13 Best Eyeshadow Sticks You Have To Try In 2023
You can now get your eye makeup on point with the help of the most intensifying essentials.
Danielle Wilkinson BrucklacherLicensed Cosmetologist
Expertise: Bridal Hair & Makeup, Hair Color, Cutting, and Facial Wax
Experience: 14 years
Danielle obtained her cosmetology license from MTI College and continued with her education in Makeup Artistry at Bellus Academy. She then began session styling for weddings and special events, including celebrity occasions. With 14 years o... more
Srijita De Certified Style & Image Consultant
Expertise: Makeup & Fashion
Experience: 2 years
Srijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in ... more
Srijani Roy ChowdhuryCertified In Makeup Artistry, Certified Style & Image Consultant
Expertise: Makeup & Fashion
Experience: 3 years
Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a ce... more
Krati DarakCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 3 years
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years o... more
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If you are looking for an instant and hassle-free way of amping up your eye makeup look, then turn your gaze towards the best eyeshadow sticks available right now! Eyeshadow sticks are especially helpful for on-the-go use and those who do not feel confident applying eyeshadow with a brush. Danielle Wilkinson Brucklacher, a licensed cosmetologist, further adds, “Eyeshadow sticks can also be great for people with allergies because there is no eyeshadow fallout that can get in your eyes.” Whether you desire to glam up for a party after work or want a fuss-free option for those frantic mornings, eyeshadow sticks will offer you exemplary service any day.
From subtle neutrals, bright winged look, and bold smokey eyes to eye-catching shimmer shadows, they come in various colors and finishes. Eyeshadow sticks are easy to use and have super-creamy texture and excellent staying power to make your makeup routine easy. Moreover, you can carry them around for easy touch-ups. In this article, we have a list of the 13 best eyeshadow sticks you can buy online. Scroll down.
In This Article
Top 13 Eyeshadow Sticks Of 2023
Best Powder-Based Eyeshadow Stick:NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil - Cobalt
Image: Nyx Line, define or highlight your eyes with this versatile pencil by NYX Professional Makeup. From lining your waterline to shading your entire eyelid, these vibrant eyeliner and eyeshadow crayons can do it all. Formulated with a unique blend of mineral oil and powder, this shadow-liner hybrid pencil has a creamy consistency, glides on smoothly, and provides long-lasting coverage. Just one stroke of this Cobalt pencil adds a pop of color to your eyes. Not a fan of blue? Not to worry, as this drugstore eyeshadow stick is available in various other colorful and sparkly hues for you to choose from. Click here to check out this YouTuber’s unbiased review.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Eyeliner + eyeshadow combo
- Does not tug or pull the skin
- Creamy and blendable formula
- Available in more than 10 colors
- It can also be used to highlight the inner corners of your eyes.
Cons
- Might be greasy
- Does not have a twist-up option
Pro TipBest Beginner-Friendly:Mabox Eyeshadow Stick 3Pcs
Image: Mabox The Mabox Eyeshadow Sticks Set comes in a range of 3 stunning metallic hues that work well for all occasions. The intensely-pigmented pencils support a long-lasting look for all-day wear. The sticks deliver a satin finish with a subtle shine. The product is super easy to use and a definite go-to choice for the ones who are constantly on the go. The sticks also feature a built-in brush that supports smooth blending if you don’t wish to get messy with your fingers.
Pros
- Blendable formula
- Creamy texture
- Long-lasting
- Rich metallic finish
- Waterproof
- Smudge-proof
- Built-in brush
Cons
- May turn greasy after a few hours
Quick TipBest Seamless Blending:Julep Eyeshadow 101 Eyeshadow Stick - Putty
Image: Nyx Professional Makeup Let your eyes do all the talking with this highly pigmented Julep eyeshadow stick that delivers a luxurious finish. Once applied, this crème-to-powder formula dries into a powder that stays put all day long. This is a dual-ended retractable shadow pencil that features an eyeshadow stick on one end and a smudge-tool on the other. With a butter-like texture, this pencil provides smooth application and seamless blendability to achieve a soft-focus look. But since this is a buildable formula, you can increase the intensity of the color as you want. Furthermore, this formula is enriched with vitamins C and E, which protects and soothes your skin, and improves your skin tone and texture over time. Here’s a personal review video to help you get a better understanding of the product.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Sets in 30 seconds
- Glides on smoothly
- Crease-proof and long-lasting wear
- Infused with vitamins C and E
- Smudge tool makes it easy to blend
Cons
- The crayon may break easily.
