How to Apply Eyeshadow

To learn how to apply eyeshadow, start by identifying which colors flatter your eyes and your skin tones, without competing with them. Once you know what looks good on you, practice your technique with the classic three-tone look that accentuates lid, crease and brow bone.

Colors

Eyeshadow colors need to pair well with not only your eye color but also your skin tone. Ideally, the eyeshadow color should stay darker than your skin color and should make your eye color sparkle.

Choosing the exact same hue as your eyes can actually create a dull effect, rather than a sparkling one. Blue eyes look fantastic with browns and coppers, not purples and pinks. Green eyes tend to sparkle with purples or light browns.

Hazel eyes look amazing with a hint of green or light purple eyeshadow. Brown eyes can pull off most colors, such as green, purple, blue and brown. If you're lucky enough to have those elusive lavender-colored eyes, there's not much that can keep them from looking lovely, but avoid any heavy purples that drown the special color out.

Application

Always tap excess powder from the brush when applying eyeshadow. Using small amounts of makeup to build up the hue gives you greater control over the look. It's easy to apply more color if needed, but it can be messy to remove heavy color if you overdo it. The same goes for cream eyeshadow, but be warned that cream eyeshadow can crease easily.

For a more powerful and natural look, avoid using only one shade of eyeshadow. Your eyes look best when they're accentuated, not made a solid block of color. Ideally, you should apply a base hue, a midtone hue and an accent hue.

Exact placement of the three eyeshadow hues depends on your eye shape and the look you desire. The base hue is darkest and should go in areas you want noticed. The midtone blends the base and skin tones to help look natural. The accent works to accentuate delicate areas and is usually worn near the upper brow.