Pressed Pigments vs. Traditional Eyeshadows

Which is More Versatile?

When it comes to eye makeup, eyeshadows are a staple in every makeup lover’s collection. From shimmer to matte, eyeshadows come in a wide range of shades and finishes, making them perfect for creating a variety of looks. But in recent years, a new player has entered the game: pressed pigments. Pressed pigments are highly pigmented, intense eyeshadows that are known for their bold, vibrant colors. But what exactly are pressed pigments, and how do they compare to traditional eyeshadows? Let’s dive in.

What Are Pressed Pigments?

Pressed pigments are eyeshadows that are highly pigmented and have a bold, vibrant color payoff. They typically have a soft, buttery texture that allows them to be easily applied and blended on the eyelids. Unlike traditional eyeshadows, pressed pigments are not limited to a particular finish, but can come in a variety of finishes including matte, metallic, glitter, and shimmer.

Pressed pigments are often made with a higher concentration of pigments than traditional eyeshadows, which is why they tend to have a more intense color payoff. They can be used alone or in combination with other eyeshadows to create bold and creative makeup looks.

How Are Pressed Pigments Different from Traditional Eyeshadows?

The main difference between pressed pigments and traditional eyeshadows is the level of pigmentation. Pressed pigments have a higher concentration of pigments, which makes them more intense and bold than traditional eyeshadows. While traditional eyeshadows can also be highly pigmented, they often require multiple layers to achieve the desired color payoff.

Pressed pigments also tend to have a different texture than traditional eyeshadows. They are often softer and more buttery, which makes them easier to apply and blend on the eyelids. Traditional eyeshadows, on the other hand, can be powdery and require a little more effort to blend.

Another difference between pressed pigments and traditional eyeshadows is the finish. While traditional eyeshadows come in a variety of finishes, including matte, shimmer, and metallic, pressed pigments can come in a wider range of finishes, including glitter and duochrome.

Pros and Cons of Pressed Pigments

Like any makeup product, pressed pigments have their pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider before adding them to your collection:

Pros:

1. Intense pigmentation: Pressed pigments have a higher concentration of pigments, which makes them more intense and vibrant than traditional eyeshadows.
2. Versatility: Pressed pigments come in a wide range of finishes, which makes them perfect for creating bold and creative makeup looks.
3. Ease of application: The soft, buttery texture of pressed pigments makes them easy to apply and blend on the eyelids.

Cons:

1. Fallout: Pressed pigments can sometimes have a lot of fallout, which can be messy and difficult to clean up.
2. Potential for staining: Because pressed pigments are so intense, they can sometimes stain the skin, making them difficult to remove.
3. Price: Pressed pigments can be more expensive than traditional eyeshadows due to the higher concentration of pigments and the quality of the product.

How to Use Pressed Pigments

Using pressed pigments is similar to using traditional eyeshadows, but there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Here are some tips for using pressed pigments in your makeup routine:

1. Use a primer: Because pressed pigments are so intense, it’s important to use a primer to help the color adhere to the eyelids and prevent creasing.
2. Use a flat brush: A flat eyeshadow brush is best for applying pressed pigments. Dip the brush into the product and tap off any excess before applying to the eyelids.
3. Blend carefully: Because pressed pigments are so intense, it’s important to blend carefully to avoid any harsh lines or uneven color.
4. Use a clean brush: To avoid mixing colors, use a clean brush when switching between shades.
5. Use caution with glitter: If using a glitter or duochrome pressed pigment, be careful not to get any product in your eyes.
6. Remove carefully: Pressed pigments can sometimes stain the skin, so be careful when removing them. Use a makeup remover specifically designed for removing eye makeup, and be gentle when wiping away the product.
7. Build up the color: Start with a small amount of product and build up the color gradually to achieve the desired intensity. It’s easier to add more product than it is to take it away, so start with a light hand and work your way up.

Pressed Pigments vs. Traditional Eyeshadows: Which is Right for You?

Deciding between pressed pigments and traditional eyeshadows ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you love bold, intense color, then pressed pigments are definitely worth considering. However, if you prefer a more subtle, natural look, then traditional eyeshadows may be a better choice.

It’s also worth considering the occasion when choosing between pressed pigments and traditional eyeshadows. Pressed pigments are perfect for special occasions or bold, creative looks, while traditional eyeshadows are great for everyday wear.

Final Thoughts

Pressed pigments and traditional eyeshadows each have their own unique qualities and benefits. Pressed pigments offer intense pigmentation, versatility, and ease of application, while traditional eyeshadows offer a wider range of finishes and a more subtle look.

Ultimately, the choice between pressed pigments and traditional eyeshadows comes down to personal preference and the occasion. With the right tools and techniques, both can be used to create beautiful and creative makeup looks. So why not experiment with both and see what works best for you?