The glitter eye makeup hype is real. With hundreds of glittereyemakeup hashtags rolling on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, our obsession with this shimmering look is booming.
But…
The sticky texture, chunky fallout, and patchy application of the palettes can totally ruin the glam. After like 20 tries, you finally nail the look, but the leftovers? Glitter explosion everywhere!
Take a deep breath because here you’re going to dive deep into the secrets of perfectly applying this makeup (like Pat McGrath).
Wait What? Got your glitter eye makeup palette ALREADY? Hold up… did you even think about your skin tone, eye shape, or the event? C’mon, you can’t just wing it! Let’s break it down here!
Hi Experts!
- Bobbi Brown, a renowned makeup artist and the founder of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, has built a legacy around enhancing natural beauty, particularly through her glowing makeup for fair skin tones.
- Mario Dedivanovic, the mastermind behind the celebrity-loved Makeup by Mario brand, is known for his artistry in creating radiant, glowing looks, especially with warm tones for medium skin.
- Charlotte Tilbury, a world-renowned makeup artist and the visionary behind Charlotte Tilbury Beauty, is celebrated for her glamorous and bold makeup, particularly when it comes to copper and gold shades for olive skin.
- Pat McGrath, often referred to as the “mother of makeup,” has revolutionized the beauty industry with her creative and daring approach, especially when crafting striking glitter looks for dark skin tones.
- Huda Kattan, the powerhouse behind Huda Beauty, has made a name for herself by pushing the boundaries of beauty with innovative and festival-inspired glitter makeup that turns heads wherever she goes.
- Scott Barnes, a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with icons like Jennifer Lopez, is known for his expert use of flat brushes and layering techniques to create flawless glitter eye looks.
- Lisa Eldridge, an acclaimed makeup artist and author, is recognized for her sophisticated approach to makeup, offering professional tips on glitter application that ensures a flawless, clean finish.
Ready? Let’s dive in…
What is Glitter Eye Makeup?
Glitter eye makeup is a cosmetic technique that enhances the eyes using shimmer, sparkle, or metallic pigments. It typically includes pressed or loose glitter, liquid or cream formulas, and glitter-infused eyeshadows.
Glitter can be used to add a subtle touch of shimmer in the inner corner of the eye, along the lash line, or even just a tiny accent above the crease.
This makeup style adds dimension, brightness, and a bold statement to any look. Popular for special occasions, parties, and editorial shoots, glitter eye makeup can range from subtle shimmer to high-impact sparkle.
Proper application and the right products help achieve a polished finish while minimising fallout and mess.
A Flashback On History
Glitter eye makeup has been around forever. Cleopatra rocked crushed beetles in her eyes. Ancient Egyptians used crushed stones and pigments to make their eyes pop. Fast forward to the ‘60s and ‘70s, icons like David Bowie and Cher made glitter a whole movement.
The Y2K era went all in. Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera drenched their lids in glittery madness. Now, TikTok and Euphoria-inspired makeup brought it back. Bigger, bolder, shinier.
How to Get Started?
Before you begin applying glitter eye makeup, it’s essential to have the right products. Here’s a list of the items to get you started:
| Product Name | Why Get It? | Shop Now |
| Glitter Primer | A good glitter primer ensures that your glitter stays in place and doesn’t fall off throughout the day. | L’Oréal Paris Infallible Glitter Primer Or NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Glitter Primer |
| Best Glitter Eye Makeup Palette | Glitter eyeshadow palettes are a convenient, all-in-one solution, combining both shimmer and pigment in one product. | Eye Bento Bouncy Eyeshadow Trio Or NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow Palette |
| Liquid Glitter Eye Makeup Palette (Optional) | For those in a hurry or wanting a quick and easy option, liquid glitter shadows are the way to go. | e.l.f. Liquid Glitter Eyeshadow |
| Glitter Eyeliner (Optional) | Glitter eyeliners add a chic, sharp touch to your eyes. | NYX Vivid Rich Mechanical Pencil |
| Flat Eyeshadow Brush | For precise application of glitter, a flat brush works best. | Sigma Travel E55 Eye Shading Brush Or Morphe M124 Flat Shader Brush |
| Setting Spray | To lock your glitter look in place and prevent any smudging or fading, a setting spray is necessary. | Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray Or NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray |
With these products, you’ll have everything you need to create a stunning glitter eye makeup look that lasts!
Loose Glitter vs. Pressed Glitter
Remember, there are different types of glitter eye shadow palettes. It’s important to consider their ease of application and the science of eye colour wheel to choose the best option. Let’s have a look at the two famous options:
When to Choose Loose Glitter?
