How to Use An Eyeshadow Palette

If you’re new to makeup or maybe just splurged on a brand new 12-pan palette, then scroll down to learn how to use an eyeshadow palette!

 

Makeup for beginners: How to use an eyeshadow palette

Using an eyeshadow palette can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not a makeup expert. Here’s how to use an eyeshadow palette and get the most out of your palette for a pretty, everyday makeup look.

For the purpose of this blog post, I’ll be referencing my favorite, everyday neutral eyeshadow palette: Tartelette in Bloom. It has 12 shades total (a combo of lid, crease and liner shades) and they are also arranged in coordinating rows for easy go-to looks. For more everyday neutral palette options, check out this blog post.

But first, here are the makeup brushes you’ll need:
Fluffy eyeshadow brush
Tapered crease brush
Blending brush
Angled liner brush

If you’re on the hunt for new makeup brushes, you may want to consider purchasing an affordable set like this one from Real Techniques.

Tarte Tartelette in Bloom Eyeshadow Palette

How to use an eyeshadow palette for makeup beginners

Here’s a natural eye look for the makeup minimalist:

Step 1: Primer

In general, you always want to prime your eyes before applying any shadow. This will help prevent creasing and keep your shadow looking fresh all day long.

Personally, I like a formula that will prime my lids and cover up my discoloration and veins around my lids. After I’ve applied my eye primer, I’ll use the shade charmer (matte off white) and apply it over my lid to set everything.

Step 2: Build your base

For a natural look, you’ll want to use a neutral shade that is slightly darker than your skin tone. Use a fluffy eyeshadow brush and spread across your entire eyelid. In this palette, I like to use the shade Flower Child (matte peachy nude) for an easy, or Funny Girl (shimmering champagne).

Step 3: Define your crease

Your crease is located where your eyelid would naturally fold. Swap out your fluffy brush for a brush with short, tapered bristles and use a darker shade that will add depth. I tend to use the shade jetsetter (matte warm taupe) on my crease but other shade options for the crease include: smarty pants (tan), sweetheart (peach).

Step 4: Blend

A blending brush will balance any harsh lines where the base color and darker crease color meet.

Step 5: Shadow as liner

Sometimes liquid liner can be too intense for an everyday natural makeup look. That’s where the darker shadows come into play. Use a flat angled brush to line your upper lash line with the darkest shade in the palette. In Tartelette in Bloom, smokeshow (black brown), activist (dark brown) and leader (aubergine) are all options.

Step 6: Highlight

Finally, you’ll want to add highlighter using the lightest color (shimmer works wonders) and place it under your brow bone and the inner corners of your eyes. For this last step, you can use a flat brush or your finger.

I’ve linked my favorite tools and eyeshadow palette for you to shop below!

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