The Difference Between Eyeshadow Pigment and Loose Powder Eyeshadow

You may wonder if there is a difference between eyeshadow pigment and loose powder eyeshadow and how to use them for the best effect.

The Difference

Loose powder eyeshadow has been developed by a number of cosmetic companies to provide a more vibrant and versatile makeup to enhance the eyes than everyday dense eyeshadows. Some have been mixed with fillers or other ingredients that add to the ease of application.

Eyeshadow pigments are also fine powder based and, in most cases, pure and unadulterated with any kind of filler. Some manufacturers give the message that the pigment can be used as makeup for other areas of the face.

In short, there is no basic difference between pigments and powders sold as eye makeup, only the manufacturers packaging, additional filler ingredients and, above all, the marketing strategy for their product.

What are the Advantages?

Pigment or powder has the advantage over traditional eye shadow makeup in that it can be applied in a more detailed way although it must be applied with considerable care to avoid spilling onto other areas of the face where it is not wanted.

Most, but not all, pigments and powders have high colour intensity or shimmer, with variations in both texture and quality. What will suit one person may not suit another so don't be afraid to experiment with brands as well as colours until you feel comfortable with your choices.

Applicationof Eye Shadow

The art of applying pigments and powders takes some mastering, some are easier than others but taking the time to get familiar with the technique will be rewarded by the stunning effects that you can create around your most noticed feature.

Here's how to apply pigment and loose powder

1. Using a base primer or your usual dense eye shadow prepare your eye lids. Which one you use will depend upon the effect you wish to obtain.
2. Using either a finger tip or a densely packed short bristled brush to dip into the powder or pigment and then gently blow or tap off the surplus.3. Dab the brush or your finger tip on your lid and carefully blend in, creating your special look.
4. Using a damp brush packed with pigment on or around the lids can give a bright, 'in your face' bold look. With an angled eyeliner brush you can achieve a very colourful and personalised eyeliner effect.

Other makeup uses for Pigments

Red or Pink shades of pigment can be used as a blush. Use a finger tip loaded with powder to apply to cheeks or to highlight apply along the top of your cheekbones.

Just mix your favourite colour pigment with a clear gloss and apply to your lips.

Olive oil or Vaseline make ideal and money saving lip glosses for mixing pigment. To really bring a vibrant mix of intense colours to your personal grooming try mixing pigments with clear nail polish and applying to your nails.

Pigment mixed with Vaseline and applied strategically but subtly to the shoulder and collar bone area will create a shimmering effect that will make you stand out on those very special occasions.

Value

Because eyeshadow pigments have so many other makeup uses due to their purer form and are available in a large variety of colours that will not deteriorate in time, they represent, in general, better value for money than loose powder eyeshadow.

They should not be confused with mineral powder eyeshadows which have less vibrant colour and a different sheen. Both pigment and loose powders can be purchased in inexpensive packs of 12, 24 or more colours so experimenting to find those that suit you best is not going to break the bank.