11 Best Metallic Eyeshadows
Flaunt your bold eyes with these metallic hues without breaking a sweat.
Nyssa GreenMakeup Artist
Expertise: Makeup
Experience: 20 years
Nyssa Green is an Emmy award winning makeup artist and a trusted beauty and lifestyle expert with over 20 years of experience. Her diverse portfolio of clients includes celebrities from all walks of life, like Alicia Keys, Bono, Jane Fonda,... more
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Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes... more
Srijani Roy ChowdhuryCertified In Makeup Artistry, Certified Style & Image Consultant
Expertise: Makeup & Fashion
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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
Asmita DeCertified In Makeup Artistry, Certified Style & Image Consultant
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Asmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reput... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
If you are thinking of using the best metallic eyeshadows, we will tell you why that’s a good ideal. Metallic eyeshadows never run out of trend, and they are the boldest options to go for when in the mood to shine. The color is the ultimate choice for standing out and is perfect for flaunting in the festive season. Not only do they not have fallout and are easy to use, but they also have a mess-free application so that you don’t have to test your artistic skills while applying them. If you plan to buy one for yourself, check our list of the 11 highest-rated metallic eyeshadows to invest in.
In This Article
11 Best Metallic Eyeshadows
1. Best Overall:Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Sparkle Stick
Image: Bobbibrowncosmetics Review
This luxurious, pearl-infused eyeshadow stick from Bobbi Brown is perfect for beginners. This multidimensional metallic eyeshadow gives you all the shine in the world without the mess you might experience with a loose powder formula. This 8-hour formula applies and blends effortlessly, while the multidimensional pearls in it deliver a high-impact, glistening finish. This eyeshadow is available in nine gorgeous shades.
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy to use
- Long-wearing
- Creamy formula
- Highly pigmented
Cons
- Expensive
2. Best Long-Wearing:Milani Hypnotic Lights Eye Toppers
Image: Milani Review
If you’re trying to achieve a prismatic effect, this metallic liquid eyeshadow from Milani has got to be your go-to product. Its water-based formula can be used alone or layered on top of another eyeshadow for a dazzling chrome finish. Our favorite shade is Luster Light, a champagne-y, shimmering rose gold. This eyeshadow is available in a range of four lit shades. This video will help you understand the product better.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- No fallout
- Pigmented
Cons
None
Quick Tip3. Best Shine:L’Oréal Paris Infallible Paints Eyeshadow Metallics
Image: Loreal Paris This drugstore metallic eyeshadow from L’Oréal Paris Infallible Paints Eyeshadow Metallics is a high-impact eye makeup product that offers hours of extended stay. It can be applied damp to achieve a sensual foiled finish metallic look. This creamy pressed powder is available in five great shades, each to complement your various moods and looks. This easily blendable eyeshadow lasts all day without any smudges or creases. Nyssa Green, a makeup artist, recommends this saying, “Try wetting it and using it as a liner for a different look, you’ll love it!”.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Little goes a long way
- Highly pigmented
- Versatile
- Suitable for dramatic eye makeup
Cons
None
4. Best Versatile:Girlactik Metallic Sparkle Eye Shadow
Image: Girlactik The Girlactik Metallic Sparkle Eye Shadow helps showcase your creativity and match your party moods. You can try the gunmetal shade for a dramatic look, bronze for a glamorous look, olive to exude sexiness, pink for a lovely, and taupe for an extravagant shimmery look. Watch this video to know more about the reviews of this product. This velvety formula blends easily on the lids and prevents fading or creases all day.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Vegan
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
None
5. Best Multipurpose:EyeSeek Liquid Glitter Eyeshadow
Image: Luxaza The EyeSeek Liquid Glitter Eyeshadow offers six different metallic shades for various moods and outfits. These are infused with vibrant metallic color pigments and phosphorescent pearls to give you that glammed-up shine. These blend seamlessly and offer a 10-hour long smudge-proof and crease-proof wear. Use the applicator to highlight your cat eye or dab a little in the inner corner of your eyes for a sheer glossy look. This eyeshadow can also be used to highlight your forehead, cheeks, chin, nose, and clavicle. It is easy to apply and remove for quick touch-ups on the go.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Lightweight
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May be too sheer for some
Quick Tip6. Best Comfortable Wear:e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow
Image: E.l.f Wearing glittery eyeshadows can be difficult as most don’t stay put all day, but the e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow is comfortable to wear all day long. It is easy to apply with the help of its applicator brush. The gel formula is infused with multi-dimensional glistening pearls that offers a high shine. It provides a quick-drying, one-swipe coverage that is suitable for a bold or subtle eye look.
Pros
- Easily blendable
- Skin-loving ingredients
- budget-friendly
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
None
7. Best Holographic Shimmers:Urban Decay Elements Eyeshadow Palette
Image: Urbandecay Review
Urban Decay’s Elements Eyeshadow Palette contains 19 mystical shades in a celestial, ultra-sleek case. This holographic metallic eyeshadow includes molten metallics and bright mattes to help you create a whole bunch of fabulous looks.
