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Abrushworks, sure, but ask any makeup artistyour fingertips are more than qualified to do the job.

Film strips with selfies of people smiling while holding small cosmetic containers of cream eye shadows

Source images:Allureeditor(s); Collage: Laneen Wells

The secret to its velvety glide?

A hydration-packed formula featuring raspberry stem cells andhyaluronic acid.

And for that light-catching, multidimensional glow?

Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow in branded component with best of beauty seal in the top right corner on a light gray background

Deanna Pai applying Laura Mercier’s Caviar Stick

you could thank ultra-fine pigments.

“If you’re an eye shadow beginner, this is the product for you.”

Pro tip: Tap, don’t rub to blendso you don’t dull that gorgeous pigment payoff.

Pai before applying Laura Mercier’s Caviar Stick

Pai before applying Laura Mercier’s Caviar Stick

Its not quite makeup-meets-skin-care, but its a welcome boost of TLC for your lids.

2for a more polished finish.

It’s my favorite hack for looking a step above put-togetherlike I actually triedbut takes under a minute.

deanna pai holding laura mercier’s caviar stick

Pai after applying Laura Mercier’s Caviar Stick

If you’re looking to incorporate an easy-to-use eye shadow into your routine, look no further.

A multi-dimensional dance of phosphorescence that color-shifts with every tilt of your face.

Basically, its givingEuphoriaseason three.

Merit Solo Shadow in branded component on a light gray background

Sarah Hoffmann applying Merit’s Solo Shadow

The lineup includes statement colors, soft mattes, and subtle shimmersso there’s something for every mood.

Oh, and did we mention it’s a 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner?

No matter how I smear or smudge, it looks good.

Sarah Hoffmann before applying Merit’s Solo Shadow

Sarah Hoffmann before applying Merit’s Solo Shadow

Twelve hours later, your pigment is still going strongno touch-ups required.

This 2024 Best of Beauty-winning formula is infused withjojobaandglycerin, imparting a dose of moisture without slipping or smudging.

And you’ve got options: Pick between five soft, shimmery neutrals or two mesmerizing metallics.

Sarah Hoffmann after applying Merit’s Solo Shadow

Sarah Hoffmann after applying Merit’s Solo Shadow

“I love the wash of color just one finger-dip of this shadow gives me,” shares Blackman.

It wears comfortably, has buildable color payoff, spreads easily (I just use my fingers!

And yes, it’s atad splurgey, but quality is everything, baby.

Danessa Myricks Beauty Infinite Chrome Flakes in branded component on a light gray background

Angela Trakoshis applying Danessa Myricks’s Infinite Chrome Flakes

Dab a bit of Champagne in your inner corners for an instant brightness boost.

Finish:luminous |Shades:9 |Waterproof?no

How are cream eye shadows different from powder and liquid?

Beyond the buttery-looking finish, its science that sets cream eye shadows apart from their liquid and powder counterparts.

About-Face Shadowstick in branded component on a light gray background

Annie Blackman applying About-Face’s Shadowstick

What are the benefits of using a cream eye shadow?

Cream eye shadows bring next-level blendability, making them a go-to for customizable looks.

No separate primer required.

Blackman before applying AboutFace’s Shadowstick

Blackman before applying About-Face’s Shadowstick

They’re also a secret weapon for mature skin.

“Swipe it on, add mascara, and you’re done.”

Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones?

Blackman after applying AboutFace’s Shadowstick

Blackman after applying About-Face’s Shadowstick

Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses?

Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge?

Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

Ilia Eye Stylus Shadow Stick in branded component on a light gray background

Kara McGrath applying Ilia’s Eye Stylus Shadow Stick

This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions.

For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase.

McGrath before applying Ilia’s Eye Stylus Shadow Stick

McGrath before applying Ilia’s Eye Stylus Shadow Stick

Eye-catching makeup is kind of ~our thing~.

McGrath after applying Ilia’s Eye Stylus Shadow Stick

McGrath after applying Ilia’s Eye Stylus Shadow Stick

Kulfi Zari Eyes in branded component on a light gray background

A selfie of Allure commerce editor Sarah Han wearing Kulfi Zari Eyes in Sitara Sparkles and holding an open eye shadow pot

Sarah Han applying Kulfi Zari Eyes in Sitara Sparkles

RMS Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow in branded component on a light gray background

Sisley-Paris Ombre Éclat Liquide Eyeshadow in branded component on a light gray background