How to Apply Eyeshadow: Eyeshadow for Beginners - Maybelline (2025)

There are three main types of eyeshadow formulas: powder, cream, and stick. Each formula has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.

How to Apply
Powder Eyeshadow

Powder eyeshadowis still the most popular format of eyeshadow. It’s silky, stays put, and comes in—no joke—every color, shade, finish, and depth you could imagine. It’s the professional makeup artist’s favorite for its versatility and range. There’s no better place to start with powder eyeshadow than with our best matte eyeshadow palette. These pocket-size palettes stack big color. Each palette comes in 2 matte shades and one shimmer shade and are inspired by the city streets in some of NYC’s most vibrant neighborhoods!

When working with powder eyeshadow, you can apply with your fingertips or choose your favorite makeup brush. If using a brush, be sure not to load it up when applying—whisk the brush across the shadow 2-3 times, then tap off any excess powder in a clean tissue before brushing onto lids from the inner to the outer corner of the eyes. Voila! Eyeshadow applied.

How to Apply
Cream Eyeshadow

Cream eyeshadowsare a newer and more finger-friendly form of eye color. They slick on easily and require buffing into lids with a clean finger. You can layer them to build intensity or stick with one light wash for a natural kiss of color. Cream eyeshadow is a great option for people with dry skin. It's more emollient than powder eyeshadow, so it won't dry out your skin.

To apply cream eyeshadow, use your finger or a brush to apply it to your eyelid. Blend it well and then add powder eyeshadow to set it in place. Another option to explore is creamy powderformats. Swipe the cream/powder fusion across your lid with a makeup brush to deposit a rich layer of smooth, even color across your eyes.

How to Apply
Stick Eyeshadow

Stick eyeshadowis a convenient option for people who are on the go. It's easy to apply and it doesn't require any brushes. Stick eyeshadow like Color Tattoo® Eye Stix can be used as a primer for your powder eyeshadow, as your primary eyeshadow, or even as eyeliner.

To apply stick eyeshadow, simply swipe it across your eyelid and blend it with your finger. For ideas for more elaborate stick eyeshadow looks, check out our guide to how to use eyeshadow sticks.

Step 1: Prime Your Eyelids

Before you apply eyeshadow, it's important to prime your eyelids. This will help your eyeshadow to adhere better and last longer. You can use Color Tattoo® Eye Stixin a neutral shade as eyeshadow primer or simply apply a thin layer of concealer to your eyelids.

Step 2: Apply a Matte, Transition Shade in Your Crease

The next step to applying eyeshadow is to apply a matte, transition shade to your crease. This will help to define your crease and create a smooth, blended look. Use a fluffy brush to apply the transition shade to your crease only.

Step 3: Apply Base Eyeshadow to Your Lid

Next, apply a base eyeshadow to your lid. This can be any color you like, but it's usually best to choose a neutral shade that will complement your skin tone. Use a flat brush to apply the base eyeshadow to your lid, blending it well.

Step 4: Add Additional Eyeshadow for Your Desired Look

Now it's time to add additional eyeshadow to your lid to create the look you’re going for, whether that’s a two-tone eye look, a smokey eye, a shimmer look, or a cut crease. You can use one color or multiple colors, depending on the look you're going for. Use a small brush to apply the eyeshadow to your lid.

(Optional) Step 5: Highlight Your Brow Bone & Inner Eye

To add a touch of brightness to your eyes, you can highlight your brow bone and inner eye. Use a small brush to apply a light, shimmery shade to these areas.

Step 6: Add Eyeliner & Mascara

Finish your eye look by adding eyelinerand mascara. Eyeliner will help to define your eyes, and mascara will help to thicken and lengthen your lashes.

Step 1: Prime Eyes With Concealer

Dab two dots of concealer on each lid and blend in with a makeup sponge to create the perfect eyeshadow canvas. This allows color to really pop and stay all day. You want it to feel a bit tacky!

Step 2: Apply Neutral Shadow On Crease

Next, apply a warm, neutral-toned eyeshadow shade to your crease. This will help to define your crease and create a smooth, blended look. You can use a fluffy eyeshadow brush to apply powder eyeshadow or use an eyeshadow stick like Color Tattoo® Eye Stix.

Step 3: Apply Deeper Shadow On Outer Corners

Now, apply a deeper shade of eyeshadow just to the outer corners of your eyes and on the lower lash line for a “wrapped” effect. This will help to add depth and dimension to your look. Blend in well.

Step 4: Apply Bright Shade To Center Of Lids

Next, add shine and make the eyes pop using a bright, shimmery eyeshadow shade right in the center of your eyelids. This will help to brighten up your eyes and make them look more awake.

Step 5: Finish Eyes With Liner & Mascara

Finish your eye look by adding eyeliner and mascara. Apply a gel pencil eyeliner in black right along the lower lash waterline and smudge slightly. Do the same with the top lash line. Finish with 2-3 coats of mascara, teasing the mascara right at the base for a full, fluffy effect. Eyeliner will help to define your eyes, and mascara will help to thicken and lengthen your lashes.

Shop Eyeshadow

Now that you know how to apply eyeshadow like a pro, it's time to shop for some new eyeshadows! Maybelline has a wide variety of eyeshadows to choose from, so you're sure to find the perfect shades for you.

See More Eyeshadow Tutorials

For more eyeshadow tutorials, check out our collection of how-to blogs. We have a variety of tutorials for different eyeshadow looks, so you're sure to find something you love.