Best Nourishing Formula:ETUDE HOUSE Bling Bling Eye Stick - #8 Ivory Babystar
Image: Etude Add a little sparkle to your eyes with this Bling Bling Eye Stick by ETUDE HOUSE. As the name suggests, this creamy shadow stick provides a shimmery finish with an amazingly bold and blinding glow. Formulated with Twinkle Star Powder, this formula will surely make your eyes shine like the stars throughout the day. Additionally, it comprises Nytrient Essence that helps keep the sensitive skin around your eyes moist and is comfortable for an all-day wear look. Pro tip: You could also create a teardrop effect by applying the eyeshadow pencil on your lower lash line. Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this product.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Smooth and creamy
- Lends shimmer and glow
- Easy-to-use twist-up stick
- Enriched with nutritious essence
Cons
- Might be too glittery for some
Best Creamy Texture:NARS The Multiple - Orgasm
Image: Nars Looking for a do-it-all product that will meet your every makeup need? NARS The Multiple is your best bet! This multifaceted product can do it all, from enhancing your eyes to sculpting your cheekbones. Besides providing a sheer shimmer finish, this cream-to-powder makeup product can also smoothen wrinkles and hide imperfections, thanks to its anti-aging properties. This creamy formula glides on easily, blends smoothly, and offers a perfect hue. If you have wrinkly or crepey eyelids, this is one of the best eyeshadow sticks for you, as it has smoothing properties that improve the skin texture.
Pros
- Blendable formula
- Creamy texture
- Mistake-proof color
- Enriched with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Conceals imperfections and evens out skin tone
- This multipurpose product can be used on your eyes, lips, cheek, and body.
Cons
- Expensive
Best Travel-Friendly:ALLEYOOP 11th Hour Cream Eye Shadow Stick
Image: Almay The ALLEYOOP 11th Hour Cream Eye Shadow Stick is richly-pigmented in a warm coffee tone that supports a natural makeup look, suitable for everyday use. It is smudge-proof and long-lasting, so you can stay out all day without having to worry about your makeup fading. The product offers a creamy texture that glides effortlessly, thereby supporting a creaseless look. It is curated with organic, natural ingredients and is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It is also enriched with jojoba oil that helps create a flawless appearance and nourishes the eyelids.
Pros
- Creamy texture
- Built-in sharpener
- Long-lasting
- Crease-resistant
- Hypoallergenic
- Waterproof
- Smudge-proof
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- None
Best Water-Resistant Formula:Bobbi Brown Eyeshadow Stick - Vanilla
Image: Bobbi Brown One single swipe of this incredible eyeshadow stick is enough to give you a seamless finish that lasts long. The creamy consistency ensures that the pencil glides on smoothly without tugging your delicate skin on your eyelids. This is a long-wearing formula that stays put for 8 hours straight and does not budge until you are ready to take it off. Plus, it softly blends onto your skin to provide a stay-true color that does not crease. Besides shading your eyelids, it can also be used to define and highlight your eyes. For those who prefer a neutral shadow makeup look, this Vanilla shade is an excellent option.
Pros
- 8-hour wear
- Gluten-free
- Budge and crease-proof
- Water-resistant formula
- Paraben, phthalate, sulfate-free, and sulfite-free
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Best Richly-Pigmented:FOCALLURE Cream Eyeshadow Stick
Image: Focallure The FOCALLURE Cream Eyeshadow Stick is available in a 2-piece set and is suitable for all skin types. The product is an absolute savior and extensively cuts down on your makeup application time. It is a water-proof, long-lasting, highly pigmented, and easy-to-blend formula that can help you achieve that perfect alluring look with a single swipe. The sticks can also be used as a highlighter, thereby enhancing their usability. It is easy to apply and travel-friendly, ensuring you stay camera-ready all the time.
