Best Eyeshadow of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 21, 2026

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Eyeshadow is a popular beauty product used to enhance the eyes and create a variety of looks. It comes in a range of colors and finishes, from matte to shimmer and metallic. Eyeshadows can be applied with brushes or fingertips and can be blended to create a seamless look. They are available in both powder and cream formulas, making them suitable for different skin types and preferences. Whether you're looking for a natural everyday look or a bold and dramatic statement, eyeshadow is a versatile product that can help you achieve your desired look.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes, 0.19 Ounce Cover #TOP 1
Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes, 0.19 Ounce
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Wet n Wild Color Icon Palette Cover #TOP 2
Wet n Wild Color Icon Palette
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Laura Mercier Mini Caviar Stick Trio Eyeshadow Set Cover #TOP 3
Laura Mercier Mini Caviar Stick Trio Eyeshadow Set
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Eyeshadow

Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes, 0.19 Ounce

PG-6589
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes, 0.19 Ounce Cover
Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes, 0.19 Ounce

Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes, 0.19 Ounce is a great collection of shades handpicked by makeup pros to make your eye look go from day to night. The shades in the palette blend effortlessly and look beautiful, without overshadowing. Customers have found this eyeshadow kit to be perfect for everyday wear, as the subtle eye makeup look is not over the top. However, some customers have found that the colors are more of a taupe range than browns, and the palette is much more cool than warm toned. The shadows are also more shimmery than they appear in the photo, and the darkest shade is the only matte shade.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Beautiful color selection
Good for fair skin
Blends and layers easily
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Subtle pigmentation
Lighter shades not vibrant

Wet n Wild Color Icon Palette

1114067
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Wet n Wild Color Icon Palette Cover
wet n wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Makeup 5 Pan Palette, Matte, Shimmer, Metallic, Long Wearing, Rich Buttery Pigment, Cruelty Free - Walking On Eggshells

This Color Icon 5-Pan Palette features an improved, richly pigmented and buttery-smooth vegan formula in matte, satin, shimmer, and metallic finishes. Each shade is buttery soft for seamless blendability and easy layering. Usable both wet and dry, it's easy to create a true rainbow of creative effects that leave you looking and feeling like you've earned a 5-star rating.

What We Like
Rich pigmentation and color variety
Long-lasting wear
Affordable price
Easy to blend
Compact and travel-friendly
What We Don't Like
Fragile packaging
Some shades less vibrant than before

Laura Mercier Mini Caviar Stick Trio Eyeshadow Set

Laura Mercier Mini Caviar Stick Trio Eyeshadow Set Cover
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Cream Eyeshadow, Crème de la Crème Mini Caviar Stick Trio, 24HR Wear, Long Lasting, Rich Color, Easily Blendable & Buildable, Waterproof, Hyaluronic Acid, Holiday Gift Set

The Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Trio offers three mini eyeshadow sticks in versatile shades: Strapless, Wild Rose, and the limited edition Rose Meringue. This selection lets you choose colors that complement all skin tones, making it easy to find your perfect look. You can apply these sticks directly along your lash line to create a smoky liner effect or cover your entire eyelid for a bold statement. Plus, the creamy formula blends effortlessly with a brush or your fingertips, giving you control over the intensity and finish. This trio is perfect for anyone wanting long-lasting, rich color with simple application.

What We Like
correct size
matching color
What We Don't Like
unexpected shimmer finish
color payoff is light
#TOP 4

REVLON ColorStay 16 Hour Eyeshadow Quad

309978535010
500 Addictive
REVLON ColorStay 16 Hour Eyeshadow Quad Cover
Revlon ColorStay Day to Night Eyeshadow Quad, Longwear Shadow Palette with Transitional Shades and Buttery Soft Feel, Crease & Smudge Proof, 500 Addictive, 0.16 oz

The REVLON ColorStay 16 Hour Eyeshadow Quad is a blendable powder eyeshadow that glides on smoothly and delivers intense color for fresh, beautiful eye makeup looks. The dual-ended eye shadow applicator has a rounded tip for an allover wash of color and a narrow tip to define the crease. The long-wearing shadow formula lasts up to 16 hours, and the product is ophthalmologist tested. Available in 12 palettes.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Vivid, attractive colors
Easy to apply and remove
Good value for price
No allergic reactions
What We Don't Like
Slightly powdery texture
Packaging may be fragile

e.l.f. Cosmetics Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette

83277
Nude Rose Gold
e.l.f. Cosmetics Rose Gold Eyeshadow Palette Cover
e.l.f. Perfect 10 Eyeshadow Palette, Ten Ultra-pigmented Shimmer & Matte Shades, Vegan & Cruelty-free, Nude Rose Gold (Packaging May Vary)

This palette contains ten silky powder shadows that glide on lids. These shimmery shades are perfect for shading, highlighting, and defining eyes – as natural or bold as you want to go. Proud to be 100% vegan and cruelty-free, worldwide. e.l.f. Cosmetics provides professional-quality products at get-real prices, because we believe beauty should be accessible to every eye, lip, and face. All e.l.f. products are made from skin-loving ingredients you want—all at good-for-you prices. All e.l.f. products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and leaping bunny certified.

