Huda Beauty Desert Dusk Eyeshadow Palette Review, Photos, Swatches
Desert Dusk
Huda Beauty Desert Dusk Eyeshadow Palette ($65.00 for 0.89 oz.) is a 18-pan palette that features eight mattes, six “Pressed Pearls,” three “Duo-Chrome Toppers,” and one “Pure Glitter.” It’s a story of hits and misses, and I think that there will be some who really enjoy it and others that will find the better shades too dupable and the more interesting shades needing too much work and/or improvement to be “worth” it. This palette will be best suited for someone who likes using their shimmers with a dampened brush, fingertips, and/or adhesive base and prefers their mattes to be thinner (and does not care about how they feel in the pan, only about how they perform on the lid).
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
The palette will be available September 18th.
Ingredients
Desert Dusk
PPermanent. $67.00.
Desert Sand
Desert Sand is a soft, light-medium yellow with warmer, orange undertones and a matte finish. It had semi-opaque color payoff with a dusty texture that was a bit thin and felt drier, chalkier to the touch. It wore well for seven hours on me before fading noticeably. THere was some fallout during application with this one, and it was tough to keep it contained (I used it primarily on my brow bone, and it often dropped enough powder that it altered my crease or lid colors).
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NARS Windsor (DC, $25.00) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Send Noodles (PiP, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop Fave Things (P, $6.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Tom Ford Beauty Desert Fox #1 (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop No Worries (PiP, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Smashbox Dope (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Smashbox Vanilla (P, $22.00) is more shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Estee Lauder Vanille (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Tarte S'more (PiP, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Totally Obsessed (PiP, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77492 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Desert Sand
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Musk
Musk is a muted, medium taupe brown with subtle, warm undertones and a mostly matte finish. While the texture was smooth, it also was on the drier side and felt thin, though it applied a lot better than expected based on the texture alone. It had opaque pigmentation that stayed on well for eight hours.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Anastasia Lula (LE, $12.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- Terra Moons Decadent (P, $6.00) is less shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M548 Pink Gray (DC, $21.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Riffraff (LE, $17.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Make Up For Ever M558 Dark Taupe (DC, $21.00) is darker (85% similar).
- ColourPop Americano (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (85% similar).
- ColourPop Get Crackin' (LE, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (85% similar).
- Tarte Power Player (LE, ) is darker (85% similar).
- Chanel Blurry Mauve #1 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter (85% similar).
- Tarte Weekend (LE, ) is darker (85% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77492 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Musk
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Eden
Eden is a brighter, medium orange with warm undertones and a hint of pink along with a matte finish. It had good color coverage in a single layer with a lightly dusty consistency that felt thin and dry to the touch, though it blended out well on the lid and did not lose all of its vibrancy applied to the lid. What I noticed was it sheered out a bit when blended, and I needed to be careful that my lid was drier or else it could darken unevenly due to the drier, thin texture. This shade lasted for seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Anastasia Roxy (DC, $12.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Footprints (LE, $5.25) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Anastasia The Supreme (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, darker, warmer (95% similar).
- ColourPop Full Bloom (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Too Faced Honey Brittle (LE, $16.00) is more muted (95% similar).
- ColourPop Dynamite (LE, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Get It (PiP, ) is less shimmery, more muted (95% similar).
- Sephora Adobe (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild Not a Basic Peach #3 (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- MAC Coral (DC, $17.00) is warmer (95% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77492 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Eden
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Amber
Amber is a medium-dark brown with warm, red undertones and a mostly matte finish. There were the finiest flecks of micro-shimmer strewn through it but not enough that they altered the visual finish of it being a matte eyeshadow in a look. It had excellent pigmentation that applied evenly to bare skin and blended out with ease. The texture still felt drier to me, but it performed well as it lasted for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Huda Beauty Henna (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Zoeva Cheap Bar (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Hard (PiP, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Smashbox Throwback (PiP, ) is more muted (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Native (DC, $6.99) is darker (95% similar).
- Urban Decay He Devil (PiP, $19.00) is darker, brighter, warmer (95% similar).
