13 Best Eyeshadow Singles Of 2024 To Buy, According To A Makeup Artist
Glam up your eyes with stunning shades and add radiance and intensity to your eyes.
Kerrin is a 4-time Emmy-nominated film and television makeup artist. She has worked on TV shows, such as The Walking Dead, The Mandalorian, and Our Flag Means Death, and films, such as Star Wars - Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars - Attack of the Clones, Guardians of the Galaxy 2, The Hobbit Trilogy, and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales to name a few.
Read full bio of Kerrin Jackson
Baishali is a beauty and lifestyle writer and holds a master's degree in English from Assam University. She specializes in makeup and fashion and is also a certified Style and Image Consultant. Prior to this, she was a part of a digital marketing company in Kolkata where she wrote stories on travel, beauty, and home décor.
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani 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 certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Image: Shutterstock
Singles eyeshades are the new rage among makeup enthusiasts, and for good reasons. The best eye shadow singles in our list are not only convenient but also offer stunning shades to glam up your eyes. These products are easy to carry and can be applied on the go. So, explore our list and pick the suitable shades that add depth and drama to your eyes. Swipe up for more.
In This Article
13 Best Single Eyeshadows To Buy
1. Best Texture:Belé MakeUp Italia b.One Eyeshadow
The Belé MakeUp Italia b.One Eyeshadow is a high-quality single eyeshadow that delivers rich, vibrant color with its silky, smooth texture. There are over 100 unique shades, including matte, shimmer, and metallic finishes, which can help create various stunning eye looks. The eyeshadow is perfect for all-day wear, as it has a velvet smooth texture that blends easily and is crease-free and long-lasting. This iconic eyeshadow palette offers a perfectly polished and sophisticated look. What’s more? This eyeshadow is not tested on animals, ensuring a guilt-free experience.
Pros
- Crease-resistant
- Long wearing formula
- Velvety smooth texture
- Blends easily
- Cruelty-free
- GMO-free
Cons
- Some may not find it highly pigmented
Pro Tip2. Best Crease-Proof:L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Shadow
The Infallible 24HR eye shadows glide effortlessly on your eyelids, giving you an intense color that lasts 24 hours. This metallic eyeshadow is a powder-cream formula from the celebrity-endorsed brand that is available in multiple colors. Each of the colors has a matte, glittery, or shimmery finish. This glitter eyeshadow is waterproof and crease-resistant. The velvety formula of this impactful eyeshadow is highly pigmented.
Pros
- Crease-resistant
- Velvety formula
- Waterproof
- Fade-resistant
- 24-hour stay
- Pigmented with metallic shine
Cons
- None
3. Best Cruelty-Free:Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eyeshadow Kit
This eyeshadow has a silky, sheer formula that blends easily to give you the desired look. It is available in multiple shades, and you can pick colors as per your mood. It has shadows in matte, pearly, and sparkly finishes, and each shade comes with a double-ended applicator with soft sponge tips. Check out this video detailing a tester’s experience with this product before buying it.
Pros
- Available in multiple shades
- Cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny certified)
- Smooth application
- Good coverage
Cons
- Not all shades are deeply pigmented.
Belé MakeUp Italia b.One Eyeshadow Best Texture | L'Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Shadow Best Crease-Proof | Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eyeshadow Kit Best Cruelty-Free | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | #93 Ivory. | Iced Latte | Glitzy Gold |
| Package Dimensions | 1.9 x 1.9 x 0.2 inches; 0.63 Ounces | - | - |
| Dimensions | - | 1.59 x 1.59 x 0.71 inches | 2.56 x 2.01 x 0.41 inches |
| Weight | - | 0.12 Ounces. | 0.04 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | - | 5,280 | 10,327 |
| Price | $19 | $9.49 | $3.28 |
4. Best Long-Lasting:Anastasia Beverly Hills Eyeshadow Single
Anastasia Beverly Hills Single Eyeshadow is highly pigmented and offers an intense color payoff with a soft, blendable texture and gives cushiony soft feeling. Formulated with finely milled, ultra-fine pigments, it ensures a smooth, even application with minimal fallout. It has a wide range of shades to choose from, including matte, shimmer, and metallic, and is long-wearing and crease-resistant, making it ideal for all-day wear. One can pair it with gel eyeliner for a chic look.
