How to Apply Creme Eyeshadow

Last Updated: January 29, 2021

Applying crème shadow is more difficult than ordinary eyeshadow. Just like everything in makeup and life, practice makes perfect. Once you've mastered the technique, the result is a longer-lasting, satiny appearance.

Steps

1
Choose an eyeshadow. Crème eyeshadow can be difficult to apply. While you're getting the hang of it, stick to neutral or nude shades, so you can easily blend in mistakes. Avoid waterproof varieties until you've had some practice.
2
Check the eyeshadow for freshness. Look on the base of the container for the expiration date. Don't use the eyeshadow if it's dried out, or if it's separated from the sides of the container.

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3
Apply moisturizer and foundation (optional). Clean your face if necessary. If you normally apply moisturizer and/or foundation before eyeshadow, follow the same routine for Crème eyeshadow.
- Oil-based moisturizer sometimes interferes with the eyeshadow.
4
Add eyeshadow primer (optional). This will greatly reduce smudging.^{[1]
X
Expert Source

Devorah Kuperland
Makeup Artist & Stylist
Expert Interview. 16 April 2020.} Once you're an experienced Crème user, you can skip this step, since the Crème will stick on its own. Let dry before you continue.
- If you don't have eyelid primer, a layer of powdered eyeshadow will work instead. Use the same color as the Crème shadow, in an equal or lighter shade.
5
Choose the right tools. Clean fingertips spread Crème eyeshadow better than most tools. If you use an eyeshadow brush, make sure the bristles are synthetic. Natural fiber brushes soak up the product's moisture, which can prevent a smooth application and even ruin your brushes over time.
- A slightly dampened makeup sponge works okay, but it will absorb some of the makeup.
6
Rub the Crème eyeshadow on in a thin layer. Apply in a sweeping motion, as though you were spreading butter. Work quickly, or the eyeshadow will dry onto your finger or brush. Keep your eyes closed for a few seconds afterward, while the eyeshadow dries.
- Apply additional layers for a more noticeable color. Let each one dry before you apply the next.
7
Blend the edges with clean fingers. This will warm up the eyeshadow and help it blend seamlessly into the rest of your skin. Blend until there are no harsh edges or jagged lines.
8
Set with a layer of powder eyeshadow (optional). If you have oily lids or are wearing this makeup for a long time, you my want to cover the Crème with powder eyeshadow of the same shade. This will make it last much longer, but you might lose the satiny appearance and some subtleties of color.
9
Finished.

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Community Q&A
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Question

Are cream eyeshadows good?

Devorah Kuperland
Makeup Artist
Devorah Kuperland is a Makeup Artist and the Founder of Glam By Dev, a New York City-based business specializing in bridal, special events, and editorial campaigns. Devorah has over five years of professional makeup consulting experience and her work has been featured in New York's Bridal Fashion Week.

Devorah Kuperland

Makeup Artist

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Cream eyeshadows have a really nice consistency and are often waterproof as well. They are a great choice for humid environments.
Question

How do I make my eyeshadow not smudge?

Devorah Kuperland
Makeup Artist
Devorah Kuperland is a Makeup Artist and the Founder of Glam By Dev, a New York City-based business specializing in bridal, special events, and editorial campaigns. Devorah has over five years of professional makeup consulting experience and her work has been featured in New York's Bridal Fashion Week.

Devorah Kuperland

Makeup Artist

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Apply an eyeshadow primer to your eyelid before you apply the eyeshadow. This will keep your eyeshadow in place and help prevent smudging.
Question

Where can I get the cream?

Community Answer

You can get it at any makeup store like Ulta or Sephora, or online stores like Amazon.
Question

How do I apply the MAC Paint Pots and the Maybelline 24-Hour Color Tattoos?

Cecilia Flores

Top Answerer

Just apply them with your fingers or you can blend them out with a synthetic brush (if the product is cream).

Warnings

Only apply thin, smooth layers of color. Crème eyeshadow tends to bunch up when applied thickly. If this happens, mix a few drops of beauty oil (such as maracuja or argan oil) with clean fingertips or synthetic-hair eyeshadow brush.

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