Types of Eyeshadows (Pros & Cons) and Differences Between Power, Cream, Gel, Liquid, Pencil Eyeshadow

There are various types of eyeshadow, such as powder eyeshadow and liquid eyeshadow. In this article, we will explain the types of eyeshadows and introduce the advantages & disadvantages for each type. Please use it as a reference when choosing eyeshadow!

Introducing the Types of Eyeshadows and Differences Between Them

There are many different types of eyeshadow, and each item has its own differences. First of all, let’s introduce the types of eyeshadows.

Powder Eyeshadow

Powder eyeshadow is a powdery eyeshadow. It is a general eyeshadow and has a wide variety of types. There is a single-color type as well as a palette type that includes multiple colors. There are various types of textures, such as matte type and glitter type.

Advantages of powder eyeshadow:

• Versatile: Powder eyeshadows can be used dry or wet, providing a range of intensity options.
• Long-lasting: Powder eyeshadows have a good staying power and are less likely to crease or smudge compared to cream shadows.
• Wide range of colors: Powder eyeshadows are available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures.
• Affordable: Powder eyeshadows are often more affordable compared to other eyeshadow formulations.

Disadvantages of powder eyeshadow:

• Messy: Powder eyeshadows can be messy and generate excess product that can fall under the eyes.
• Dry skin: Powder eyeshadows can emphasize dry or flaky skin on the lids.
• Less pigmented: Some powder eyeshadows may not be as pigmented as other formulations.
• Hard to blend: Powder eyeshadows can be harder to blend compared to cream shadows, especially for those with drier skin.

Cream eyeshadow

Cream eyeshadow is a creamy eyeshadow. It has a moist and smooth texture and blends well into the eyelids. It is also characterized by a high fit and a place where it is difficult to dry. It can also be said that the fact that there are many types with good coloring is also an attractive point.

Advantages of cream eyeshadow:

• Easy to blend: Cream eyeshadows are easy to blend and can be used to create a seamless, natural look.
• Hydrating: Cream eyeshadows can be hydrating and can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Buildable: Cream eyeshadows are buildable and can be used to create a sheer wash of color or a bold, intense look.
• Good for dry skin: Cream eyeshadows are ideal for those with dry skin, as they provide hydration and reduce the appearance of dry patches.

Disadvantages of cream eyeshadow:

• Less lasting power: Cream eyeshadows tend to have a shorter staying power and may crease or smudge more easily compared to powder shadows.
• Limited color range: Cream eyeshadows are often available in a more limited color range compared to powder shadows.
• Harder to control: Cream eyeshadows can be more difficult to control, as they tend to be more slippery and can spread easily.
• Require special tools: Cream eyeshadows often require the use of special tools, such as brushes or sponges, to apply and blend.

Gel Eyeshadow

Gel eyeshadow is a plump gel-type eyeshadow. It is a type characterized by a fresh texture. It is attractive that it fits snugly to the eyelids and that it easily gives a wet glossy feeling. It is also recommended to use as an eyeshadow base.

Advantages of gel eyeshadow:

• Long-lasting: Gel eyeshadows have a good staying power and are less likely to crease or smudge compared to cream shadows.
• Pigmented: Gel eyeshadows tend to be highly pigmented, providing intense, opaque color.
• Versatile: Gel eyeshadows can be used to create a variety of looks, from a subtle wash of color to a bold, dramatic look.
• Easy to blend: Gel eyeshadows can be easy to blend, providing a seamless, natural look.

Disadvantages of gel eyeshadow:

• Messy: Gel eyeshadows can be messy and generate excess product that can fall under the eyes.
• Limited color range: Gel eyeshadows are often available in a more limited color range compared to powder shadows.
• Require special tools: Gel eyeshadows often require the use of special tools, such as brushes or sponges, to apply and blend.
• Drying: Some gel eyeshadows can be drying, which can be particularly problematic for those with dry skin.

Liquid Eyeshadow

Liquid eyeshadow is a smooth liquid type of eyeshadow. I am happy that it can be applied thinly to the eyelids, and it is difficult to become uneven or thick. Many of them have glitter and glitter beautifully, and they can brighten up your eyes.

Advantages of liquid eyeshadow:

• Pigmentation: Liquid eyeshadows often have high pigmentation, providing intense color payoff.
• Long-lasting: Liquid eyeshadows are known for their long-lasting wear, often lasting all day without fading or creasing.
• Versatility: Liquid eyeshadows can be used alone or as a base for powder eyeshadows to intensify the color.
• Shimmery finish: Liquid eyeshadows are available in shimmery finishes, providing a glossy and metallic look.
• Easy to blend: Liquid eyeshadows are easy to blend, allowing for smooth and seamless application.

