really wanted to.

Smudging and transferring of your eyeliner can also end up giving you that oh-so-unflattering raccoon-eyes look that no one over 40 is ever going for. Ever!

3. Application Challenges

As you know, once you pass 40 (do not collect $200!!!), a good, clean eye liner application really becomes something of a distant memory. I, for one, can whole-heartedly profess that I will never again go out in public sporting a classic cat-eye look for sure!

Your eyelid skin has a more textured surface that makes a crisp, clean eyeliner near-impossible to achieve. Plus, once your vision starts to go, it’s tricky to see your liquid liner work up close as well. There’s also a struggle trying to keep a steady hand, too.

Soft and flattering eye makeup. Image courtesy of Fizkes

The Allure of Eyeshadow

Eyeshadow, on the other hand, is definitely friends with the hooded eyelid. And the good news is, that with the right tools and techniques, you can still create the look of an eyeliner pencil but done purely with eyeshadows.
I’m going to say that again for the folks in the back.

You can create the look of an eyeliner pencil with eyeshadow, without the downsides of eyeliners!

And with the plethora of various eyeshadow products available today, I guarantee that you can find not only the best shade for your complexion, but also the best type of eyeshadow as well.

Good news, right?
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits and most important reasons you might want to transition to an eyeshadow for your hooded eyelids below.

How Eyeshadow Can Elevate Your Look, Literally

1. Soft, Blended Looks

By using an eyeshadow, you can blend the product on your entire eyelid. This is a far more flattering technique to be using on an eyelid of any age, quite frankly. But particularly an eyelid that’s over 40. Remember, blending is your friend.
By mastering the blending technique, you can really achieve some amazing results with very soft and subtle shades. A blended look where you are blending away to almost nothing on your skin.

Blending is the best way to create a soft eyeshadow look or even a smoky look with your makeup.

2. Graduation of Color Intensity

By starting with a strong intensity of color close to your eyelids, and gradually fading upwards on your eyelid, you can essentially create the look that your eyeliner pencil does, but without it.

This technique also allows you to create a more dramatic look and sculpt your eye into an entirely new shape if you like. Remember, blending is key to this being successful.

Pro tip – Use a mixing medium or a product such as Sonia Roselli’s Water Elixir to create a more intense version of your eyeshadow close to your upper lash line.

3. Experiment with Color and Texture

Just because you are aging, it shouldn’t stop you from having some fun once in a while.

I love expressing myself through makeup. And again, in this day and age, there is no end to the variety of eyeshadow color, texture, and pigments available in the world of eye shadow makeup.

These days, I’m loving cream eyeshadow makeups. Not only are they super easy to apply, they can be applied really quickly, and blend with ease.
But you can also get creative with some different colors and a really vibrant eyeshadow shade. Just remember to use good eyeshadow brushes to blend them well. And there you have it – an exciting, and still flattering eye makeup look.

Isn’t it fun to throw on some vibrant colors once in a while?

4. Good Quality Brushes

I just touched on this above, but using good quality eyeshadow brushes is important for so many reasons.

It makes blending your eyeshadow easy
Good-quality brushes will speed up your makeup time
Fine bristles will be gentler on your skin and not drag
Longevity – investing more upfront means your brushes will last and last and last
Blending – good brushes are the key secret ingredient in blending successfully
A small eyeliner brush wil allow you to create to look of a pencil or gel liner but with the softness of a powder eyeshadow

Check out these eyeshadow faves…

What About Smudging and Transfer Issues with Eyeshadow?

While this may still be a concern you have, once you make the switch to eyeshadow, it’s definitely worthy of your thoughts. There are definitely things you can do to help overcome any transfer or smudging issues and prevent them from happening altogether. And ultimately, these all come down to your personal preference.

1. Use Waterproof Eyeshadow Products

By looking for eyeshadows that are waterproof or highly water-resistant, you can help offset any chance of transferral or smudging throughout the day.

2. Use A Setting Powder

I know what you’re thinking, “I can’t use powder on my over-40 face!” But remember, in makeup, there are no rules. You can use powder. You just have to know how to use it strategically and with a light hand. This is definitely a case of less is best if ever I saw one in makeup.
But a good quality setting powder is a great way to help set your eyeshadow, keep it in place all day, and prevent any smudge or transfer from happening.

3. Explore Eye Primers

While I’m not always a fan of layering and layering makeup products. And this is definitely true of anyone of 40. And I know I did just utter the words “less is best” a few sentences ago. I do love an eyeshadow primer.
Mainly because they work!
They act as a base on your eyelids, and whether you have oily eyelids, or teary, sensitive eyes (shout out to you if your eyes magically get all watery as soon as you have beautiful eye makeup one! That’s me for one!)
And, magically, a good eye primer will keep your eye makeup perfectly in tact, completely transfer-proof, and in place all day long.

4. Use an Oil-Free Makeup Remover

While you might be thinking, “Okay this sounds logical, but I put my eye makeup remover on at the end of the night. How does that affect my makeup application the next day?”
Believe you me, it can.
When your eye makeup remover contains oil, it can spread very easily, leave a residue, even when you think you’ve washed it all away. And in turn, wreak havoc on your eye makeup the following day.
By using a gentle oil-free eye makeup remover, such as a micellar water, you can remove any risk of this happening.
While we’re on the topic, I must share with you my must-have for taking off makeup that’s easy, quick, environmentally aware, and oh so good!

5. Use a Setting Spray

A light spritz with your favorite setting spray can be a super quick solution to help keep your eyes in place all day.

6. Use a Matte

A matte eyeshadow will stay in place more than a shimmer. And again, while I have said in the past to stay away from shimmers over a certain age, part of me loves to tell you to break the rules. So embrace a soft shimmer if you like, just know that they do have a tendency to spread, because of the properties of the minerals they are made from.

7. Avoid Touching Your Eyes

Honestly this is sound advice for everyone. All the time. Regardless of what you;re trying to achieve with your makeup.
But in context of this post, touching your eyes is a sure fire way to spread or smudge your eye makeup. It’s also an easy way to spread germs into your eyes. Gasp!
So keep your fingers out of your eyes, friend!!

And lastly, I just wanted to mention that no matter how strictly you follow some or all of these tips. Depending on where you are on the planet, your own individual skin type and eye shape will truly dictate how well your makeup stays. Or doesn’t.

Eyeshadow Vs Eyeliner Recap:

Eyeliner Might Not Be the Best Eye Makeup For Hooded Eyes because:

it can actually end up aging your eyes more
eyeliner can smudge and transfer
it can be challenging to apply well

Eyeshadow Can Be Used as an Effective Eyeliner Alternative:

to create soft and blended looks
use a graduation of color intensity
to experiment with color and texture
by applying with good quality brushes

Check out these good-quality brushes…

Sigma Deluxe Blending Set

buy here >

Bdellium Studio Eyes Set

buy here >

Bdellium Golden Triangle Set

buy here >

Bdellium Eyes Only Set

Buy here >

Makeup is an Awesome Tool to Enhance Your Natural Beauty

I wanted to reiterate, at the very heart of my core message, which is all about celebrating what we have. Is the notion that makeup can enhance you. It can sculpt your face and eyes and help make the most of what you have. Sure sometimes you want to alter things, or hide things, and yes, to some extent makeup can do that. And do it well.
Ultimately I love makeup to celebrate our faces, and our journeys. And to help tell the story and communicate who we are and the lives we have lead.

I hope this post gives you some ideas and inspires you to try some new products, colors and styles. Look at some images of your favorite celebs and personalities that you always think look great and look like they feel great.
And do have play with your makeup. Because, why not?

It should be fun, and you have permission to experiment.

Let me know below in the comments if you’ve had a change in your makeup routine or been inspired to ditch the 80s eyeliner altogether. You can always DM me on Instagram as well. I LOVE seeing your results and progress, so don’t be a stranger!

The post Eyeliner Vs Eyeshadow: What’s Best for My Hooded Eyelids? appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

Eyeliner Mistakes You Need to Stop Making If You’re Over 40

Kerrin Jackson — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 14:13:49 +0000

When it comes to makeup and applying eyeliner, there are a few common mistakes that women over 40 might make. Here are some of the biggest ones to be aware of:

Use Super Heavy or Harsh Lines On Your Eyes

As your skin ages, it becomes less elastic. If you’re applying heavy or thick eyeliner, it can look really severe, and end up drawing more attention to the wrinkles and fine lines around your eyes.

