Best Shimmery Cream Eyeshadow
Victoria Beckham Beauty Lid Lustre
Credit: Violet GreyVictoria Beckham Beauty's Lid Lustre shadows offer the perfect hint of shimmer without going overboard and are available in nine color options.
Best Cream Eyeshadow Palette
Tom Ford Eye Color Crème Eyeshadow Quad
Credit: SephoraIf you're in the market for a new go-to compact, consider this top-rated eyeshadow quad from Tom Ford Beauty that one Sephora customer says has "gorgeous packaging, to start." Plus, it "feels luxurious. The shadow colors are stunning. Buttery smooth, highly pigmented, and oh so blendable. The rich colors look amazing, and can achieve a lovely daytime or night out look."
Best Long-Lasting Cream Eyeshadow
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise
Credit: Charlotte TilburyCharlotte Tilbury's beloved cream eyeshadow is made to stay put and contains a flexible, water-infused formula that also features vitamin E as a star ingredient to keep your lids nourished.
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Best Cream Eyeshadow Stick
Julep Eyeshadow 101 Crème to Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
Now 30% Off
Credit: AmazonMore than 29,000 Amazon customers are raving about this culty cream-to-powder dual-end eyeshadow stick that includes a built-in smudge tool for easy application.
Best Vegan Cream Eyeshadow
RMS Beauty Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow
Credit: DermstoreWhether you decide to use your fingers or a makeup tool to apply, this ophthalmologist-tested (and highly pigmented) shadow glides over the eyes like butter.
Best Cream Eyeshadow Set
Westman Atelier Eye Pods
Credit: Violet GreyCelebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman created this trio of eyeshadows with portability in mind, since they magnetically snap together for easy transport. Plus, each set makes for foolproof application, as it includes a core shade for a base, an accent shade for color, and a third shade to highlight and brighten your lids.
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Best Buildable Cream Eyeshadow
Beautycounter Lid Glow Cream Shadow
Credit: BeautycounterThis creamy shadow features a bevy of soothing ingredients, like cucumber and chamomile, plus moisturizing coconut oil and shea butter to minimize lid creasing.
Most Versatile Cream Eyeshadow
Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Eye, Cheek & Lip Cream Pigment
Now 44% Off
Credit: SephoraYou can use this multipurpose cream pigment from Danessa Myricks Beauty just about anywhere on the face, including your eyes, cheeks, and even lips for supreme color payoff.
Best Cream Eyeshadow for Sensitive Eyes
Glossier Lidstar
Credit: GlossierHere's a buildable shadow that's ideal for contact lens wearers and those with sensitive eyes; it's fragrance free, as well as both dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested.
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Best SPF-Infused Cream Eyeshadow
Supergoop! Shimmershade SPF 30
Credit: Supergoop!Keep your lids protected and bedazzled with this skincare-makeup hybrid mineral shadow from Supergoop! that contains SPF 30.
Best Travel-Friendly Cream Eyeshadow
NUDESTIX Magnetic Luminous Eyeshadow
Credit: NordstromThis handy eyeshadow pencil from NUDESTIX not only nicely includes its own carrying case, but also a sharpener to keep your tool sharp.
Most Beloved Cream Eyeshadow
MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Paint Pot
Credit: MAC CosmeticsBeauty influencers and professional makeup artists swear by MAC's Pro Longwear Paint Pots for a seamless eyeshadow base or all-over color that doesn't budge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to apply cream eyeshadow?
Though using a brush is always a great application option for precision, the best cream eyeshadows tend to have a thicker consistency than their liquid or powder counterparts, which also makes them finger friendly.
Do cream eyeshadows require primer first?
Not using an eye primer before shadow isn't a beauty deal breaker, but those with oily lids may want to consider incorporating one into their routine to help their look last as long as possible. A great primer can also be helpful in minimizing unsightly eyeshadow creasing overall.
Is a cream eyeshadow the best formula to use?
That all depends on what you're looking for. We still love a good powder or liquid shadow, too—ultimately the best eyeshadow formula is one that works well for your specific needs and offers exceptional color payoff.
Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.
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