*PR: Gifted 3ina makeup.

Sian Victoria © - 3ina cosmetics, Liquid lipstick, highlighter, creamy eyeshadow makeup flatlay

Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Highlighter & Eyeshadow Hacks

Highlighter and creamy eyeshadow have become must-haves in modern makeup routines, making it super easy to complement your features and achieve that much-desired radiant glow. Highlighter helps to bring out your natural face contours by catching the light, while creamy eyeshadow gives you a smooth and vibrant way to define your eyes. Together, they can really amp up your look, adding that effortless glow.

These products are versatile too, working perfectly for everything from a subtle daytime vibe to a bold nighttime makeup look, so they’re great for any occasion. Whether you’re just starting out or want to polish your skills, knowing how to apply them can help you get that professional look.

When getting your hands on the right tools and techniques, you can seamlessly add highlighter and creamy eyeshadow into your routine for a flawless look every time. This post will also include a review of some cosmetics from 3ina, the vegan and cruelty-free makeup brand that generously sent me a lipstick, creamy eyeshadow, and highlighter.

1. Pick the Right Highlighter Colour

When picking a highlighter, it’s super important to think about your skin's undertone to get a nice, balanced look. If you have warmer undertones, go for gold or peachy highlighters. For cooler undertones, silvery or icy shades are your best bet. If your undertones are neutral, champagne shades can look great. Always check how the highlighter looks in natural light because artificial lights can change how the colours appear. Also, keep away from shades that are way too light or too dark for your skin; they can end up looking unflattering or uneven.

2. Prep Your Skin Properly

Getting your skin ready before makeup is key to making it go on smoothly and stick around longer. Start by washing your face to get rid of dirt and oils that might mess with how the makeup applies. Next, put on a moisturiser that works for your skin type to keep it hydrated and create a smooth base.

Give it some time to soak in before moving on. If you have dry under-eyes, adding an eye cream can help stop makeup from settling into fine lines. Then, choose a primer that fits your needs, like a matte one for oily skin or a hydrating one for drier skin, to set the stage for your highlighter and creamy eyeshadow.

3. Application Tools Matter

The tools you use really affect how your makeup looks on your skin. If you're applying highlighter, special brushes can help you nail that exact spot on your cheekbones or the bridge of your nose. For creamy eyeshadows, synthetic brushes are usually the way to go because they spread the product smoothly and evenly. Sponges are great for blending cream products, especially if you want that soft, diffused look.

Using your fingers can work too; your body heat helps melt the cream a bit, making it easier to blend for a subtle and more natural finish. Just remember to keep your tools clean to avoid any bacteria that could cause breakouts or irritation. Washing your brushes and sponges regularly with a gentle cleanser not only keeps them lasting longer but also makes sure you're applying your makeup hygienically. Having a bunch of different tools helps you tackle various textures and achieve different finishes.

Sian Victoria © - 3ina cosmetics, gold metallic nude creamy eyeshadow makeup, shade 313

4. Layering Techniques

Applying makeup in layers is a great way to control how intense your look is, plus it helps you get that smooth, natural vibe. Start with a tiny dab of product and really blend it in before adding more. This tip is super important for creamy eyeshadows because slapping on too much at once can make them crease or look uneven. When it comes to highlighter, build it up slowly to avoid that overly shiny or fake appearance.

For eyeshadow, layering different shades can really add depth; start with a light base and then work in some deeper colours to shape and define your eyes. Blend those edges well with your tools to keep everything looking seamless. Don’t forget to change up how hard you press and how you move your tools based on the product and the look you’re going for.

Also, be mindful of how the products mix, especially when layering creams over powders, to avoid any patchiness. If you’re unsure, take a step back and check the overall look in different lighting to make sure everything looks even and put together.

5. Focus on the High Points of Your Face

Highlighter works best when you put it on spots on your face that catch the light naturally. Think the tops of your cheekbones, the middle of your forehead, your cupid’s bow and the bridge of your nose. Use a small brush or your fingers to apply a little bit at first, then build it up if you want more. When highlighting smaller areas like the tip of your nose or the brow bone, be gentle to avoid looking too shiny.