- Anastasia D5 (Norvina Vol. 4) (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Persona Audacious (PiP, ) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- LORAC Spice (LE, $19.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- LORAC Romance (LE, $19.00) is darker, more muted, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77492 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Amber
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Blood Moon
Blood Moon is a rich, medium-dark copper with warm, red undertones and a metallic finish. It was richly pigmented with a smooth, almost cream-like texture that was slightly denser than average but was still easy to apply with a brush. The color started to crease on me after eight hours of wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Marc Jacobs Beauty They Call Her (PiP, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Atmosphere (120M) (PiP, $29.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Scorched (PiP, $19.00) is darker, more muted (95% similar).
- ColourPop White Rabbit (PiP, $6.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- MAC Arriba (LE, $17.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Vintage (DC, $6.99) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- LORAC Rust (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Fenty Beauty Mars on Fire (LE, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Sleek MakeUP Sunset #3 (PiP, $9.99) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Gemstone #7 (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Isohexadecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Steareth-21, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Zinc Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77491 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Blood Moon
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Oud
Oud is a muted, dark plummy brown with warm undertones and a matte finish. There was a faint, micro-sized pearls that I could detect in a close-up shot but could barely tell in person (and I went back to verify as I was so confused when editing photos initially!). The consistency was soft, a smidgen dusty, but it did not feel quite as dry as the other mattes in the palette. It lasted well for seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Natasha Denona Soil (213CM) (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Smashbox Miss Chili (PiP, ) is darker (95% similar).
- Milani Heat is On (PiP, $5.99) is darker (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Nude Medium #6 (PiP, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Urban Decay En Fuego (PiP, $19.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Cute Alert (P, $4.50) is cooler (95% similar).
- Sydney Grace Solomon (P, $5.25) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- LORAC Mahogany (Mega Pro 4) (LE, $19.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Livin' (PiP, $4.50) is less shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Nude Vino (139CM) (DC, ) is warmer (95% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77492 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Oud
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Celestial
Celestial is a dirty, medium brown with warm, golden peach undertones and gold-to-pink duochromatic sparkle. The consistency was chunkier to the touch and almost felt a little loose in the pan. It did not apply well with a dry brush or fingertip; it only functioned decently with a dampened brush and patted onto the area and then using a clean brush to diffuse the edges. It had sheer coverage applied dry and more opaque coverage applied damp. It wore well for seven hours but had some fallout during wear.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Marc Jacobs Beauty Hen Party (LE, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Natasha Denona Bellatrix (103M) (PiP, $29.00) is lighter, warmer (80% similar).
- ColourPop Celestial (LE, $4.50) is lighter (90% similar).
- Lancome Midnight Haze (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- ColourPop Hiney (LE, $6.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Kylie Cosmetics Duchess (LE, ) is darker, warmer (90% similar).
- MAC Shiver of Delight (LE, $18.00) is less shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Cover FX Soleil (P, $28.00) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Givenchy Palette Ors Audacieux #3 (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Maiden (LE, ) is lighter (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Silica, Isohexadecane, Mica, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Stearate, Steareth-21, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Tin Oxide, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77007 [Ultramarines].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Looks Using this Product
Celestial
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Nefertiti
Nefertiti is a medium gold with warm, brown undertones and a sparkling sheen. It had good pigmentation with a soft, dusty texture that was prone to sheering out on me. The eyeshadow stayed on for seven hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Maybelline Beige-ing Beauty (85) (LE, $6.99) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Flux with You (LE, $6.00) is lighter, brighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Gilt Trip (LE, $25.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Sand Haze #1 (PiP, ) is darker (90% similar).
- MAC Lithe (LE, $21.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Entice (LE, $25.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Stila Vitality (PiP, ) is cooler (90% similar).
