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12 Best Eyeshadow Sticks  [Tested and Reviewed]

12 Best Eyeshadow Sticks [Tested and Reviewed]

Designed with a creamy formula, eyeshadow sticks make eye makeup simple by allowing you to directly apply eyeshadow to the eyelids and then finish by blending with your fingers. It's user-friendly and great for makeup beginners or those in a hurry. With so many options on the market, it's challenging to pick one that's easy to blend and long-lasting.

We've compared 12 bestselling eyeshadow sticks available online and put them to the test to recommend the best one for you.


We tested each product for the following:

  • Pigment
  • Ease of Use
  • Longevity

Which product ended up being the best of the best? We'll also tell you how to pick the best Eyeshadow Sticks on your own in our buying guide, so read on for more shopping tips.

Last updated 10/12/2023
Miki Ishikura
Expert
Freelance Makeup Artist
Miki Ishikura

After graduating from Vert Rouge Beauty School in 2014, Miki Ishikura studied under a hair and makeup artist in Tokyo for two years. She then worked as a freelance makeup artist in Tokyo for a year before moving to New York in 2017. Still based in New York, she continues contributing to fashion magazine photoshoots and backstage at fashion weeks in New York, Milan, and Paris as a freelance makeup artist.

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Aisha Kanaya Yuson
Guide
Head of Makeup at mybest
Aisha Kanaya Yuson

After Aisha Kanaya Yuson graduated from college, her interest in the beauty industry led her to complete a two-year program specializing in makeup. She moved to the U.S. by herself and settled in New York City, where she apprenticed under renowned makeup artists. She has expanded her field of activities by participating in fashion magazine shoots and assisting backstage at NYFW. She is currently affiliated with an artist agency in the U.S.

Aisha Kanaya Yuson's Profile
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How We Tested the Products

Scroll to testing method
We gathered the 12 bestselling Eyeshadow Sticks and put them through rigorous testing.
  1. Pigment

    1
    Pigment

    Stick eyeshadows with good pigmentation are important for even application of color and to prevent patchiness. Poor pigmentation can result in uneven coloration, which can reduce the eye makeup's overall quality.In this evaluation, five female testers of different races used the eyeshadow sticks themselves and evaluated their finish in each of the following categories.Whether the color is evenIf the color appears as seen in the product materials

  2. Ease of Use

    2
    Ease of Use

    A key consideration when choosing stick eyeshadows is how easy it is to apply. Their ability to apply them without specialized techniques means even makeup novices can achieve a quick and effortless look.Therefore, for ease of use, we had the five testers evaluate based on the following criteria.Ease of blendingSize of the applicator

  3. Longevity

    3
    Longevity

    Maintaining finished eye makeup as long as possible is crucial for all makeup wearers.To test each product's ability to last long, we drew lines on synthetic leather using the stick eyeshadows and assessed their resistance to smudging, artificial sweat, and sebum. In this test, we used artificial sweat to mimic actual sweat and lard to represent sebum.[Test Procedure]1. Draw lines on the synthetic leather2. Apply artificial sweat and lard on the lines3. Place a 3.5-ounce weight on a tissue, then slide it over4. Check and evaluate the extent of smudging and blurring

All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest

Company Facility
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.

Table of Contents

The Unique Appeal of Eyeshadow Sticks

Multiple Benefits in a Single Stick

Multiple Benefits in a Single Stick

Eyeshadow sticks are versatile and can be used for different parts of your makeup.


Not only can you apply them directly as eyeshadow, but they can also act as an eyeshadow base. Choose vivid colors, and it doubles as an eyeliner; shimmer or pearl formulas even work as a highlighter.


From natural to vibrant shades, they offer various color variations that complement your eyes and make them stand out.


Given their portability and multifunctionality, they're invaluable for busy mornings or when traveling. It's a must-have item in any makeup collection.

How to Choose an Eyeshadow Stick - Buying Guide

Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Eyeshadow Sticks.

