What's your process for testing a new eye product?
If it’s a totally new formula, then I try it with and without primer (or whatever helper may be reasonable with that product type) to get an overall gauge at what longevity looks like as a standalone product and how it might be extended (if necessary). I’ll also try different application techniques and tools based on whether I’m having any issues with the formula, so if my go-to technique for that type of product is working, I won’t work through my whole tool box!
— Christine
After I’ve done all my research, swatched it in store, and made the decision to buy the product (or, in the case of Colourpop, bought it on a whim), I usually pick a night when I have no plans, and experiment with different looks and applications. That’s about it. If I do a look I really like, I’ll jot it down on a scrap of paper and put it inside the palette.
I keep my favorite looks with a palette in my IG and I note what I used and where. I like your idea of jotting it down and putting it in the palette or packaging. Thank you for the tip, Seraphine!
Every time I open a palette, little scribbled notes fall out…Lol!
Main thing; how does it hold up on my own hooded, almond shaped, oily, frequent teary allergy afflicted eyes. Also, what have the various reviews revealed about it. I’ve found reviews helpful, but not the be all final say on any product. I’ve had swooned over products fail on me, I’ve also had products scorned by others work out very nicely on me.
I don’t really have a process. I do try a few different brushes and primers but I always wear a primer so I don’t waste time trying the e/s without a primer. I have brushes that suit my small, hooded eyes and so if I can’t get the shadow to work with the brushes that work for me and the primers that I like, then I usually just won’t use that shadow. I rely on reviews and if reviews are mediocre or bad then I try not to even buy the shadows in the first place. Shadows that are powdery in the pan don’t bother me as I just use a super gentle hand but if they don’t adhere well to the lid and I have fallout past initial application then that is a no-go for me. My daughter won’t even try an ABH palette as she hates the amount of powder that is kicked up in the pan and feels like it is a matter of finance that she doesn’t want all her money being blown away in powder. I haven’t purchased a really poor palette in awhile as I rely heavily on the blog to get a good idea of how an e/s performs and since
Christine is so thorough in her reviews, I don’t have a surprise when I go to apply.
My process for purchasing a new eyeshadow palette is:
1. Has Christine reviewed it and given it a B+ or more rating?
2. Are the shades in the colours and finishes I would use?
3. Do I have something similar in my stash already? Although that wouldn’t necessary stop me from purchasing something truly wonderful…..
4. Is it affordable, accessible (without paying an horrendous amount in shipping fees)?
In very rare cases I get to swatch and see the product for myself and if I do, do I like them still?
These days I just slap them on, hoping for the best. 🙂 This “method” sometime have me run to the bathroom, removing the makeup and try again.
When I had to get up in the morning and go to work I always played with new eye shadows in the evening so I’d not get any unpleasant surprises in the morning.