- Ciate Sunset Blvd (LE, ) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- ColourPop Take a Break (LE, $4.50) is lighter (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Stranded (PiP, $19.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Isohexadecane, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Steareth-21, Zinc Stearate, Dimethicone, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Steareth-2, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Caprylyl Glycol, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Tin Oxide, Polyurethane-11, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 19140 [Yellow 5], CI 77000 [Aluminium Powder].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Nefertiti
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Twilight
Twilight is a bright, medium lavender with warm, pink undertones and a sparkling, metallic sheen that shifted from bluish violet to warmer pink. It had semi-opaque coverage applied dry and opaque coverage applied damp. Of the three Duo-Chrome Toppers, this performed the best on its own. The texture was smoother and not as chunky (also not as sparkly–more metallic), and it blended out better on the skin as a result. This shade wore well for seven and a half hours on me and had minor fallout over time.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Earthshine (P, $4.50) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia Mandala (LE, $12.00) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Anastasia C3 (Norvina Vol. 4) (LE, ) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Redeemer (DC, $5.00) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Winter Garden (P, $6.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- ColourPop Oh So Dainty (PiP, $4.50) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Rare Beauty Ablaze (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Voila (LE, $6.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Electron (LE, $25.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Moira Regal (P, $8.50) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Silica, Isohexadecane, Mica, Aluminum Calcium Sodium Silicate, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Stearate, Steareth-21, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Tin Oxide, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77007 [Ultramarines].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Twilight
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Amethyst
Amethyst is a medium-dark, magenta purple with warm, pink undertones and a mostly matte finish. It had medium coverage that was buildable to semi-opaque coverage (two to three layers). The texture was drier, dusty, and prone to sheering out, and of all the shades, I felt like this one was one of the weaker ones and hardest to use effectively. It often appeared patchy and uneven on the skin, and it seemed particularly finicky as it would darken in places. It lasted for seven hours on me before creasing.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Darling (LE, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- Smashbox No Shame (P, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Chia Seed (LE, $4.50) is warmer (95% similar).
- Too Faced Boys N Berry (PiP, $16.00) is lighter (95% similar).
- Dominique Cosmetics Astrid Lust (PiP, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop 143 (P, $4.50) is darker (95% similar).
- ColourPop VR (LE, $4.50) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Caddy (LE, $4.50) is lighter (90% similar).
- Too Faced Funtasy (LE, $16.00) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Brocade Renegade (LE, ) is warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77007 [Ultramarines], CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 75470 [Carmine].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Amethyst
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Royal
Royal is a medium-dark, plummy brown with warm undertones and lighter pink pearl. It had good color payoff in a single layer with a moderately dense consistency. This shade could have applied more easily to the lid, as it was a bit too dense to blend out with ease compared to other shimmery shades in the palette. It wore well for seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Gucci Beauty Autumn Fire #3 (DC, ) is warmer (95% similar).
- KKW Beauty Vegas (LE, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Gucci Beauty Azalea (Right) (DC, ) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Viseart Cosmos (PiP, ) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- NARS Desdemona (P, $29.00) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Makeup Geek Enchanted (P, $12.00) is more shimmery, warmer (95% similar).
- Anastasia Pink Sapphire (LE, $12.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Tarte Hot MoMA (LE, ) is darker (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever D826 Fig (P, $17.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Cranberry (P, $17.00) is warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Isohexadecane, Zinc Stearate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Steareth-21, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Tin Oxide, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77510 [Ferric Ferrocyanide], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Royal
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Retrograde
Retrograde is a rich, coppery brown with green-to-blue shifting sparkle. The texture was looser with obvious texture from the sparkles, and it was hard to control with a dry brush and little transferred off my fingertip when I used it dry. It was easiest for me to use with a dampened brush, which enabled me to get greater coverage and more even application, even when layering over another eyeshadow. It lasted for seven and a half hours but had moderate fallout.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- NARS Exploit (LE, $25.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Solstice (DC, $20.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Too Faced Best Friends (LE, $16.00) is darker (90% similar).
- Sephora Unicorn Dust (361) (P, $9.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- MAC Boom Boom Room (LE, $18.00) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Fortune-Teller (LE, $19.00) is cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Bougie (P, $23.00) is less shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever 108 Burgundy (P, $26.00) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Make Up For Ever Prism (LE, ) is cooler (85% similar).
- MAC Humoresque (LE, $18.00) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Mica, Silica, Isohexadecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Steareth-21, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Caprylyl Glycol, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77491 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Retrograde
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Cashmere
Cashmere is a medium taupe with warmer undertones and a metallic sheen. The consistency was soft, slightly dusty, but very blendable and easy to apply to the lid on its own. It had opaque pigmentation that wore well for eight hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop Silk Teddy (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery, lighter, cooler (95% similar).
- NARS Daydream (DC, $25.00) is darker (95% similar).
