Reviewed and updated 20 October 2026.
You can start learning eyeshadow with a small palette, a flat brush and a soft blending brush. Choose products labeled for use around the eyes and colors you enjoy. Technique becomes easier when you practice one small change at a time.
Prepare and choose your shades
Begin with clean hands, clean tools and a comfortable, dry eyelid. If you use an eye primer, follow its directions and let it settle before adding powder. Primer is optional; your preferred result and the product’s wear determine whether it helps.
Choose a light or medium shade for the lid and a slightly deeper shade for definition. A third shade can add detail once the basic placement feels familiar. Starting with a modest amount makes it easier to build color than to remove excess.
Try a simple placement sequence
- Press a light layer of your main shade onto the lid with the flat brush.
- Add a small amount of the deeper shade near the outer lid or crease area you want to emphasize.
- Use a clean blending brush to soften the boundary without spreading color everywhere.
- Check both eyes with your face relaxed and eyes open before adding more.
Adapt placement to what is visible when your eyes are open. There is no single eye shape that makes a technique correct. If your crease is less visible, a small adjustment in placement may suit the look better than following a diagram exactly.
Keep the eye area comfortable
Do not share eye cosmetics or add saliva or water to revive a drying product. Craft glitter and products not intended for the eye area are unsuitable substitutes. Stop using a product if irritation develops, and avoid eye makeup during an eye infection.
Remove makeup gently according to the product directions. If a look takes several attempts, pause rather than repeatedly rubbing irritated skin. A simple, comfortable result is a good starting point for experimenting later.
Source: FDA eye cosmetic safety guidance.
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Cover photograph: William Shu / Unsplash.