If we had to pick, we’d probably say that eyeshadow is the most diverse makeup product there is. Think about it: You can find a formula in just about any texture or finish, from matte powder shadows to glitter-packed cream shadows. They all have their merits, but we’re here to shine a light on one type in particular: liquid eyeshadows. With their fluid formulas, built-in applicators, and intense color payoff, liquid eyeshadows are practically foolproof—assuming, of course, you know how to use them. So here, we’ll teach you how to apply liquid eyeshadow like a seasoned expert. Plus, we’ll let you in on some of our favorite tips for creating a standout look that lasts. Find it all—and discover our best liquid eyeshadow formula—ahead.
What Tools Do You Need to Apply Liquid Eyeshadow?
When applying powder eyeshadow, you’ll typically want to use a brush (or several) to achieve an even, blended application. Liquid eyeshadow, however, is a bit different. More often than not, your liquid eyeshadow will come with an applicator. This applicator can be used instead of a brush to apply the shadow to your lid. You can also use your fingers to tap the color on for a softer, sheerer effect (bonus: the heat from your fingers can help make blending easier).
If you’re after a more high-impact look, consider applying your liquid eyeshadow with a stiff , synthetic-bristle brush, like our Pro Flat Detail Brush. The small, flat brush is ideal for packing on color to create bold, bright eye makeup looks.
How to Apply Liquid Eyeshadow: The Basics
Whether or not you choose to use a brush, applying liquid eyeshadow is fairly simple. There’s no powdery fallout, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning up your under-eye area after you finish, and oftentimes, the color can be applied in just a single swipe. Keep reading for a full breakdown of the best way to apply liquid eyeshadow.
Step 1: Choose Your Shade
Before applying your shadow, you’ll want to determine what sort of look you’re after. A natural look calls for subtle colors—think nudes, taupes, or soft pinks. If you prefer your makeup on the bolder side, opt for a bright hue (we’re especially fond of blues, but you can—and should!—pick whatever shade speaks to you).
Luckily, we have all these colors and more in our Ultimate Glow Shots collection. Available in 21 glowy shades, these liquid eyeshadows deliver bold color in a single swipe and dry down with a shimmery finish. Plus, they wear for up to 12 hours without flaking, fallout, or transfer.
If you want even bolder color, try our Ultimate Glow Shots Vivid Rich lineup. These liquid shadows boast the same benefits as the original Glow Shots, but the eight shades are more intensely pigmented —making them ideal for creating eye-catching and colorful eye makeup looks. They’re also perfect for darker skin tones; the color will truly pop.
Step 2: Swipe the Color Onto Your Lids
With your shadow in hand, remove the doe-foot applicator from the tube, and swipe it onto your eyelids where you want to add color. Lightly tap your ring finger along the borders of your shadow to diffuse any harsh edges before it dries. This will help ensure a softer-looking finish.
Or, if you’re looking for super-intense color payoff, use the aforementioned Pro Flat Detail Brush to apply your shadow, pressing the flat side of the brush onto your lid to build color. If needed, you can clean up the edges with a damp cotton swab while the shadow is still wet.
Step 3 (Optional): Highlight Your Inner Corners
For a touch more dimension, use a slightly lighter shade to highlight the inner corners of your eyes. A silvery shade like Come Thru Coconut will provide a more traditional highlight effect, but we also love experimenting with colored accents: a pop of purple or green at the inner corners of your eyes is fun, unexpected, and in our opinion, endlessly cool.
3 Must-Know Liquid Eyeshadow Application Tips
Prep Your Lids
Our Ultimate Glow Shots are smudge-proof, transfer-proof, and offer up to 12 hours of wear, so it’s a great option when you’re after a long-lasting eye makeup look. But if you really want to ensure your makeup doesn’t budge, prep your lids with an eyeshadow primer before applying your shadow. This will help grip the pigment in place, so you don’t have to worry about touch-ups when you’re on the go.
Layer Shadows for Added Intensity
Want a seriously bold eye makeup look? Try layering. Our Ultimate Glow Shots can be layered with other liquid, cream, or powder shadows to create your own custom color. Apply the silvery Come Thru Coconut over a matte black eyeshadow for a rock-n-roll-inspired smoky eye, top a teal shadow with the shimmery green Kiwi Killa for a bold, beachy effect, or pair Grapefruit with a coral shadow for a fun and flirty pastel look. The world, as they say, is your oyster.
Color Outside of The Lines
Normally, we wouldn’t suggest putting eyeshadow on your cheekbones—that’s what highlighter is for. But Ultimate Glow Shots aren’t your average eyeshadows. These multi-tasking formulas can be used on your cheekbones, cupid’s bow, and nose for added luminosity. Experiment by swapping out your usual highlighter for the Ultimate Glow Shots shade of your choice.
Next: Now that you know how to use liquid eyeshadow, learn the ins and outs of powder shadow in our article How to Apply Eyeshadow Like a True Pro.PRODUCTS USED
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Ultimate Glow Shots Liquid Eyeshadow
Liquid Shimmery Eyeshadow