For cream or liquid highlighters, pat the product onto your skin instead of dragging it, so it looks even. You can also highlight your collarbones or shoulders, especially if you’re dressing up or wearing off-the-shoulder tops. The desire is to bring out your natural features without making it look over-the-top.

6. Blending is Essential

Blending is key to getting that smooth, flawless finish by softening the transitions between different colours and textures. When you're working with creamy eyeshadows, use a light touch to blend the edges so you don’t end up with any harsh lines. Depending on what you're using, a synthetic brush, sponge, or even your fingertips can help you get a nice, even look.

For highlighter, blending is best to create that subtle, radiant glow that enhances your features without being too obvious. Try using circular motions or light taps to blend it into your skin for a more natural appearance. Keep an eye on where different products meet, like at the edges of your eyeshadow and brow bone, to ensure everything looks seamless. Adjust how hard you’re blending based on the type of product; generally, cream formulas need lighter blending compared to powders.

And don’t forget to use clean tools; they make a big difference in application and help avoid patchy spots. Lastly, check your makeup in different lighting to catch any spots that might need a little more blending.

7. Complementing Eyeshadow with Highlighter

Highlighter is a great way to brighten up your eyeshadow and add some nice depth. Dab a little highlighter in the inner corners of your eyes to make them look more awake, and swipe some along your brow bone for that lifted look.

To keep everything in sync, pick a highlighter shade that goes well with your eyeshadow colours. For example, warm highlighters look awesome with earthy or golden shades, while cooler tones match better with greys or blues. If you’re using a cream highlighter, just pat it on gently to blend it in nicely with the rest of your makeup.

Sian Victoria © - 3ina makeup, longwear lipstick shade 505

8. Choosing Creamy Eyeshadow

Creamy eyeshadows are super versatile and easy to apply, which is why a lot of people love them for different looks. When picking one, think about what finish you like, matte, shimmer, or metallic, since each gives off a unique vibe. Matte is great for a subtle, classy look, while shimmery or metallic shades can add some fun glamour.

Make sure to choose a formula that blends well and has good colour payoff, so your look stays vibrant and lasts longer. Also, check out the texture; the creamy ones should feel smooth, not too thick or greasy, to prevent any creasing. If you have oily eyelids, go for something lightweight and long-wearing so it doesn’t budge.

Don’t forget about the packaging, sticks, or pots, which can be super handy for applying precisely and doing touch-ups when you’re out. Have some fun playing around with colours, from everyday neutrals to bold shades for those standout moments!

9. Longevity of Creamy Eyeshadow

To make your creamy eyeshadow last longer, start by making sure your eyelids aren’t oily. Just dab them lightly with some blotting paper or a tissue before you apply anything. It’s better to go for thin layers of eyeshadow; piling it on too thick can lead to creasing. If you want it to stay put even more, try setting it with a similar powder eyeshadow or some translucent setting powder.

Also, avoid touching or rubbing your eyes throughout the day, since that can mess up your makeup and lead to smudging. If you’ve got a long day ahead or a special event, keep the eyeshadow compact or stick handy for quick touch-ups.

Choosing a good-quality, long-lasting creamy eyeshadow can really help with how long it stays on, too. Lastly, consider the weather, as heat and humidity can really affect how your makeup performs, so being prepared is ideal.

10. Day to Night Transition

To switch up your look for the night, amp up your makeup with some bolder colours and more depth. Darken your eyeshadow by putting a deeper shade in the outer corners or crease and blend it well for a smooth finish. A little shimmer or metallic eyeshadow can really add to your vibe, making it perfect for evening events.

When it comes to highlighter, add a bit more to the high points of your face, like your cheekbones and brow bone, for an extra glow. Use a bold eyeliner or a bit of mascara to really make your eyes pop. Finish off with a standout lip colour, whether it's a classic red or a deep plum. It's handy to keep some makeup essentials in your bag, like a creamy eyeshadow stick or a compact mirror, so you can easily do quick touch-ups as you go from day to night.

Sian Victoria © - 3ina makeup, highlighter shade 201

11. Cleaning Up Mistakes

Even when you're being careful, it's easy to mess up, especially in tricky spots like the eyes or the high points of your face. For little mistakes, just grab a cotton bud lightly dipped in micellar water to fix makeup errors without messing up the rest of your makeup.