- Tarte Uncommon (LE, ) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop Shine On (LE, $4.50) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Fenty Beauty Sand Castle (PiP, $36.00) is lighter (90% similar).
- NARS Kalahari I (PiP, $19.00) is less shimmery, warmer (90% similar).
- ColourPop Snake Eyes (LE, $4.50) is less shimmery, darker (90% similar).
- Sydney Grace Paris (P, $6.25) is more shimmery, cooler (90% similar).
- NABLA Cosmetics Dissolution (PiP, ) is more shimmery (90% similar).
- Lisa Eldridge Anjelica (P, $27.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Isohexadecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Zinc Stearate, Steareth-21, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Caprylyl Glycol, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Cashmere
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Angelic
Angelic is a light-medium pink with cooler undertones and a warmer, golden shimmer on top. It had semi-opaque pigmentation, which was harder to apply evenly as the texture seemed a bit dense and wasn’t as cooperative as it could have been. This shade lasted for seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Morphe Sissy (LE, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- NARS Orgasm (LE, $19.00) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Cheers Babe (P, $4.50) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- Wet 'n' Wild Stop Ruffling My Feathers #4 (LE, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Urban Decay My Voice (LE, $19.00) is more shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Blossom Up (PiP, $4.50) is more shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- YSL Paris #4 (LE, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Clinique Pink and Plenty (P, $17.00) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- Too Faced Crisp (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery, cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Come and Get It (P, $4.50) is darker (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Isohexadecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Steareth-21, Zinc Stearate, Dimethicone, Polyethylene Terephthalate, Steareth-2, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Polymethyl Methacrylate, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Polyurethane-33, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Angelic
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Cosmo
Cosmo is a medium-dark copper with a glittery finish. In terms of coverage and color, it looked a lot like loose glitter with a light adhesive base to it, but the “ready-to-go” formula was anything but as the glitter dropped steadily after a half hour of wear and continued all day. I followed the brand’s instructions, and it did not help to dab it on with a flat brush, and I tried it as a liner, where it still had serious issues of migration and movement throughout the day.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- ColourPop New Moon (PiP, $6.00) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- MAC Reigning Riches (P, $21.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- ColourPop Hard to Empress (LE, $7.00) is less shimmery (90% similar).
- Fenty Beauty Mars on Fire (LE, ) is lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Infatuated (PiP, ) is less shimmery, cooler (85% similar).
- Stila Rose Gold Retro (P, $24.00) is less shimmery, more pigmented (90% similar).
- ColourPop Birthday Cake (LE, $6.00) is more pigmented, cooler (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Excite (PiP, ) is cooler (85% similar).
- KVD Beauty Quartz (LE, ) is more pigmented (90% similar).
- Sephora Karoline (LE, ) is lighter, more pigmented (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Polyethylene Terephthalate, Glycerin, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Polyurethane-33, Polyurethane-11, Caprylyl Glycol, Jojoba Esters, Helianthus Annuus Seed Cera [Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax], Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil], Acacia Decurrens Flower Cera [Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax], Polyglycerin-3, Mica. May Contain +/-: CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77510 [Ferric Ferrocyanide], CI 77000 [Aluminium Powder].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Cosmo
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Turkish Delight
Turkish Delight is a rich, cranberry red with warm, copper undertones and a metallic sheen. The texture was denser, which made it a little harder to apply to bare skin without the shimmer lifting away from the base powder a bit, so it did not go on as evenly as I would haved liked. The best technique I found for this shade was to pat on with a flat, synthetic brush and then use a clean brush to buff the edges if necessary. It wore well for eight hours before fading on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Urban Decay Afterparty (LE, ) is less shimmery (95% similar).
- ColourPop Heads or Tales (LE, $4.50) is lighter (95% similar).
- Viseart Boheme Dream #9 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Passion (DC, $6.99) is darker (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Supersonic (LE, $19.00) is warmer (90% similar).
- Coloured Raine Noblewoman (PiP, $6.99) is less shimmery, darker (95% similar).
- Juvia's Place Calabar (P, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Viseart Nuance #6 (PiP, ) is lighter (90% similar).