Pros
- Crease-resistant
- Blends easily
- Intense color payoff
- Long-lasting
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- None
Pro Tip5. Best Waterproof:Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow
This is a luxurious and vibrant creme eyeshadow and is developed with the ColorStay technology. It has strong, flexible polymers that form a waterproof layer after application. This makes it last longer and allows for easy, mess-free application. It is available in 12 different shades and four different finishes (matte, metallic, satin, and pearl). Take a look at this video to explore a reviewer’s experience with this product.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Waterproof
- Easy to blend
- Built-in brush
Cons
- None
6. Best Smudge-Proof:e.l.f. No Budge Cream Eyeshadow
This no-budge cream eyeshadow by e.l.f. comes in a beautiful shade of ‘sand dune’ that is suitable for various occasions and events. The product is available in a cream formula that allows for smooth application with zero possible creases. It is smudge-proof, ensuring a long-lasting effect, and provides a subtle sheer finish.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Creamy texture
- Easy to use
- Richly pigmented
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- May seem patchy
7. Best Pigmentation:stila Eye Shadow Compact
These eyeshadows are available as single-pressed compacts and come in a wide range of options, right from neutrals to shimmers. This matte eye shadow has a high-intensity formula that delivers long-lasting and smooth colors and can be applied both wet and dry.
Pros
- Available in matte and metallic shades
- High-quality formula
- Smooth texture
Cons
- None
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 531 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
8. Best For Sensitive Eyes:jane iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow
This rich eyeshadow by jane iredale is specially curated with a crease-resistant formula that supports a smooth, effortless eye makeup look. It is richly pigmented, long-lasting, and suitable for all skin types, especially those with sensitive eyes. It is enriched with jojoba seed oil and shea butter, which allows for easy blending. The dermatologist-tested product also gives off a soft metallic finish that brightens the eyes.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Highly-pigmented
- Creaseless formula
- Long-lasting
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- None
9. Best Matte Finish:Annabelle Matte Single Eyeshadow
The Annabelle Matte Single Eyeshadow gives a seamless matte finish that lasts on your eyes throughout the day. It is an extremely versatile product that can be used as an eyeshadow and a bronzer. This matte shade has a satin finish and blends perfectly and can be used for various makeup looks. Many reviewers agree that the texture of the product is creamy and silky which glides effortlessly on the skin. It is available in 6 stunning shades, ideal for everyday use.
Pros
- Blends well
- Easy to use
- Long-lasting
- Satin-like texture
Cons
- Shade may be lighter than it appears
10. Best Hypoallergenic:Wet N Wild Color Icon Matte Eyeshadow Single
This highly pigmented Wet N Wild Color Icon Matte Single Eyeshadow is a highly pigmented eyeshadow palette. This eyeshadow formula has a beautiful and easy-to-blend texture that glides smoothly on eyelids. The rich, vibrant color creates a unique pearlized, satiny texture that won’t fade or crease. This long-lasting formula is made of high-quality pigments and is perfect for creating a variety of stunning looks for daily wear. Many reviewers love this eyeshadow as it is blendable and imparts a natural glow even after hours of wear.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Fragrance-free
- Satin smooth texture
- Long lasting
- Cease proof
Cons
- Colors may be sheer than they appear
11. Best Creamy Formula:Eddie Funkhouser Hyperreal Eye Color
The Eddie Funkhouser Hyperrea eyeshadows are made with premium micro-milled pigments. These are incredibly vibrant and ultra-smooth, making them a great addition to your makeup routine. They blend like silk and last long. The versatile range of trendy shades is available in multiple finishes, such as matte, shimmer, and pearl.
Pros
- Intense pigments
- Extended-wear formula
- Blendable texture
- Creamy formula
Cons
- None
12. Best Travel-Friendly:Neutrogena Shimmer Eye Shadow
This shimmer eyeshadow by Neutrogena is a highly pigmented shade in burnt sienna color. Apply it using a brush or with your fingers and see the color bloom in just a single swipe. It is formulated with vitamin E, an antioxidant that keeps your skin safe. This eyeshadow provides a true color. You can use this alone or pair it with a matte eyeshadow to create a statement-making look. This eyeshadow from the expert-recommended brand is safe for your eyes even if you wear glasses or contact lenses.
Pros
- Highly pigmented
- Buildable
- Long-lasting
- Blends easily
- Crease-resistant
- Easy to use
- Paraben-free
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- None
13. Best Blendable:Rimmel London Magnif’eyes Mono Eyeshadow
The Magnif’eyes Mono Eye Shadow by Rimmel has an ultra-blendable formula. It is available in different shades and finishes like high glitter, shimmer, and matte. It has a silky, smooth finish and stays on your eyelids for the entire day or night without budging.
Pros
- Ultra-blendable formula
- Smooth texture
- Silky finish
- All-day wear
- Highly pigmented
Cons
- None
Before you pick any of these single eyeshadows, you need to be aware of the colors that will suit your skin tone. Here are a few tips to achieve this.
How To Choose The Right Eyeshadow
1. Pick As Per Your Skin Tone
If you have cool undertones, go for mauves, lavender, pinks, and purples. You can also buy shades that are close to these shades. Try lighter shades, including cream and beige to brighten up the eye area.
If you have warm undertones, go for coppers, rose gold, bronzes, and browns that lean towards yellow, orange, or light gold to open up your eyes.
