6 of the best CREAM EYESHADOWS
Long-lasting, easy to apply and ideal for crêpey lids – what’s not to like? If you’ve never tried a cream eyeshadow, now is the time to give it a go
Forget the endless blending of their powder counterparts; cream eyeshadows are incredibly forgiving on crêpey lids and you can apply them seamlessly with just a fingertip. Whether you’re opting for a smokey eye or seeking a subtle shimmer, cream eyeshadows will do the hard work for you – thanks to their impressive staying power, highly pigmented colours and user-friendly formulas.
Best for… when you’re on a budget
Barry M Mini Cream Eyeshadow Palette The Berries, £3.49, Superdrug
Berry tones are perfect for autumn, and this compact eyeshadow palette contains all the shades you need for a handful of gorgeous eye looks. The possibilities are endless with these versatile shades that create an array of creative combinations. Its pocketfriendly price tag by no means compromises on quality – its formula is highly pigmented and swipes seamlessly over lids for a long-lasting finish.
Best for… a natural look
Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadow in Socialite, £5.99, lookfantastic.com This lightweight formula is ideal for a more natural look. It glides on like butter and leaves no cakey residue behind. It is a lovely option for mature eyes as it doesn’t settle into lines or creases. Application is easy. Use your finger to swipe it over lids for a subtle flush of colour. It’s waterproof, so even watery eyes won’t make this budge.
Best for… precise application
E.l.f. No Budge Shadow Stick in Rich Amethyst, £6, Superdrug
Cream eyeshadow sticks are great for using across top and bottom lash lines. Not only does this one beat the rest in terms of ease of application, but it also has a great shade range to add a sense of drama to any eye look. Just swipe outwards from the eye’s inner corners as close to the lash line as possible. Then take a fluffy brush to blend the lines and voilà! A perfect smokey eye. Plus, a no-budge formula will keep things neat all day long.
Best for… colourful looks
3INA Makeup The Cream Eyeshadow in Lilac, £15.95, lookfantastic.com
If you’re in the market for a bright cream eyeshadow, look no further than 3INA’S highly pigmented range. Although its formula is slightly drier than others, it will blend seamlessly when placed on top of an eyeshadow primer. The vibrant shade range is unbeatable in terms of variety, and the colour payoff is strong, so if more intense makeup looks are your style, this one’s for you.
Best for… perfecting your base
Revlon Colorstay Crème Eye Shadow in Chocolate, £6.99, lookfantastic.com
This great value cream eyeshadow lasts the longest among all the formulas we tried, and it applies to the lids with a gel-like texture. Its crease-proof formula won’t sink into lines around the eyes and makes a great base layer to wear either on its own or under additional layers of powder shadows. We especially love that it comes with a built-in brush, making on-the-go application easier.
Best for… on the go
Milani Gilded Flora Eyeshadow Stick in I Lilac You, £9.75, beautybay.com The possibilities are endless with this eyeshadow stick. Its chunky, pencil-like shape glides over lids without any harsh tugging. Used in the inner corners, it will make eyes pop. Or washed over the entire lid, it will level up your entire makeup look. It is a perfect addition to any handbag, creating quick and easy looks that will have you looking like a professional.