It provides intense shine and is perfect for bold, dramatic looks. This eye makeup requires a bit more effort and a separate glue for application and cleanup, but offers maximum sparkle and versatility. Great for special occasions or when you want to make a statement.
When to Choose Pressed Glitter?
This is easier to apply with less cleanup. It stays in place longer and is great for quick, glamorous looks. Perfect for everyday wear or when you need a controlled, mess-free application with long-lasting effects.
Glitter Eye Makeup According to Skin Tones
When it comes to glitter eye makeup, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Different skin tones call for different shades of glitter, and understanding how to complement your complexion can make all the difference. Not all glitter is created equal, so let’s dive into the shades that will make your eyes pop, depending on your skin tone:
Fair Skin
Fair skin tones are best complemented by softer, more delicate shades. If you’ve got a porcelain or light complexion, champagne, rose gold, and silvery glitter tones will work wonders. These colours bring out the natural brightness of your skin without overwhelming it.
Champagne shades give a subtle, elegant glow, while rose gold adds a warm, romantic touch. Silvery glitter eye makeup, on the other hand, can provide a cool shimmer, perfect for more ethereal or high-fashion looks. (Makeup artist Bobbi Brown recommends going for softer tones to enhance fair skin’s delicate nature.)
Medium Tone
For those with medium or almond skin tones, glitter in warm gold, peachy shimmers, and bronze tones really makes the eyes stand out. Gold can bring warmth to your complexion, making your eyes pop in a way that feels luxurious yet natural. Peachy shimmers work well to add a bit of fun and light without clashing with the natural warmth in your skin. Bronze tones, often seen in sunset-inspired looks, are perfect for creating a glowing, radiant finish that draws attention to your eyes. (Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic often uses these shades to give medium tones a glowy look.)
Olive Skin
Olive skin calls for rich, bold glitter shades. Copper, emerald, and deep gold shades are ideal for this complexion. Copper brings out the green undertones in olive skin, giving your eyes a fiery, vibrant look. Emerald green is a daring choice that can make your eyes pop with a gorgeous contrast, especially against your natural warmth. Deep gold shades not only enhance the warmth of olive skin but also add a regal and luxurious feel to your eye makeup. (Makeup guru Charlotte Tilbury recommends copper tones to enhance the natural glow of olive skin.)
Dark Skin
For dark skin tones, the bolder, the better. Rich purples, classy reds, bold blues, deep bronzes, and holographic shades are your best bet. These colours create stunning contrasts against the deeper melanin in the skin, making your glitter shine even more. Purple and blue glitter eye makeup bring a vibrant, dramatic edge to your look, while bronzes give a sultry, luxurious finish. Holographic glitter adds a unique, multidimensional quality, reflecting different colours as it catches the light. (Makeup artist Pat McGrath is known for using bold glitter on dark skin to create striking and standout looks.)
Each skin tone has its own unique beauty, and finding the right glitter shades can elevate your eye makeup to a whole new level. So, get ready to sparkle and shine with these tailored glitter tones!
When to Apply? Glitter Makeup Eye Ideas
Honestly, glitter eye makeup is versatile enough to wear pretty much whenever you feel like adding a little extra sparkle to your look. But there are definitely moments when glitter just makes more sense. Here’s when you should absolutely break out the glitter:
1. Parties & Night Outs
Glitter and night outs are like peanut butter and jelly. You can never go wrong with a bit of sparkle, especially when you’re hitting the town for a night of fun. Whether it’s a birthday bash look or a one-night stand attire, glitter eyes instantly take your makeup from everyday to extraordinary. It’s the perfect way to amp up your party look and make sure all eyes are on you. (Makeup artist Lisa Eldridge says glitter can turn any night out into a glamourous event, making you feel instantly fabulous.)
2. Festivals & Concerts
Think of glitter as your go-to festival accessory. Events like Coachella or any other music festival are the ultimate occasions to go big or go home with your glitter game. The more sparkle, the better, right? Festivals are about fun, freedom, and self-expression, so don’t hold back, layer on that glitter and let your inner festival queen shine. (Beauty expert Huda Kattan often recommends bold, festival-inspired looks for a bold statement.)
3. Holidays & New Year’s Eve
When it comes to celebrating the holidays, glitter is pretty much a must-have. Think about New Year’s Eve, where everything about your look should scream ‘celebration.’ Whether you’re going to a holiday party or ringing in the new year, glitter eye makeup gives you that extra shine to stand out. (Celebrity makeup artist Sir John suggests glitter as the key to creating a festive, party-ready look for the holidays.)
4. Weddings & Special Events
Weddings are all about glamour and glitz, so why not add a little extra sparkle to your eyes? Glitter eye makeup can elevate your wedding or special event look and give you a dazzling, high-fashion vibe. Just a touch of glitter on your eyelids can make your eyes pop in all the right ways, ensuring you look breathtaking in every photo. (Charlotte Tilbury frequently uses glitter for brides to make sure their eye makeup lasts throughout the day and night.)