If you have neutral undertones, you are lucky to experiment with any color you like.
If you have olive undertones, use shades that suit both cool and warm undertones. However, be careful with shades of pink, red, and purple as these colors may make your skin appear green. On the other hand, any earthy and green tone will suit your skin.
2. Pick As Per Your Eye Color
If you have brown eyes, play around with colors, especially those with metallic and shimmery finishes. Brown is a neutral color. Dark brown appears almost black, while light brown eyes have a golden-green tint. Hence, you can use bold colors like blues and mauves to enhance the golden and green tints, respectively.
If you have green eyes, coppers and earthy greens are appealing shades. You can also try red, mauve, and purple as these colors will enhance green eyes.
If you have blue eyes, try cool tones like mauve and pink to enhance the blue color. You may also try neutral tones like browns, taupe, bronze, peach, and rose gold.
Now once you have picked your single eyeshadows, here are a few tips for using them.
How To Use A Single Eyeshadow
- Apply eyelid primer from your lash line up to the place below the eyebrow. Blend properly.
- Use a flat eyeshadow brush to pick some product from the container. Tap off the excess eyeshadow from the brush. Apply it by tapping the eyeshadow on the eyelids.
- If you are using a cream or liquid eyeshadow, apply it with your fingers or blend it with a sponge. Apply the eyeshadow on your crease with a round eyeshadow brush. Tap the shadow on the corner of your eye and drag the brush inwards.
- Use a blending brush to blend the edges.
- Apply mascara to finish off the look.
Infographic: How To Choose The Best Eyeshadow Single
Eyeshadow singles are handy eye makeup essentials that fit easily in your handbag. You can create different eye makeup looks with them. However, not all eyeshadow singles that are available in the market are safe for the eyes or are adequately pigmented. Therefore, check the infographic below to know what factors to keep in mind when buying one to make an informed decision.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Makeup enthusiasts love adding the best eyeshadow singles to your collection. The listed eyeshadow shades help glam up your eyes and deliver exceptional results each time. In addition, they help in improving your confidence levels and make you feel like a star. The Belé MakeUp Italia b.One Eyeshadow is perfect for all-day wear, while the L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Shadow is great for those who want a highly-pigmented velvety formula. The e.l.f. No Budge Cream Eyeshadow provides a budget-friendly option with a subtle sheer finish. These products are available in various shades to suit all skin tones. The highly pigmented shades offer an intense color payoff that easily blends with the skin and other makeup products. In addition, these eyeshadow singles are waterproof, hypoallergenic, and provide long-lasting results. However, some products may not suit sensitive skin types. Always do a patch test to check for reactions. Additionally, check what reviewers have to say about the products to pick the best one!
, 4-time Emmy-nominated film and television makeup artist, says, “Eyeshadow singles are perfect to carry with you when you’re on the go. If you have your favorite staple eyeshadow, then I’m sure you carry it as an individual color as well as in a palette! Particularly cream eyeshadows, which I love, are invaluable. When you find the shade you love, stick with it!”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it ok to only use one eyeshadow color?
Yes, it is perfectly okay to use one eyeshadow color. You can either apply one versatile shadow to make it look more than a single color or do a flat wash on the eyes. A one-eyeshadow look is ideal if you want a textured, dazzling shimmer.
How do I remove eyeshadows?
• Wash your hands to prevent any dirt or impurities from entering your eyes.
• Soak a cotton ball or pad in a dual-phase (a combination of water and oil) eye makeup remover.
• Press the cotton pad gently on your closed eye and let it sit for 10 seconds.
• Swipe over your eyes in a gentle downward motion without harsh rubbing or pressure.
• Use repeated downward sweeps until your eye is free of makeup.
• Rinse your eye area, especially the lash line and inner corners, to cleanse any traces of makeup.
How long do eyeshadows last?
The shelf life of a powdered eye shadow is 36 months. If it is a cream-based formula, it will last nine months. After this period, the chances of germs and bacteria harboring are higher.
Is a highlighter the same as a single eyeshadow?
No, they are not the same. However, your highlighter can double up as an eyeshadow if you want to keep your makeup bag lighter. A highlighter will impart a subtle, natural effect and create a glossy, iconic eye look without creasing.
Does single eyeshadow look good on mature eyes?
Yes. A single shadow will offer statement-making eye looks on mature people if the formula is cream-based. Cream eyeshadow is hydrating and provides a smoother finish without accentuating wrinkles, fine lines, or streaks.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Baishali Bhattacharya, the author of this article, is certified in makeup artistry. She knows how the perfect eyeshadow can glam up your look in a matter of seconds. To help you out, she has tried out several eyeshadow singles, checked online reviews on trusted platform, and come up with this list of the best ones out there. They are easy to use, affordable, and stay put for a long time.
Read full bio of Kerrin Jackson
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.