1

Creamy Textures Apply Evenly and Quickly

Cream Formulas Are Easy to Manipulate Without Brushes

Cream Formulas Are Easy to Manipulate Without Brushes

Our testing revealed that eyeshadows with good pigmentation often have a creamy texture. Additionally, this texture minimizes patchiness and blends seamlessly. With a quick swipe and some finger-blending, achieve beautiful gradients even during a morning rush or for those without advanced makeup skills.


In contrast, powdery textures might not give the desired pigmentation even after multiple layers. They also dry fast, which can lead to uneven patches if not blended quickly.


For a rich color gradient with just one stick, choose one with a creamy texture and great pigmentation.

Aisha Kanaya Yuson
Head of Makeup at mybest
Aisha Kanaya Yuson

Eyeshadow sticks on their own can create dazzling looks, so pigmentation is key when choosing one. Good pigmentation can also cut down your makeup application time.


With a creamy texture, color spreads more evenly, allowing for smoother color gradation while reducing the time needed for blending.


On busy mornings or for makeup beginners, having fewer needs for touch-ups or corrections is a nice perk.

Top Three Highly Pigmented Eyeshadow Sticks

Top Three Highly Pigmented Eyeshadow Sticks
2

To Prevent Creasy Eyeshadow, Choose Products That Are Sweatproof or for Oily Skin

Ensuring a Smudge-Free Finish During Summers and Events

Ensuring a Smudge-Free Finish During Summers and Events

Our tests showed that many waterproof products were also resistant to oils. On the other hand, colors that smudged during the water-resistance test faded during the oil-resistance test.


If your eyeshadow tends to smudge during sweaty summer days or outdoor events, consider choosing from our top three smudge-free eyeshadows.

Aisha Kanaya Yuson
Head of Makeup at mybest
Aisha Kanaya Yuson

Have you noticed your morning eyeshadow creasing by evening? Applying too much can cause buildup and lead to creasing on the eyelid. Start with a little and build up if needed. While product selection is essential, technique also goes a long way.


In addition to adjusting the amount you apply, using an eyeshadow primer can help prevent creasing in the eyelid fold as well.

Top Three Long-Lasting Eyeshadow Sticks

Top Three Long-Lasting Eyeshadow Sticks
3

Choosing Shades Based on Your Eye Color

Enhance Your Eyes With Colors That Complement Your Iris

Enhance Your Eyes With Colors That Complement Your Iris

Some days, you want to experiment beyond basic colors. If you're unsure what color to go with, consider your eye color when choosing shades. Selecting ones that complement your eyes can accentuate them and bring out their natural charm.

Aisha Kanaya Yuson
Head of Makeup at mybest
Aisha Kanaya Yuson

For blue eyes, warm tones like browns, golds, bronzes, and oranges are fitting; cool tones like purples, plums, wine reds, and pinks are great for green eyes.


This contrast magnifies your eyes' brilliance, harmonizing and adding depth to your look.


Check our images above for color inspiration.

4

Sticks With Tools for Blending Are Recommended

Convenient Blending Without Dirtying Fingers

Convenient Blending Without Dirtying Fingers

Many eyeshadow sticks don't come with blending tools, but when you're on the go, those with blenders attached are better. Blending with fingers can stain them and take time to wash off.


Go with a stick with a blender for convenience and mess-free application.

Aisha Kanaya Yuson
Head of Makeup at mybest
Aisha Kanaya Yuson

If the product you want does not include a blending tool, you may want to keep a single makeup brush in your bag.


Also, combining two eyeshadow sticks can come in handy when creating a makeup look.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

12 Best Eyeshadow Sticks Ranking

Here are the best Eyeshadow Sticks we found after testing them. We ranked them after weighting each of our testing specs.
Recommended
Price Performance
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Long-lasting wear
For on the go
Products
Image
mybest Score
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
Ranking spec
Details
Pigment
Ease of Use
Longevity
Style
Capacity
Finish
Vegan-friendly
Cruelty-free
Built-in blending tool
1

Bobbi Brown Professional Cosmetics

Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

Bobbi Brown Professional Cosmetics Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick 1
4.78

$29.19

High Mid

Sweat and Oil Resistant, Perfect for Beginners and Pros Alike

4.77
4.58
5.00

Retractable

0.05 oz.