What We Like
Great color pigmentation
Long-lasting wear
Easy to blend
Affordable price
Versatile shade selection
What We Don't Like
Some minor fallout
Black shade less pigmented

e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow

82985
Moon
e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow Cover
e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow, Gel Formula, Multi-Dimensional Finish For Bold Eye Looks, One-Swipe Coverage, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, Moon, 0.1 Fl Oz

e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow is a high-shine, long-lasting, and quick-drying gel formula that provides multi-dimensional metallic coverage in one swipe. It is buildable for day and night looks and can be used as an eyeliner. It is made with skin-loving ingredients and is vegan and cruelty-free. Customers love the glitter payoff without the fallout and the striking color that lasts all day. However, some customers have complained that the product is too pale and not highly pigmented, and that it dries out quickly.

What We Like
Vibrant, eye-catching colors
Easy, smooth application
Long-lasting wear
Blends well with powders
No irritation for sensitive eyes
What We Don't Like
Small bottle size
Some shades less blendable

ColourPop Nude Mood Eyeshadow Palette

Nude Mood
Nude Mood
ColourPop Nude Mood Eyeshadow Palette Cover
Colourpop Nude Mood Eyeshadow Palette - Brown & Copper Palette with Metallic and Matte Finishes - High-Pigment Eye Makeup with a Long-Wearing Formula (0.3 oz)

The ColourPop Nude Mood Palette offers a versatile selection of nine warm-toned shades perfect for creating a soft glam look. With a mix of matte, metallic, and Super Shock finishes, you can easily switch up your style from subtle to bold. The formula is designed to last long, blending smoothly and adhering well to your eyelids, which means your makeup stays fresh throughout the day. To get the best results, use flat brushes for vibrant color and fluffy brushes for seamless blending. This palette is a great choice if you want high-quality eye makeup that’s easy to apply and lasts all day.

What We Like
Vibrant pigmentation
Long-lasting wear
Versatile shade range
Easy, smooth application
Budget-friendly price
What We Don't Like
Slight fallout with glitter
Some shadows slightly powdery
#TOP 8

Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eyeshadow Kit

Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eyeshadow Kit Cover
Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eyeshadow Kit, Shimmering Sands, 3 Colors

The Covergirl Eye Enhancers is a versatile eyeshadow kit designed to make your makeup routine easy and enjoyable. Its silky, lightweight formula blends smoothly, allowing you to create seamless eye looks without hassle. Whether you're heading to work or going out for the evening, the shades adapt perfectly to both day and night styles. You can also customize your look by choosing from matte, pearly, or sparkly finishes to match your mood. Plus, the double-ended applicator with soft sponge tips helps you build intensity for a bold effect or apply a light touch for a natural appearance, giving you full control over your eye makeup.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Beautiful color selection
Blends easily
Good value
Suitable for fair skin
What We Don't Like
Lighter shades lack brightness
Pigment could be stronger

Revlon Illuminance Cream Eyeshadow Palette

309975912043
Revlon Illuminance Cream Eyeshadow Palette Cover
Revlon Crème Eyeshadow Palette, Illuminance Eye Makeup with Crease- Resistant Ingredients, Creamy Pigmented in Blendable Matte & Shimmer Finishes, 710 Not Just Nudes, 0.12 Oz

Revlon's Illuminance Cream Eyeshadow Palette is a great choice for those who want to add a touch of luminous color to their eyes. The palette contains four sheer, light-reflective cream eyeshadows that blend together effortlessly for infinite ethereal looks. It is easy to use and ophthalmologist tested, making it safe for sensitive eyes. The palette is available in 8 palettes, each containing a mirror, so you're always ready to add some color to your lids.