- Pat McGrath Blitz Flame (PiP, $25.00) is more shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Buxom Best Life (P, $12.00) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Isohexadecane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Steareth-21, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Zinc Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77491 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Turkish Delight
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Saffron
Saffron is a muted, medium-dark red with warm undertones and a mostly matte finish. It had good color payoff, which was buildable to full coverage with a second layer. The texture was drier and thin but not powdery in the pan nor was it dry or powdery on the lid, and it was still quite blendable during application. The color stayed on well for seven and a half hours on me.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Dose of Colors Rose Berry (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Zoeva MT090 (PiP, ) is cooler (95% similar).
- Chanel Quintessence #3 (LE, ) is more shimmery, lighter (90% similar).
- Huda Beauty Nude Rich #8 (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Viseart Boundless (PiP, ) is more shimmery, darker, cooler (90% similar).
- Smashbox Fling (P, ) is lighter, brighter (90% similar).
- Dior Matte Red (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- ColourPop 500 (LE, $4.50) is lighter (90% similar).
- Sugarpill Young Blood (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Urban Decay Fire Starter (LE, $19.00) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77492 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
Look Using this Product
Saffron
PiPPermanent in Palette.
Blazing
Blazing is a rich, medium-dark orange with warm, red undertones and a mostly matte finish. The pigmentation was fantastic, while the texture was soft, smooth, and blendable without being too dry or too dusty in the pan. It wore well for eight hours on me before fading.
FURTHER READING: Formula Overview for details on general performance and characteristics (like scent).
Top Dupes
- Makeup Geek Morocco (DC, $6.00) is warmer (95% similar).
- Urban Decay Tajin (LE, $19.00) is cooler (95% similar).
- Huda Beauty Topaz #8 (LE, ) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Too Faced Extra Spicy (LE, $16.00) is less shimmery, lighter (95% similar).
- Coloured Raine Empress (DC, $6.99) is warmer (95% similar).
- Zoeva MT060 (PiP, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- ColourPop Potion (PiP, $4.50) is lighter, cooler (90% similar).
- Smashbox Wait, What? (P, ) is lighter (95% similar).
- Dominique Cosmetics Lunar Eclipse (PiP, ) is less shimmery, lighter, warmer (90% similar).
- Natasha Denona Burnt Terracotta (142CM) (LE, ) is darker, cooler (90% similar).
Formula Overview
-
The mattes are supposed to be “highly-pigmented” and “butter-smooth.” The formula has a chalkier, drier feel to them–almost sandpapery in a way–with a thin texture that has slight to moderate powderiness in the pan. I did not find these shades to be that prone to fallout; I did not feel like I had to take great care to minimize fallout and ultimately had little fallout after producing looks from this palette. Something I noticed was that while the matte shades looked fairly matte on the lid, most of them had very tiny, almost imperceptible micro-pearl in them. The pigmentation varied but most were pigmented and fairly blendable to very blendable. They wore anywhere from seven to eight hours on me.
The “Pressed Pearls” are supposed to be “rich” and “add depth and intensity” and can be used alone or layered over the mattes. The consistency of the formula was creamier and slightly denser, but the eyeshadows never felt stiff or difficult to pickup on a brush. These were the ones that applied well with a brush, though I noticed a couple did not appear as metallic after blending as they did initially. They were also quite pigmented and wore between seven and eight hours.
The “Duo-Chrome Toppers” are “ever-changing illusions” so the colors are designed to shift. The brand recommends blending these “into the base shadow with a brush or apply with finger to maximise the reflection.” They are not as chunky as last year’s Rose Gold eyeshadows, and they definitely bind together better on the lid, but they were not very usable dry, even when I used a fingertip. I tried patting on top of other eyeshadows with my fingertip, and the majority of product just stuck to my fingertip with little transfer and visible shift over the base eyeshadow. I also tried the same layering technique using a brush and had better results but they were still subpar. The best technique I found was using a flat, synthetic brush dampened or even using a light adhesive on the brush. By the name and limited description, they seemed design to be layerable, e.g. not fully opaque.