Shimmer

unknown

unknown

2

Laura Mercier

Laura MercierCaviar Stick Eye Shadow

Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow 1
4.73

$19.02

Mid

Easy Blending and Resilience as Advertised

4.52
4.80
5.00

Retractable

0.06 oz.

Shimmer

unknown

unknown

3

Thrive Causemetics

Infinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick 1
4.71

$12.97

Low Mid

Vibrant True-to-Color Finish Ideal for Long Hours

4.63
4.55
5.00

Retractable

0.05 oz.

Shimmer

4

Hourglass

Voyeur Eyeshadow Stick

Hourglass Voyeur Eyeshadow Stick 1
4.43

$34.00

High Mid

Suitable for All Skin Tones and Metallic Eyeshadow Seekers

4.30
4.41
4.65

Retractable

0.05 oz.

Metallic

5

IT Cosmetics

Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick 1
4.30

$25.00

Mid

Applicator for Easy Use and Great for Daily Wear

4.46
4.31
4.11

Retractable

0.05 oz.

Metallic

unknown

unknown

6

SEPHORA

Sephora Colorful Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick

SEPHORA Sephora Colorful Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick 1
4.29

$14.00

Low Mid

High Pigmentation, but Lacks Resistance to Oils

4.60
4.10
4.11

Sharpenable

0.11 oz.

Shimmer, matte, glitter

unknown

unknown

6

Charlotte Tilbury Beauty

Colour Chameleon

Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Colour Chameleon 1
4.29

$57.15

High

Superb Water Resistance Coupled with Moderate User-Friendliness

4.22
4.25
4.43

Sharpenable

0.05 oz.

Shimmer

unknown

unknown

unknown

8

E.L.F. Cosmetics

No Budge Shadow Stick

E.L.F. Cosmetics No Budge Shadow Stick 1
4.19

$12.80

Low Mid

Affordability and Wearability Outweigh Subpar Pigmentation

4.11
4.19
4.29

Retractable with built-in sharpener

0.06 oz.

Metallic

8

Clinique Laboratories

Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes

Clinique Laboratories Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes 1
4.19

$21.99

Mid

Ideal for Beginners Despite Some Wearability Issues

4.32
4.72
3.66

Retractable

0.1 oz.

Matte

unknown

unknown

10

Julep Beauty

Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick

Julep Beauty Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick 1
4.16

$16.00

Mid

Even Application with a Sheer Finish

4.21
4.07
4.18

Retractable

0.04 oz.

Shimmer, matte, metallic

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1
Top Choice Eyeshadow Sticks
No.1 in Pigment
No.1 in Longevity

Bobbi Brown Professional CosmeticsLong-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

mybest Score
4.78
Pigment
4.77
Ease of Use
4.58
Longevity
5.00
View on Amazon
Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick 1
Lowest price
$29.19
High Mid
Lowest price
$29.19
High Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishShimmer
Vegan-friendly
unknown
Cruelty-free
unknown

Sweat and Oil Resistant, Perfect for Beginners and Pros Alike

The Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick by Bobbi Brown promises a lasting, beautiful finish. It is characterized by a rich range of colors, from natural shades to vibrant, standout hues.


In our testing, it earned high marks in every category. Not only did it prove to be resistant to smudging, but it also stood up to sweat and oils, delivering on its promises. It's a product that's highly recommended for those whose eyeshadow tends to wear off easily. Moreover, when applied to the eyelids, it shows true to its color regardless of skin tone. The likelihood of being disappointed that it doesn't match the expected color seems very low.


