How to Use Eyeshadow Sticks Like a Pro

If you don’t have tons of time to spend on your eye makeup but still want to look polished, you’ve come to the right place. Maybelline’s Color Tattoo Eye Stix will allow you to create a gorgeous eye shadow look with just a few swipes of a shadow stick.

Unlike a single compact or palette of powder shadows, shadow sticks have more of a cream consistency and are packaged in stick form making application a breeze. Cream shadows in general are great for laying a base and even double as a primer. Because of their gripping power, you could easily use a shadow stick first, followed by powder over top for a look that’s more long-lasting. Additionally, the easy-to-blend cream consistency allows you to forgo any brushes (if you want to), using only Eye Stix and your finger to create the shadow style of your choice.

Even if you’re a makeup pro who loves taking their time to apply eye shadow meticulously, it’s safe to say that there’s still a place in your routine for an eye shadow stick thanks to their ease of use, especially when you’re strapped for time. And for those of you who have graciously bowed out from wearing eye shadow because of how challenging it can be, you’re about to have your makeup world rocked thanks to the effortless looks you’re able to create with just one product.

With ten matte and shimmer shades to choose from in our Eye Stix, there’s something for any eye look you’re going for. For an everyday nude vibe, there’s I Am Confident or I Am Courageous, but if you’re ready to make a statement with a bold fuschia or purple, you’ll love I Am Unique and I Am Fearless. Can’t decide on which hue is for you? Try our Virtual Try-On, which will show you what each color looks like on your eyes.

Sometimes makeup artists leave skin for last because traditional eye shadow may create fallout, but Eye Stix make for a mess-free application. So, go in with your favorite foundation, and then move on and add color to your cheeks, eyes, and lips (or whichever order you prefer).

Because cream shadow formulas are more pigmented than powder, they’ll cover discoloration such as redness or darkness on your lids better. Gliding a lighter shade such as I Am Shining over lids will give you a good foundation should you choose to layer over top, but it’s also enough of a brightening pop if you want a one-and-done look.

Dab a few dots of a matte brown shade such as I Am Determined onto your crease and use your finger or a shadow brush to blend it in. Similarly to contouring your face, the darker shade adds depth and emphasizes the size of your eyes.

If you want a more attention-grabbing look, consider using color unconventionally. For instance, maybe you draw a dot of pink in the middle of your lower lash line or olive smudged into the outer corners. There are no hard and fast rules, and because Eye Stix are pretty much like crayons and have a pointed, tapered tip, you get to let your creativity flow, creating as intricate of a look as you desire.

The perfect complement to any eye shadow look is long, fluttery lashes. Get them with Falsies Surreal Mascara.