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 14 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:
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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.
Here are the points to keep in mind when choosing the best Eyeshadow Sticks.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | 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 | ![]() | 4.79 | Sweat and Oil Resistant, Perfect for Beginners and Pros Alike | 4.79 | 4.61 | 5.00 | Retractable | 0.05 oz. | Shimmer | unknown | unknown | ||
2 | Laura Mercier Laura Mercier|Caviar Stick Eye Shadow | ![]() | 4.76 | Easy Blending and Resilience as Advertised | 4.55 | 4.82 | 5.00 | Retractable | 0.06 oz. | Shimmer | unknown | unknown | ||
3 | Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick | ![]() | 4.73 | Vibrant True-to-Color Finish Ideal for Long Hours | 4.65 | 4.58 | 5.00 | Retractable | 0.05 oz. | Shimmer | ||||
4 | Rare Beauty Rare Beauty All of the Above Weightless Shadow Stick growth | ![]() | 4.56 | Long-Lasting Color With Excellent Blendability | 4.56 | 4.21 | 5.00 | Retractable | 0.04 oz | shimmer | ||||
5 | KIKO New Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick | ![]() | 4.43 | Resistant to Sweat and Oil, but May Not Satisfy Those Wanting Intense Color | 4.24 | 4.19 | 5.00 | Retractable | unknown | metallic | unknown | unknown | ||
6 | Hourglass Voyeur Eyeshadow Stick | ![]() | 4.42 | Suitable for All Skin Tones and Metallic Eyeshadow Seekers | 4.34 | 4.45 | 4.50 | Retractable | 0.05 oz. | Metallic | ||||
7 | IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick | ![]() | 4.35 | Applicator for Easy Use and Great for Daily Wear | 4.49 | 4.36 | 4.17 | Retractable | 0.05 oz. | Metallic | unknown | unknown | ||
8 | SEPHORA Sephora Colorful Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick | ![]() | 4.33 | High Pigmentation, but Lacks Resistance to Oils | 4.63 | 4.16 | 4.17 | Sharpenable | 0.11 oz. | Shimmer, matte, glitter | unknown | unknown | ||
9 | Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Colour Chameleon | ![]() | 4.31 | Superb Water Resistance Coupled with Moderate User-Friendliness | 4.27 | 4.30 | 4.40 | Sharpenable | 0.05 oz. | Shimmer | unknown | unknown | unknown | |
10 | Clinique Laboratories Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes | ![]() | 4.28 | Ideal for Beginners Despite Some Wearability Issues | 4.37 | 4.74 | 3.82 | Retractable | 0.1 oz. | Matte | unknown | unknown |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Bobbi Brown's Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick 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 highly recommended product for those whose eyeshadow tends to wear off quickly. Moreover, when applied to the eyelids, it shows true to its color regardless of skin tone. The likelihood of disappointment that it doesn't match the expected color seems very low.
Regarding 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.
Capacity | 0.05 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer |
What we loved
What we didn't love
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 water and oil resistance tests also revealed that the color doesn't bleed or smudge, which resulted in 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.
Capacity | 0.06 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer |
What we loved
What we didn't love
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 a single swipe, it promises to deliver impactful eyes that last 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 included 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 water 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.
Capacity | 0.05 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | shimmer |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The All of the Above Weightless Shadow Stick from Rare Beauty is perfect for those seeking long-lasting, high-pigmentation eyeshadow. It delivers color as expected, allowing for easy gradient effects with layering. Users praised its smooth application and even finish, highlighting its excellent skin compatibility.
Its staying power is impressive, with no color change when exposed to artificial sweat or lard, demonstrating excellent water and oil resistance. It's ideal for summer use and requires minimal touch-ups even after friction.
The creamy texture spreads smoothly, and its thick tip effortlessly covers the entire eyelid, though it's less suited for precise application. Users also noted its compact size, making it easy to carry in a bag.
This eyeshadow stick is a standout choice, with top marks for pigmentation, durability, and ease of use. Its actual coloring is true to the way it looks, so it's a safe bet for online shoppers who can't check it in person.
