The Influencer-Approved Eyeshadow Hack That Works for All Eyelids

Courtesy of Kat James

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In case you haven't heard, eyeshadow has made a major comeback in 2025.

However, we're ditching bold halo eyes and dramatic cut-crease looks for one-and-done shadows, diffused, light-reflecting shimmers, and monochromatic styles. That's according to beauty and lifestyle influencer Kat James.

James’s one million TikTok followers can’t get enough of her beauty tips, especially her go-to eyeshadow techniques for mature skin and hooded eyelids.

If you're of a certain age, or even just feel some type of way about your eyelids and believe eyeshadow is no longer for you, James proves it still can be.

E! asked her for her best tips, tricks, and techniques to create a flawless eye look—no matter your age.

“The best eye makeup for mature skin enhances the eyes rather than overpowers them,” says the beauty influencer. The key to a good makeup look is the right canvas, which you can achieve with a lightweight eyeshadow primer.

This first step “smooths out texture and helps shadow grip, especially if you’re dealing with fine lines or a bit of lid creasing,” she explains.

You may be wondering: What are the best eyeshadows for mature eyes? The licensed aesthetician told E!, “mature lids often have a little more movement or texture, so avoid heavy shimmer or glitter, which can settle into fine lines."

Featuring a sheer wash of color with reflective but subtle shimmer, this creamy powder eyeshadow can be worn on it's own or atop a matte shade.

It's a one and done kind of product, which is trendy according to James— just one swipe of this will make it look like you put a lot of effort into your look. Plus, it comes in so many shades.

Although the beauty influencer prefers to use her fingers to apply shadow, she's also a fan of a soft blending brush.

This one is fluffy, with a tapered shapes that can diffuse color gently without tugging.

When applying eyeshadow, James says "the key is to start with the right canvas."

That means applying this waterproof eyeshadow primer, which prevents smudging, creasing, and fading, before putting on shadow. This one also has vitamin C and peptides for a touch of hydration.

For precise eyeshadow application, use a tiny angled detailing brush like this one.

"A smaller detailing brush is also great for applying a bit of depth at the lash line or softening the outer corners," James says.

"On mature skin, cream shadows can actually be a secret weapon—they tend to blend beautifully and feel weightless" James explains.

This cream eyeshadow is great choice. Available in several shades, it's the perfect product for a trendy one-and-done look.

In addition to a fluffy blending and angled brushes, this defining crease brush should also be in your arsenal.

Ideal for use with both powder and cream shadows, this brush is for a more precise application of crease or lid colors.

This smoothing eyeshadow primer increases the intensity and wear of your look by creating a long-lasting base for shadows.

It comes in four shades so you can find one that's right for your skin tone.

James is a fan of cream shadow sticks because they're both buildable and easy to apply. This one is a solid choice.

It's more shimmery than glittery, which makes it a good choice for those with mature or crepey skin. Plus, it comes in several shades, including matte black and white.

This product is like an eye primer and cream shadow in one.

James suggests applying a thin layer, blended with your finger, then lightly setting with a translucent powder (or even a matching shadow) to lock in your look for hours.

Featuring a water-resistant formula, it comes in several neutral shades you'll wear all the time.

Coming in at just $12, you can't beat the value of this eyeshadow palette

Made up of mostly mattes with a few satin finishes, this nine-pan palette features an array of go-to cream, taupe, and brown shades.