Eyeshadow sticks are the unsung heroes of the makeup world. These creamy, blendable crayons are true multitaskers that go way beyond just sweeping pretty color on your lids. With the right techniques, a single eyeshadow stick can replace multiple products in your makeup bag. Here's how to get the most out of these underrated gems.

Tightline Like a Pro

Tight-lining, which involves applying eyeliner between your lashes to make them look fuller, can be tricky with traditional liquid or pencil liners. Enter the eyeshadow stick.

The precise tip and creamy formula make it a breeze to wiggle the color into your lash line for an "invisible eyeliner" effect that defines your eyes1. Use a dark shade like brown or navy for a softer look, or go bold with a pop of jewel-toned teal or purple.

Sculpt and Define

Contouring and highlighting can transform your face, but it doesn't have to involve a complicated system of powders and creams. Eyeshadow sticks are perfect for adding strategic depth and dimension. Choose a taupe or cool brown shade and draw it under the cheekbones, along the temples, and down the sides of the nose. Blend it out with fingertips for a natural-looking sculpt.

Then grab a champagne or pearl eyeshadow stick and dab it on the tops of the cheekbones, down the bridge of the nose, and in the inner corners of the eyes for a lit-from-within glow. The blendable texture melds into the skin for a seamless finish.

Amp Up Your Arches

Great brows are the secret to a polished look, even on minimal makeup days. Eyeshadow sticks make fantastic brow fillers when you're in a rush.

Look for a matte shade that matches your brow hairs and use short, hair-like strokes to fill in any sparse areas. The waxy texture of the eyeshadow stick will also help tame and set brow hairs in place. Brush through with a spoolie for a soft, natural effect.

Color Correct Discoloration

Many eyeshadow stick ranges include correcting shades like peach, pink, and yellow. These pastel hues are clutch for cancelling out dark circles, redness, and dullness. Dab and blend a peach-toned stick on the inner corners of the eyes and on the center of the eyelids to brighten them instantly.

 

A yellow stick works wonders to neutralize purple or blue discoloration under the eyes before applying concealer on top.

Get a Glossy Lip

For a modern take on lipstick, try swiping an eyeshadow stick on the pout. Rosy pink and mauve shades give a your-lips-but-better tint that's easy to touch up on the go. The creamy texture is more forgiving and moisturizing than many traditional lipsticks.

Just be sure to choose a shade that is labeled safe for use on lips.

Application Techniques

One of the biggest advantages of eyeshadow sticks is their ease of use. Unlike powder shadows that require brushes, these creamy formulas glide on effortlessly and can be blended out with your fingertips.

For a simple, all-over wash of color, swipe the stick directly onto your eyelids and gently pat the edges with your ring finger to diffuse any harsh lines.

You can also apply the color with a flat synthetic brush for more precise placement, especially if you're using the stick as eyeliner2.

To add depth and dimension, try layering two shades. Apply a lighter color all over the lid, then use a darker shade on the outer corner and crease, blending the two together for a seamless gradient.

The pointed tips of eyeshadow sticks make it easy to nestle color right against the lash line or precisely highlight the inner corners.

Versatility

Part of the magic of eyeshadow sticks is their versatility. In addition to the myriad ways you can use them on the eyes, they also pull double duty for highlighting, contouring, color correcting, and even as a lip color.

When shopping for eyeshadow sticks, look for a range of finishes to maximize their multipurpose potential.

Shimmery champagne and bronze shades are perfect for an ethereal glow on the cheekbones, cupid's bow, and inner corners of the eyes. Matte taupe and contour hues can sculpt and define the hollows of the cheeks, jawline, and sides of the nose. Pastel peach and pink work well as correctors for dark circles and dullness. And rosy mauve and berry tones give lips a natural flush of color.

With their finger-friendly formulas and sleek packaging, eyeshadow sticks are a lazy girl's dream come true. Toss one in your purse, gym bag, or travel kit for quick touch-ups and fresh looks on the fly. Once you discover their multipurpose potential, you may find yourself reaching for eyeshadow sticks as often as your go-to concealer and mascara.

Ready to streamline your makeup routine? Check out the selection of eyeshadow sticksfrom Type Beauty. With shades to flatter every skin tone and eye color, these versatile sticks will change the way you get ready.

FAQs

What are the benefits of using eyeshadow sticks?

Eyeshadow sticks combine the precision of a pencil with the blendability of a cream. They're easy to apply, long-wearing, and can multitask for a variety of looks.

Can eyeshadow sticks be used on oily eyelids?

Yes, many eyeshadow stick formulas are waterproof and designed to have superior staying power, even on oily lids. Using an eyeshadow primer underneath can also help with longevity.

How do you sharpen an eyeshadow stick?

Most eyeshadow sticks can be sharpened with a large makeup sharpener, but some are actually twist-up and don't require sharpening at all. Check the packaging to determine what type you have.

Are eyeshadow sticks good for mature skin?

Absolutely. The creamy texture of eyeshadow sticks is very forgiving and won't settle into fine lines or wrinkles the way some powder formulas can.

Look for hydrating ingredients like vitamin E and candelilla wax.