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The Best Liquid Eye Shadow

Last updated on June 29, 2022

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Whether you’re new to the world of makeup or have been wearing it for years, liquid eye shadow is a great product to have in your makeup bag. It’s easy to apply because it is creamy and blends in well. Plus, you can wear liquid eye shadow on its own or wear it on top of powder eye shadow for a unique look. Liquid eye shadows are beginner-friendly because all you have to do is swipe them on and blend and then you’re good to go.

What should you look for in liquid eye shadow? Having a long-lasting formula is key. This way, you can rest assured your makeup looks good all day. Formulas that aren’t made for all-day wear tend to discolor or dry out, which doesn’t look great. Ideally, you don’t want to worry about doing touch-ups every few hours.

When it comes to the finish of liquid eye shadow, you have many options. If you like to wear just one type of product, then go with liquid eye shadows that have a matte finish, as they work really well on their own. If you’re a fan of layering liquid over powder, choose a shimmery or glittery finish.

When it comes to shades, there are plenty of colors available. Most liquid eye shadows come in individual packages, so you can grab a number of colors that work well with your skin tone and wardrobe choices. Remember that some colors look better with cool skin tones while others shine on warm skin tones.

Our Picks For The Top Liquid Eyeshadows

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Runner Up

COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Lightweight Glitter Liquid Eyeshadow

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COVERGIRL

Exhibitionist Lightweight Glitter Liquid Eyeshadow

This liquid eye shadow is easy to apply. It has a highly saturated color with a glittery finish. The product is great for layering with other eye shadow shades.

Overall Take

Easy ApplicationThis liquid eye shadow glides on smoothly.

 We Also Like

Stila Glitter & Glow Shimmer Finish Liquid Eyeshadow

Stila

Glitter & Glow Shimmer Finish Liquid Eyeshadow

This liquid eye shadow has a shiny and bright look. It is easy to apply using your finger to blend in the edges. The eye shadow is available in many different colors.

Overall Take

Shiny and BrightEasily apply this liquid eye shadow for a glittery finish.

 Strong Contender

L’Oreal Paris Crease-Resistant 16 Hour Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow

L'Oreal Paris

Crease-Resistant 16 Hour Shimmer Liquid Eyeshadow

This liquid eye shadow is long-lasting and won’t flake off. The product offers 16-hour wear and no primer is needed. The liquid eye shadow is available in 12 different shimmery shades.

Overall Take

Durable ChoiceThis liquid eye shadow won't flake off.

 Also Great

e.l.f. Quick-Drying Opaque Glitter Liquid Eyeshadow

e.l.f.

Quick-Drying Opaque Glitter Liquid Eyeshadow

This liquid eye shadow is opaque and offers full coverage. It can be applied using your fingers or a brush. The product is also cruelty-free and vegan.

Overall Take

Full CoverageAffordable and pretty, this liquid eye shadow offers an opaque look.

What to Look For

  • You can apply liquid eye shadow with either your finger or a brush, depending on what you prefer. Some people also use an eye shadow primer before applying the liquid eye shadow, which helps the formula to last a long time. Keep in mind that because the product is a liquid, you have to give it some time to dry before you start blinking or moving around — or layering on other products. While drying time varies between products, it typically takes somewhere between 15 to 30 seconds.
  • A common issue with liquid eye shadow is that it can crease along your eyelid line. To avoid this issue, apply an eye shadow primer first before applying the liquid eye shadow. If you apply a translucent eye shadow powder overtop of the liquid eye shadow, this can also help to reduce the look of creasing.
  • Most liquid eye shadows have a doe-foot applicator, which makes it easy to dab on the product in the right place with great accuracy. You can also find liquid eye shadows that come with squared applicators. These are better for creating precise, sharp lines and for cut-crease styles.
  • Liquid eye shadows are available in different opacities, so consider what you prefer. A thinner formula offers a sheer look on the lid, so you get a little bit of shine and color. An intense opacity is good if you want to have a bolder look. Many liquid eye shadows have buildable color, so you can layer them with other products to get the exact look you want.
  • Some liquid eye shadows are highly versatile, and can actually also be used as a lip gloss on your lips or as a bronzer on your face, neck and back.

More to Explore

Want to get the best look with your liquid eye shadow? Start by moisturizing your skin, especially around your eyes, and apply a sunblock to your face. Next, add a thick layer of eye primer, which helps to ensure your liquid eye shadow lasts all day, especially if it is a glittery type. Use your doe-foot applicator from the liquid eye shadow and dab the product onto your lid. Use your finger or a brush to blend in the color over your eyelid and make sure the color distribution is even. Wait about 30 seconds for the eye shadow to fully dry.

More to explore