Capacity | 0.04 oz |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | metallic |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Kiko's New Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick wowed us with its impressive staying power. It resists sweat, oil, and friction, excelling in durability tests. There was no noticeable color fading when exposed to artificial sweat or lard, making it ideal for summer use. It also withstood friction without significant changes, ensuring long-lasting makeup.
The pigmentation is also commendable, with testers noting its subtle shimmer that complements the skin's natural tone. It offers a transparent, luminous finish rather than an intense color.
The product blends easily on the skin, with good application results even when using fingers. However, applying directly with the stick is recommended as the color may fade more easily with finger application. The thick tip is better suited for broader areas like the eyelids rather than detailed application at the corners. The stick itself is well-sized for easy handling.
Overall, this eyeshadow stick stands out for its excellent pigmentation and durability. With a wide range of colors, finding a shade that suits any skin tone is easy.
Capacity | unknown |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Metallic |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Hourglass's Voyeur Eyeshadow Stick promises a lasting finish that is resistant to creasing. It is 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.
We tested it for longevity 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.
Capacity | 0.05 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Metallic |
What we loved
What we didn't love
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." Regarding ease of use, some remarked, "The applicator size is just right, and blending is easy, but the eyeshadow dries quickly." Therefore, applying and blending the eyeshadow one eye at a time might be best.
The color remained consistent when tested for oil resistance, with no signs of smudging. However, in tests for resistance to rubbing and water, there was some minor smudging, leading to a bit of a struggle in longevity.
While it might not hold up for active or outdoor activities, it's ideal for work or daily makeup routines.
Capacity | 0.05 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Sharpenable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer, matte, glitter |
What we loved
What we didn't love
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.
While some users found the applicator easy to use, others mentioned that the product dries quickly, requiring swift blending. Additionally, in the water-resistance test, it remained unaffected even when artificial sweat was applied. However, it tended to smudge when subjected to oils, 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. Pairing it with an eye primer should enhance its performance.
Capacity | 0.11 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Sharpenable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer |
What we loved
What we didn't love
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 average results might not meet expectations if you're seeking intense pigmentation with a single swipe. 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 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 inconvenient for some users, but as long as you have a sharpener, there shouldn't be an issue.
Capacity | 0.05 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool | unknown |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Matte |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Clinique Laboratories' Chubby Stick Shadow Tint For Eyes is promoted as a product that is so easy to use that you won't even need a mirror.
Its unusually thick core for a stick eyeshadow 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, negatively impacting its overall rating.
It might not suit those needing long-lasting makeup, but it should work well for short outings.
Capacity | 0.1 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable with built-in sharpener |
---|---|
Finish | Metallic |
What we loved
What we didn't love
E.L.F. Cosmetics' No Budge Shadow Stick is a stick eyeshadow boasting a creamy, blendable formula that applies easily and is promoted as 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, regarding 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.
Capacity | 0.06 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer, matte, metallic |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Julep Beauty's Eyeshadow 101 Crème-to-Powder Eyeshadow Stick is an eyeshadow stick that transitions 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.
Capacity | 0.04 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Sharpenable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer |
What we loved
What we didn't love
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.
While opinions varied in terms of pigment and ease of use, 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.
Capacity | 0.18 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
Style | Retractable |
---|---|
Finish | Shimmer, matte |
What we loved
What we didn't love
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 wear, the product didn't hold up well against artificial sweat and oils. 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.
Capacity | Shadow: 0.03 oz./ liner: 0.007 oz. |
---|---|
Built-in blending tool |
For this evaluation, we gathered and tested the top-selling 14 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.
Products we tested
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.
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.
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
If you aim to enhance your eyeshadow's vibrancy, an eyeshadow primer is recommended.
An eyeshadow primer, applied over the entire eyelid before the eyeshadow, intensifies the eyeshadow color, amplifying its vibrancy.
Even a tiny amount of eyeshadow primer can make the eyeshadow appear more vibrant, simplifying the application process.
No. 1: Bobbi Brown Professional Cosmetics|Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick
No. 2: Laura Mercier|Laura Mercier|Caviar Stick Eye Shadow
No. 3: Thrive Causemetics|Infinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
No. 4: Rare Beauty|Rare Beauty All of the Above Weightless Shadow Stick growth
No. 5: KIKO |New Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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