What You Can Do Instead

Apply your eyeliner softly and with finer, smudged and softened lines.
Use softer pencil lines and be sure to blend the eyeliner for a more natural and flattering look. A smudged line can be forgiving on the skin and give a softer, look. Without inadvertently accentuating fine lines and texture around the eyes.

Using Only Black Eyeliner

A rich, black eyeliner can look harsh on mature skin. So, if you’re attached to your black eyeliner, why not try to mix things up a bit?

What You Can Do Instead

Choose Softer Eyeliner Colors
Try shifting to a softer shade like brown, charcoal, or navy. This way, you can achieve a softer eye definition and a more natural and flattering look. These shades will still give you the definition you are after, without being too overpowering.

Not Adjusting Eyeliner Style

I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the style of eyeliner that you used to wear may not be as flattering on your face now as it was back then. Avoid overly dramatic or winged styles that can make your eyes droop and emphasize sagging skin or wrinkles you have at the outer corners of your eyes.

What You Can Do Instead

Adapt Your Eyeliner Style
If you’re open to changing it up, why not consider some more subtle enhancements? By using a soft smudged line or a subtle wing, you’ll be able to lift your eyes and give a more youthful appearance. And do so without creating added texture where your eyeliner is.

Using Shimmery Eyeliners

Another minor letdown, I’m afraid. Sadly, strong shimmer or glitter eyeliners can actually draw attention to fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes. This happens because light reflects off the shimmer, and when the surface of your skin is more lined or textured, the shimmer only serves to accentuate those wrinkles or textures.

What You Can Do Instead

Stick to Matte or Satin Finishes
By choosing a matte or satin finish for your eyeliners, you can help avoid drawing attention to any fine lines and wrinkles.

Applying Eyeliner to the Entire Waterline

I see this one a lot, and I just want to scream and help women when I see this. It immediately places them somewhere in the late 1980s or early 1990s for me!
Applying eyeliner to your entire waterline instantly makes the eyes look much smaller than they are and is aging, and can look somewhat dated, on anyone over the age of about 25, I’m sorry to say.

What You Can Do Instead

Focus on the Outer Half of the Waterline
If you’re so attached to your waterline eyeliner technique, a simple adaptation may work wonders. Try applying your eyeliner only to the outer half of your waterline instead of the entire length of your eye. This can give the illusion of a lift to your eyes, and open your eyes up – as opposed to the entire waterline look which truly closes them up a lot.

Skipping Tightlining

Tightlining (lining the upper waterline) can add definition to your eyes and help make your eyelashes look more full. It’s a step that can make a significant difference in your overall eye makeup look.

What You Can Do Instead

Tightline the Upper Waterline
Tightlining the upper waterline can add depth to your eyes and give your lashes a fuller appearance without the need for a thick eyeliner line. It is a particularly good option if your eyelashes are quite sparse, and you’re not interested or able to wear false eyelashes or get extensions of any kind.

Neglecting Primer

Ever notice your eyeliner smudging or transferring as you get older? Any guesses why?
One reason may be that you’re not using a good eye primer before you apply your eye makeup.

What You Can Do Instead

Use an Eyelid Primer
Applying a good quality eyelid primer before eyeliner can help create a smooth surface, prevent smudging, and help your eyeliner last longer.

Applying Eyeliner on Lower Lashes Only

By applying eyeliner only to your lower lash line, your eyes can make the eyes appear droopy. This is because the eyeliner below your eye creates the illusion of leading your eye downwards.

What You Can Do Instead

Apply Eyeliner to Both Upper and Lower Lash Lines
Balance your eye makeup look by adding eyeliner to both the upper and lower lash lines, focusing on the outer corners, to open up the eyes. Always think of going upwards, and outwards.

Not Blending Properly

Harsh lines and unblended eyeliner can make your makeup look less polished and put together.

What You Can Do Instead

Blend Properly
Use a small eye makeup brush to blend the edges of the eyeliner for a seamless and polished finish. Always remember to blend! Blending is one of the secrets to great makeup. So if you haven’t heard m e mention it before, remember to blend blend blend!

Using Outdated Techniques

As you might have discovered, makeup trends and techniques change over time. And they change constantly.

What You Can Do Instead

Update Makeup Techniques
Stay up to date with modern makeup styles and techniques that suit mature eyes. Online tutorials and websites (like this one!) and makeup artist tips can be valuable resources for learning new approaches.

Makeup is such a personal choice, it’s a great way to express ourselves, and celebrate the faces we have been given in our own individual way. I hope these suggestions can help you achieve a flattering and age-appropriate look. But do feel free to experiment and find what works best for you!

Here’s a couple of bonus pointers to help you on your way to avoiding eye liners mistakes, for good measure!

Focus on Your Eyelashes

By accentuating your lashes, you can lead the focus away from your fine lines and wrinkles. Be sure to use a mascara and an eyelash curler (yes – they make a huge difference!) to add volume and length to your lashes. This can help give your eyes a more youthful appearance and open up your eyes as well. And if you often find your mascara is smudging, be sure to get these useful tips about how to keep your mascara from smudging right here.

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If you’re over 40, and really struggling with makeup!

Be the first in line when we open the doors to the next launch of our course

“The 40+ Face: How to Achieve Complexion Perfection“.

I’ll walk you through the very basics of foundation makeup, and get your skin prep on track!

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Eyebrow Maintenance

Well-groomed eyebrows can really frame your eyes beautifully and complement your eyeliner look. So don’t forget to shape and fill in your eyebrows to enhance your overall eye makeup. It can also help give your face a more polished and complete look, too.

Remember, makeup is a form of self-expression, and as I’ve said before, there are no rules. Something I LOVE about makeup.

But what’s more important is that you feel comfortable and confident in your appearance.

While these tips can serve as a great starting point, do feel free to experiment, mix it up, and discover what works best for you and your very own unique features!

The post Eyeliner Mistakes You Need to Stop Making If You’re Over 40 appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

The Best 32 Makeup and Skincare Products for Dry Eyes

Kerrin Jackson — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 11:07:25 +0000

Do you know that feeIing – you’re about finished with your makeup, for a lovely night out, and your eyes water. Yep, all over your beautiful makeup, why? Because they’re dry, and irritated. Or just downright sensitive to all the makeup products you have on that perhaps you don’t wear on a daily basis.

If you have dry or irritated eyes, I’m sure you’re well aware of the marathon it can be to find makeup products that don’t leave you with watery eyes.

The good news is there is an abundance of products out there in the Beautyverse that cater specifically to your dry eyes. From hydrating eye creams to smudge-proof eyeliners, I’ve thrown together a list of the best 21 makeup products for dry eyes.

Whether you’re a makeup artist or a makeup enthusiast, or just plain makeup dependent, this post is for you!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon and Shareasale affiliate, I earn from qualifying links. This means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

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Say Bye Bye to Dry Eyes

1

L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Hydra-Nutrition Eye Balm

This fragrance-free and non-greasy eye cream is the primo place to start to help your sensitive peepers. You need a tiny amount, dot it under your eyes, and blend it in to give nourishment and vital hydration to one of the driest areas of your face.

Buy L’OREAL Age-Perfect Eye Balm

2

Tarte Cosmetics Maracuja C Brighter Eye Treatment

The Vitamin C-infused eye treatment will help diminish your sun damage, and help to encourage that all the world wants it-collagen.
Full of plenty of other goodies like Vitamin E, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and of course, maracuja, which will help give that plump smoothness to your skin you’re desperately seeking.

Buy tarte maracuja c brighter eye treatment

3

First Aid Beauty Eye Duty Triple Remedy

First Aid’s Eye Cream is loaded with caffeine and seaweed extract – sounds good enough for breakfast, right? It will help reduce those puffy under eyes and dark circles while you’re at it. All the while giving your delicate eyes that oh-so-necessary hydration quench.