Disadvantages of liquid eyeshadow:

• Smudging or creasing: The liquid formula may smudge or crease, especially if the eyelids are oily.
• Difficult to apply: Liquid eyeshadows can be harder to apply evenly compared to powder eyeshadows.
• Drying time: Liquid eyeshadows typically take longer to dry than other types of eye makeup.
• Transfer: The liquid formula may transfer onto other surfaces, such as clothing or hands.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the ingredients in liquid eyeshadows and experience irritation or redness.

Pencil Eyeshadow

Pencil eyeshadow is a pencil-shaped eyeshadow that can be drawn thinly. It can be used as an eyeshadow as well as like a colored eyeliner, which is convenient. There is also a pencil eyeshadow that can be softly blurred, so you can enjoy various makeup with such types.

Advantages of using pencil eyeshadow:

• Ease of application: Pencils are easy to apply and allow for precise control, making it simple to create a variety of looks.
• Versatility: Pencils can be used as both eyeliner and eyeshadow, making them a great multi-use product.
• Convenient: Pencils are small and compact, making them easy to carry in a makeup bag for touch-ups on-the-go.
• Blendable: Pencils can be smudged and blended for a more natural, smoky look.
• Long-lasting: Some pencils are formulated to be long-lasting and waterproof, making them a good choice for a busy day or a night out.

Disadvantages of pencil eyeshadow:

• Lack of pigment: Some pencils may not have as intense pigmentation as other eyeshadow formulas, making them less suitable for bold or dramatic looks.
• Short lifespan: Pencils have a relatively short lifespan compared to other eyeshadow formulas and may need to be sharpened frequently, resulting in product waste.
• Smudging: Pencils can smudge or transfer easily, especially on oily or combination skin.
• Drying: Some pencils can be drying on the delicate skin around the eyes, making them less suitable for people with dry or sensitive skin.
• Difficult to layer: Layering multiple colors or intensities can be difficult with a pencil, making them less versatile than other eyeshadow formulas.

How many eyeshadow palettes are in your collection? While eyeshadows are a staple in any makeup routine, they have a few downsides. For example, eyeshadows can be patchy, unsaturated, hard to blend, or have no staying power.

Cream eyeshadows can level up your makeup game thanks to their flexible and versatile formula. In addition, cream shadows are
often overlooked because they may not seem as exciting as a 35-pan eyeshadow palette.

Why Should You Try Cream Eyeshadow?
Cream eyeshadow can help you complete an eye look within seconds. These products are rich and velvety, so you can wear them on its own or pair them with other eye products. In addition, they’re ideal for no-makeup-makeup or minimal effort looks.

Benefits of Cream Eyeshadow
Cream shadows provide multiple benefits, the first being they aren’t as chalky or stiff as regular eyeshadow. They provide an extra burst of pigmentation and can define your eyes with just one swipe.

So what else can cream eyeshadows do?

Blendable
Cream eyeshadows are blendable. Most cream shadow formulations are designed to be diffused with ease. Also, you won’t notice any patchiness or lack of color payoff when blending cream eyeshadow like you would with powder eyeshadow.

Pigmented
You’ll notice that cream eyeshadows are packed with pigmentation. As a result, you can achieve a bold eye look with just one swipe of the applicator. Cream eyeshadows are lovely to reach for and create bold, colorful, neon, or glittery eye looks.

Because cream shadows are versatile, you can easily sheer them out for a subtle finish.

Available in Multiple Finishes
Cream eyeshadows are available in varying finishes, just like powder eyeshadows. You can shop from matte, satin, shimmer, glitter, and metallic cream eyeshadows. Each finish suits a different occasion, or they can match your mood.

Budge-Proof
Cream eyeshadows are budge-proof. Most brands ensure cream shadows have a water-proof formula to last throughout the day. This allows you to wear cream eyeshadow by itself if you please.

Also, most cream shadows will dry down to a powder finish to avoid any color from slipping or smudging around the eyes.

Double as an Eye Primer
Cream eyeshadows make a goof-proof base for eyeshadow. They can intensify any of your favorite powder eyeshadows and even act as a primer because they provide longevity.

Natural
Finally, cream eyeshadow can provide a natural approach to eye makeup. Some cream shadows will have a sheer formula or a more neutral color scheme. Also, liquid products are bound to look less intense than layering on powders.

How to Use Cream Shadow
Thankfully, cream eyeshadow is easy to use and beginner-friendly. One of the best ways to apply cream shadow is to follow your cosmetic brand’s direction. Or, you can apply it however you please and tap into your creative side.

Here are some tips on how to start using cream eyeshadow.

With your Fingers
Cream eyeshadow can effortlessly be applied with your fingers. The fingers can quickly warm up the cream shadow so it becomes more blendable. This technique will also help achieve a natural and sheer finish.

Blend with a Brush
You can never go wrong with applying the cream shadow with a brush. A brush allows you to pack on the product and strategically blend cream eyeshadow. This technique will enable you to define your eyes exactly where you want.

Layer Them Together
Lastly, you can layer multiple cream eyeshadows together just as you would powder eyeshadow to create depth and dimension.