Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best eyeshadow sticks work as a magic tool to glam up your look in seconds. It’s one of those eye makeup tools that requires minimal effort to apply and gives you maximum visible results. Eyeshadow sticks combine the goodness of eyeliner with the beauty of eyeshadow and are available in rich pigmented colors.
Rosalia Beautie, a makeup artist and beauty specialist, says, “The right eyeshadow sticks are pretty versatile. You can wear them alone, mix them, or use them as a colorful layer to make powder eyeshadows pop.” They are also available in different colors to blend with your skin perfectly and prevent smudging. While it’s a great addition to your makeup collection, choosing the right one might be challenging. Here’s a list of tried-and-tested eyeshadow sticks with great reviews to help you make the right pick.
Top Picks
15 Best Eyeshadow Sticks
1. Best Long-Lasting: Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick
The innovative crème-to-powder formula of the Julep eyeshadow stick delivers a matte finish as it dries. This crease-proof eyeshadow is crafted with nourishing vitamins E and C to protect the delicate skin from free radical damage while brightening the lids and improving skin tone.
The addition of candelilla wax promotes the blending power of this stick so that it glides on smoothly. It comes with a built-in spongy smudger that offers a quick and efficient blending for long-lasting pigment-packed color. Watch this review video to learn more about the product
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Free of parabens
- Waterproof formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- Hydrates the skin
Cons
- Shade may not be true to color
- Might feel sticky
"The eyeshadow crayon color is lighter than I expected, so had to layer it for the right shade. It's smooth, doesn't get into creases, and lasts well. The blender is handy, but a light touch is needed. The formula is creamy, doesn't look dry or cakey around the eyes, and stays put. A lovely product indeed."
Point to consider
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 27,702 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
2. Best Magnetic Pull: e.l.f. No Budge Shadow Stick
The twist-up eye shadow stick by e.l.f is a smudge-free formula that is easy to use. Its tube has a roll-up feature that eliminates the need to carry heavy applicator brushes and prevents the extra product from getting contaminated. It also includes a built-in sharpener that helps get those precise lines by keeping the eyeshadow tip sharp at all times. Moreover, the hydrating and creamy formula of the celebrity-endorsed eyeshadow leaves a shimmery metallic color on the lids that is resistant to flaking and creasing.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Magnetic pull for convenient opening
- Free of phthalates and parabens
- Available in 12 shades
Cons
- May not suit oily skin
- Colors may be a bit sheer
"I like this eyeshadow crayon for its easy application and great staying power. It's ideal as an inner eye brightener, adding just enough shimmer. The color is smooth, though a bit light when used alone. Layering it with darker shades works well. It is great for subtle daytime looks, and holds up well in humidity."
3. Best Overall:Luxaza Neutral Eyeshadow Stick
The ultra-creamy formula of the Luxaza eyeshadow stick ensures smooth application without any issues of clumping and smudging. The stick combines a twist-up eyeshadow tube and a convenient blending brush for easy shading, sculpting, and defining. The shades in the six-stick set can be used alone or as a base to create multiple looks, from smoky to luminous, sultry, and metallic. This portable and professional-grade eye makeup tool is great for quick touch-ups on the go and considerably reduces make-up time. Before buying, have a look at this video for more details
Pros
- Long-lasting wear
- Beginner-friendly shades
- Quick-spreading texture
- Waterproof
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Shades may not be true to the color
- Glitter shades may fall over cheeks
"These eyeshadow sticks are quite satisfactory. They're gentle and long-lasting and effortlessly survive rigorous workdays. The blending process is smooth. While color payoff could be better, and some shades get into the creases, the easy application and versatility make these a good choice. They're even easy to remove!"
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 12,783 reviews on Amazon indicate that this product has a loyal following.
Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick Best Long-Lasting | e.l.f. No Budge Shadow Stick Best Magnetic Pull | Luxaza Neutral Eyeshadow Stick Best Overall | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | 07 Putty Matte | Magnetic Pull | B01-Brown Neutral |
| Dimensions | 6 x 1 x 0.75 inches | 1.18 x 5.98 x 5.98 inches | - |
| Weight | 0.48 Ounces. | 0.06 Ounces. | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 27,702 | 532 | 12,783 |
| Price | $13.6 | $5 | $15.99 |
4. Best Transfer-Proof:Mally Beauty Evercolor Shadow Stick
The versatile eyeshadow stick by Mally Beauty can be used as a primer, eyeshadow, and liner. It has a velvety formula which is buildable for heavy coverage and can be blended out for sheer coverage. In addition, the result-driven quick-drying formula sets in 45 seconds while giving you enough time to smudge and blend it to create seamless, colorful eyeshadow looks. The eyeshadow is also available in two different matte and shimmery formulas to suit diverse needs.