What We Like
Long-lasting creamy texture
No creasing or flaking
Natural, neutral color palette
Easy application and blending
Gentle for sensitive eyes
What We Don't Like
Beige shade rarely used
Small quantity for price

URBAN DECAY Moondust Eyeshadow Compact

2418135
URBAN DECAY Moondust Eyeshadow Compact Cover
Urban Decay 24/7 Moondust Glitter Eyeshadow Single - Sparkly Eye Glitter Makeup, Long-lasting, Highly Reflective Shimmer, Eye Shadow Topper, Space Cowboy (Champagne Gold Silver Sparkle) - 0.06 oz

Vegan, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, and cruelty-free Moondust Eyeshadow combines microfine, iridescent glitter with intense, dreamy colors for a refined, multidimensional sparkle that's out of this world. 24/7 Moondust Eyeshadow is dazzlingly sparkly but with a super-refined, elevated feel (and not a single speck of chunky glitter). New technology gives Moondust an amazing effect not found in traditional pressed-powder shadows. It feels like a cream but goes on like a powder to create a smooth, brilliantly reflective look with minimal fallout. Moondust also doubles as a highlighter, so use it to spotlight cheekbones and décolletage.

What We Like
Beautiful shimmer and sparkle
Smooth, easy application
Long-lasting wear
Works well over other shadows
Minimal fallout
What We Don't Like
Small product quantity
Slight transfer/smudging possible
Best Eyeshadow Feature Image

Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right Eyeshadow

Eyeshadow can be a daunting purchase. With so many colors and brands to choose from, it's hard to know where to start. In this buying guide, we'll help you find the best eyeshadow for your needs and teach you how to apply it like a pro. We'll also provide tips on creating various eye looks with eyeshadow. So whether you're just starting out with makeup or are a seasoned pro, read on for everything you need to know about buying eyeshadow!

What Are the Different Types of Eyeshadow

There are several different types of eyeshadow that are commonly used today, each with its own set of characteristics and benefits.

Perhaps the best-known type is the eyeshadow palette, which contains several different colors and shades in one convenient package. This type of eyeshadow is perfect for creating a variety customized looks, and makes it easy to mix and match colors to find the ideal combination.

Another popular option is liquid eyeshadow, which comes in a fluid or cream formula that can be easily applied with a brush or other applicator. This type of eyeshadow offers long-lasting color that stays put all day, making it ideal for those who want their makeup to last.

Additionally, there are many different kinds of eyeshadow sticks available, such as pencils or crayons; these are often creamy in texture and can be applied quickly and easily without requiring any tools or extra steps.

Finally, there is cream eyeshadow, which typically consists of a thick substance that can be applied with fingers or a sponge applicator to create rich color and intense shine on the lids. Whether you prefer bold brights or subtle neutrals, there is sure to be an ideal type of eyeshadow for you!

What Are the Different Finishes of Eyeshadow

There are a variety of different finishes that eyeshadow can have. The most common finishes are matte, satin, frost, shimmer, and glitter. Each of these finishes has a different effect and can be used to create a variety of looks.

Matte eyeshadow is perfect for creating a natural look. It has very little sheen and is great for blending.

Satin eyeshadow has a slight sheen to it and is also easy to blend.

Frost eyeshadow has more shimmer and sparkle than satin, but can be difficult to blend.

Shimmer eyeshadow is very sparkly and not recommended for use on the entire eyelid.

Glitter eyeshadow is the most sparkly and should only be used as an accent.

Glossy eyeshadow has a wet-look finish and should only be used sparingly.

Holographic eyeshadow is a relatively new finish that contains iridescent particles that reflect light in a variety of colors.

Metallic eyeshadow contains fine particles of metal that give it a metallic sheen.

What Are the Different Formulation of Eyeshadow

There are several different formulations of eyeshadow on the market, each with its own unique benefits.

Pencil eyeshadow is ideal for those who want precise, controlled application. It is also easy to blend and can be used for both subtle and dramatic looks.

Crayon eyeshadow is another popular option, as it provides good pigmentation and can be used for both matte and shimmery finishes.

Pressed powder eyeshadow is a classic choice that is beloved for its versatility. It can be applied wet or dry, depending on the desired effect, and comes in a wide range of colors.

Gel eyeshadow is another versatile option that can be used to create both subtle and dramatic looks. Its main benefit is that it lasts longer than other formulations, making it a good choice for those who want long-wearing eyeshadow.

How to Choose Eyeshadow Colors for Your Skin Color

If you're wondering how to choose eyeshadow colors that will complement your skin tone, you've come to the right place. The key is to select shades that are a few shades darker or lighter than your skin tone.