In terms of usability, feedback from our testers included positive comments such as "It delivers true-to-color results on any skin tone and blends smoothly" and "The applicator's size is just right for easy application." This single product can help you achieve your desired eye makeup look effortlessly.


We recommend it to both those who want to maintain their morning makeup look throughout the day and to makeup beginners.

Capacity0.05 oz.
Built-in blending tool
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2
No.1 in Ease of Use
No.1 in Longevity

Laura MercierLaura MercierCaviar Stick Eye Shadow

mybest Score
4.73
Pigment
4.52
Ease of Use
4.80
Longevity
5.00
Lowest price
$19.02
Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishShimmer
Vegan-friendly
unknown
Cruelty-free
unknown

Easy Blending and Resilience as Advertised

Laura Mercier's Caviar Stick Eye Shadow stands out for its diverse range of shades and different finishes. It promises a beautiful appearance that remains crease-free and lasts for an extended period.


During the pigment testing by our evaluators, feedback included comments such as, "On the first application, the color was slightly lighter than expected, but layering it achieved an even shade." While one might need to apply multiple layers if the first seems too light, the product's strength lies in providing true color on any skin tone.


Additionally, in our ease of use assessment, it was highly commended for its easily blendable formula and the applicator size that fits any eye shape. The tests for water resistance and oil resistance also revealed that the color doesn’t bleed or smudge, which gave it a high score.


It's a dependable product, ideal not just for those who may experience eyeshadow creasing due to the width of their eyelids but also for individuals who tend to rub their eyes often.

Capacity0.06 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.3
No.1 in Longevity

Thrive CausemeticsInfinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

mybest Score
4.71
Pigment
4.63
Ease of Use
4.55
Longevity
5.00
Lowest price
$12.97
Low Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishShimmer
Vegan-friendly
Cruelty-free

Vibrant True-to-Color Finish Ideal for Long Hours

Thrive Causemetics' Infinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick is uniquely formulated with moisturizing and skin-conditioning ingredients like sodium hyaluronate, ceramide NP, aloe leaf extract, and vitamin B5. With just a single swipe, it promises to deliver impactful eyes that last for hours.


During the ease-of-use assessment, evaluators appreciated its ability to blend, noting, "It can be easily and beautifully blended with fingers or the built-in blending sponge." The inclusion of a blending tool ensures users can blend the product without dirtying their fingers. Its creamy texture, which renders excellent color, is another reason behind its popularity.


In the longevity test, the eyeshadow excelled in both water resistance and oil resistance. It's an ideal solution for those concerned about their eyeshadow fading or smudging over time. 


It's particularly recommended for hot days prone to sweating or when makeup needs to last for extended periods.

Capacity0.05 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.4

HourglassVoyeur Eyeshadow Stick

mybest Score
4.43
Pigment
4.30
Ease of Use
4.41
Longevity
4.65
Lowest price
$34.00
High Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishMetallic
Vegan-friendly
Cruelty-free

Suitable for All Skin Tones and Metallic Eyeshadow Seekers

Hourglass's Voyeur Eyeshadow Stick is an eyeshadow stick that promises a lasting finish resistant to creasing, characterized by its impactful color and refined metallic finish.


During the pigment and usability evaluation, feedback highlighted that while "it might require a few layers to achieve uniformity, it delivers consistent pigmentation regardless of skin tone." Its capability to display vivid hues even in brighter shades makes it an excellent choice as a highlighter.


In our test for longevity that we conducted on synthetic leather, it did smudge slightly when subjected to oils, but its color remained unchanged when testing for water resistance. While it might not be ideal for those with oily skin prone to eyeshadow creasing, it's expected to perform well in situations like the beach or pool where water may splash on the face.


This is the top choice for those seeking a metallic finish.

Capacity0.05 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.5

IT CosmeticsSuperhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

mybest Score
4.30
Pigment
4.46
Ease of Use
4.31
Longevity
4.11
Lowest price
$25.00
Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishMetallic
Vegan-friendly
unknown
Cruelty-free
unknown

Applicator for Easy Use and Great for Daily Wear

IT Cosmetics' Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick is a stick eyeshadow notable for its range in both matte and pearl finishes. It claims to maintain a long-lasting finish.


