If an elaborate makeup routine is not your forte, an eyeshadow is the ideal way to put together a look instantly. But the debate between matte and glossy eyeshadow is like a rift between picking the favourite Christmas movie of all time, Love Actually or The Holiday. Plus, even with a palette that offers both textures, how do you pair one with your needs? Before we dive into that, here’s a quick primer on matte vs shimmer eyeshadows.
How are shimmer-based eyeshadows different from matte-based eyeshadows?
The look of an eyeshadow partially depends on its formulation, ingredients and application technique. While a matte-based eyeshadow can provide a natural and velvety finish, shimmer-based eyeshadow can provide a reflective and luminous finish. Shimmer eyeshadows also have a smoother and creamier texture due to the presence of shimmer particles, whereas the matte counterparts are easy to blend and have a more velvety and powdery texture.
It is also noteworthy that shimmer eyeshadows are often used to add a pop of brightness, highlight specific areas of the eye, or create a more glamorous and dramatic look; matte eyeshadows are versatile and can be used for both subtle, everyday looks and more intense, smoky eye effects.
Eyeshadows to pick based on your look
1. Goal:
If you are looking for an eyeshadow that is long-lasting and crease-resistant, then the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette - Multi-Color is the one for you. It is highly regarded in the beauty community and for good reason.
This palette features a stunning selection of 14 warm and neutral shades inspired by Renaissance art. The colour range includes both matte and shimmery shades, allowing for a variety of looks from everyday to glamorous.
* The pigmentation of these eyeshadows is fantastic, and they blend effortlessly on the eyelids.
* The formula is also long-lasting and crease-resistant, ensuring your eye makeup stays intact throughout the day.
* The packaging is sleek and sturdy, making it great for travel.
* Overall, this palette is definitely one of our favourites for its high-quality shadows and versatile colour range.
2. Goal:
If blend-ability and layering are your expectations from an eyeshadow the Paese Cosmetics Eyeshadow Palette - Dreamily is bound to meet them.
* The palette offers a mix of vibrant and muted shades that cater to different makeup preferences.
* The palette typically features a range of matte and shimmer finishes, allowing for diverse eye looks.
* The texture of the shadows is smooth and blendable, making them easy to work with.
* The longevity of the shadows varies, with some shades lasting longer than others.
* Not only is the packaging simple and functional, but this palette is a great budgeted purchase.
3. Goal:
If there is any eyeshadow palette that offers a delightful scent with a creamy texture, then it has to be the Too Faced Better Than Chocolate Cocoa-Infused Eye Shadow Palette - Multi-Color pick.
* This palette is known for its charming packaging and delightful scent.
* This palette features a range of 16 warm and neutral shades inspired by chocolate, offering a mix of matte, shimmer, and metallic finishes.
* The pigmentation of these shadows is generally excellent, and they blend smoothly on the eyelids.
* The formula is infused with sweet cocoa powder, which lends a subtle chocolate scent to the palette.
* The packaging is not only visually appealing but also sturdy and compact, making it travel-friendly and a pleasure to wear.
4. Goal:
If affordability and neutral shades are your priority, then the Maybelline New York The Blushed Nudes Eye Shadow Palette - Multi-Color will have your heart.
* This palette typically features a combination of matte, shimmer, and satin finishes in pink, mauve, and brown tones.
* The pigmentation of these shadows can vary, with some shades being more intense than others.
* This eyeshadow palette is an affordable option for those looking for various neutral shades.
* The texture is generally smooth with decent longevity, although using an eyeshadow primer can help improve their staying power.
* The packaging is also functional, with a clear lid allowing easy shade selection.