If your creamy eyeshadow smudges or your highlighter looks too intense, use a clean brush or sponge to blend it out and make it softer. If the application is uneven, a small concealer brush can help you reapply in a controlled way or clean up the edges for a polished finish.

Keep some tissues or blotting paper nearby to soak up extra product or oil, especially in those areas that tend to crease. Try not to layer on too much product while fixing things up, as that can make your makeup look patchy. With a gentle touch and a focus on specific spots, you can tackle any imperfections without messing up your whole look.

12. Maintaining Healthy Skin

Taking care of your skin sets you up for smoother makeup application and keeps your skin healthy overall. Use products that match your skin type, like a gentle sulphate-free cleanser to wash away dirt and a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated.

Don’t skip the facial sunscreen! It protects against UV damage, which can mess with your skin’s texture and tone over time. Regularly exfoliating is ideal for sloughing off those unwanted dead skin cells, giving you a brighter complexion and preventing clogged pores.

If your skin feels dry or irritated, try using hydrating serums or calming masks to bring it back to balance. Keeping your makeup tools clean is super important, too, as dirty brushes can introduce bacteria that lead to breakouts or irritation.

For sensitive spots like under your eyes, pick skincare products that are gentle and made for that area. Consuming plenty of water and eating well also helps your skin look its best, giving you a solid base for any makeup look.

3INA Makeup Review

Not too long ago, I shared my experience with the 3INA UV Collection, featuring the perfect trio of festival makeup that helps you stand out in a crowd. Recently, 3INA kindly sent me a set of their bestsellers, and if you’ve been following my Instagram stories, you’ll know that I am now a devoted fan.

3INA offers over 600 impressive core beauty products that are not only affordable but also come in stylish packaging, giving off a luxurious feel. Their products are paraben-free, cruelty-free, and mostly vegan, which is a great reason to switch to 3INA.

3INA Cream Eyeshadow Shade 313

The 3INA Cream Eyeshadow in shade 313 is a beautiful bronze hue with a magnetic shimmer that looks stunning on the eyelids, especially when topped with a slick of black eyeliner. I often apply highlighter under my brows for an added lift, and this creamy eyeshadow blends perfectly into it.

The consistency is creamy, and it dries quickly once blended. It’s non-sticky, smudge-proof, and long-lasting. If you aspire to look like a golden goddess, this creamy eyeshadow can also be lightly dabbed onto the cheeks for a bronzed effect.

3INA Longwear Lipstick Shade 505

Next is the 3INA Longwear Lipstick in shade 505. These lipsticks have been bestsellers for 3INA since day one, and I’m not surprised. The first time I wore this shade, I used the easy applicator to create fuller lips, and I received so many compliments that I’ve been wearing it nonstop ever since.

The creamy consistency and the applicator make it glide onto the lips effortlessly, providing a highly pigmented shade. Although it is long-lasting, I do find that I need to touch up slightly after eating.

I recently spotted this lipstick in a seductive red shade (500) that I plan to order right away, especially with Autumn/Winter approaching. I love a red lip for the colder months, as you may know from my festive beauty guide.

3INA Highlighter

Finally, the 3INA Highlighter in shade 201 provides a beautiful, subtle shimmering veil of radiance. If you’re looking for a show-stopping glow, then this may not be the highlighter for you.

However, if you prefer a more understated glow like I do, then this highlighter is perfect; it’s a cult favourite that was sold out for months at one point.

When I apply highlighter, I generously use it on my cheekbones and under my brows for an opening effect, and then lightly apply it to the centre of my nose, forehead, above my lip, and chin.

3INA is relatively new to the makeup scene, but its impressive collection of vegan and cruelty-free products is a brand worth watching closely.

To conclude

Using a highlighter and creamy eyeshadow can really change up your makeup game, letting you create looks that go from subtle to bold. These products are super versatile and, when you apply them the right way, they can highlight your features and give you a nice glow.

Picking the right shades, layering them slowly, and blending well are important tricks for a smooth finish. It's also a good idea to pay attention to your skin's needs and keep your tools clean for the best results. Whether you're getting ready for a casual day or a special event, tweaking these tips to fit your regimen will make your makeup shine.

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