When I first got into makeup, I used only pressed eyeshadows. That’s because I rarely saw pigments around as most stores didn’t carry them back then and I thought pressed shadows were more easy to use anyway. It was only about five years ago that I was introduced to pigments and since then I became addicted!
That doesn’t mean that I have abandoned pressed eyeshadows though. In fact, I still use them a lot as I don’t really think that one type of shadow is better than the other. They both have some pros and cons and which kind to use depends on what look you want to achieve and how much time you have to get ready.
COLOR PAYOFF
Pigments are pure colors and therefore they are said to have better color payoff than pressed eyeshadows. However, that’s not always true. Some pigments contain fillers to help the color stick to the lid or to add shimmer, but they also reduce pigmentation. I have a lot of pressed eyeshadows that are very pigmented and pigments that apply sheerly and viceversa. So, personally I don’t think that pigments have better color payoff than pressed eyshadows in general. In the end, it all depends on the specific product in question.
THE MESSY FACTOR
Pigments can be very messy and for this reason, if I’m in a hurry, I avoid to use them. They usually come in jars or in those little sample plastic bags that are very prone to spill the powder everywhere, which doesn’t make them very travel-friendly. I always bring with me pressed eyeshadows when I travel as they don’t make a huge mess in my suitcase.
In addition, loose eyeshadows are also prone to fall out when you apply them, which almost never happens with good quality pressed eyeshadows. To reduce fallout, use an eyeshadow primer (a cream eyeshadow or a pencil will do too) on your lid to create a sticky base for the powder to adhere to. Also, use a brush with dense bristles to apply pigments and pat the color on. I also prefer to do my eye makeup first, so if there is any fall out I can easily remove it without ruining my face makeup.
PIGMENTS ARE MULTI-PURPOSE
Pigments are very versatile and can be used for several purposes. They can be used as dry or wet eyeshadows, or as eyeliners (but then so can pressed powder shadows), or on the face as blushes or highlighters. You can also mix them with glosses or nail polishes to get your own custom colors. The possibilities are endless!
But be careful as not all shades are versatile: for instance, some aren’t eye safe while others can be used on the eyes only. This information is usually printed on the label so make sure you read it before experimenting.
WHAT TYPE OF EYESHADOW IS BETTER?
I honestly don’t think one type is better than the other, I love them both equally. I like the versatility of pigments but pressed eyeshadows are more convenient to use especially when you travel.
What about you? Do you prefer loose pigments or pressed eyeshadows?