Buy first aid eye duty triple remedy

4

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Eye Gel-Cream

The Vitamin C-infused eye treatment will help diminish your sun damage, and help to encourage that all the world wants it-collagen.
It’s impossible to overlook the gel-cream formulation which can give you that extra cooling, soothing feeling your dry eyes crave!

Buy neutrogena hydro-boost eye gel-cream

5

Lancôme Advanced Génifique Yeux Light Pearl

Loaded with probiotics and antioxidiants, this luxe Lancome eye cream will help to brighten and hydrate your eye area.

Buy Lancôme Advanced Génifique Yeux Light Pearl

6

Benefit They’re Real! Tinted Mascara Primer

Prime your lashes for extra oomph, condition and hydrate your lovely lashes, and guess what? It’s tinted so you’re halfway there with your your mascara.

Buy benefit they’re real! tinted mascara primer

7

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

Opthalmologist tested, and contact lens-safe, Lash Sensational will be kind to your dry and sensitive eyes.
With a jaw-dropping 115,000 plus reviews on Amazon, Maybelline must be doing something right with this bad boy. I love a fan brush as it reminds me of my true favorite mascara – Max Factor Calorie 2000 (sigh) so I think I know where my next mascara is coming from!

Buy Maybelline lash sensational mascara

8

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Complete with peptides to condition your lashes, this mascara is a great find for your dry eyes. Ophthalmologist tested and also suitable if you wear contact lenses, the hourglass-shape wand is another innovation to make this the #1 purchased mascara in America (in the deep black shade) – according to Too Faced. And that’s a lot of mascara!

Buy too faced better than sex mascara

9

Milk Makeup Kush High Volumizing Mascara

Vegan, clean, cruelty-free, paraben-free, silicon-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, gluten-free, coal tar-free, all to avoid chance of irritation. Leaves me asking – what exactly is it made from? Sounds like a lash-friendly, dry-eyed dream!

Buy Milk makeup kush high volumizing mascara

10

Bare Minerals Strength and Length Serum-Infused Mascara

Vegan mascara, made with red clover peptide serum to encourage length in your lashes. Its also smudge-proof, ophthalmologist-tested, contact lens safe, gluten-free, and safe from PEGs, and synthetic fragrances.

Buy bare minerals strength and length serum-infused mascara

11

Hourglass Caution Extreme Lash Mascara

Made without sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, this Hourglass best-seller is serious mascara. It will lengthen and give volume as well and seems aptly named for the results it gives.

Buy hourglass caution extreme lash mascara

12

L’Oreal Age Perfect Lash Magnifying Mascara

Age Perfect contains a conditioning serum and jojoba oil, to look after your eyes, and even though its a waterproof mascara, it removes gently with water. Magic!
Ophthalmologist and allergy tested, yet another friend to your dry eyes.

Buy loreal age perfect lash magnifying mascara

13

La Roche Posay Toleriane Lash Extensions Mascara

Specially formulated for sensitive eyes, La Roche Posay gives us a fragrance-free, allergy-tested mascara worth trying if you’re particularly dry or sensitive.

Buy la Roche posay toleriane lash extensions mascara

14

Essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes

No smudging, no flaking, this tubing mascara will stay all day and then remove with warm water.
Vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, paraben-free, silicon-free, fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and oil-free.

Buy bye bye panda eyes

15

Giorgio Armani Liquid Eye Tint

Long-lasting and quick drying, this Armani staple will have you speeding up your eye makeup times, for sure. With a range of gorgeous matte and chrome shades, Liquid Eye Tint will become your fast liquid-eyeshadow friend.

Buy giorgio armani liquid eye tint

16

The Best Eyeshadow Jones Road

Who would’ve thought to see a powder eyeshadow on a list for specifically curate dry eyes? Well, Jones Road has come through with the goods. The Best Eyeshadow aims to be just that for your dry eyes, with a shadow that contains Oryza Sativa extract to hydrate your lids. Gorgeous color range from Bobbi’s new venture, Jones Road.

Buy jones road the best eyeshadow

17

Bare Minerals Mineralist Sunlit Eyeshadow

This talc-free, vegan eyeshadow from Bare Minerals presents 6 rich pigments in both matte and satin eyeshadows.
These smooth eyeshadows will deliver in pigment, and stay all day. And being from Bare Minerals, you know they are made without any of the nasties you don’t want on your eyes; parabens, formaldehyde, synthetic fragrance, all the things.

Buy Bare minerals Mineralist Sunlit eyeshadow

18

RMS Beauty Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow

Can you see a theme with the eyeshadows? I love a cream eyeshadow, especially for dry eyes, and RMS is one of my faves. These soft shimmer creams contain green tea and quinoa to nourish your dry eyelids and this is the perfect product to give a little glam to your eyes, day or night.
If you haven’t used RMS before, this is a lovely introduction.

Buy rms beauty Eyelights cream eyeshadow

19

Julep Cream to Powder Eyeshadow Stick

There is nothing like the convenience and efficiency of a crayon or stick makeup. You can truly apply your makeup in seconds, and Julep shows us just that.
With a range of shades erring more on the shimmer side (check out those funky green shades!), there is plenty to choose from whether you like a subtle eyeshadow look or a little more drama.
Cream to Powder pencils are made with Vitamin C and E to nourish your dry lids as well.
Personally, I’m not a big fan of using the Smudger end on my delicate eyelids. There’s nothing your clean ring finger can’t do and do with a gentle touch. But have a play and see how you fare.
Perfect if you struggle with precision or your eyes don’t play well with powder eyeshadows.

Buy julep cream to powder eyeshadow stick

20

Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Eyeshadow

This Jane Iredale single eyeshadow contains pine bark extract to protect and nourish your eyelids. The pure pressed eyeshadows can be hard to come by, so grab them while you can. This powder eyeshadow is loaded with nourishing and healing ingredients, specifically designed for sensitive and dry eyes.

Buy jane iredale pure pressed eyeshadow

21

Bobbi Brown Longwear Cream Shadow Stick

“The Artist formerly known as Bobbi Brown” gives us ease of application in another of my new fave time-saving makeups, the longwear cream crayon. The Shadow Stick will give your eyes nourishment by way of its hydrating formula and it won’t smudge or crease.

Available in a handful of mattes and shimmers, this will last all day, and go on like a dream.

Buy Bobbi brown longwear cream shadow stick

22

Almay Velvet Foil Cream Eyeshadow

Almay delivers another super-funky, super-affordable (let’s not deny it!) range of shimmer paint tubes that are kind to your eyes.
The botanicals within the Velvet Foil Cream Eyeshadow will treat your dry lids, and this cream is hypoallergenic as well.
12 shades of soft shimmers that I bet you can wear at any age, and a price tag that means you could treat yourself to more than just one of these fabulous, fun shades.

Buy allmay velvet foil cream eyeshadow

23

Perricone No Makeup Eyeshadow

And at the other end of the rainbow, is our holistic friends Perricone. And I know I’ve mentioned the No Makeup makeup before – here, I think? I love the nude range these eyeshadows are presented in. So simple and understated. This product will undoubtedly look after your delicate, dry eyes with care.
Crease-proof, long-lasting, and also anti-aging benefits within this eyeshadow in a bottle.

Buy Perricone no makeup eyeshadow

24

Revlon Colorstay Cream Eyeshadow

What feels like Revlon’s version of MAC Paint pots, but a little kinder on your back pocket.
Revlon Colorstay Cream Eyeshadows are available in a range of soft, feminine, mostly shimmers and pastel tones. There are a couple of mattes in there, so keep an eye out.
I prefer to use a clean ring finger to apply my cream formula eye shadow, but Revlon gives you a little built-in brush with this pot. Be sure to tap the side of the jar to get it open on the first try!

Buy revlon colorstay cream eyeshadow

25

Yves Saint Laurent Touch Eclat

OMG, probably the makeup product I have worn for the longest period of time in my life. I’m so thrilled to share this gem of a product here in this dry-eye list. And regardless of your eyes, this is heaven-sent. IYKYK.
Radiant Touch is literally that, in a pen. And without providing heaviness on your skin, this product somehow magically bounces light off your face, to correct your dark circles like some kind of real-life, soft filter.