Pros
- Crease-proof
- Waterproof
- Satin-like finish
- Easy to use
- Long-wearing formula
- Beginner-friendly
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- May smudge
Best Multifunctional Use:Mally Beauty Evercolor Shadow Stick Extra - Over The Taupe
Image: Mally Beauty Referred to as the queen of multitasking, this Evercolor Shadow Stick Extra by Mally Beauty works as an eyeshadow, eyeliner, and primer. Whether you want to line your eyes, apply it all over your lids, or above your crease, this crease-proof formula is your go-to. It is richly pigmented and creamy, which means, one swipe over your eyelids will deliver a high color payoff with a sheer finish. For more intense color, you could apply 2 or more layers of it until you have achieved your desired look. Create a natural look with a slight sparkle or the smoldering, smokey eyes; this Over The Taupe shade can easily take your look from day to night!
Pros
- Smudge and transfer-proof
- Lines and sculpts your eyes
- Multifunctional shadow stick
- Long-lasting formula
- Blendable and buildable
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
Best For Shimmery Look:Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour - Rosegold
Image: Laura Mercier Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour in Rosegold will help you achieve the look you want – be it a subtle shimmery look during the day or an intense metallic pink for the night. This versatile stick features a creamy texture that glides on quickly and effortlessly onto the lids, while the pigment-rich shade imparts an intense, buildable color. It delivers long-lasting coverage for 12 hours and sits well over your eyelids without creasing or smudging. Plus, it gives you enough time to fill, blend, and line your eyes. This luxurious formula is available in 12 shades in varying matte and shimmer finishes.
Pros
- 12-hour wear
- Highly pigmented shades
- Buildable formula
- Easy to blend
- Crease and transfer-resistant
- Can also be used under other eyeshadows
Cons
- The tip might be a little fragile.
Best Lightweight Formula:Clinique Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes - Lots O' Latte
Image: Clinique From bright gold to deep plum, Clinique Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes comes in varied shades, all of which have a slight shimmer. This eyeshadow stick in Lots O’ Latte adds a sheer wash of color with a hint of silver shimmer to accentuate your eyes without making it appear over the top. The fine, creamy texture of the stick along with the domed-tip makes it easy to wear and blend. Plus, it is lightweight and provides smooth, buildable coverage, so no matter how many layers of color you apply, it won’t weigh down your eyelids.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Creamy, layerable formula
- Available in 11 shades
- Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Cons
- Tends to crease
Best Metallic Shade:e.l.f. No Budge Shadow Stick - Rose Gold
Image: Elf Cosmetics One of the best cream eyeshadow sticks, e.l.f. shadow stick is designed to make your peepers pop with its creamy and beautiful metallic shade. This smooth eyeshadow stick glides on flawlessly and is super blendable. It offers a long-lasting finish that does not smudge, smear, or crease. The twist-up design of the pencil makes it convenient to use, while the pointed tip offers a precise application. It is the best drugstore eyeshadow stick as comes with a removable sharpener that keeps the tip forever sharp, allowing you to use the pencil as an eyeliner as well.
Pros
- No-budge formula
- Long-lasting
- Smooth, creamy pencil tip
- Offers a metallic finish
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free
- Free of parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals.
Cons
- Might be a little brittle
Best Long-Lasting Formula:Xtreme Lashes GlideShadow Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick - Bronze
Image: Xtreme This insanely pigmented cream-to-powder eyeshadow stick offers plenty of color in just a couple of swipes, which is more than enough to enhance your eyes. This buildable and blendable stick goes on smoothly and allows you to create any look you want. So go ahead and create the dramatic, smokey eye look with this bronze shade that also delivers a light-reflecting satin finish. Rest assured, with this lightweight and long-lasting formula, you won’t have to worry about creasing. This is a multipurpose product that can not only be used as an eyeshadow, eyeliner, and primer but is also used to highlight and contour your eyes. Furthermore, with the addition of vitamins C and E and ceramides, this formula soothes your eyelids and keeps them soft and nourished.
