Nothing can derail a makeup look quite like an irritation-triggering eyeshadow. Though our eyeballs (along with our teeth) don’t age with us, the same can’t be said for the skin surrounding the area. Due to the changing texture of our skin, eyeshadows that we could once apply day-in, day-out are now sinking into our creases, triggering irritation and just generally not doing us any favours.
And sure, while you mightn’t be wearing that same neon palette you couldn’t go a day without in your twenties, this change in your skin’s consistency doesn’t mean you need to farewell a smokey eye altogether.
So, what’s the solution? A simple switcheroo, that’s all. It’s time to sub out your powder palette in place of something a little silkier and smoother. Yes, that’s right, it’s time to invest in a cream eyeshadow.
Why are cream eyeshadows more suited to sensitive skin?
For one, they offer hydration. So, if your skin is prone to any dryness or flakiness, a creamier consistency is going to moisturise rather than accentuate rough skin or wrinkles.
Aside from this, powder eyeshadows have the pesky ability to flick down into our eyes, triggering an onslaught of watering and itching. Unless you’re applying a powder eyeshadow slowly and carefully, constantly tapping any excess product from your brush along the way, the chances of a powder triggering sensitivities are far higher than those of a cream shadow.
And of course, eliminating the need for a brush (which has the potential to carry a host of bacteria) is always a positive. A cream shadow can be seamlessly applied with nothing but your fingers. So, if brush cleaning isn’t on your regular to-do list, this might be a swap that’s in your best interest.
Cream eyeshadows we love…
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick
You say: “One of the standout features of this product is its exceptional longevity. Once applied, it stays put all day without any fall-offs, ensuring a clean and polished appearance. Even better, it resists creasing, allowing me to enjoy a flawless look without worrying about touch-ups. This long-lasting formula truly stands the test of time.” – Goling
Want to know more? Read Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick reviews here…
$53 at Adore Beauty
Trinny London Eye2Eye
We say: Whether you prefer a subtle wash or you’re out to make a statement, the Trinny London buildable shadows will cater to any desired finish.
$34 at Trinny London
Revlon ColorStay™ Crème Eye Shadow
You say: “Do not be scared of this because it is a cream, it is very user friendly! I would not have bought this myself because I always had issues with cream shadows in the past, I got it for free with another product and I am so glad I did! It is subtle but very buildable, it blends like a dream and it doesn’t crease (I have dry eyelids).” – JMenz
Want to know more? Read Revlon ColorStay™ Crème Eye Shadow reviews here…
$9.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Main image credit: @trinnylondon
Do you use a cream eyeshadow? If so, which is your favourite?
Yes I love cream eyeshadows especially Mac’s.
Oooh what gorgeous colours!
They are gorgeous colours. I sometimes wonder if cream eyeshadows last as well as powder?
Those eyeshadows look great, the colours are beautiful.
I reviewed the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick but I can’t see the review. It must have got lost when beautyheaven changed to its current version. I was going to buy the Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadows when they first came to the market, but I keep on forgetting to try them. They have some lovely shades.
i have sensitive eyes and I’ve never tried cream eye shadows
I use a cream eyeshadow and it goes on so easy and lasts all day long.
The Revlon ColorStay™ Crème Eye Shadow is pretty good value from Chemist Warehouse.
Yes I love MAC makeup’s cream eyeshadows and more recently the NYX cream shadows with the wand.
Oooh interesting
I’ve always used powder and wonder if cream would melt or smudge more easily in hot weather.
Stick one would be. as i do not paint lids, just line eyes
Cream tends to crease on me bit but I probably need a bit of primer first.
i would like to try these
Not really. For some reason my eye lids tend to be oily (even though my skin is very dry). So using cream shadows tends to run or crease. Powder is best for me
I do like cream eyeshadows but atm preferring powdered shadows
My skin & eyes aren’t sensitive, but I love cream eyeshadows. Maybelline Color Tattoo & Revlon ColorStay™ are my faves. The OCD nerd in me wishes they’d spell colour with a u for the Aussie market.
I don’t specially have cream eye shadow. I use my lipsticks as a eyeshadow and love it.
Makes sense. i used to wear powder eyeshadow but not anymore
I have been using the powdery eyeshadows a lot lately – I need to get my cream ones out again
I have gone off using eyeshadow altogether of late. Must start using it again as it does enhance ones eyes.
I want to start using cream shadows!
I would like to try a new creme eyeshadow, but it’s become really difficult to find a nice clear lavender blue mauve shade, one which goes with rose pink. That’s what naturally suits my colouring.
I love the Bobbi Brown.
Primer is a must for eyeshadow and even more so when it comes to cream eyeshadow:s
I would love to use cream eyeshadows more and I’m sure I will find many favourites.
I hardly ever wear eyeshadow these days but if I do it’s Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow.
I wonder though does cream eyeshadow gather more in the creases?
I haven’t used a cream eyeshadow in years but I probably should because I’m getting to that age where it is recommended. I do like the Revlon shade.
These seem worth trying. I’ve never tried a cream eyeshadow.
I don’t wear eyeshadow.
beautiful…
I haven’t tried cream eyeshadow, but i would imagine its better than powder
I will definitely do a switch to creme after reading this. Great article.
I love Trinny but connot justify the price for that tiny tub 🙁
Oh i havent tried any cream eyeshadows, but would love to try. They look stunning.