The 12 Best MAC Eyeshadows Of 2024, According To A Makeup Artist
Luxury makeup essentials that are easily blendable into the skin and can be used by all.
Grace has been a professional makeup artist for 5 years. Her tryst with makeup started as a hobby and developed into something more. She experimented with all sorts of makeup looks on herself and posted pictures on social media. She then went to Michael Vincent Academy to cultivate her skills and learn makeup artistry at a professional level.
Read full bio of Grace Ko
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: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
Read full bio of Srijita De
Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
The best M.A.C eyeshadows are highly pigmented, easily blendable, and extremely long-lasting. M.A.C is a leading celebrity-endorsed cosmetic brand that caters to various skin tones and types. Their wide range of shades is well-liked by consumers all over the globe. They cater to the needs of a large group of people, irrespective of skin color, age, or gender. These versatile eyeshadow palettes are used by professionals and amateurs alike. What’s more? The brand is cruelty-free too. So, go ahead and check out the best M.A.C eyeshadows available right now. These eyeshadows have garnered rave reviews from customers on various forums. Scroll down.
In This Article
12 Best M.A.C Eyeshadows
1. Best Travel-Friendly:M.A.C Eye Shadow X 9: Amber Times Nine
The M.A.C Eye Shadow X 9: Amber Times Nine is a compact palette with nine different shades in neutral colors. From matted dull gray and frosty peach to velvety bronze, this palette covers basic colors with luxurious finishes, such as frosty, matte, and satin. It is suitable for daily wear or office makeup. This palette fits in the bag easily for touch-ups throughout the day. The pigments are intense, blendable, and vibrant for a night out or a party. If you are an absolute beginner, this video detailing a tester’s experience of using this eyeshadow might help you.
Pros
- Travel-friendly
- Suitable for daily wear
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 322 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
2. Best Matte Finish:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Brun
The M.A.C Eyeshadow – Brun is a gorgeous shade of medium to dark brown with a matte finish. It goes well with both neutral and cool tones and lasts up to 8 hours without fading. This versatile color can be used to create all kinds of looks – be it a simple nude look or a dramatic smokey eye. Its smooth texture blends well without streaking or creasing. This eyeshadow can be used both wet or dry and is safe for people who wear contact lenses. It is also tested by ophthalmologists, so it will not cause eye irritation.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Matte finish
- Intense color payoff
- Lasts up to 8 hours
- Smudge-proof
- No fading
- Streak-free
- Crease-proof
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Safe for contact lens wearers
Cons
- None
3. Best Highly Pigmented Formula:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Naked Lunch
This shimmery champagne shade of peach imparts a dewy, luminous look. It also works well as a transition shade. The warm-toned, neutral peach has a frosty finish that lasts for 8 hours with minimal fallout. This eyeshadow blends well and gives a subtle sheen that makes your eye color pop. The highly pigmented powder formula can be used either wet or dry for a refined and sophisticated look. This eyeshadow is a popular staple among makeup artists for its versatility.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Lasts up to 8 hours
- Minimum fallout
- Frosty finish
- Can be used wet and dry
Cons
- Expensive
Pro TipM.A.C Eye Shadow X 9: Amber Times Nine Best Travel-Friendly | M.A.C Eye Shadow – Brun Best Matte Finish | M.A.C Eye Shadow – Naked Lunch Best Highly Pigmented Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Gold/Grey | Brun | - |
| Dimensions | 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches | 2.36 x 2.36 x 1.18 inches | 19.69 x 19.69 x 11.02 inches |
| Weight | 2.4 Ounces | 0.1 Ounces | 0.32 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 322 | 580 | 273 |
| Price | $30.8 | $23.77 | $21.23 |
4. Best Easy To Apply:M.A.C Semi-Sweet Times Nine
From creamy beige and mocha brown to matte pink and intense black, this eyeshadow palette from M.A.C has it all. This travel-sized palette is definitely a keeper. The eyeshadow is soft, blendable, super-pigmented, and easy to apply. It can be used both dry or wet and lasts up to 12 hours. The light corduroy beige shade in this eyeshadow palette is quite popular. Check out this video that features a reviewer’s experience with this palette for a detailed idea of it.
Pros
- Lasts up to 12 hours
- Travel-friendly
- Can be used wet and dry
Cons
- None
5. Best Long-Wearing:M.A.C Small Eye Shadow – Satin Taupe
This powder-based eyeshadow from M.A.C in a lovely grayish purple shade is a must-have in your collection. Satin eyeshadows in semi-matte or frosty finishes are stylish and versatile. This eyeshadow is long-wearing and has a soft texture. Its crease-free color is universally flattering for most skin tones. The mauve undertone is a show-stopper without being too dramatic or glaring.
Pros
- Crease-free
- Long-wearing
Cons
- None
Quick Tip6. Best Refillable:M.A.C Dusty Rose Times Nine
The M.A.C Dusty Rose Times Nine in nine different shades can be used to create endless looks. This pocket-sized palette is super handy and refillable. The colors are in different finishes – satin, frost, and matte. These pigments are well saturated and can be used both wet or dry.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Refillable
- Revel-friendly
- Can be used wet and dry
Cons
- None
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
With 475 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
7. Best Buildable:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Vanilla
The M.A.C Eye Shadow in Vanilla is a staple favorite among makeup enthusiasts. This beautiful light beige with a hint of pink has a soft, delicate texture. It is buildable and has good pigmentation that compliments warm tones. The satin finish is flirty and feminine – perfect for a romantic date night. Many reviewers agree that this eyeshadow imparts a luminous effect to the eyes without being too shimmery.