Pros
- Crease-proof
- Hypoallergenic
- Versatile 5-in-1 product
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested
- Includes a built-in sharpener
- Compatible with Xtreme Lashes eyelash extensions
- It does not create a powdery fall-out or build-up on lashes or lash line.
Cons
- May be difficult to remove with water
Now, let us look at a few factors you need to consider while buying an eyeshadow stick and tips on how to use it the right way.
A Helpful Buying Guide To Choose The Right Eyeshadow Stick
If you are a beginner, it might be a good idea to go through these points before you buy an eyeshadow stick.
- Whether you have dry, oily, or aging skin, look for an eyeshadow stick with a smooth, creamy consistency. This will ensure that the pencil tip glides on smoothly across your eyelids without scratching or pulling your skin. The soft texture also allows you to blend the shade easily once applied.
- Pick an eyeshadow color that accentuates your eyes and makes your eye color pop. For instance, if you have green eyes, you could opt for a vibrant shade such as purple, and brown-eyed women could try blue or white shades.
- We are sure a lot of you are aware that your skin tone has an important role to play in choosing an eyeshadow color. While shades like emerald green or light blue look fantastic on darker skin tones, women with brighter complexion could try earthy tones like gold or bronze. However, there is no hard-and-fast rule to follow; you could always experiment and see what you like the best.
- Nobody wants an eyeshadow stick that smudges or creases, isn’t it? That’s why always look for a waterproof or water-resistant formula that lasts for at least 8 or 12 hours, if not longer.
- Apply the eyeshadow stick/pencil along your lash line, from the inner corner to the outer corner of your eye.
- Apply the pencil on your entire eyelid.
- Use your finger to blend the shade, and you’re done.
- If you want an intense look, you could apply 2 or more layers of the same color and blend it again.
Infographic: Factors To Consider When Buying An Eyeshadow Stick
Eyeshadow sticks come in multiple shades and finishes to elevate your eye makeup. They are easy to apply and can reduce the chance of fallouts to give you a hassle-free experience. The market is filled with multiple eyeshadow sticks in different colors, so choosing one is not an easy task. Do not worry, the infographic below lists the factors that you must consider when purchasing an eyeshadow stick. Check it out! Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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The Bottom Line
If you love to have popped-up eyes to experiment with new eye makeup looks, then eyeshadow sticks are your best bet. They are a great addition to your makeup routine for a hassle-free experience. The NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil – Cobalt is a great choice for people looking for long-wearing eye shadow formulas. The Julep Eyeshadow 101 Eyeshadow Stick – Putty offers a soft-focus look, while the Bobbi Brown Eyeshadow Stick – Vanilla offers a polished look. The sticks are available in several shades like beiges, browns, and creams. They add good definition to winged or smokey eyes. Their eye-catchy shimmer and neutral shades match any outfit. The eyeshadow sticks on our list are long-lasting, waterproof, and cruelty-free. However, some products may not suit sensitive skin. The buying guide will help you choose the right eyeshadow stick that complements your skin tone.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Srijita De, who penned this article, is a makeup fiend with a gift for finding the best makeup products for various skin types. She studied many products and their reviews to bring you this list of the best eye shadow sticks available online. She chose this list based on each product’s consistency, color pigmentation, and formula benefits like smudge-proofing and water resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is eyeshadow stick used for?
Eyeshadow sticks can be used to add tints to your eyelids and a luminous glow to your cheeks. These are easy to use and enable makeup on the go.
Can you use an eyeshadow stick as an eyeliner?
Yes. Some eyeshadow sticks that have a fine applicator end can be used as eyeliner.
How do you use e.l.f. eyeshadow sticks?
Swipe the e.l.f. eyeshadow sticks across the eyelid and blend with a fingertip and brush, allowing it to set.
What is a cream shadow stick?
Cream shadow stick has a cream-based formula with rich pigmentation and easy blendability into the skin. Also, it comes packaged in a tube or long cylindrical form.
How can I sharpen my eyeshadow sticks?
You can use an eyeliner sharpener, a precision knife, or a stainless steel blade to sharpen your eyeshadow sticks gently.