Pros
- Convenient twist-up packaging
- Crease-, transfer-, and smudge-proof
- Long-lasting formula
- Available in multiple shades
Cons
- May have leave a sticky texture on the eyelid
- May not be as pigmented
"While I love this beautiful shade and the pigment it delivers, I find it challenging to blend. However, this eyeshadow stick is great with its simplicity and staying power - it stays put even after swimming. It's not heavy or irritating. It beautifully highlights the eyes, day or night!"
5. Best Easy-Glide: Focallure Shimmer Cream Eyeshadow Stick Kit
This kit contains two shimmering metallic shades with a smooth and soft formulation that can glide onto your eyelids with much ease. The ingenious thick rounded tip design ensures an easy and generous application of the highly pigmented colors in a single smear-free stroke. In addition, the waterproof formulation of the creamy drugstore eyeshadow stick makes it non-creasing and smudge-proof.
Pros
- Offers a decent metallic finish
- Travel-friendly packaging and applicator
- Ideal for creating the smokey-eye look
- Creamy formulation
- Consistent shimmer throughout the eyelids
- Available in numerous shades
Cons
- May need re-application after few hours
- May not be as intense
"These eyeshadows are soothing, easy to blend with a brush or finger, and the colors are simply pretty. While they may crease over time, it is easy to smooth it out with a blending brush, and you're good to go! Overall, it's worth trying out."
Beauty tip6. Best Versatile: Wet N Wild ColorIcon Multi-Stick
Wet N Wild’s ColorIcon is a cream-based eyeshadow stick that helps create a multi-dimensional makeup look. Its silky, lightweight formula easily glides onto the skin, while its blendable consistency helps achieve a crease-proof finish that lasts all day. Packed with vitamin E and jojoba oil, the pigmented eyeshadow provides impressive color payoff and nourishment to the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Multi-tasking design–can be used as a cheek or lip tint
- Contains argan oil
- Cruelty-free
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- May not be fade-resistant
- May dispense too much product at times
"Applying this eyeliner required no fuss, and blending it into my eye's natural crease was seamless. Though it leans towards the shimmery side and may prove stubborn to remove, I was delighted to discover the subtle smoky effect, and its durability is also a plus. I look forward to trying out other shades."
7. Best Nourishing: Xtreme Lashes GlideShadow Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick
The expert-recommended Xtreme Lashes eyeshadow stick is crafted with ceramide and vitamins C and E that nourishes and heals the skin. This long-lasting color can be used as an eyeliner, eyeshadow, and base to highlight and define the eyes. It has a buildable cream-to-powder formula with a rich pigment that is easy to blend with a brush or fingers. The built-in sharpener delivers a pointed tip for precise application. This hypoallergenic stick does not cause any build-up and lashes to fall out.
Pros
- Cruelty-free product
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- Ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested
- Gluten- and latex-free
- No powdery fallout
Cons
- Might crease on oily skin
- May be thicker than expected
"I found the color quite pleasing. While it didn't stay long on my upper lid, it looked pretty below my lower lash line. However, it offers sufficient longevity for an evening out. Its creamy texture is quite flattering. The roll-up style is an added convenience."
8. Best Built-In Blending Brush: Tre’stique Shimmer Shadow Crayon
The efficient eyeshadow crayon from Tre’stique features a built-in blending brush and a spoolie brush for precision styling. This cream-gel eyeshadow stick is easy to blend and offers an intensely pigmented color with a shimmery finish. It glides on smoothly and has a silky crease-proof finish that does not require a setting primer.
The professional-grade and cruelty-free eye makeup tool is crafted from skin-safe ingredients and is free of parabens, phthalates, and mineral oils. It has a versatile application and is helpful as an eyeliner.
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free formula
- Gluten- and BHA-free
- Long-lasting
Cons
- May smudge on oily skin
- Might break easily
"I'm impressed by this refillable eyeshadow's triple purpose as an eyeliner, shadow, and brow filler. The color is vibrant, and the formula lasts all day. While the smudging can be messy when paired with their eyeliner, it suits mature skin. Its concealed, pencil-shaped container design is excellent, offering easy maneuverability."