Buy yves saint laurent touch eclat

26

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Illumination Anti-Ageing Concealer

In contrast, IT always provides full coverage, and the Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Concealer is no exception.
If you have dark circles under your eyes, this may become your holy grail, but remember, a little bit goes a long way.
Filled with nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, and Vitamin E this is sure to help plumpen and hydrate your dry eyes.

Buy it cosmetics bye bye under eye anti-ageing waterproof concealer

27

Glo Skin Beauty Under Eye Concealer

Loaded with healing ingredients, Glo Skin Concealer is definitely worth trying if you’re looking for a new coverage solution.
The best news is, this won’t cake or budge. Available in 6 shades, each concealer comes with two shades – a corrector and concealing product you can mix and match or use in combination with other shades as well. Clean and nourishing, this is a quiet achiever in the clean makeup space.

Buy glo skin under eye concealer

28

Colorescience Tint Du Soleil SPF Whipped Foundation

Absolutely loaded with healing, nourishing and anti-aging ingredients, it’s tough to decide whether Colorescience is more skincare or makeup with Whipped Foundation.

Oh, and let’s not forget it contains SPF 30 as well.
If you haven’t experienced any of the incredible products Colorescience offers yet, then the Whipped Foundation is a terrific jumping-off point. So great for sensitive skin, redness, and dryness.

Buy colorescience tint du soleil spf whipped foundation

29

NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer

With an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula, NARS presents one of its most popular and relied-on products in the Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer. It will hydrate your skin, help fade dark spots, and, most of all, look after your dry eyes as well. Hydration comes by way of hyaluronic acid and vitamin C that it’s filled with.

Buy nars pure radiant tinted moisturizer

30

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Fast drying, long-lasting, and a matte finish make Stila All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner a cut above in the liquid eyeliner field.

And it’s perfect for your dry eyes, as it’s not budging, smudging, or irritating either.

Buy stila stay all day waterproof liquid eyeliner

31

Physician’s Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner

Physician’s Formula strives to provide us with skin-friendly, high-quality makeup. And this eyeliner/lash serum is no exception to the rule. The only question is, why didn’t I start using this years ago?
Hypo-allergenic, so it’s safe for your sensitive eyes, too.

Buy physician’s formula eye booster 2-in-1 Lash boosting eyeliner

32

Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray

Vegan, cruelty-free, and with a waterproof formula, what else do you need in your makeup setting spray? Well, for one thing, it’s gotta be kind to your eyes. The much loved, much raved about (10,000 Amazon reviews can’t be wrong, right?) All-Nighter from Urban Decay may just be the setting spray you are after.

Buy urban decay all-nighter setting spray

What to Look for in Eye Makeup if you have Dry Eyes.

As you can see from my list above, I focus heavily on cream eyeshadows and foundation. Hypoallergenic makeup, and keep an eye out (dry or not!) for makeup with low water content.

Habits to Practice To Help Your Dry Eyes

*Be sure to remove your makeup each night before bed.

*Use gentle micellar water or oil-free and paraben-free removers to remove your makeup.

*The best eye makeup removers to use should be makeup removers without mineral oil, sodium lauryl sulfate, or Diazolidinyl urea.

*For stubborn makeup, consider using a gentle baby shampoo.

*Try using a lid scrub on your eyes.

*Remember that false eyelashes or any other procedures, such as permanent makeup, eyelash extensions, or magnetic lashes, can irritate the area around your eyes. If you have sensitive skin or dry eyes, avoid these practices at all costs.

*Save false eyelashes for special occasions only.

*Stay away from glitter in eye makeup products.

*Avoid alcohol in products and makeup removers.

*Don’t apply eyeliner or eye makeup inside your lashline (on the waterline).

*Avoid products containing formaldehyde. Yep, formaldehyde.

*And lastly, avoid fragrance in anything and everything you put on your face or near your eyes.

If any product, or makeup process gives you redness, swelling, or any other kind of reaction, go and visit your eye doctor and medical professional immediately. Your eyes are so important. And your eye health is not worth the risk of any makeup product to risk harm.

If you have dry eyes, don’t fret – there are plenty of makeup products out there that cater specifically to your needs! From hydrating eye creams to smudge-proof eyeliners, this list of 32 fantastic makeup and cosmetic products for dry eyes has got you covered.

Now, go forth and rock your makeup look without any irritation or discomfort!

Resources

Web MD

Featured Image by Edward Howell

The post The Best 32 Makeup and Skincare Products for Dry Eyes appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

The 17 Best Black Eyeshadows

Kerrin Jackson — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 18:16:58 +0000

There is no single time in the history of beauty, in which black eyeshadow is living its best life more than right now.

Not only are the pigments available matte, flat, rich, and just, well, black, but the range of products available is as long as Nicole Kidman’s arm.

It’s also such a versatile look that you can up or downplay, whether you’re wearing it day or night.

So take a walk with me down black eyeshadow lane, and skip to my hues (yep, I did that!) of the glory, the drama, and the smokey deliciousness that is black eyeshadow.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying links. This means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

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Best Black Eyeshadows

Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Blackout

This single pan, rich, ink black is worthy of its name. With a little fallout, this fine powder is probably best applied before the rest of your face. Long-lasting, blendable and buildable. Blackout is one of those eyeshadows that users buy and buy again. It’s also a popular makeup friend come Halloween time. Velvety texture and vegan as they come, this eyeshadow is going to pop on any skin tone.

Find Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Blackout here.

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Anastasia Beverly Hills Single Eyeshadow – Noir

I tend to rely on Anastasia Beverly Hills for their brow product s – all of which I LOVE. So this deep, black eye shadow single pan took me a little by surprise. But it packs a cruelty-free punch. Noir is a finely milled eyeshadow power that blends well and will last on your eyes throughout the day or night.

Find Anastasia Beverly Hills Single Eyeshadow in Noir here.

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L’Oreal Coloriche Monos Eyeshadow Noir C’Est Noir

L’Oreal Paris Coloriche Monos Eyeshadow in Noir C’Est Noir

This may be a drugstore’s best-kept secret when it comes to a perfect smoky eye. L’Oreal gives us (pretty much, as it retails for just over 5 bucks!) a dense, true black eyeshadow that delivers on staying powder, pigment, and wait for it – little to no fallout. There is something universal about this pigment and it really suits any eye color well.

To L’Oreal’s Monos Eyeshadow in Noir C’Est Noir – I say Oi, sil vous plait!

Find L’Oreal Paris Coloriche Monos Eyeshadow in Noir C’Est Noir here.

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NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eyeshadow and Eyeliner Pencil – Black Bean

I’m a big fan of any method that might be a time saver with your makeup application (see my favorite freebie if you need help saving time with your own makeup!) And a good old-fashioned crayon is definitely a short-cutting eye makeup gem to have in your makeup kit.

Make sure to get hold of the NYX 2-in-1 Sharpener to keep this baby razor sharp for those clean lines – it can get so fine for you to apply on both you upper and lower lash line..

Find NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eyeshadow and Eyeliner Pencil in Black Bean here.

Covergirl Queen 1-Kit Eyeshadow in Black Tie

Covergirl Queen Eyeshadow in Black Tie

Covergirl’s Queen Eyeshadow in Black Tie is a lovely, soft matte black shadow. Perfect for setting liner or adding drama to a black primer or smokey eye.

Find Covergirl Queen Eyeshadow in Black Tie here.

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e.l.f. Liquid Glitter Eyeshadow in Black Magic

Okay, so if you’ve been with me a while, you might start to see a pattern that I like to throw in the odd rule-breaker.

Well, here’s one for today’s pickings. I couldn’t help but include e.l.f’s Liquid Glitter Eyeshadow. And that’s saying something because I for one, am not a fan of glitter.

But this product is more of a crushed gunmetal in a creamy formula than it is glitter anyway. And pop this over a matte black lid and I think you could create some really cool looks.

As always, e.l.f. delivers high-quality products at super-low prices (I’m starting to sound life an infomercial – cringe!) but it’s true. It’s Vegan, and just about everything-free that I’m surprised there’s even anything in the jar!

e.l.f. Liquid Glitter Eyeshadow even won Allure’s Highly Coveted Best of Beauty Award back in 2020. So you’re truly onto a winner with this bad boy.

Find e.l.f. Liquid Glitter Eyeshadow in Black Magic here.