The “Pure Glitter” is described as a “ready-to-go formula” that can be “dabb[ed] on with a flat brush.” The idea that it is a “Pure Glitter” is an odd way to put it, as pure glitter seems like it would just be glitter/sparkle and nothing else, but the ingredient list for Cosmo is as long as all the rest of the eyeshadows. The idea of it being “ready-to-go” and the recommended application not mentioning adhesive or even dampening the brush also suggests that it can be used as-is. Well, not really–there is a creaminess to it, but it is half-loose, half-pressed, and moves around easily in the pan. It doesn’t fly away like a truly loose glitter would when applied directly onto skin or over a powder eyeshadow, but it does not stay in place for long at all. To use this, I would recommend using an adhesive base or patting over a cream product.
Browse all of our Huda Beauty Textured Shadow swatches.
Ingredients
Mica, Zea Mays Starch [Zea Mays (Corn) Starch], Silica, Zinc Stearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil [Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil]. May Contain +/-: CI 77891 [Titanium Dioxide], CI 77491 [Iron Oxides], CI 16035 [Red 40], CI 77742 [Manganese Violet], CI 77492 [Iron Oxides], CI 75470 [Carmine], CI 77499 [Iron Oxides].
Disclaimer: Ingredient lists are as available by the brand (or retailer) at the time of publishing. Please always check product packaging, if it exists, for the ingredient list applicable to the product you're purchasing, or the brand or retailer's website for the most up-to-date ingredient list.
I’m gonna try and give it a shot. I’m going to treat this palette as a challenge, snd see what I can do. The worst case scenario – return to Sephora is not a huge hassle to have.
Keep us posted 🙂
I call that the Subculture method. Good luck.
Lol, I actually love my Subculture, I accepted that challenge and kicked it’s behind?. I think we’re gonna be friends with Huda also.
I am going for this palette! I am scared of the glitter. Never used it!
Don’t be afraid to sparkle! Get Too Faced glitter glue for this one, also apply the glitter with your finger or eyeshadow sponge applicator. Good luck?
A cheaper alternative to Too Faced is Nyx Glitter Primer.
I agreed with you. I do love my Subculture palette too.
Awesome, thanks for getting this up so quick. I don’t care about Cosmo (the one that seems to, in addition to Amethyst, bring the score down hard) and thin mattes often work well for me in Florida because of extreme humidity (assuming they aren’t patchy/unblendable), so I’m still leaning toward “yep, this is the Huda palette I’ll try.” 😉
Christine, did you find the packaging on this as flimsy as the Rose Gold palette? I heard a lot of complaints about the packaging for that one.
It seemed a bit sturdier, and this year’s has a mirror, which made it heavier overall!
Yeah, Cosmo is just a really weird inclusion and not even described well, to be honest.
Late to this discussion, but your update on it being available is what led me to the review. I actually like that they added a more “difficult” or strange glitter eyeshadow; it changes things up a bit, and they were wise to only put one like that in the palette. However that it wasn’t well-performing is another matter and a shame, but like another person mentioned, that will be my challenge 😉 . At least it’s not in the Natasha Denona/ Pat Mc Grath price range, so I can take the plunge safely and this will be my first Huda palette (excited). Thus due to your review (and you give critical, and I mean that in the true sense of the word, not negative, reviews that I have led me well).
Unexpectedly it was available at my Sephora, so I took the plunge (like a comfort food) and I’m a little sad. I think I’ll have to work with this one harder than most to get the pigmentation I expected. I wrote a review and voted on it. Funny, the glitter shadow was drier than what you showed Christine, but then I felt like my box wasn’t quite the same as the same I tried. Seemed overall drier for a number fo the shadows. I’ll keep it though and try primer or other mediums.
I gave a review, but since really trying to make the most of this palette I thought I should give an update. It’s still a 3.0 palette for me, but I’ve figured out (as Christine and everyone else have mentioned) you definitely (even for a lot of the mattes) need an adhesive base. And I’m not a big eye primer person, but if I were to do a HUDA-only eye, I’d use it or another medium. The technique I’m preferring for this palette at the moment is as toppers. I put a base of some other brands’ matte and then any HUDA color I want over or blended closely next to it (even mattes) and it works. Then the color payoff is beautiful. So, unless you REALLY like the colors and don’t have them (which was the case for me), I wouldn’t recommend this palette.