9. Best Multipurpose: Belle Beauty Shero Shadow Sticks
The multipurpose shero eyeshadow stick from Belle Beauty can be used as a highlighter, eyeliner, and eyeshadow. It has a buildable formula that delivers a subtle natural finish and gives a bold, vibrant look.
The rich pigment is easy to blend with an applicator brush or even with the fingertip. This long-wearing eyeshadow glides on easily and is smudge-resistant. It is available in various colors that you may choose to highlight your eyes.
Pros
- Crease-free formula
- Paraben-free
- Not tested on animals
- Non-sticky formula
- Quick to blend
Cons
- Some may find it too glittery
- Might break easily
"I love these creamy eyeshadow sticks and their all-day staying power. The adjustable intensity lets me try both natural finish and glittery glam. While the eye shadow is somewhat stickier, it doesn't smear and is easy to blend. I'd recommend it for its buildable formula."
10. Best Skin-Friendly:Mabox Eyeshadow Stick Set
Available in a set of six, the Mabox eyeshadow sticks have a creamy formula that applies easily and can be blended out with the built-in brush on the other end of the stick applicator. These eyeshadows are skin-friendly and made with safe ingredients that do not aggravate sensitive skin. Further, the twist-up design of the stick allows you to control the length of the product, and you can also use it as an eyeliner stick.
Pros
- Long-lasting coverage
- Convenient for touch-ups
- Highly pigmented and gorgeous shades
- Crease-proof and waterproof
Cons
- May be a bit greasy
- Colors in a set may be similar
"I found these eyeshadows pretty and easy to apply. While it was challenging to pick the right shade as many of them seemed similar, the shade range is great for a subtle summer look, and the stick works well as eyeliner, too. I recommend going up a shade for darker tones. These blend nicely and seem worth it overall."
11. Best Matte Finish: Alleyoop 11th Hour Cream Eyeshadow And Liner Stick
As the name suggests, the Alleyoop 11th Hour eyeshadow is formulated with waterproof ingredients that make it last up to 11 hours without smudging or creasing. Its subtle matte shade is ideal for adding a bit of metallic glamor to your everyday look. The results-driven smooth and buttery formulation allows you to get the perfect coverage with a simple swipe. In addition, the eyeshadow is easy-to-blend and buildable, making it ideal for sporting different eyeshadow styles.
Pros
- Contains organic ingredients
- Enriched with Jojoba oil
- Travel-friendly
- Features built-in sharpener
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
- May smear on oily skin
"This stick is lightweight and easy to apply and blend, offering the smoothest application among cream-to-powder eyeshadows I've tried. The longevity is notable, though I wished for a blender tip. I am happy it doesn't crease or smudge."
12. Best Brightening: Kissio Eyeshadow Stick
The Kissio incredible eyeshadow sticks are formulated from vitamin E, squalane, beeswax, and natural mica to protect the eyes from free radical damage and dryness while ensuring a soft, long-lasting color. The compact capsule-shaped design makes it easy to carry for on-the-go touch-ups.
The cream-to-powder formula has a rich and vibrant color that brightens and illuminates the eyelids. This kit contains 12 glittery and gorgeous shades, from neutral to dramatic, which are easy to apply and blend with the fingertips or a brush.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Does not fade or crease
- Buildable colors
- Does not break
- Wide range of eyeshadow shades
Cons
- Some may find it greasy
- May not be smudge-proof
"I've enjoyed using these eyeshadow sticks - they are surprisingly easy to apply and blend well. While they feel a bit waxy on oily skin, it is easy to fix with some setting powder. The form and portability are conveniences I appreciate. The smaller size is great for precision and the color is pretty long-lasting!"
13. Best Crease-Resistant: NewBang Metallic Eyeshadow Stick
The easy-to-apply NewBang eyeshadow stick has a thick crayon design to promote quick coverage in one sweep with no smudges and creases. The seven metallic shades easily blend to create varying looks, from smokey to luminous and sultry.
The eyeshadow stick features a soft creamy texture that glides on evenly without the need for a blending brush. This hypoallergenic eyeshadow can define, sculpt and shade the eyelids to achieve a youthful appearance in minutes.
Pros
- Waterproof and sweatproof formula
- Compact stick formula
- Layerable colors
- Lasts all day
- Provides a metallic finish
Cons
- Sticks may fall out from holders
- May not be well-pigmented
14. Best Auto-Twist Design: Karadium Shining Pearl Shadow Stick
The moisturizing ingredients in the Karadium eyeshadow stick do not irritate the delicate eye area while keeping the skin hydrated and soft. The smooth, creamy texture eases the application. It comes in various versatile, eye-catching shades that you can mix and match to achieve a subtle shimmery look. The bullet-shaped smudging tip provides a gradient look for depth and highlighting.