Pros
- Easy to blend
- Unique colors
- Long-wearing
- No fallout
- Value for money
Cons
None
8. Best For Beginners:Stila Matte ‘N Metal Eyeshadow Palette
Image: Stila Matte Review
This luxurious twelve-shade palette from Stila consists of six mega metallic and six modern matte shades. This high-impact metallic eyeshadow helps you create eye-catching color combos with the right mix of shimmer and matte. If you really want to dazzle, this palette is a must-try! It is especially great for beginners.
Pros
- Smooth formula
- No fallout
- Easy to blend
- Versatile shades that flatter all skin tones
- Paraben-free
Cons
None
9. Best Affordable: Wet N Wild Color Icon Glitter Eyeshadow Shimmer Spiked
Image: Wet N Wild Fancy being the party star but on a budget? Well, we’ve got you. The Wet N Wild Color Icon Glitter Eyeshadow Shimmer Spiked is as graceful yet bold to make your eyes sparkle. This long-lasting formula is enriched with vitamin E that moisturizes your eyelids and ensures silky-smooth application. This longwearing eyeshadow is highly pigmented and blends easily like butter on a hot surface!
Pros
- Fade-rpoof
- Super-saturated
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
None
10. Best Shade Range: Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème To Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
Image: Julep The Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème To Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick is highly pigmented with a brilliant metallic finish. It is available in a whopping 30 great shades across matte, shimmer, and metallic finishes! It goes well with all occasions for both day and night events. This cream-to-powder eyeshadow stick is enriched with vitamin C that soothes and brightens the skin, vitamin E to protect delicate skin, and candellila wax that promotes easy blending. Its antioxidants protect your skin from free radical damage and keeps your skin young and the eyeshadow crease-free.
Pros
- Nourishes the skin
- Easy application
- Water-resistant
- Built-in blender
Cons
None
11. Best Matte: Eyeshadow Palette by Almay
Image: Almay The metallic Eyeshadow Palette By Almay is a cost-effective fit in your budget like buying a coffee at Starbucks. Its versatile pressed powder lets you play with creativity and style. You can try dynamic combos of shades like matter, glitter, satin, and metallic to make your eyes glamorous. It delivers bold metallic color in a single swipe. This unique eyeshadow is available in 15 show-stopping shades.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Easily bendable
- Quality ingredients
- Long-lasting
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Not very pigmented
The Bottom Line
Eyeshadows enhance your overall makeup look. They make you appear elegant and attractive. Unlike regular eyeshadows, metallic eyeshadows come with a high shine, great color, and metallic texture. These shades look shiny and resemble metals like bronze, silver, gold, and copper. In addition, metallic eyeshadows amp up your glam look. The lightweight and pigmented eyeshadows blend well on the skin and appear beautiful. The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Sparkle Stick offers a mess-free, easy application, while the Milani Hypnotic Lights Eye Toppers is a water-based formula that feels lightweight and can be layered as well for versatile looks. Further, the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Paints Eyeshadow Metallics is a rich easy-to-blend formula that helps prevent possible smudging. Consider investing in eyeshadows that offer long-wearing for a touch-up-free day. But stay away from eyeshadows that turn creasy when they dry.
Infographic: How To Choose & Apply A Metallic Eyeshadow For Daytime Looks
People generally think that the glitter and shine of metallic eyeshadows may not look good in the daylight. But it is not true. The trick lies in choosing the right shades and applying them the right way. Check out the infographic below for a few tips.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between shimmer and metallic eyeshadow?
Metallic eyeshadows look like actual metal. They usually have gold or silver undertones with a foiled effect. They are highly pigmented and perfect for night occasions. On the other hand, shimmer eyeshadows provide a subtle shine to your lids and add a hint of sparkle. They offer sheer coverage to the lids and offer a natural look.
How do you wear metallic eyeshadow?
Follow these metallic eyeshadow application techniques for the best results:
• Apply a thin layer of primer to the lids.
• Swipe a padded brush on a glitter eyeshadow.
• Press the brush on the lids. Then, cover the lids entirely with the metallic eyeshadow.
• Swipe the brush in a matte eyeshadow color.
• Apply it to your crease line and slowly blend the color in with the metallic shade.
Are metallic eyeshadows safe?
No. The specks of glitter in a metallic eyeshadow may irritate sensitive eyes. Contact lens wearers need to be more careful while applying the eyeshadow to prevent it from entering the eyes.
Can you wear metallic eyeshadow over 40?
No. Metallic eyeshadows tend to settle between fine lines and wrinkles. Therefore, skip wearing metallic eyeshadows after 40. Instead, opt for shimmer shadows.
What is metallic finish eyeshadow?
Metallic finish eyeshadows feature golden and silver undertones and resemble real metals. They provide a foiled eyeshadow look to your lids and are ideal for parties.
Should I use metallic or shimmer eyeshadow?
Use metallic eyeshadow if you wish to achieve a shiny, bright, and sparkly eye look. And opt for a shimmer eyeshadow if you want sheer, natural-looking eye makeup.
What do you put on eyelids before eyeshadow?
Wear an eye primer on the lids before applying eyeshadow to neutralize discolorations and hold the eyeshadow in place.
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