Finish: shimmery, metallic | Shades: 7 | Waterproof? no
Best for Mature Skin: RMS Beauty Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow
Why it’s worth it: RMS Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow is a treat for people with mature skin who crave a wash of color as much as a little extra nourishment. Long-wearing, buildable, and crease-proof (another win for mature lids), it leaves behind a light-scattering finish that easily transitions from desk to drinks. Firming quinoa peptides and antioxidant-rich green tea extract bring lid-smoothing skin-care perks, while the metal tube and turn key combo ensure you squeeze out every last drop.
Tester feedback: “I have premature aging around my eyes due to years of itching and putting steroid cream onto my eyelid eczema patches (I know—bad idea), but this is a cream eye shadow I’ve come to really count on,” says shopping director Shanna Shipin. “It wears comfortably, has buildable color payoff, spreads easily (I just use my fingers!), and doesn’t accentuate my thinning skin or wrinkles—thanks to the luminosity and metallic nature of the shades. The only downside is that it doesn’t last as long as most powder eye shadows, but that’s a small price to pay for zero irritation!”
Finish: light-scattering | Shades: 10 | Waterproof? no
Best Liquid Hybrid: Sisley-Paris Ombre Éclat Liquide Eyeshadow
Why it’s worth it: The smooth-as-heck Sisley-Paris Ombre Éclat Liquide Eyeshadow is an all-day formula that delivers rich color payoff in a single swipe. Though it’s a liquid-cream formula with the potential of serious opacity, a light-handed application lets you build anywhere from a sheer, luminous wash to full-on luster. And yes, it’s a tad splurgey, but quality is everything, baby. Dab a bit of Champagne in your inner corners for an instant brightness boost.
Tester feedback: “I’m perpetually running five minutes behind during my morning beauty routine, but two swipes of the Sisley-Paris Liquid Shadow (in Copper and Pink Gold) and I’m ready to head out the door with that sparkle that adds a little pep in my step during the day,” says Silva.
Finish: luminous | Shades: 9 | Waterproof? no
Frequently Asked Questions
How are cream eye shadows different from powder and liquid?
Beyond the buttery-looking finish, it’s science that sets cream eye shadows apart from their liquid and powder counterparts. “Creams and cream-to-powder eye shadows typically contain a volatile solvent like isododecane or cyclopentasiloxane that evaporates, leaving behind a pigmented film of waxes and resins,” explains cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. This creamy texture makes for seamless blending, but that playtime has to be balanced with dry time—meaning you get enough time to work with it, but once it sets, it stays, so act fast…ish.
What are the benefits of using a cream eye shadow?
Cream eye shadows bring next-level blendability, making them a go-to for customizable looks. “[They] blend quickly and easily—you can just use your fingertips,” says cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. Another bonus? No separate primer required.