Pros
- Waterproof stick
- Auto-twist design
- Does not break or crumble
- Easy to blend
- Highly pigmented
Cons
- May not be smudge-proof
- Might not last all day
"While the shade is a bit lighter than expected, it is smooth and easy to blend. It lasts all day and imparts a delightful shimmer. This product helped simplify my makeup routine. Going to explore more colors from their range."
15. Best Innovative 3D Look: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick
The innovative Bobbi Brown eye shadow sticks offer a long-lasting, creamy finish. The creamy texture provides a one-stroke application that glides on easily with no pulling or tugging of delicate skin. This creamy eyeshadow stick provides a stay-true color that does not fade or smudge. You can also use the eyeshadow stick to highlight and define the eyes for a three-dimensional look. It is available in various eye-popping ranges: subtle, dramatic, and neutral shades.
Pros
- Crease-proof finish
- Waterproof
- Highly pigmented
- Easy to apply
Cons
- May not be buildable
"I love this product for its versatile use as a smudgy eyeliner and eyeshadow. The shade complements me splendidly; it conveniently blends without subjecting delicate eye tissue to too much pressure. Overall, a nice addition to my makeup pouch."
How To Choose The Right Eyeshadow Stick?
Before you go ahead and choose your eyeshadow stick, there are some points you need to keep in mind.
1. Creamy consistency: Smooth and creamy sticks are suitable for most skin types. The soft texture promotes easy application minus tugging and scratching. Also, these convenient sticks blend easily and are versatile enough to let you rock different looks.
2. Color: The colors you choose should accentuate your eyes and compliment your skin tone. It can be fun to experiment with different colors from a kit.
3. Waterproof and smudge-proof: Look for long-lasting formulas that are waterproof and smudge-resistant. Ideally, your color should last at least eight hours and should not fade over the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are eyeshadow sticks used for?
Apart from being used as an eyeshadow, they can double as a highlighter on the cheeks, under the eyebrows, above the upper lip, etc.
2. How should I keep the eyeshadow on without primer?
Instead of a primer, you can either use a light eyeshadow, white eyeliner, or concealer as the base for the eyeshadow.
3. How do stick eyeshadows benefit the makeup routine?
The eyeshadow’s creamy texture makes them easier to use than their powder-based counterparts. They are quick and precise to apply due to their pointed tip. They can be used as a highlighter, eye primer, eyeliner, and brow pencil.
4. How should I use eyeshadow sticks?
Use the convenient stick like a pencil to fill the area between the upper lash and the crease line on the eyelids and blend the edges with your fingers or a brush. To add more depth, apply a darker shade on the outer corners of the eyelids and blend it.
5. How are eyeshadow sticks different from powder eyeshadows?
The sticks are creamier, and hence, they are not as messy as the powder eyeshadows that shed. Moreover, these sticks have a pointed tip for precise application, while the powder ones come in a palate or box and must be applied with an eyeshadow brush. They also have multiple uses as a primer, liner, and highlighter.
6. Are eyeshadow sticks easy to use?
Yes, unlike powder eyeshadows, their creamy formula ensures a quick and accurate application without the hassle of shedding.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag holds expertise in skincare, beauty, and fashion. She articulates every article after deep research and analysis. Here she suggests some of the best eyeshadow sticks that are rich and pigmented and double up as eyeliners. Poulami has explained in detail each product she recommends in the article and also included a buying guide to help readers understand what features contribute to a perfect eyeshadow stick.
Eyeshadows help add magic to your eyes and enhance your eye color. They also give the eyes a dramatic look and help accentuate them. The right eyeshadow stick can help you attain your dream look effortlessly. Thus, choose one with a creamy texture and one that slides smoothly. Also, ensure to go for a smudge-proof and waterproof eyeshadow. You may choose an eyeshadow stick based on your skin tone, and opt for one that is lightweight and compact, so you can carry it wherever you go. Moreover, you can also rely on products that are dermatologically approved or have multiple positive reviews.
Infographic: How To Apply Eyeshadow With An Eyeshadow Stick?
An eyeshadow palette helps accentuate eyes, giving them an elegant, playful, or dramatic look. However, if you are a beginner at trying makeup and do not have eye brushes, an eyeshadow stick could be a good addition to your makeup kit. They are easy to use than powder eyeshadows and require simple steps to follow, as given in the infographic below.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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