Well, I got the Rose Gold palette, and the mattes are either so-so or problematic (dry, thin, dusty), only kept it because I got it at discount and loved the textured shadows so much. Some of the colors are beautiful here, but not dropping $65 for a palette that’s hit-or-miss and fussy to work with. And I think I have 90% of these shades covered, will check out your dupes list for the rest.
Definitely sounds like it won’t be worth it for you!
Hi Christine, thanks again for your thorough review. I have to say that I love these colours and don’t have something like it in my collection yet. I was thinking about buying the urban decay naked heat palette, but this palette kind of has the same feel for me with the warm orange, pink and red tones. Would you agree or do you think that they are very different in real life? Which one do you recommend from the two? Or do you have maybe a totally different palette that you would recommend with these kind of colors?
Naked Heat is warmer overall — more like an orange/red vibe and this one is a bit pinker, plus Desert Dusk has more of the shimmers that differentiate it from the warmer color schemes of the two palettes.
You can compare any two palettes, and here’s that link:
http://www.temptalia.com/palette-vs-palette/?palette_1_search=Urban+Decay+Naked+Heat&palette_1=299940&palette_2_search=Huda+Beauty+Desert+Dusk&palette_2=309337
On a higher level, Desert dusk is more versatile in color combinations than Naked Heat, which has a pretty look but I personally found it hard to get really different looks out of it (without adding other products to it).
Thanks! It’s a good thing that I did not already buy naked heat then, reading your reply I might be better off with this one.
Thank you sooo much for this comparison tool! I don’t know how I missed this.
Thanks for bringing up this question..nice to see the compare and contrast of the two.
Thank you for the fast review! Something about this palette is just getting to me. I think me and my glitter glue are going to buy this palette…just probably not on release day.
Sure thing, Joan!
This will be a tough call for me! I really love the color story, but feel as though I’ve got lots of similar types of shades, except for several truly standout shades. Now, for those I could just buy their dupe singles, ie; UD Solstice, Nars Desdemona. But those together add to (?) $49? I’ll have to think long and hard about this one.
I wouldn’t be surprised if you had plenty of dupes!
I felt the same way Nancy until I watched Mariah Leonard’s review/tutorial. I completely duped the look using ABH Modetn Renaissance and UD Spectrum. MA at Ulta complimented me on it when I was shopping on Saturday. So now it’s an easy pass.
Sooo, you are both right, Christine and Brenda! Today, I did something I haven’t done very well in awhile; I shopped my stash! Pulling: UD Tonic, CP 143, UD Alchemy (Vice 3), a little Bondage on the outer lower lashline, Omen to bridge Tonic w/ Alchemy, KVD Velvet (MetalMatte) to define crease, Silk and that peach shade to blend out the upper edge. Got quite a thrill at Sephora when an SA asked if I was wearing THIS palette!
Nancy our looks were very similar. I used Colourpop Wait for it as my transition shade. ABH Love letter in the crease, UD Omen with KVD Amethyst from Alchemist on my lid and ABH Tempura on my brow bone. ?
I’m going to try this palette out and hopefully I’ll like it.I like the color scheme and the more unique shades are so pretty!
Keep us posted, Dominique!
Stunning! Thanks for sharing this HUDA beauty palette. I will definitely buy it!
Enjoy, Megan!
I’ll definitely be purchasing once it’s available. I think I’m in the minority, but I actually like the Rose Gold palette and this one is even more appealing (purples!) to me. Great review and beautiful swatches as always, Christine!
Happy to help!
Hi Christine, thanks for your (as always) impressively detailed review. I love your precision and helpful commentary. I did notice, however, that you described Cashmere as easy to apply, but it scored a mere 0.8 under Application. I wonder if the decimal point was moved a step, as it sounded like it would be an 8.
Sorry, it was supposed to be 8.5 and 5 for the last two ratings, but my stupid fingers apparently don’t function remotely well any longer!
Twilight is pretty (and apparently fairly unique), but not pretty enough to buy an uneven $65 palette for it…
It is — the warmer base made it a bit different than some dupes!
I assumed Cosmo would need an adhesive like glitters do usually and it doesn’t bother me as long as it doesn’t move around in the palette and mess up other colors. Even though it said ready-to-go..the way it was in the pan said “as if” lol. What would be cool is if they put a little sort of a thin, plastic, clasp cover over that shade and include an adhesive. And instructions to apply it…for those who haven’t used a glitter.