Pros
- Buildable
- Satin finish
Cons
- None
8. Best Crease-Proof:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Charcoal Brown
The M.A.C Eye Shadow in Charcoal Brown is perfect for everyday wear. It is well-pigmented and has a smooth texture. This eye-catching muted brown shade blends effortlessly without creasing. The matte finish is suitable for yellow undertones. This eyeshadow is a great base shade for a sultry brown smokey eye, which is mildly dramatic but as effective as the intense dark smokey eye. You can use this product to line the upper eyelid for a defined look.
Pros
- Matte finish
- Good blendability
- Crease-proof
Cons
- None
9. Best No-Fading:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Yogurt
This chalky pink shade is suitable for light skin tones. The matte finish lasts for up to 7 hours without fading or creasing. The neutral base can be used for creating cute and playful looks. This eyeshadow works well with bold colors and blends easily. It highlights the eyes, making them look big and bright.
Pros
- Matte finish
- Lasts up to 7 hours
- No fading
- No creasing
Cons
- None
10. Best Coverage:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Sketch
If you want to try the plum smokey eye, this eyeshadow is your best bet. The medium-dark brownish burgundy shade has a royal feel. The eyeshadow has a satin finish, is super blendable, and delivers exceptional results. It offers rich coverage that lasts for 8 hours. This product can be used on the crease but works best as the outer corner color for that classic look.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Lasts up to 8 hours
- Satin finish
Cons
- None
11. Best Versatile:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Sweet Heat
This sheer metallic highlight shade eyeshadow lasts up to six hours and gives you a soft, peachy nude look with a hint of shimmer. It works well on the inner corners of the eyes. This liquid-powder eyeshadow with prismatic reflections has high color payoff and blends smoothly. It complements warm undertones and offers a versatile effect – from sheer crystallized light to polished metallic.
Pros
- Lasts up to 6 hours
- Contains prismatic reflections
Cons
- None
12. Best Seamless:M.A.C Eye Shadow – Espresso
The M.A.C Eye Shadow in Espresso is a dark brownish shade with a matte finish. It works well for smokey eyes as it is well pigmented and blends seamlessly. This eyeshadow is super versatile and can be used as an eyeliner for everyday looks. Its smooth texture is a suitable base for a nude makeup look. This warm-toned eyeshadow doubles as a brow filler as it blends well without being glaring. It lasts up to 8 hours without creasing or fading.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Lasts up to 8 hours
- No creasing
- No fading
- Matte finish
Cons
- None
Infographic: How To Choose The Best MAC Eyeshadow
If you like creating expressive eye looks, the right eyeshadow is what you need. Makeup lovers rave about MAC eyeshadows as they are highly pigmented and have amazing staying power. If you are looking at investing in one, check out the infographic below to learn what to consider when buying a MAC eyeshadow. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
M.A.C is one of the most trusted beauty brands available in the market. M.A.C. eyeshadows are expertly crafted to be long-lasting. They blend easily on your skin without causing irritations. Many makeup enthusiasts trust M.A.C because the brand is best for touch-ups and heavy makeup as well. Though their eyeshadow palettes are priced at the higher end, they can be used to create a lot of great looks. For instance, the M.A.C Eye Shadow X 9: Amber Times Nine offers a versatile warm-toned palette, while the M.A.C Eye Shadow – Brun provides a deep matte brown shade, and the M.A.C Semi-Sweet Times Nine features a mix of neutral and brown shades. The best part is, many M.A.C eyeshadows are also the best for people who wear contact lenses. You should choose M.A.C eyeshadows that don’t form creases or cracks after use. A few of their limited edition featuring metallic and neutral shades are also worth a try. However, remember to test the eyeshadow on a small patch of your skin to check for allergies before applying it directly to your lids.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MAC have good eyeshadows?
Yes, MAC offers good eyeshadows that are richly pigmented and creaseless. They offer great longevity and blend well with your skin.
Are MAC eyeshadows long lasting?
Yes, MAC eyeshadows are long-lasting and offer minimal fallout. They can stay up to eight hours.
Is Mac eyeshadow better than Urban Decay?
Both MAC and Urban Decay offer unique features in their eyeshadow palettes. While MAC offers great color payoff and blends well, Urban Decay’s eyeshadows have better texture.
Which MAC eyeshadow is best for green eyes?
People with green eyes can go for MAC eyeshadows with red undertones or earthy shades. MAC’s duo chrome or Metallic eyeshadows also look great on green eyes.
Do eyeshadows expire?
Yes, eyeshadows expire in two to three years. Therefore, it is recommended to replace eyeshadows within a year or two.
What is the best MAC eyeshadow color for brown eyes?
MAC eyeshadows with silver tones complement brown eyes well. Gold, rose gold, and shimmery yellow MAC eyeshadows can also work wonders on brown eyes.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Baishali Bhattacharya is a certified makeup techniques guide and has compiled this list of the best MAC eye shadows to enhance your makeup game. These eye shadows are highly pigmented and blend smoothly for a professional look. These products have been handpicked after carefully analyzing their user reviews and suitability for different skin tones. A buying guide has also been prepared to help you choose the best product.
Read full bio of Grace Ko
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
Read full bio of Srijita De
Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury
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.