Shadow pencil
The emergence of something new is a normal process of improving our lives. Eyeshadow pencil has been around for a long time, but many people are still unreasonably afraid to use it, although it is a rather convenient, practical and modern type of cosmetics.
Most brands have long grasped the meaning of such pencils: they are convenient to apply the product on the eyelids, there is no danger that such shadows will break and stain not only the makeup bag with the contents, but everything around.
Like regular shadows, these are available in different forms: they can be both wide and very thin, both matte and shiny. The color variations are exactly the same as the "full-size" products, and the durability is usually even better. In addition, such shadows are much easier to apply: one slight movement of the hand, and the arrows are drawn; two or three times more movements - and the eyelids are already covered with an even layer of colored material; such shadows can be considered ideal if you like to sleep longer or simply do not have much time for morning makeup.
Peculiarities
Many do not understand the difference between a pencil eyeshadow and a regular eyeliner. It's simple: it has a thicker lead for easy application of the product on all eyelids at once, as well as a more creamy or gel-like structure. Among their advantages are often called:
- ease of application;
- wide choice of color and structure;
- bright color when used due to the dense layer;
- easy removal process with a regular cleanser;
- 2 in 1 tool: can be used as a shadow, or as a regular pencil;
- a relatively long period of wearing without rolling and smearing over the eyelid without a base.
Pencil shadows have a denser and more oily structure, unlike conventional loose products. This method of application is ideal for owners of dry eyelid skin: the beeswax contained in the pencil will protect them from excessive drying by the environment.
Due to its oily structure, these shadows are very easy to lay on the skin. However, they require the application of a special base, as they are prone to rolling and generally do not have increased durability, but to a greater extent this depends on the manufacturer. Waterproof pencil shadows are also available, their declared durability is up to 8 hours (for example, "The ONE Color Unlimited"from oriflame, "Long Lasting Stick Eyeshadow" from Kiko Milano).
The colors of such shadows favorably differ from the usual ones in their brightness. When applied to the skin, they form a dense oily layer, the color becomes bright and saturated.
If you have a photo shoot coming up or some important concert where you need stage makeup - use the pencil without hesitation. With it, your eyes will be unusually expressive, the look will be crisp and clear.
Due to their low durability in hot and humid conditions, it is recommended to use them either in winter or to touch up makeup at any time if possible.
How to choose?
Of course, first of all, you need to understand what kind of pencil shadow you need, because for everyone the best product is a matter of very personal choice.
First of all pay attention to whether you want waterproof or regular shadows. Long-lasting shadows will last you longer, even if you don't intend to come into contact with water. However, if you have sensitive eyelid skin, they are not recommended: the process of removing them is associated with the use of stronger substances that can adversely affect the condition of your skin. Regular eyeshadow is fine for every day, but be prepared to check your makeup every 3-4 hours. Think about whether you will have time to fix it in time, before the appearance becomes completely unpresentable.
It is important to read product reviews before buying: each manufacturer has its own characteristics, it is better to know about them in advance, especially since products will behave differently on each type of skin.
It is very important to choose the right color. To do this, start from the color of your skin and the color of your eyes. Remember that you should not paint light eyes with too light shadows, and too dark ones - similarly, with dark ones. Because of this, additional contrast will be created that does not decorate your face.
Be careful with pinkish shadows: most often they will play against you, emphasizing all the redness and peeling on your skin. Such colors are suitable only for those who are going to participate in a thematic photo shoot, it is better not to use them in everyday life. In general, most manufacturers offer an extensive palette of colors to choose from: everyone will find their own.
If you want to do smoky eye makeup, which has already become a classic, get ready and get shadows of at least 2 colors. In the classic scheme - black and silver.
If you already have wrinkles, do not use shimmery and mother-of-pearl shadows, as clogged sequins will only emphasize their presence.
How to apply?
Properly selected shadows, like all eye makeup, will serve as the basis of your image, so you need to responsibly approach the application of the product and use the following tips.
Before use, it is recommended to cleanse the skin with a tonic or other suitable product and apply a make-up base. This is the basis of everything that will then appear on your face.
It will allow you to extend the wearing of cosmetics by at least one and a half times, which is very important in the case of pencil shadows. In addition, the base will prevent the shadows from rolling, clogging into the crease and protect from imprinting on the eyelid. In most cases, a concealer or foundation will do as a base.
Shadows must be applied immediately after this: arrows and mascara are applied after you have worked on the image. In addition, you should not apply powder on the eyelids before using the pencil: it is quite oily, and in this case you will get a somewhat sloppy makeup.
To apply the product, you do not need an additional applicator or special brushes - just run the pencil over the skin and lightly blend with your finger. However, many shadow pencils have their own sponge on the back of the stick.
There are two ways to use pencil shadows: shading and clean application.
Blending is used in everyday life for daily makeup. The process is similar to applying conventional eyeshadows: part of the eyelid is painted with the product, and then it is blended over the skin with a finger or a special applicator. Use shades of peach or beige: this way you can freshen up your eyes without any effort.
Using this method, you can achieve the effect of smokey ice not only in standard black and gray colors, but also in any other shades.
To create eye makeup in this style, you will need to draw a narrow, clear line on the lower eyelid, and then blend it along the hairline, and then apply the same shadow to the upper eyelid. A distinctive feature is the smooth transition of one color to another, so use several matching colors (darker and lighter) on the upper eyelid. This effect is easier to achieve using a pencil shadow.
For a denser and more saturated color, apply the product in several layers, blending them sequentially.
Pure drawing is, in fact, drawing beautiful arrows. To do this, you can either use a pencil as a regular pencil or eyeliner, or draw arrows according to a pre-purchased or made stencil.
It is necessary to monitor the drying time of the shadows on the eyelid - it varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. If you let them dry without opening your eyes, you can avoid the problem of rolling or delay this moment for a while. Drying time, moreover, is not very long - as a rule, it is one to two minutes.
In the process of shading, make sure that there are no bald spots, and if they appear, paint over them in time before the shadows have time to dry.
In the next video, you will see how easy and quick it is to create everyday makeup using eye shadow pencil.
How to sharpen?
You can sharpen such a pencil using a regular sharpener, which can be purchased at the nearest cosmetic store. The main condition is that it is necessary to choose it exactly according to the size of the pencil, so as not to break either it or the lead. To facilitate the selection task, you can take your product to the store and choose the size of the sharpener on the spot. If this is not done, then you will not be able to accurately and well undermine the shadows and then use them.
In no case should you tilt the pencil when sharpening at an angle if the sharpener is of a larger diameter: the lead will not only not be sharpened, but will also be smeared inside it; it may be very difficult to wash it off.
Do not put the pencil in the sharpener all the way, just lightly touch the blades with it, then sharpening will be easy and with the least loss of lead.
If it breaks in the process, even if you're doing everything right, check product expiration date: when it expires, the contents dry out and will crumble in any case.
Eye shadow pencil is an excellent invention that has taken its place in the cosmetic bags of many girls. They will allow you to save your time when it is not enough, and the result of your beauty work will exceed all expectations. It remains only to put up with the low durability and wait for the time when manufacturers find the ideal content formula and be able to extend the period of wearing such shadows.