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Palladio Baked Eyeshadow in Jet Black

I love these pigments from Palladio. Another hot-ticket makeup line around Halloween time, but I also love the soft, subtle shimmer in this eyeshadow.

Find Palladio Baked Eyeshadow in Jet Black her e.

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NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Pandora

If you have a particularly keen eye, you may recognize this NARS Duo from my post on best white eyeshadows from a while back.

So that can only mean this eyeshadow duo is twice as worthy of your brushes gracing it’s finely milled grain texture.

I still have a hard time with myself when it comes to NARS which by definition is still not cruelty-free (sigh…) but I’m just delivering the best products to you, so I feel compelled to mention this.

Find NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Pandora here.

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Haus Laboratories Glam Attack Liquid Eyeshadow in Chained Ballerina

Another eyeshadow that’s slightly bending the rules sneaking into this list, but again, sometimes I can’t resist.

I love a good cream eye makeup, and Glam Attack Liquid Eyeshadow from Ms. Gaga, definitely deserves it’s place on this list.

Chained Ballerina is a rich, deep charcoal/black eyeshadow. It is blendable and can go quite sheer, but also has the versatility to be layered, and create real depth on your lids. Vegan and cruelty-free and guaranteed to be fallout-free!

Find Haus Laboratories Glam Attack Liquid Eyeshadow in Chained Ballerina here.

Julep 101 Cream to Powder Eyeshadow Stick in Onyx

Julep Eyeshadow 101 Cream to Powder Eyeshadow Stick in Onyx

I’m a late bloomer when it comes to Julep, but so far am a fan.

As I mentioned earlier, I love a good crayon, and Julep’s Cream to Powder Eyeshadow Stick in Onyx is a perfectly efficient way to get your smokey eye on in no time at all. And without brushes!

You simply glide on the cream eyeshadow stick and blend it out with the double-ended smudger to soften.

Touted as waterproof, long-lasting and ultra matte. Almost 30,000 shoppers cant be wrong, right?

Find Julep Eyeshadow 101 Cream to Powder Stick in Onyx here.

Color Tattoo Longwear Multi-Use Eyeshadow Stix

This is about as much drama as you can get in terms of pure, unadulterated black pigment for your eyes. Rich and totally opaque, paint this on and blend it out, or leave it pure black. Long lasting and extra gentle for sensitive eyes. Maybelline’s Multi Use Eyeshadow Stix is the perfect multitasker crayon of cream goodness.

Find Maybelline Color Tattoo Longwear Multi Use Eyeshadow Stix in I Am Rebellious here.

L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Eternal Black

If you’re looking for a softer, more understated shimmer in your eyeshadow, then look no further than L’Oreal’s Eternal Black Infallible Eyeshadow.

It’s a really pretty charcoal black pigment with a soft shimmer that will enhance a black primer or base eyeshadow nicely, or wear on it’s own for a softer finish.

Find L’Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Eternal Black here.

Maybelline New York Expert in Night Sky

A solid matte, black single eyeshadow from Maybelline that gives you plenty of product for your dollar. Opthalmologist tested and guaranteed for long-lasting results. Maybelline recommend using their eye primer before applying this eyeshadow.

Find Maybelline New York Expert in Night Sky here.

Wet’n’Wild Color Icon Multistick in Nocturnal Behavior

The last contender of a crayon variety, the Wet’n’Wild Multistick in Nocturnal Behavior is black. Plain black. It contains quite a few oils – argan oil, virgin passion fruit seed oil so I suspect it’s definitely not claiming to be long-lasting. Nor might it be your first choice if you experience oily lids.

But if you have sensitive eyes, or a dry skin type, and would compromise 24 hrs of wear for eyes that are happy, then this might be the right product for you. And by the way, aren’t we told day in and day out to remove our makeup before we go to bed? So why are products claiming their 24 hr staying power then? Just a thought…

The multi-stick is also cruelty-free, fragrance-free, and gluten-free.

Find Wet’N’Wild Color Icon Stick in Nocturnal Behavior here.

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Mehron Matte Eye Powder in Black Onyx

As a brand Mehron is something of an under-rated stayer in the makeup world. And yet again, I find a fab product that I didn’t know about from them.

This blendable and buildable single can be used wet or dry. Made with Vitamin E and Shea Butter to look after your precious eyes.

Find Mehron Matte Eye Powder in Black Onyx here.

Inglot Freedom System Eyeshadow AMC 63

Inglot Freedom System Eyeshadow in AMC 63

Available as a solo eye shadow, Inglot also offers small palettes for you to pop your 3 favorite Inglot eyeshadow pans into. Hence the Freedom System tag.

Despite its lack of romance in naming, this little eyeshadow still provides smooth long-lasting application, and possibly the best price in the group, providing great value for your money.

Find Inglot Freedom System Eyeshadow in AMC 63 here.

Colourpop Eyeshadow Palette in Blowin Smoke

So not a true single, but if you’re familiar with Colourpop you’ll know how they present their colors in these collections.

I included their Blowin Smoke palette in this post because it contains not only a rich matte black eyeshadow but also a soft shimmer version of events too.

Plus you get all manner of greys, darker charcoals, and whites to create infinite looks with these pigments. Such fun – for day looks, evening looks, and everything in between.

Find Colourpop Eyeshadow Palette in Blowin Smoke here.

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Applying Black Eyeliner -Things to Remember

Eye primer

Yep, use an eye primer. Your liner application will be so much less traumatic for you – the product will go on more easily, and it will STAY on way better.

The tape trick – to be or not to be

I still have my reservations about using tape on your eyes. I guess it’s the same way I feel about stencils with airbrush makeup. Have them so you need never use them!

I’m definitely a less-is-best fan, and the addition of tape just is adding extraneous stuff that could inadvertently go wrong. You may as well spend those extra 3 minutes cleaning up your liner with some remover on a qtip and a bt of your foundation and achieve an even punchier eyeliner definition. My two cents.

Do eye makeup first

I’m referring to, in the scheme of things. Get your eyes on first, then you can make a mess under your eye to your heart’s content. But your eye makeup will be on point.

THEN you can go back, clean up whatever’s necessary in the fallout department, and whisk on your base and cheeks and lips in no time at all.

Tissue under the eye, be prepared to clean up the under-eye area

If you are holding on to being more traditional with your application, I suggest folding tissue and holding it under your eye? This may help minimize your post-eye makeup clean up situation.

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Did Somebody Say Black Eye Shadow Primer?

NYX Professional Black Eyeshadow Base Primer

So I just discovered this beauty and I’m so excited by the thought of doing a pure black on black primer/eyeshadow/liner eye. Such drama, right?

Might have to do this really soon!!!

Find NYX Professional Black Eyeshadow Primer Base here.

Featured Image by Руслан Гамзалиев on Unsplash

The post The 17 Best Black Eyeshadows appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

The Only Felt Tip Eyeliners You’ll Ever Need

Kerrin Jackson — Sat, 06 Aug 2022 10:30:00 +0000

Recently, I was asked to throw my two cents in on showing someone how to apply a cat eyeliner. Someone that was doing a cat eyeliner for the very first time.

I could only think of 5 words.

Use a felt-tip eyeliner pen.

Well, I guess it’s 6. Let’s just say 5. Felt-tip eyeliner pens make cat eyeliner, winged liner, you name it in the world of clean, well-defined 1960s (or Egyptian-inspired) derived as easy as it’s ever going to get.

So here for your reading pleasure are my picks of the most affordable, user-friendly, and therefore the best liquid eyeliners of the felt tip variety.

Maybelline Eyestudio Master Precise All-Day Felt Tip Eyeliner – Best All Rounder

Maybelline Eyestudio Master Precise All Day Liquid Liner

waterproof
long-lasting up to 12 hours
felt tip for precise lines
rich pigment
matte finish
dermatologist tested
ophthalmologist tested
fragrance-free
suitable for sensitive eyes
suitable for contact lenses

Find Maybelline Eyestudio Precise All Day Liquid Eyeliner here.

HAUS Laboratories Micro Tip Liquid Eyeliner – Best Precision

Haus Laboratories Micro Tip Liquid Eyeliner

budge-proof
high precision ultra fine micro-tip
semi-shine finish
vegan
cruelty-free

Find the Haus Laboratories Micro Tip Liquid Eyeliner here.

Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner – Best Dramatic Look

Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner

for more dramatic, thick lines
long-lasting
smudge proof
paraben free formula
intense pigment in a single-stroke color

Find Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner here.

Almay Conditioning Liquid Eyeliner – Best for Sensitive Eyes

Almay Conditioning Liquid Eyeliner

matte finish
long-lasting for up to 24hrs
intense color pigment
nourishing and hydrating ingredients
hypo-allergenic
ophthalmologist tested
cruelty-free
fragrance-free

Find Almay Conditioning Liquid Eyeliner here.

NYX Epic Ink Eyeliner – Best Drugstore Felt Tip Eyeliner

NYX Epic Ink Eyeliner

waterproof
matte black finish
cruelty-free
high pigment
vegan

Find NYX Epic Ink Eyeliner here.

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L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Precision Felt Tip Eyeliner – Best Grip

L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Precision Felt Tip Eyeliner

long-lasting up to 30hrs
available in 5 shades
smudge-resistant
waterproof
rubber grip for ease of use
high pigment

Find L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Precision Felt Tip Eyeliner here.

Tarte Maneater Liquid Eyeliner – Best Cat Eye

Tarte Maneater Liquid Eyeliner

semi-matte finish
vegan
high precision micro-brush tip
quick drying
rich black pigment

Find Tarte Maneater Liquid Eyeliner here.

Physicians Formula Ultra-Fine Liquid Eyeliner – Best Lash Builder

Physician’s Formula Ultra-Fine Liquid Eyeliner

waterproof
ingredients include a lash-boosting complex to improve lash appearance
lash conditioning serum with peptides
precision brush tip
satin finish
affordable

Find Physician’s Formula Ultra Fine Liquid Eyeliner here.

Honest Beauty Liquid Eyeliner – Best Humane

Honest Beauty Liquid Eyeliner

high pigment
8hrs of smudge-proof, flake-proof staying power
dermatologist tested
ophthalmologist tested
hypoallergenic
cruelty-free
vegan
paraben-free
carbon black pigment-free
silicon free
PEG free
EWG certified
climate pledge friendly

Find Honest Beauty Liquid Eyeliner here.

The Balm Schwing Liquid Eyeliner – Best Cult Classic

The Balm Schwing Liquid Eyeliner

matte formula
smudge-proof formula
flake proof
quick drying
slim packaging perfect for your makeup bag
thin felt tip applicator

Find The Balm Schwing Liquid Eyeliner here.

Clio Waterproof Pen Liner – Best High Pigment Felt Tip Eyeliner

Clio Waterproof Pen Liner

waterproof
smudge-proof
quick-drying formula
available in 6 different shades of black and brown

Find Clio Waterproof Pen Liner here.

If you love Clio Waterproof Pen Liner, take a look at all of these amazing Korean eyeliners too!

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Revlon Skinny Liquid Eyeliner – Best Skinny Tip Felt Tip Eyeliner

Revlon Skinny Liquid Eyeliner

long-lasting up to 10 hrs
short handle to make application easy
skinny brush tip of 0.1mm
4 pigment shades
affordable
matte finish

Find Revlon Skinny Liquid Eyeliner here.

hince Ambience Color Range Liquid Eyeliner – Best Color Range

hince AMbience Color Range Liquid Eyeliner

matte finish
unique high pigment color range
waterproof
sweatproof
long-lasting up to 12 hrs
smudge-proof
cruelty-free
hypoallergenic
gentle and non-toxic formula

Find hince Ambience Color Range Liquid Eyeliner here.

Wet’n’Wild Breakup-Proof Liquid Eyeliner – Best Smudgeproof Felt Tip Eyeliner

Wet’n’Wild Breakup-Proof Liquid Eyeliner

waterproof formula
smudge-proof
flake-proof
cry proof
cruelty-free
affordable

Described as a great alternative to the much beloved Kat Von D liquid Eyeliner Pen.

Find Wet’n’Wild Breakup-Proof Liquid Eyeliner here.

Maybelline Hyper-Easy Brush Tip Liner – Best Rule Breaker

Maybelline Hyper-Easy Brush Tip Liner

high satin finish
long-lasting – a whopping 24hrs!
the flexible tip is made from flexible synthetic fibers and is essentially a firm brush
hexagonal grip shape for extra comfort and ease of use
ophthalmologist tested
suitable for contact lenses
suitable for sensitive eyes

Find Maybelline Hyper-Easy Brush Tip Liner here.

Although this makeup is more of a graphic, contemporary take on the cat eyeliner, I still love it and couldn’t help but share. So clean and pretty!

Image by Vince Mariel Conlu via Unsplash

And if you need some further guidance and hand-holding before attempting your fabulous cat eyeliner, here’s a quick step-by-step to make things a little less scary.

Stay tuned for visual tutorials in the future too!

How to Apply A Cat Eyeliner

Step 1

Step one of your skin prep is to prep your eyelid by removing any makeup, dirt, and oils with your favorite toner or astringent. I love to use this gentle toner or my favorite witch hazel.

Step 2

Prime your lids with your best eye primer. Be sure to take the primer all the way to your lash line – as close as you can.

Step 3

Apply your eyeshadow or at least the first color to your lids. Usually, if I’m going for a cat-eye look, I’ll keep the eyeshadow minimal so as not to compete too much with the dramatic look of the liner, but let’s say you’d like a little wash of a taupe, or soft skin tone, now is the time to do it.

Step 4

Once you have your eyeshadow makeup on, or at least a base of it, you can begin applying your liner. It’s a good idea to do this sitting down. And with a table or something you can lean on, to help support you if you don’t have a steady hand. And as I have mentioned ad nauseum, please start with a felt pen. It simplifies the job so much, and really takes out so many variables for eyeliner novices.

Step 5

Now, some people like to start by putting in a guideline. A series of small dots or dashes that act as a template for you to follow with your felt tip liner. This is entirely a personal preference. I tend to think that it’s best to start without them, as they can end up making you create a way thicker line than you are looking for. It’s entirely up to you.

Start your liner from the center of your eyelid. Keep close to the lash line, if not on the lash line and gently work your way out to the outer corner of your eye shape. Don’t worry too much about the wing at this point, as you can always come back later to extend it, shape it, and make it bigger. Right now, it’s about getting that liner on and to a thickness and shape that you are happy with.

Step 6

Then extend inwards from the center and fade the line away to almost nothing as you create the eyeliner that runs along your lashline across your whole eye. You can get an extra fine, clean and smooth line by turning sideways to your mirror, and then shifting your gaze outwards towards the mirror (looking to the right with your eyes, if you face your body leftwards, and looking to the left with your eyes if you turned your body rightwards) This will place a tiny bit of tension on the skin of your inner eye and give you a super clean thin line in the center.

Step 7

Once you have the liner in place, you can then go ahead and add your wing to the outside. I like to do this part last, as your hand will be warmed up by now, and you will probably be a bit more relaxed by now, too. Work outwards from the outer corner of your eye, with short sweeps across the lashline, and extend to the point you are finished. Try to follow the angles of your face, and always head upwards and outwards for the most flattering finish.

Step 8

And then, once you are happy with the liner shape and size, you may need to clean up any parts of the liner to make it razor sharp and clean. To do this, take a pointy q-tip and your go-to no-mess micellar water or makeup remover and gently clean up the line where needed.

Well, that’s it, my friend. My pick of the most affordable, and easy-to-use, best felt tip eyeliners your money can buy. I’m really happy to say that these are all drugstore products, with almost entirely budget-friendly price points – nothing fancy here. But that doesn’t mean you walk away with less than a brilliant quality product.

Whether you are looking for a dramatic look like, say, Amy Winehouse finish, or something of a finer finish. You need look no further than a felt tip eyeliner to create that perfect wing. Every time.

What’s your favorite method for creating a perfect cat-eye? Something else? Comment below, or reach out and let me know! And if you have a friend that should read this article, go ahead and share it with them! It might be just the info they need to conquer that cat-eye liner fear!!!

