How to Apply Eye Gloss and Cream Eyeshadow — Plus, Some Our Favorites

As the weather starts to heat up, we’re finding ourselves gravitating more and more towards lower maintenance makeup products. We love a good glam eye makeup look as much as the next person, but during the spring and summer, we’re big fans of cream- and gloss-based formulas that are quick and easy to apply — and feel comfortable all day. 

Recently, we’ve had our eyes (pun intended) on the eye gloss category. Not only are eye glosses super easy to use, they are also a simple way to embrace the dewy, glazed makeup trend that has dominated our Insta feeds for years and doesn’t appear to be going anywhere.    

Ahead, we’re breaking down what eye gloss is, how to use it and our favorite eye glosses and cream eyeshadows to try this year. 

What Is Eye Gloss?

“Eye gloss is the easiest and fastest way to create a sheen-y and glowing eye which bounces light,” says professional makeup artist and beauty brand founder Jillian Dempsey. “Typically, [eye glosses are available] in cream, satin and gloss finishes made for eyes without the stickiness of lip gloss.” Basically, imagine a lip gloss specially made to be used on the skin around your eyes.

How to Apply Eye Gloss

The beauty of eye gloss is that application is a breeze. “The fastest way [to apply it] is with your finger,” explains Dempsey. “Simply apply a small amount of a clear eye product, like my Lid Tint in Dew, and tap in the center of your eyelids. Then, work it out a little over your crease to the inner and outer corners. It is an easy makeup look that is buildable and does not require a lot of blending.”  

The Best Eye Glosses and Cream Eyeshadows to Try

Giorgio Armani Beauty Eye Tint Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeshadow

We’re obsessed with these gorgeous, ultra-pigmented eye tints from Giorgio Armani Beauty. The vast range of colors has something for everyone, whether you like bold metallics, rich jewel tones or matte neutrals.   

NYX Ultimate Glow Shots Liquid Shimmery Eyeshadow

Get your glow on with the NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Glow Shots Liquid Shimmery Eyeshadow, an unbelievably luminous liquid shadow. These eyeshadows offer all of the sparkle of a glitter shadow without any of the mess or fallout. We’re partial to the Blueberry Baller and Kiwi Killa shades. 

Lancôme Ombre Hypnôse Stylo Shadow Stick

It doesn’t get much more low-maintenance than eyeshadow in stick form — just swipe it across your lids, blend it out with your fingertips and you’re ready to go. We love to use the Lancôme Ombre Hypnôse Style Shadow Stick in Or Rose to brighten up our eyes. Plus, the waterproof formula is convenient for summer. 

Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeshadow Stick

The Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeshadow Sticks deliver fade-resistant, waterproof color that lasts up to 24 hours. You’ll love how the super blendable, creamy formula effortlessly glides across your lids. 

Butter London Frosted Glazen Eye Gloss

If you’re looking for something subtle yet glittery, the Butter London Frosted Glazed Eye Gloss is a warm, shimmery rose gold. The texture of this gloss is our favorite — it’s super buildable, incredibly smooth and almost gelatinous to the touch.

Jillian Dempsey Lid Tint in Dew 

If shimmer isn’t your thing, try the Jillian Dempsey Lid Tint in Dew, a clear nourishing gloss. It’s the perfect finishing touch on a minimalist, dewy makeup look. Just don’t be surprised when you start to get compliments on your glistening complexion. 

Danessa Myricks Colorfix Glaze

The Danessa Myricks Colorfix Glaze is the multi-use makeup product your beauty arsenal is missing. Available in 15 shades, these versatile glazes can be used on your eyelids and lips to create a glassy, editorial beauty effect. 

About Face Vinyl Effect Eye Gloss

Amp up the shine with the About Face Vinyl Effect Eye Gloss, a clear lacquered gloss that provides a non-sticky, high-shine finish. The cushiony formula leaves the delicate skin on your eyelids feeling nourished and the doe-foot applicator makes application a breeze.