Thinner mattes..I think I prefer a little thicker as climate is dry enough for that here. These overall swatch good..like the colors..but not a fan much of applying wet..but may be a good idea overall to do…since again..it is so dry here. Need stuff to stick a bit sometimes lol.
Thanks for the review, am a little hesitant of this one after the review..but still looks nice. Blood Moon and Turkish Delight look so pretty.
What’s odd is that it has glycerin in it, so that should help it adhere, but it just doesn’t do a great job!
Very pretty, but I’m already too well stocked with eyeshadows in this range. Some of the mattes, I prefer the brighter pinker ABH versions of those stories e.g. Love Letter. Amethyst looks really interesting in pan..less so on swatch. Reminds me of a shadow in my Denona 5 pan #10 – Nina’s Orchid. A beautiful palette nonethless
I see exactly what you mean about it being similar to Nina’s Orchid!
I’ve got too many dupes of the ones that perform well, and the remaining shades aren’t good enough to justify the $68 price tag. This does seem to swatch a tiny bit better than the last one though! I hope everyone who picks it up likes it, although I still can’t figure out why “texture” is a selling point for things that go on your eyelids.
I’m so glad you have plenty of dupes for the ones you like! 🙂
Another stellar example of why your reviews are the best in the business. Thanks.
Thank you so much for the getting this review up. To me, it seems very similar to quite a lot of palettes around at the moment, so I guess you would buy it if it has the colour combinations you love.
I can’t wear these shades, but I think that this palette has a fair range of mattes, shimmers and duo chromes that would all benefit from eye primer.
I was hoping for a slightly better review; I was trying to decide whether or not this palette would be a good alternative to the Natasha Denona Lila palette (and half the price). I might have to wait for your Lila review before I can make a decision.
The shades that caught my eye are Twilight and Angelic but I’m getting a dupe for Twilight and I have a number of gold/pink shadows in my collection (but none of the ones you listed) but now I just want the Natasha Denona Golden Rose (60M) shades as well. lol
Cosmo… why with the pressed glitter… WHY! Huda is not the first one do it but they tend to be duds in a pressed version. Glitter needs a glitter glue and pressing them doesn’t do them any good!
Meh I’m weary about this. The colors are pretty but I didn’t care for her Rose Gold and have only kept it bc my daughter wanted it. I find the quality ok except for the rose gold shimmer but I find it super hard to create looks I love so I don’t have high hopes for it, your rating aside. Too pricey for a palette I want to love but just dont
The beautiful eye looks you created with this palette make it tempting, but I think I am over this shade range already – its been done to death.
The palette is beautiful but I have dupes for a lot of the coulours and the only one I really, really want is Twilight, and I can get the UD dupe easily.
If it had performed better and got really good grades I might have though seriously about ordering it, as it is it’s quite an easy pass for me. It’s also on the more expensive side, or maybe not expensive, but with the postage added it would be.
Musk and Cosmo were my favorite shades on the skin. Too bad it so many duds.
have you found a palette that is like this ? like a complete dupe for the whole palette ? if you do or anyone else does, please let me know . in my opinion, $65 is too expensive .
Hey I’m a beginner in eyeshadow. I already own the too faced chocolate bar palette. So now should I get the Rose gold palette or the desert dust one? Is the desert dust one good for medium Indian skin tone?
I think Desert Dusk is easier to use than the Rose Gold, and I see no reason why it wouldn’t work on your skin tone!
$95 in Australia think I’ll pass! I just got the ND Lila palette anyway.
Does anyone know if Angelic is a duplicate shade from the rose gold pallet or if it is somehow supposed to be reformulated for this pallet or different in any way?
Please read the review above!
Hi! Thank you for responding! I read the whole article, I trust your opinions so much and we seem to have similar preferences for textures and application methods so I always love to come here for an honest review, I just feel like this wasn’t addressed in the article? Please correct me if I’m wrong!!! Thank you (: xoxo
It’s the same shade as the one in the Rose Gold palette – if it was different, it would have been called Angelic #2! 🙂
Has anyone bought from the Duda Beauty Website instead of Sephora? If so, did you have to pay anything to customs?
Huda Beauty*** whoops