Ever since Kim Kardashian made the smoky eye one of the hottest makeup looks out there, women have been striving to achieve the perfect smoky, mysterious allure on their eyelids. But let’s be honest, many are intimidated by the look and don’t even bother with it because they have no clue where to start.
You may have read about my last run-in with a smoky eye and how much I liked it. Last time, I turned to a pro to do my makeup; this time I decided to test out the look in the comfort of my own home with one and only one product: Cover Girl’s Smoky ShadowBlast.
I tested out the product in three different shades: Citrus Flair, Tempest Blue and Bronze Fire. Here’s my verdict, ladies!
The pros
- While many people think it takes a whole makeup bag’s worth of product to create a sultry smoky eye, this product proves just that the opposite is true. The Smoky ShadowBlast is so versatile because it removes the need to carry around several products and with one easy-to-grip stick, you can add some color to your eyelids, define, and highlight all at the same time.
- There are six different shades of the ShadowBlast, so you can choose the smoky eye that’s right for both your mood and your eye color. There’s also a little diagram on the package to help you achieve the perfect smoky eye while taking the guesswork out of proper application.
- When applied well, the color lasts throughout the day.
The cons
- I typically don’t go for pencil type shadows; I’m more of a powder kind of gal (it’s easier and gives you more control over the application). So if I had one big complaint about the ShadowBlast, it would be the effort it takes to apply it. You have to make sure you press pretty hard on your lids to get the right amount of color.
- But that’s a personal preference and not a flaw with this great product. It’s all about achieving the proper balance and finding what amount of color works for your skin tone.
- One other potential problem area to consider: The stick of eye shadow easily falls out of its tube if you’re not careful when you’re winding it up to get it out. So just be careful when twisting the shadow stick.
The colors
- My favorite shade was by far Bronze Fire because it gave me a sultry shine but was subtle at the same time. Plus, it’s a pretty neutral tone that seems like it would work for many of you.
- Coming in second place was Tempest Blue with its pretty and flirty tones. It’s the perfect pop of color in a very playful shade.
- Bringing up the rear in last place has to be Citrus Flair. I didn’t really like this shade and I was told it made me look like I had a bruise on my eyelids. But just because it didn’t work for my coloring doesn’t mean it’s not a great shade for those of you who can make it work.
The final verdict
Overall, this is a quality product that makes the smoky eye an achievable and easy look for women everywhere. In spite of the few flaws I found with the Smoky ShadowBlast, I’d recommend it to all of you for its convenience factor alone because it simplifies the smoky eye look. And what busy gal doesn’t want to simplify a little?