For example, if you have light skin, opt for eyeshadows in champagne, pale pink, or nude hues. If you have medium skin, go for peachy coral, bronze, brown, or golden hues.

If you have olive skin, try warm-toned eyeshadows like chocolate brown, emerald green, or deep purple.

And finally, if you have dark brown or black skin, try rich jewel tones like blue, burgundy, or even black.

With so many gorgeous options to choose from, like red, silver, orange, vanilla, and so on, there's sure to be an eyeshadow shade that's perfect for you!

How To Choose Eyeshadows For Hazel Eyes

If you have hazel eyes, you're in luck—most eyeshadow colors will look great with your eye color. To play up the green in your eyes, try a purple or plum eyeshadow. For a more dramatic look, go for a smokey eye using shades of gray and brown. If you want something softer and more natural-looking, opt for light pinks and peaches. Experiment with different colors and techniques to find the perfect look for you!

What Are the Best Brands of Eyeshadow

If you're looking for the best brands of eyeshadow, you can't go wrong with Mac, Maybelline, L'Oreal Paris, NYX, Revlon, Nars, Covergirl, Wet n Wild, or Urban Decay. These brands offer a wide variety of colors and finishes, so you can find the perfect eyeshadow for any look. They also have good staying power and blendability, so you can create a natural or dramatic look that lasts all day. Plus, they're affordable, so you don't have to break the bank to get a great eyeshadow. So if you're looking for the best brand of eyeshadow, these are the brands you should check out.

Conclusion

So, what is the best eyeshadow for you? It depends on your skin tone, eye color and preference. We’ve compiled a buying guide to help you find the perfect eyeshadow for your needs. With so many options available, we hope this guide makes it easier for you to select the right product. What are you waiting for? Start shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is my best eyeshadow color?

Your best eyeshadow color depends on your eye color. Complementary shades that are opposite to your eye color can make your eyes pop and stand out. Monochromatic shades that are the same as your eye color can also flatter your eyes and create a lovely look.

2. What is the purpose of eyeshadow?

The purpose of eyeshadow is to attract attention to the wearer's eyes and make them stand out or look more attractive. Eyeshadow is primarily applied to the eyelids, but it can also be applied under the eyes, on the cheeks, or to the brow bones.

3. What makes a good eyeshadow?

A good eyeshadow should be blendable, allowing it to slide easily across the lid without settling into the skin. This makes for easier application and a more seamless look. Some eyeshadows, like those from ĀTHR Beauty's Palettes, are known for their easy blending properties, which can be achieved using fingers or a brush.

4. Should eyeshadow be lighter or darker?

The choice of eyeshadow shade depends on personal preference and skin tone. For a more dramatic look, darker shades can be used. However, those with light skin and eyes may find that lighter shades are more flattering, as dark shades can appear harsh. Shimmer should also be considered, as it can accentuate fine lines on mature skin.

5. Do you put eyeshadow on before or after foundation?

It is generally recommended to apply eyeshadow before foundation to avoid fallout. Start by applying a thin layer of eyeshadow primer, followed by the eyeshadow and eyeliner where desired. This sequence allows for a cleaner application and prevents eyeshadow fallout from affecting the foundation.

6. Do I put eyeliner on before or after eyeshadow?

For successful eye makeup, the order of application is important. Start with eyeshadow to create a color base, then apply eyeliner to define your eyes, and finish with mascara to open up your eyes. By following this sequence, you can achieve an elegant and well-done eye makeup look.

Editor's Notes

During our eyeshadow research, we found 48 eyeshadow products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 397,304 customer reviews through our big data system to write the eyeshadow list. We found that most customers choose eyeshadow with an average price of $6.90.

The eyeshadow are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of eyeshadow, including COVERGIRL, wet n wild, Laura Mercier, REVLON, e.l.f.. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.

Eyeshadow Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand COVERGIRL wet n wild Laura Mercier REVLON e.l.f. e.l.f. ColourPop COVERGIRL REVLON URBAN DECAY
Color 4-Shades - 280 Natural Nudes Brown Walking On Eggshells - 500 Addictive Nude Rose Gold Moon Nude Mood 3-Shades - Shimmering Sands - Space Cowboy (champagne gold silver sparkle)
Item Form pallet Powder - - Powder Liquid Powder Powder Cream Powder
Product Benefits Defining Long Lasting - - Defining Long Lasting Long Lasting Effortlessly transitions from day to night with easy blending and customizable, brightening shades. - Feels like a cream but goes on like a powder to create a smooth, brilliantly reflective look with minimal fallout.
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.4
Where to Buy