Cream makeup products may not be for everyone. But for those of us who want bendable, buildable color without the fuss and fallout of powder, they are a gift from the gods.
Cream eyeshadows come in pigmented colors that really cling to the eyelids. But not all cream eyeshadows are created equal. Some can be greasy or blotchy or cause creasing, which is the last thing you want when trying to achieve a stunning eye look.
Luckily, there are cream shadows at all price points that will last all day and into the night. Here are some of our favorites.
ColourPop Crème Shadows ($8, shop here)
ColourPop is known for its affordable, high-quality makeup. Its product line ranges from neutrals to bright colors and everything in between.
ColourPop’s cream eyeshadows work well on their own or can be used when playing with other products and textures. The soft colors in both matte and shimmer let you neutralize your eyelids to create a one-shadow look. Additionally, you can use these cream shadows to prep your lids for a vibrant, long-lasting powder look.
Mally Evercolor Shadow Stick Extra ($25, shop here)
Mally was once a big hitter in the beauty world but has fallen out of the spotlight in recent years. Even so, its shadow stick has remained a nonstop bestseller.
These twist-up pencils come in a variety of tones and are incredibly easy to use. Just swipe on the product, blend with your fingers, and you’re good to go. Apply them lightly for a simple wash of color, or build them up to make a bold statement. They can be worn alone or mixed for some highlighting effects.
Glossier Lidstar and Skywash ($18 each, shop here and here)
Glossier is best known for its “no-makeup makeup” vibe, embracing a natural look with all of its products. But that doesn’t mean its products are boring. Glossier has two cream eyeshadow options that are both incredibly long-wearing:
Lidstar is a shimmery crease-proof eye glow that comes in several colors. Although they are filled with shimmer, they are smooth to the touch.
Skywash is Glossier’s matte alternative to Lidstar. Although it’s available in neutral tones, the baby blue and bright green are two of the most popular colors. They are easy to apply and blend but dry to a powder finish – without feeling or looking powdery. They can be diffused for a softer look or built up and sharpened for a more modern appearance.
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick ($29, shop here)
If you’re in search of a luxury makeup brand, look no further than Laura Mercier. The luxury of its Caviar Stick eyeshadow goes far beyond the name and packaging. The product is so popular that many of the shades are often sold out.
You can line, add definition, and smudge your way to the smokiest of eyes. The colors are not only long-lasting but also crease-resistant and transfer-proof. They come in matte, shimmer, and metallic finishes for whatever look you desire. Which one will you choose?