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The Best Long-Wearing Eyeshadows on the Market

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UFL chapter.

Nothing is more frustrating than coming home from a long day and glancing in the mirror just to find that your carefully placed eyeshadow is now creased or has faded away. Applying makeup can be therapeutic and enjoyable, but those effects definitely do not last if products don’t hold their own.

I know from first-hand experience how important long-lasting makeup is, I mean who doesn’t want his or her makeup to last throughout the day? I will be sharing with you some of my personal favorite long-lasting eyeshadows of varying finishes so you can find the shadows that work best for you. The days of reapplying or looking in the mirror with disappointment are over. It’s time to find eyeshadows that stay put! No matter how long-lasting brands claim their shadows are, it always helps to apply a base to give your eyeshadow something to stick to so they can stay on your eyelid for longer. Whether it’s a specific eye primer, a shadow base, a foundation or concealer, as long as you lay some sort of product to give your shadow something to cling to, you should be able to increase the longevity of your shadows as well as the color payoff.

Give me that matte finish

My personal favorite matte eyeshadows are made by Morphe. Specifically, its 35OM Nature Glow Matte Eyeshadow Palette.There are 35 shades to choose from, which makes this palette so versatile. I have used this palette for plenty of occasions, and I especially reach for it on holidays, birthdays and special events as I know from personal experience that these shadows last for hours. In this palette, there are neutral color options, but they can still contribute to a wide range of looks. From deep browns to rustic oranges, and highlight shades to crease defining shades, this palette can create so many appealing options. Another plus is that Morphe and all its products are cruelty-free!

If you’re feeling more daring and want to play with more colorful shades, I suggest trying out the Mad for Matte Eyeshadow Palette by e.l.f. Cosmetics. Despite this palette being from the drugstore, which some might argue that that decreases its quality, these shadows are in fact long-wearing (as long as you lay down a base or primer of some sort). For only $10, this colorful palette is a steal! To learn more about this palette’s shades, application and staying power, check out this YouTube review here.

It’s the metallic finish for me

The ColourPop Cosmetics Super Shock Shadows are another personal favorite of mine. The best attributes of these single shadows are their affordability, pigmentation and longevity. They have many unique shades, and I think they instantly add a pop of fun and shimmer to your look. This pop definitely doesn’t fade away, it stays put for hours and makes you shine in the meantime.

A great alternative to traditional eyeshadows are shadow sticks or liquid eyeshadows. You can wear these on their own or pack a powder eyeshadow on top for even longer wear and additional color pay off.

The Glossier Lidstar Glistening Eye Glow comes in six shades that complement and elevate virtually any look. This product creates a sheer and shimmering veil on the eyelid that is captivatingly beautiful. Its applicator allows for easy application, and its long-wearing formula leaves stunning and lasting results. After using this, you’ll be left with a light and effortless look that you can rock all day long.

There’s also the L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Shadow, which is another excellent long-lasting option. This shadow has a unique hybrid formula that creates a powder-cream texture. This formula is also waterproof, which should increase the longevity of the shadow. Priced at $8, these shadows are quite the deal, and they come in many different colors ranging from vibrant pinks and blues to more wearable browns and golds.

I also recommend watching tutorials on long-wearing eyeshadow techniques or general tips and tricks videos. Factors such as eye shape can affect the longevity of your shadows depending on where you place them. For example, I have hooded eyes, so my crease isn’t visible when I’m looking straight on. I’ve learned through watching videos that I have to place my shadows higher than my actual crease in order to prevent creasing, and, in turn, allow my eyeshadows to last longer.

Makeup is one of those things that requires trial and error to find the products that speak to you the most. With that being said, it doesn’t have to be a dull routine of filtering through products. You can make it fun! Make the most out of trying new formulas, colors outside of your comfort zone and different techniques! Hopefully, you can try out these products and find your perfect long-lasting eyeshadow. After the work of choosing colors, applying and blending, you deserve to have your look stay in place all day.

Journalism major at the University of Florida.