Beauty expert Sali Hughes is strongly endorsing long-wearing liquid eyeshadows, presenting them as a simple yet effective solution for achieving a sophisticated eye makeup look. According to Hughes, these formulations provide the illusion of meticulous application and ample time, despite their minimal effort-to-effect ratio. She suggests that a single neutral, durable shadow can significantly enhance one's appearance.
Hughes outlines a straightforward application technique: daubing the product onto the centre of the eyelid from the lash line to the socket, initially avoiding the inner and outer corners. A clean, fluffy blending brush is then used in a windscreen wiper motion to spread the colour across the lid and soften any harsh lines, ensuring a seamless finish that lasts throughout the day.
Among her top recommendations is MAC’s Multi Sculpt Matte Liquid Eye and Face Colour, priced at £22. While noting its limitations as a face colour due to quick drying, Hughes praises its efficacy as an eyeshadow. Available in 14 shades, including 'Buffed Up', a dusty pink-brown, 'Stone', a cool taupe, and 'Brulé', a classic beige based on a bestselling MAC powder, these options are described as muted and foolproof, making them suitable for various skin tones and outfits.
Another highly recommended product is Make Up By Mario’s Master Mattes Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow, retailing at £25. Although it offers fewer shades than the MAC option, Hughes asserts its equally impressive longevity and a suede-like finish, which also serves effectively as a base for powder shadows. Her personal favourite from this line is 'Mauve', but she stresses the consistent quality across all available colours.
Hughes expresses frustration over the scarcity of high-street alternatives that offer the same blend of quality and versatility, noting that many affordable long-wearing options tend to have a metallic finish that requires more effort and may not suit all eye types. However, she points to REM Beauty’s Starlet Liquid Eyeshadow Matte, priced at £15, as a strong mid-range contender. This waterproof liquid lid colour is available in essential neutral shades such as 'Ty', 'Ily', and 'Nvm', a warm, peachy camel, which are praised for their pigment and ability to flatter a wide range of skin tones, proving indispensable for a polished look.