Featured Image by Samanta Sokolova

The post The Only Felt Tip Eyeliners You’ll Ever Need appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

24 of the Best Taupe Eye Shadows (2024)

Kerrin Jackson — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Taupe eye shadow is a grey-brown hybrid shadow that looks beautiful on the eyes.

It often feels like few people get excited over taupe. It’s one of the most underrated eye shadows, yet oftentimes, it’s deemed as “dull” and “uninteresting” or just overlooked altogether.

I disagree. I love a good taupe!

Taupe eye shadows add dimension to the eye area and can be used alone to achieve a no-makeup look or amplified with liners to look more dramatic.

With the ever-present no-makeup look going nowhere, taupe eye shadows give you the appearance of alluring eyes without making you look all dolled up. If you’re interested in giving this trend a try for yourself, here are my 24 best taupe eye shadows you can buy in 2022.

Types of Taupes

Taupes come in two main types. Shimmer and matte.
Shimmery taupe eyeshadows are best for more glamorous looks. If you’re seeking a sultry, playful vibe, make shimmer taupe your go-to. It’s a great way to add a sparkly touch to your eyes. Simply sweep it over your lids, draw on some eyeliner, and apply a few lashings of mascara for a glam, going-out look.

And dare I say, a shimmer taupe may just be where I break the rules and say wear it at any age!!!

I know I’m always crying foul about using shimmer on anyone over the age of about 35, but hey, sometimes it’s fun to play your wild card, right? And for me, that wild card is a good solid shimmery taupe. Life in the fast lane!

Now, you can keep things more minimalistic by steering clear of mascara and eyeliner altogether with a wash of taupe, too, if you like.
Matte taupe eyeshadows are the epitome of a simple yet stylish finish. For the days when you’re feeling lazy or you’re pressed for time, sweep your lids with a matte taupe shadow for a quick makeup look.

Or if you’re creating a soft, no-makeup look (or even slightly bending the rules on some old-period looks) a little taupe can go a long way!

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Best Taupe Eyeshadow Products

Viseart Neutral Matte 01 Palette

Buying Options

Amazon

Buy now

Feel Unique

See now

Guru Makeup Emporium

Buy now

The one and only Viseart Neutral Matte 01 Palette.

Probably the palette I’ve gone through more of than any other matte eyeshadow palette. For the makeup lover and artist alike.
It features 12 removable neutral, smooth textured shadows in matte shades. The pigments are super-impressive and vary from white and cream through to dark brown and black.

Thanks to its finely milled powder, all shades blend seamlessly into one another for professional results at home, or on the job. Definitely my #1 pick of the bunch for neutral palettes. I love this palette!!

Anastasia Beverly Hills Warm Taupe Eyeshadow

Buying Options

Amazon

Buy now

Anastasia Beverly Hills

Buy now

Cult Beauty Global

Buy now

Amazon

Buy now

With its titanium taupe shade and the perfect amount of warmth, this is a great transition color with beautiful pigment. It also blends really well and lasts all day. And as is the case with taupe eye shadow in general, it works great with any other shade.

Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

Buying Options

Sephora

Ulta

Look Fantastic UK

Nordstrom

Amazon

I love this palette, and use it on myself all the time.

It’s a super versatile palette that contains six taupe-hued matte neutrals. Perfect for all skin types. Urban Decay has presented us with a massively popular little palette – and reviewers and makeup artists alike praise these shadows for their staying power and blendability. It’s everything you need to create a dressed-up or dressed-down eye.

Tarte Tartlette In Bloom Clay Eyeshadow Palette

Buying Options

Amazon

Tarte

Sephora

Ulta

Dermstore

This Tarte palette offers everything you need to create a chic makeup look, featuring a combination of micro shimmers and mattes in brown shades. The formula is also infused with Amazonian clay for seamless blending and intense results without a trace of chalkiness. Think stunning smokey eyes!

Keep an eye out (no pun intended!), as I have experienced some Tarte eyeshadow pigments oxidizing and going warm on the skin. So be sure to try this out on the face you’re applying it to so there are no unexpected surprises later in the day.

Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eyeshadow in The Sophisticate

Buying Options

Amazon

Charlotte Tilbury

Sephora

Revolve

The Sophisticate Luxury Eyeshadow Palette features a quad of matte neutral eyeshadow shades in cream, tan, taupe, and chocolate shades for a stunning low-key look that suits every season. Another favorite of mine – these CT palettes are super silky and fine powdered eyeshadows.

Bobbi Brown Real Nudes Palette

Buying Options

Amazon

Buy now

Saks Fifth Ave

Buy now

This luxurious neutral eyeshadow palette offers gorgeous golden tones, soft browns, and taupes. It’s all you need to create a range of beautiful looks and may well be my pick of the nude makeup palettes. The BB Palette contains a variety of matte, shimmer, and sparkle finishes. It’s easy to apply and lasts all day.

Japonesque Velvet Touch Eyeshadow Palette

Buying Options

Amazon

Buy now

These soft, warm hues make up this versatile Japonesque eyeshadow palette for minimalistic, neutral-toned looks. Soft, intense, matte, and shimmery, this palette offers everything you need to create your desired look with soft, nude shadows.

You can also apply the matte shadows to your eyebrow hairs to enhance their appearance, and the highlighter to your cheekbones to accentuate them.

I have this particular Japonesque eyeshadow palette. It’s sleekly presented with 8 neutral tones, both matte and shimmer. There are some warmer tones in there, too, to help create a soft, neutral look for day or night.

MAC Eyeshadow in Coquette

Buying Options

Amazon

Nordstrom

MAC Cosmetics

Saks Fifth Ave

MAC presents a highly pigmented powder that elevates your eyes and stays on all day with non-creasing wear. This eyeshadow blends into the lids and other colors easily for a stunning finish.

MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Tailor Gray

Buying Options

Ulta

MAC Cosmetics

Bloomingdales

Saks Fifth Ave

MAC changed the eyeshadow game when they released their Paint Pot range. Creamy and luxurious, Mac Pro Paint Pot in Tailor’s Gray offers a light-taupe creamy finish. I love Tailor’s Gray as much for a base for your eye makeup as a gorgeous, light taupe eyeshadow itself.

It’s easy to apply, blend, and diffuse perfectly as desired. It starts to show signs of creasing after around 15 hours of wear, so you can expect to get your money’s worth from this one.

Have I mentioned just how fantastic Paint Pot is? If you haven’t used this eyeshadow marathon runner yet, then you must try it!

Bare Minerals Mineralist Ultranatural Eyeshadow

Buying Options

Ulta

Buy now

Bare Minerals

Buy now

Embrace a natural, soft and feminine makeup look with this talc-free, vegan eyeshadow featuring six blendable taupe and cool brown and golden shades in several finishes. Thanks to its creamy texture, it’s easily blendable and buildable. It delivers all-day, crease-free wear.

Ilia Beauty The Necessary Eyeshadow Palette in Cool Nude

Buying Options

Ilia Beauty

Credo Beauty

Sephora

Amazon

Ilia is becoming a new fan-favorite, and with talc-free, cruelty-free, vegan products such as this one, it’s not hard to see why.

This eyeshadow palette offers 6 soft shades in warm, almost pinkish browns. Both in matte and metallic finishes.

Colourpop That’s Taupe Eyeshadow Palette

Buying Options

Colourpop

Buy now

Ulta

Buy now

Who said there’s such a thing as too much taupe? Noone! Cause there’s not – and Colourpop prove it here with the palette dedicated entirely to shades of taupe. Soft matte taupes, and stunning shimmer taupe tones and mushroom pewter shades plus some deeper rich chocolate browns, I suspect this will be the palette you go back to time after time after time.
Enjoy!

e.l.f Perfect 1- Eyeshadow Palette in Summer Breeze

Buying Options

e.l.f. Cosmetics

Buy now

Ulta

Buy now

The e.l.f. Perfect 10 Eyeshadow Palette in Summer Breeze contains a mix of ten gorgeous matte and shimmer eyeshadows perfect for achieving a subtle or bold daily makeup look at such a reasonable price. It also has a range of tones suitable to go with any eye colors. These neutral shades are perfect for shading, highlighting, or defining the eyes.

I have this palette at home. Love it (can you tell I have a thing for taupes?)

