Last Updated on July 20, 2026 by Giorgia Guazzarotti

how to make your own cream eyeshadow tutorial

I’m not a big fan of cream eyeshadows. I have oily lids and cream formulas on me crease faster than you can say “eyeshadow!” But last week, I accidentally dropped a couple of powder eyeshadow to the ground and they smashed into a thousands pieces. *cries* I didn’t want to let them go to waste so I rescued what could be rescued and decided to use the broken bits to make my own cream eyeshadows. Here’s how you can do the same, too.

What You Need To Make Your Own Cream Eyeshadows

  • Loose eyeshadows*
  • Clear gloss or vaseline**
  • Q-tip or spatula
  • Clean container

*Any pressed eyeshadow that got smashed into a thousand pieces is fine, too). In alternative, you can also use intact pressed eyeshadows. You’ll just need a scraper to scrape it out of the pan. I don’t like this option because why ruin good eyeshadow? But if it’s a rare shade you’re dying to get in cream form, then why now? Your eyeshadow, your choice.

**If Vaseline or clear gloss isn’t your thing, you can also use:

  • Eye-safe mixing mediums, like Inglot Duraline, which helps create a more long-wearing, smudge-proof texture.
  • Aloe vera gel for a slightly thinner, skin-friendly alternative.
  • Unscented eye-safe balms for a richer, creamier texture that won’t slide around as much.

Related: 22 Surprising Beauty Uses For Vaseline

WARNING! Before mixing any loose pigment, clear gloss or lip balm, make sure they are approved for use around the eyes. A quick way to do this is to compare their ingredient lists with those of your eye products. If you find any ingredients in a lip balm that aren’t used in any of your eyeshadows/primers/eyeliners etc, don’t risk it. Better be safe than sorry. And don’t say I haven’t warned you!

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Step-By-Step Instructions To Make Your Own Eyeshadow

1. SANITIZE EVERYTHING

Before you start, clean the container you’ll use to house your new cream eyeshadow well. Yes, even if it’s brand new. You never know where it’s been, and you don’t want to risk anything nasty ending up in your eyes.

2. CHOOSE YOUR BASE FORMULA

  • For a sheer, glossy look: Use more gloss or Vaseline and less eyeshadow pigment.
  • For a highly pigmented, bold look: Use more eyeshadow pigment and just a small amount of mixing medium.
  • For a long-wearing, crease-resistant formula: Try mixing a tiny bit of eyeshadow primer into your blend to help with staying power.

3. MIX THE INGREDIENTS

Once the container is dry, mix the eyeshadow with either a clear gloss or Vaseline. Start with a small amount and add more as needed until you get consistency you want. f you want a softer blend, crush the eyeshadow powder into an ultra-fine texture before mixing. The finer the powder, the smoother your cream shadow will apply.

4. STIR UNTIL SMOOTH

Use a Q-tip, spatula, or even a small brush to mix well and eliminate lumps. The more you mix, the smoother and more even the texture will be. I know it can be boring, but it does help you give a formula you’ll love to use. Who wants lumps on their eyes anyway?!

5. TEST THE TEXTURE

Swatch a bit on the back of your hand or your eyelid to check if the consistency is to your liking. If it’s too thick or dry, add a little more gloss or Vaseline. If it’s too thin, add a bit more pigment. Keep repeating the process until you have a shade you love in a texture you’ll love using.

How To Store & Use Your DIY Cream Eyeshadow

Once you’re happy with your custom cream shadow, seal the container tightly so it won’t dry out. Store it in a cool, dry place to keep the texture fresh. To apply, use your fingers for a quick, sheer wash of color, or a flat synthetic brush for a more precise and pigmented application. I’m a huge fan of using brushes as it makes it easier to blend and reach the desired intensity and effect.

FAQS

How long does DIY cream eyeshadow last?

If stored properly in a clean, airtight container, your DIY cream eyeshadow should last about 3–6 months. This is assuming the original eyeshadow had a good preservative system. If it doesn’t, it’ll last less. So, if you notice any changes in smell, texture, or appearance, toss it out! It means bacteria have entered the eyeshadow and made it unsafe to use. Be careful!

Will this work for all skin types?

If you have oily lids (like me!), setting your cream shadow with a matching powder eyeshadow or a translucent setting powder will help it last longer. You can also apply an eyeshadow primer underneath to reduce creasing. Still, like all cream eyeshadow formulas, it’s unlikely to last all day.

Can I mix different eyeshadows?

Absolutely! Get creative and blend multiple shades together for a custom color. It’s so much fun! Just make sure they’re all safe to use and nothing has gone bad first.

Is it safe to use lip gloss or lip balm in my DIY eyeshadow?

Only if the ingredients are eye-safe! Some lip products contain dyes or fragrances that may irritate the eyes. Always double-check the ingredients and label before using them.

My DIY cream shadow is too sticky. What can I do?

If your formula feels too tacky, mix in a small amount of loose setting powder or finely milled translucent powder to mattify the texture until the stickiness disappears.

The Bottom Line

DIY cream eyeshadow is an easy way to save broken powders and create custom shades that work for you. Play around with textures, tweak the formula, and make it your own. Got oily lids? Set it with powder or use a primer. Want a bolder look? Add more pigment. The best part? No wasted eyeshadow. Just creamy, blendable color exactly how you like it. Happy mixing!