In our pigment test, feedback from testers indicated that "a single application may appear slightly sheer, but layering can achieve the desired intensity." In terms of ease of use, some remarked, "The applicator size is just right, and blending is easy, but the eyeshadow dries quickly." Therefore, it might be best to apply and blend the eyeshadow one eye at a time.


When testing oil resistance, the color remained consistent, with no signs of smudging. However, in tests for resistance to rubbing and water, there was some minor smudging, leading to a bit of struggle in terms of rating for longevity.


While it might not be suitable for active or outdoor activities, it's suitable for work or daily makeup routines.

Capacity0.05 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.6

SEPHORASephora Colorful Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick

mybest Score
4.29
Pigment
4.60
Ease of Use
4.10
Longevity
4.11
Lowest price
$14.00
Low Mid
StyleSharpenable
FinishShimmer, matte, glitter
Vegan-friendly
unknown
Cruelty-free
unknown

High Pigmentation, but Lacks Resistance to Oils

Sephora's Colorful Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick claims to maintain its finish for extended periods. It is also free from parabens, phthalates, and sulfates (SLS & SLES).


In our pigment evaluation, feedback from testers praised its ability to achieve true-to-color results even with just a single swipe, regardless of skin tone. When used as an eyeliner, it can provide a defined, striking look around the eyes.


On one hand, while some users found the applicator easy to use, others mentioned that the product itself dries quickly, requiring swift blending. Additionally, in the water-resistance test, it remained unaffected even when artificial sweat was applied. However, when subjected to oils, it tended to smudge, leading to moderate reviews. It might be slightly less suitable for those with oily skin prone to eyeshadow creasing.


It's recommended for those who want an eyeshadow with good pigmentation, and pairing it with an eye primer should enhance its performance.

Capacity0.11 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.6

Charlotte Tilbury BeautyColour Chameleon

mybest Score
4.29
Pigment
4.22
Ease of Use
4.25
Longevity
4.43
Lowest price
$57.15
High
StyleSharpenable
FinishShimmer
Vegan-friendly
unknown
Cruelty-free
unknown

Superb Water Resistance Coupled with Moderate User-Friendliness

Charlotte Tilbury Beauty's Colour Chameleon boasts a long-lasting finish with a design that exudes charm and femininity. 


When evaluated by our testers, feedback indicated that "the pigmentation was lighter than expected, and trying to apply multiple layers resulted in some unevenness." The results were average, so if you're seeking intense pigmentation with a single swipe, it might not meet expectations. The applicator's size was appropriate, but blending required some effort, preventing it from receiving top marks for user-friendliness.


In terms of its longevity, while the oil-resistance test showed a slight fading in color, it proved to be resistant to rubbing and water. It's safe to say this product will hold up throughout the day.


This particular product requires sharpening, which might be seen as a bit inconvenient for some users, but as long as you have a sharpener, there shouldn't be an issue.

Capacity0.05 oz.
Built-in blending toolunknown
Lowest price
$12.80
Low Mid
StyleRetractable with built-in sharpener
FinishMetallic
Vegan-friendly
Cruelty-free

Affordability and Wearability Outweigh Subpar Pigmentation

E.L.F. Cosmetics' No Budge Shadow Stick is a stick eyeshadow boasting a creamy, blendable formula that applies easily and is promoted as being resistant to smudging and creasing.


Its signature metallic finish is distinctive, but the color applies more sheerly than expected, which prevented it from receiving high marks for pigmentation. Feedback from testers also highlighted that "the color seemed to fade while blending," yielding a somewhat disappointing result. Some might find certain shades lacking in intensity when used on their own.


On the other hand, in terms of longevity, both water and oil resistance testing showed no smudging, earning it high praise.


