Cream eyeshadow is now one of the few makeup products that manages to simplify a routine while still giving the impression of a considered, professional look. That’s precisely why I find myself returning to it more and more, somewhat unexpectedly.
by Kristina Mikulić GazdovićDecember 15, 2025
For a long time, I steered clear of eyeshadows in any texture other than the classic one, powder. I didn’t trust an eyeshadow that wasn’t dry and “under control”. I was convinced that a cream formula would crease on my lids, which are naturally oily, or that I’d end up spending hours trying to blend it out. But one viral formula made me change my mind.
After seeing countless creators I trust confirm that Armani Eye Tint Liquid Eyeshadow is one of those rare cream shadows that is both easy to apply and effortless to blend, I decided to try it myself. The very first swipe completely disarmed me. Instead of a formula that slips and slides, this cream shadow clings to the skin almost magnetically. It starts out liquid, then gradually sets into a velvety finish that stays put all day.
With oily skin and oily lids to match, longevity was non-negotiable for me. But what truly turned me from a sceptic into a genuine fan of cream and liquid eyeshadows was how intuitive it is to apply. In just a few strokes, you can create a smoky eye, whether in brown, black, or virtually any shade you like. Thanks to its long-lasting formula, I’ve even started using it as an eyeliner alternative. Any product that can do more than one job is a definite win in my book.
Photo: Sonny Vandevelde/Indigital
Cream eyeshadow doesn’t require precision or any special technique. That’s exactly why it’s ideal for beginners, but also for anyone who applies makeup on the go. You can simply tap it on with your fingers during a short break, right before an important meeting or an evening out.
What makes cream eyeshadows so forgiving is their formula. Application, blending, and diffusing happen almost intuitively. Unlike powder shadows, cream formulas don’t leave harsh edges or demand careful layering. The pigment shows up instantly, and the result looks polished and professional. Even without a brush, cream eyeshadow applies effortlessly with your fingers, as the texture melts into the skin with warmth and then sets into a long-lasting, velvety finish. In other words, even if you don’t really know how to do makeup, it’s hard to go wrong with a cream eyeshadow.
Thanks to high pigmentation, only a small amount of product is enough to transform the look of the eyes. If you want a more intense or dramatic effect, cream eyeshadow can be built up easily, without the fear of making a mistake.
The best long-wearing cream eyeshadows strike the perfect balance in texture. They’re creamy enough to glide smoothly over the lid, yet after a few seconds they set into a stable layer of pigment. They don’t settle into creases, don’t migrate across the lid, and don’t require a primer. In practice, that means one simple thing: you apply it in a single swipe, gently tap it in with your finger, and you’re done.
Photo: Sonny Vandevelde/Indigital
Because of their simplicity, I’ve been loyal to cream eyeshadow formulas for some time now. I’m especially drawn to Armani Eye Tint Liquid Eyeshadow and Violette FR Yeux Paint. For me, cream eyeshadow has become synonymous with fast, effortless, and impactful makeup. It’s the ideal solution for everyday wear, and an indispensable staple in any professional makeup kit.
