How to Apply Glitter Eyeshadow: 3 Best Ways

By Catherine Jordan

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Eyeshadow is typically a cosmetic applied to the eyelids and under the eyes, either on its own or in conjunction with other cosmetics. Some people also use eyeshadow to define their eyebrows.

There are even different varieties of eyeshadow out of which one of the most trendy ones is glitter eyeshadow. is a great way to add some sparkle and glamour to your look.

Glitter is so popular right now and there are so many ways to wear it. But how do you apply it? What kind of brush should you use? And what about your eyelids?

We’ve got all the answers for you! In this article we’ll walk through three different methods for applying glitter eyeshadow that will have you looking like a pro in no time. You’ll learn how to choose the best brushes, where on your lids to place them, and which colors work best with each method.

So, just follow our guide below to find out which method is best for you.

How to Apply Glitter Eyeshadow Without Glue

Step 1: Getting Right Glitter EyeShadow

The first step in applying glitter eyeshadow without glue is getting the right kind of glitter. Make sure to use only cosmetic-grade glitters, which means they are safe enough for you to put on your eyelids.

Use loose powder eye shadow that comes with an easy application brush instead of pressed powder.

Pressed eyeshadow is made of tiny particles that are compacted together, whereas loose powder eyeshadow is composed of larger particles with more glitters than pressed powder.

This is why loose powder eye shadow makes an ideal base for applying glitter to the eyes.

Step 2: Selecting The Right Eyeshadow Primer

Eyeshadow primer is a special formula that helps eyeshadow stick better. It makes the colors more vibrant and gives your eyeshadow make-up staying power.

You can use an eyeshadow primer to apply glitter on top of it successfully.
Eyeshadow primers are available in different formulas, some of which contain silicone ingredients to make the skin smooth and give a soft feel.

If you do not have an eyeshadow primer, don’t worry. You can still apply glitter on top of your regular eyeshadow without any primer.

Apply the loose powder eye shadow on top of your eyeshadow before applying glitters.

Step 3: Preparing Your Eyes

Preparing your eyes properly before applying glitter is very important. Start by applying concealer under your eyes to get rid of any veins and dark spots for a more even look.

In addition, apply foundation on top of it. If you have acne or pimples, consider covering them up with concealer. Make sure to avoid applying too much foundation as this can make your face appear cakey. [1]

You can also apply a bit of shimmer or highlight powder on the top of your cheekbones, forehead, and chin before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Prepare The Eyeshadow Base and Brush

After applying all your makeup on your face, you are now ready to put the glitter on. Apply primer or the loose powder eye shadow on top of your eyeshadow. Use an applicator brush to apply the glitter over it evenly.

It’s important that you use a separate brush for this purpose so that you can wash it without removing your eyeshadow.

If you don’t have primer or loose powder eye shadow, you can also use a regular eyeshadow that has some sparkle to it.

Step 5: Applying Eyeshadow

Now that everything is ready for applying your glitter on top of your eyeshadow, here are the steps on how to do that. Start by picking the glitter with a small scoop of loose powder or an applicator brush.

Tap off the excess loose powder and place it on your desired area using your fingertips. Make sure not to add too much glitter as this can make you look like you ran headfirst into a hundred disco balls at once.

You can apply your glitter in different areas like the corner of the eyes, within the eyelash line, etc.

For a more dramatic look, add glitter on top of your eyeliner and extend it up to your crease for a glamorous look.

Read More: A Guide to Choose the Best Holographic Nail Polishes

How to Apply Glitter Eyeshadow Without Making a Mess

Even if you want to wear glitter without using any glue, it can actually be messy. You might end up with glitters all over your face by the time you are done putting them on.

Luckily, there are some tips that will help apply glitter eyeshadow without leaving a mess behind.

Step 1: Clean & Hydrated Lids

Make sure your lids are clean and hydrated. Clean them using an eye-makeup remover. After that, apply a decent amount of moisturizer on the lids to keep them soft and help the glitter stick better on them.

Step 2: Primer

Eyeshadow primer helps the glitters stick better on your eyelids. It also gives your eye make-up more staying power.

If you don’t have any eyeshadow primer, try using a concealer around the lids instead for a smoother finish.

Apply the glitter on top of your concealer to keep it from getting smeared off easily. Use a makeup sponge with light dabbing motions to apply the glitter on your concealer.

Step 3: Under Eye Masks

If you do not have time to prepare a primer or concealer, make sure you use under-eye masks before applying glitters. You can find these masks at any drug store or supermarket.

Just take one out and place it under each eye for a couple of minutes. After removing the masks, your under eyes will already be moisturized and ready for glitters.

Step 4: Applying The Glitter

Start by applying the glitter to your eyes with a makeup sponge. Make sure you build up the glitters gradually and do not go overboard as this will make you look like you ran headfirst into a hundred disco balls at once.

Step 5: Cleaning Up

After putting all the glitters on, clean up any excess glitter that might be left on your face using a makeup remover or an eye-makeup remover.

Make sure to remove excess glitters as this can make you look like you ran headfirst into a hundred disco balls at once.

Just keep in mind that the process of applying glitter eyeshadow may take quite some time especially if you don’t have the proper tools yet.

But with practice, you will get your techniques down pat and become more efficient in applying glitters on.

How to Apply Glitter Eyeshadow Without Primer

Makeup primer is the best option when it comes to applying glitter eyeshadow without making a mess. When you use a makeup primer, the application of glitters on your lids will be easier and smoother.

Glitter eyeshadows are more pigmented with primer as well, giving your look that extra oomph that can make you stand out from the crowd.

In addition, glitters last longer on your lids when you use a primer before applying them. The staying power is improved significantly when using eyeshadow primer with your glitter eyeshadows.

Fortunately, there are several tricks to apply glitter eyeshadow without using a primer.

Step 1: Sweep a light-colored shadow into the crease of your eye.

Step 2: Pick another color and use a flat brush to dust the color all over your eyelid.

Step 3: Choose a darker color for the outer corner of your eye.

Step 4: Blend the color from the corner of your eye into the lid color, softening out the look.

Step 5: Glitter is an essential part of this look and it gives the eyes a “wow factor” that will make you go from pretty to drop-dead gorgeous in no time.

Step 6: Add a light color on top of the brow bone to highlight.

Step 7: Add your eyeliner and/or mascara.

Step 8: This part is totally optional but if you want, add some more glitters on your lower lash line or at the inner corners of your eyes for an extra sparkle that will instantly brighten up your eyes.

Read More: A Guide to Choose the Best Lipstick For Older Women

Conclusion