5. Euphoria-Themed Looks
If you’re feeling like channelling Rue or Maddy from Euphoria, glitter is your best friend. Whether you’re re-creating one of their bold looks or just want to go wild with colour and sparkle, glitter is an essential part of the Euphoria aesthetic. It’s all about breaking the rules and having fun with your makeup. (Celebrity makeup artist Dominic Skinner has crafted multiple Euphoria-inspired looks that embrace the boldness and beauty of glitter.)
How to Put on Glitter Eye Makeup? Step-by-Step Guide
Okay, you’ve got your glitter, and you’re ready to start glamming up those eyes, but how do you apply it like a pro without ending up with a glitter explosion all over your face? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Follow these steps to apply glitter eye makeup in the best way possible:
Step 1: Prime Your Lid
Expert makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic always emphasises the importance of a good primer to lock in glitter. Glitter needs a good base to stick to, and that’s where a primer comes in. A glitter primer or even concealer can help the glitter adhere better and stay in place longer. Think of it as the foundation for your sparkle; without it, you might find your glitter scattered all over your face by the end of the night.
Step 2: Use Tape to Catch Fallout
No one wants stray glitter all over their cheeks. To avoid this, place a piece of tape under your eyes before applying glitter. This helps catch any fallout, keeping your under-eye area clean and sparkling. It’s a pro trick that ensures your makeup looks flawless, even after hours of wear. Guess what? Makeup artist Lisa Eldridge swears by this technique for a clean finish.
Step 3: Go in with a Flat Brush or Your Finger
For best results, use a flat synthetic brush or your finger to apply the glitter. Celebrity makeup artist Scott Barnes always advises using a flat brush to avoid messy application. Flat brushes give you more control and precision when placing glitter on your eyelids, while your finger can help press the glitter in for better adhesion.
Step 4: Layer It Up
Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury recommends layering glitter over soft, shimmering eyeshadows for a multidimensional effect. Start with a base shadow that’s shimmery, and then press on the glitter. Layering the glitter over a shimmery base shadow ensures it won’t look patchy. Press the glitter on with your fingers or a brush to ensure it sticks evenly.
Step 5: Dampen Your Brush
For more intense glitter payoff, spray your brush with a setting spray before applying. The damp brush helps the glitter adhere better, giving you that high-shine, intense look. Beauty expert Huda Kattan often uses this trick to make glitter look extra pigmented.
Step 6: Avoid the Crease
Glitter in the crease? Nope, that’s a disaster waiting to happen. Keep your glitter confined to the lid, and avoid applying it in the crease of your eye. Glitter in the crease can cause irritation and make the glitter crease or fade faster. Makeup artist Bobbi Brown advises focusing glitter on the centre of the lid to create a bright-eyed look.
Step 6: Seal It with Setting Spray
After you’ve applied your glitter, set it with a setting spray to keep everything in place. This helps lock in the glitter, so it stays put throughout the day or night. A good setting spray ensures your makeup doesn’t budge, and the glitter stays sparkling where it should. (Pat McGrath always recommends using a setting spray for long-lasting wear.
With these tips, you’re ready to shine like a star with your perfect glitter eye makeup. Just remember to have fun and let your sparkle shine!
3 Hacks to Put on Glitter Makeup On Different Eye Types
We found this video on the internet and it’s worth watching:
Final Thoughts
Makeup with glitter eyes is all about having fun and expressing yourself through bold, sparkling looks. Whether you’re matching it to your skin tone, finding the perfect time to wear it, or mastering the application techniques, the key is confidence. With the right shades, technique, and a little creativity, you can make your eyes the star of any occasion. So, embrace the sparkle, experiment with different looks, and let your eyes shine bright!
FAQs
What are the best pink glitter eye makeup palettes for 2025?
Think Natasha Denona’s mini rose palette or e.l.f. Liquid Metallic Eyeshadow. Too Faced has a cute pink glitter in their Gem 3-Piece Eye Makeup Set, and ABH’s mini sugar palette has a cool pink shimmer. Keep an eye on Charlotte Tilbury, Morphe, and ColourPop too for more sparkly pink goodness! Just peek around online at Sephora, Ulta, and the brand sites to see what catches your eye.
How to apply loose glitter eye makeup?
To get loose glitter to stick where you want it, first pat a glitter primer or a tiny bit of clear lash glue onto your eyelid. While it’s still tacky, gently press the loose glitter on with your fingertip or a flat brush. Do this in layers to build up the intensity. You can use a piece of tape to carefully lift any stray glitter