Keep it in your makeup bag, keep it in your kit – it’s an everyday staple.

Revlon Colorstay Cream Eyeshadow in Espresso

Buying Options

Look Fantastic US

Buy now

Ulta

Buy now

Amazon

Buy now

In just one swipe, this espresso-hued cream eyeshadow offers saturated color with a lifeline of up to 24 hours.
And don’t be fooled by the color of the image – this really doesn’t do this strong taupe creme eyeshadow any justice whatsoever!

There’s even a built-in eye shadow brush in the cap to simply the application process. Make this your first choice when you’re attempting a smokey eye. It’s also a great dupe for MAC’s Paint Pot (sshhhh!)

By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Frozen Quartz

Buying Options

Dermstore

Buy now

Skinstore

Buy now

Amazon

Buy now

This creamy eyeshadow stick glides on the lids and blends in beautifully. The color also doesn’t crease and lasts for hours of wear.
Bright and shimmery, Frozen quartz is a stunning pink/taupe shade that illuminates the eyes in a truly dazzling way.

Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon Eyeshadow Pencil in Dark Pearl

Buying Options

Charlotte Tilbury

Buy now

Sephora

Buy now

Violet Grey

Buy now

A gorgeous, rich pewter taupe shade, this eyeshadow pencil certainly adds an understated glimmer to the lid for daytime use. This taupe dries beautifully for a satin finish and refuses to crease.

Keep a good eye out for this pencil, as it can be hard to come by. It’s a great formula for adding a subtle shimmer to your lids and the perfect shade for a minimal makeup look.

Mally Beauty Evercolor Eyeshadow Stick in Timeless Taupe

Buying Options

Mally Beauty

Buy now

Nordstrom

Buy now

Amazon

Buy now

This eyeshadow stick from Mally glides evenly over the eyes with little pressure to deliver a subtle yet stunning eye makeup look.
And what I love about Timeless Taupe is that in a seemingly growing world of shimmers and sheens and satins and sparkles, this baby is pure matte.
Such a gorgeous, rich matte taupe. You might call it timeless?
It lasts through sweaty, oily lids, so no worries if you’re going on vacation or attending a dance party. This formula will get you through the heat!

Clinique Chubby Stick Shadow in Lots O’ Latte

Buying Options

Adore Beauty

Saks Fifth Ave

Clinique

Amazon

Clinique’s eyeshadow pencil delivers a soft pinky/taupe with hints of silver. This shimmery shade wears wear for both night and day. With the support of your favorite eye primer, this shadow holds strong for hours of wear. Plus, it covers the lids with one quick sweep, thanks to its chubby! (thick) design.

Julep Eyeshadow 101 in Shimmery Taupe

Buying Options

Julep

Buy now

Amazon

Buy now

Simulate a smoky, sultry, slept-in shadow look with this shimmery taupe eyeshadow. Simply sweep it over your lids. Then, use the other end of the stick, which features a flat-tipped brush to fade out the shadow for a seamless finish. This shadow lasts up to 12 hours.

Armani Liquid Eye Tint in Cedar

Buying Options

Bergdorf Goodman

Buy now

Sephora

Buy now

Armani Beauty

Buy now

With its soft and velvety texture, this creamy eyeshadow blends beautifully with other hues. It’s a stunning matte shade that makes the perfect transition color or the ideal shadow to dab in the center of your lids. The perfect base to go full drama over the top of, or to keep on its own for subtle definition.
Cedar is a cool taupe tone, and Armani assures you it will last all day long.

Maybelline Expert Eye Wear in Made for Mocha

Buying Options

Amazon

Buy now

Target

Buy now

While not strictly a taupe eyeshadow, this shade is often used by makeup artists thanks to its versatility. Besides blending beautifully, this shadow lasts for up to 14 hours. It’s best for those wanting to achieve a richer, slightly warmer and deeper version of your standard taupe eyeshadow. Love this shade.

MAC Eyeshadow in Satin Taupe

Buying Options

MAC Cosmetics

Buy now

Ulta

Buy now

Ulta

Buy now

This eyeshadow has a gorgeous purple-gray hue and a hint of shimmer to create a dazzling look for an upcoming cocktail party. If you’re looking for a taupe eyeshadow with cool undertones, look no further than Mac satin taupe.

Jones Road Just A Sec Bright Eyes in Cool Taupe

Buying Options

Jones Road

Buy now

One of my favorite new discoveries of the past year or so. From the makeup queen herself, Bobbi Brown, I love love love this product, this shade, it’s super silky smopth and soft.
Makeup lovers love it for its silky and shiny formula.

Keep it subtle and washy or build it up for a more intense multi-dimensional glow on your lids.
Just sublime.
Plus its like skincare for your lids, too!

Honest Beauty Get It Together Eyeshadow Palette

Buying Options

Honest Beauty

Ulta

Target

Amazon

Seemingly made without anything at all, this clean palette is a must-have if clean beauty is your jam. Featuring 10 shades of warm tones, taupes, and black, this delicious palette will have you covered for all looks from natural no-makeup, to a full-on evening glam or smoky eye.

Taupe eyeshadows really are the best for acing up your makeup game.

Whether you want to don a no-makeup look or achieve a glitzy evening appearance, taupe eyeshadow is a versatile product for switching up or down a look. Best of all, these eyeshadows pair beautifully with a variety of cool or warm shades.
Overall, taupe eyeshadow is worth keeping in your makeup kit or personal makeup bag at home, as it really is a staple for achieving a variety of classic, flattering looks, for all moods.

Featured Image by Kelly Sikkema

The post 24 of the Best Taupe Eye Shadows (2024) appeared first on The Makeup Refinery.

Eyes Archives - The Makeup Refinery

The Spell-binding Stamina of Blue Eyeshadow

the spellbinding stamina of blue eyeshadow

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Surefire Tricks to Combat Oily Eyelids Effectively

surefire tricks to combat oily eyelids effeectively

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Episode 53: Show notes

What Causes Oily Eyelids?

What Can I Use to Combat Oily Eyelids?

Links & Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode Transcript

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More episodes you might enjoy:

Eyeliner Vs Eyeshadow: What’s Best for My Hooded Eyelids?

The Challenge of Hooded Eyelids

Why Eyeliner Might Not Be Ideal

1. Aging Effect

2. Smudging and Transfer Issues

3. Application Challenges

The Allure of Eyeshadow

How Eyeshadow Can Elevate Your Look, Literally

1. Soft, Blended Looks

2. Graduation of Color Intensity

3. Experiment with Color and Texture

4. Good Quality Brushes

Check out these eyeshadow faves…

Urban Decay Mini

Laura Geller The Delectables

Jones Road Just A Sec

Anastasia Beverly Hills Nouveau

What About Smudging and Transfer Issues with Eyeshadow?

1. Use Waterproof Eyeshadow Products

2. Use A Setting Powder

3. Explore Eye Primers

4. Use an Oil-Free Makeup Remover

5. Use a Setting Spray

6. Use a Matte

7. Avoid Touching Your Eyes

Eyeshadow Vs Eyeliner Recap:

Eyeliner Might Not Be the Best Eye Makeup For Hooded Eyes because:

Eyeshadow Can Be Used as an Effective Eyeliner Alternative:

Check out these good-quality brushes…

Sigma Deluxe Blending Set

Bdellium Studio Eyes Set

Bdellium Golden Triangle Set

Bdellium Eyes Only Set

Makeup is an Awesome Tool to Enhance Your Natural Beauty

Eyeliner Mistakes You Need to Stop Making If You’re Over 40

Use Super Heavy or Harsh Lines On Your Eyes

What You Can Do Instead

Using Only Black Eyeliner

What You Can Do Instead

Not Adjusting Eyeliner Style

What You Can Do Instead

Using Shimmery Eyeliners

What You Can Do Instead

Applying Eyeliner to the Entire Waterline

What You Can Do Instead

Skipping Tightlining

What You Can Do Instead

Neglecting Primer

What You Can Do Instead

Applying Eyeliner on Lower Lashes Only

What You Can Do Instead

Not Blending Properly

What You Can Do Instead

Using Outdated Techniques

What You Can Do Instead

Focus on Your Eyelashes