While its affordable price is a plus, it may not be the best choice for those who prefer vivid makeup looks.

Capacity0.06 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.8

Clinique LaboratoriesChubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes

mybest Score
4.19
Pigment
4.32
Ease of Use
4.72
Longevity
3.66
Lowest price
$21.99
Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishMatte
Vegan-friendly
unknown
Cruelty-free
unknown

Ideal for Beginners Despite Some Wearability Issues

Clinique Laboratories' Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes is promoted as a product so easy to use that you won't even need a mirror.


With its unusually thick core for a stick eyeshadow, it delivers color effortlessly in just one swipe, living up to its promise of easy blending. In terms of pigmentation, feedback from testers indicated that "while the color was lighter than expected, it applied evenly without any patchiness." While it might not satisfy those seeking intense color, it's recommended for those who prefer a sheer finish.


However, when subjected to water and oils, it smudged in both tests, which negatively impacted its overall rating.


It might not be suitable for those needing long-lasting makeup, but it should work well for short outings.

Capacity0.1 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.10

Julep BeautyEyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick

mybest Score
4.16
Pigment
4.21
Ease of Use
4.07
Longevity
4.18
Lowest price
$16.00
Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishShimmer, matte, metallic
Vegan-friendly
Cruelty-free

Even Application with a Sheer Finish

Julep Beauty's Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick is an eyeshadow stick that features a transition from a cream to a powder-like finish. It notably incorporates vitamin E, vitamin C, and candelilla wax for a smooth texture.


While this product proved resilient to rubbing, it did smudge slightly when synthetic sweat was applied and its color faded when exposed to natural oils, leading to a moderate rating in the longevity evaluation. It may not be suitable for active days but should be fine for general use.


In our test for pigmentation, feedback from testers included that it applied evenly yet had a sheer finish, and layering didn't significantly change the intensity, leading to mixed results. Furthermore, while it blended easily, the performance of the accompanying blending sponge was deemed subpar, which detracted from its rating.


It might appeal to those who prefer a natural color and sheer finish, but some might find it lacking.

Capacity0.04 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.11

NYX Professional MakeupNYX Professional MakeupJumbo Eye Pencil

mybest Score
4.12
Pigment
4.31
Ease of Use
4.54
Longevity
3.61
Lowest price
$5.49
Low
StyleSharpenable
FinishShimmer
Vegan-friendly
Cruelty-free

Challenges with Wearability Offset by Pigmentation and Ease of Use

NYX Professional Makeup's Jumbo Eye Pencil is distinctive for its range of 16 shades, spanning from neutrals to brights and deeper smoky hues. It boasts a creamy formula that's easy to apply and blend.


In terms of pigment and ease of use, while opinions varied, it received high marks for the comfortable size of the applicator, true-to-sight color, and easy blending. It's safe to say it's user-friendly, even for beginners.


On the other hand, it didn't fare well in the waterproof and oil-resistant tests, as it smudged in both cases, leading to a lower rating.


While it's beginner-friendly, it may not be suitable for long-wear, so those who dislike touch-ups might want to steer clear.

Capacity0.18 oz.
Built-in blending tool
No.12

Tartequick stick waterproof shadow & liner

mybest Score
3.99
Pigment
3.97
Ease of Use
4.10
Longevity
3.93
quick stick waterproof shadow & liner 1
quick stick waterproof shadow & liner 2
quick stick waterproof shadow & liner 3
quick stick waterproof shadow & liner 4
quick stick waterproof shadow & liner 5
quick stick waterproof shadow & liner 6
Lowest price
$27.50
High Mid
Lowest price
$27.50
High Mid
StyleRetractable
FinishShimmer, matte
Vegan-friendly
unknown
Cruelty-free

Good if You Find Your Color, but Overall Results Are Mediocre

Tarte's Quick Stick Waterproof Shadow & Liner is supposed to have a waterproof formula that promises to resist creasing, transferring, and smudging.


