How to Make Your Eyeshadow Pop
Wearing your eyeshadow dry? Classic, dependable, and timeless. But when you wear it wet? A whole new dimension of color and drama emerges. “By wetting the eyeshadow, you’re enhancing its pigmentation,” says celebrity makeup artist Vincent Oquendo. “It really intensifies the shade, but you need the right product to avoid streaking as it sets.” To achieve this runway-ready look without any mishaps, here’s what you need to know.
The Right Product
Start with eyeshadows specifically formulated for wet-to-dry application. Oquendo swears by Nars Dual-Intensity Eyeshadows, available in 12 dazzling shades, paired with a matching brush for perfect application. Burberry’s Wet & Dry Silk Shadows are another luxe option, with versatile shades that easily transition from day to night. “Not all shadows can handle the moisture,” Oquendo cautions, “so it’s important to use the right formula to avoid ruining the product.” If you’re feeling adventurous, try baked shadows like Laura Mercier’s Baked Eye Colour Wet/Dry or Lorac’s Starry-Eyed Baked Eye Shadow Trio for a soft, luminous finish.
For those ready to take it up a notch, pigments like MAC or OCC’s Pure Cosmetic Pigments are ideal for creating a richly layered look. Oquendo recommends pairing a cream shadow as a base, then sweeping a wet powder shadow on top for extra depth and longevity.
The Right Brush
Your brush choice can make or break the look. For smooth, uniform application, a feather-light blender brush is your best friend. “A stiff brush will streak the shadow, making it harder to control,” says Oquendo. The key is to load the brush with the right amount of product, allowing the blend to happen effortlessly.
If you’re tightlining or waterlining, opt for a thinner brush designed for precision work.
The Right Liquid
Here’s a golden rule: never apply water, eye drops, or any random liquid directly onto your eyeshadow. Oquendo’s go-to is Glossier’s Soothing Face Mist, which not only hydrates but also adds a luxurious softness to the shadow. For sensitive eyes, Evian Mineral Water Spray is a gentle alternative.
And if your powder does harden from wet application? Oquendo has a trick: “Take a clean mascara spoolie and gently exfoliate the top of the compact. It’ll bring the product back to life without cracking it.”
With these expert tips, the wet-to-dry technique will elevate your makeup game—transforming your eyeshadow into the show-stopping statement of the season.
Follow Vincent Oquendo for more MUA expert tips at @makeupvincent