In terms of its wear, the product didn't hold up well against artificial sweat and oils as it tended to smudge overall, making it difficult to say it's long-lasting. Moreover, regarding its pigmentation, feedback indicated it had a sheer finish that didn’t apply evenly. This might leave those seeking vibrant pigments unsatisfied.


While the applicator's size is just right, and it's easy to apply along the lash line, its blending ability fell short in evaluations.


If one of the available color options suits your preferences, it could justify the investment, though it may not become the standout item in your collection.

CapacityShadow: 0.03 oz./ liner: 0.007 oz.
Built-in blending tool

We gathered the 12 bestselling Eyeshadow Sticks and put them through rigorous testing.'

Eyeshadow Sticks Evaluation

For this evaluation, we gathered and tested the top-selling 12 stick eyeshadows on platforms like Amazon to determine the best among them. At mybest, we define an excellent stick eyeshadow as one with high pigmentation, ease of blending, and resistance to creasing.


We kept the following three points in mind when evaluating each product.

  • Pigment
  • Ease of Use
  • Longevity

Products we tested

  1. Bobbi Brown Professional CosmeticsLong-Wear Cream Shadow Stick
  2. Charlotte Tilbury BeautyColour Chameleon
  3. Clinique LaboratoriesChubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes
  4. E.L.F. CosmeticsNo Budge Shadow Stick
  5. HourglassVoyeur Eyeshadow Stick
  6. IT CosmeticsSuperhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
  7. Julep BeautyEyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick
  8. Laura MercierLaura MercierCaviar Stick Eye Shadow
  9. NYX Professional MakeupNYX Professional MakeupJumbo Eye Pencil
  10. SEPHORASephora Colorful Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick
  11. Tartequick stick waterproof shadow & liner
  12. Thrive CausemeticsInfinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
1

Pigment

Pigment

Stick eyeshadows with good pigmentation are important for even application of color and to prevent patchiness. Poor pigmentation can result in uneven coloration, which can reduce the eye makeup's overall quality.


In this evaluation, five female testers of different races used the eyeshadow sticks themselves and evaluated their finish in each of the following categories.


  • Whether the color is even
  • If the color appears as seen in the product materials
2

Ease of Use

Ease of Use

A key consideration when choosing stick eyeshadows is how easy it is to apply. Their ability to apply them without specialized techniques means even makeup novices can achieve a quick and effortless look.


Therefore, for ease of use, we had the five testers evaluate based on the following criteria.


  • Ease of blending
  • Size of the applicator
3

Longevity

Longevity

Maintaining finished eye makeup as long as possible is crucial for all makeup wearers.


To test each product's ability to last long, we drew lines on synthetic leather using the stick eyeshadows and assessed their resistance to smudging, artificial sweat, and sebum. In this test, we used artificial sweat to mimic actual sweat and lard to represent sebum.


[Test Procedure]
1. Draw lines on the synthetic leather
2. Apply artificial sweat and lard on the lines
3. Place a 3.5-ounce weight on a tissue, then slide it over
4. Check and evaluate the extent of smudging and blurring

Using Eyeshadow Primer for a Vivid Makeup Look

Using Eyeshadow Primer for a Vivid Makeup Look

If you're aiming to enhance the vibrancy of your eyeshadow, an eyeshadow primer is recommended.


An eyeshadow primer, applied over the entire eyelid before the eyeshadow, intensifies the eyeshadow color, amplifying its vibrancy.


When using an eyeshadow primer, even a small amount will make the eyeshadow appear more vibrant, simplifying the application process.

Top 5 Eyeshadow Sticks

No. 1: Bobbi Brown Professional CosmeticsLong-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

No. 2: Laura MercierLaura MercierCaviar Stick Eye Shadow

No. 3: Thrive CausemeticsInfinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

No. 4: HourglassVoyeur Eyeshadow Stick

No. 5: IT CosmeticsSuperhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

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  4. 12 Best Eyeshadow Sticks [Tested and Reviewed]

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