TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.4*
Why it's great: "In crème shadow land, this is the queen bee," says one reader. "It's a gorgeous mauve/taupe cream shadow that doesn't crease." Other users say the shadow's high price is worth it, saying "it may be an expensive little tube, but I doubt you would run out in a year." Others say you can even skip the eye shadow primer and the eye shadow won't crease. "A small dot of this stuff goes a long way," says one reader. "The colors are beautiful and it lasts all day until you remove it."
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.4*
Why it's great: Users say they love the saturated color and smooth feel of this eye shadow. "I like the natural colors, and they are easy to blend," says one user. "When I was 18, this was my first eye shadow and I'm STILL using it."
Other reviewers recommend this product if you suffer from oily eyelids, explaining that this is a long-lasting eye shadow. "I had no problems with creasing or fading, even when I didn't use a primer," says one user. "The shadow is a silky texture and is easily applied, just use a brush not the crappy applicators they come with."
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.5*
Why it's great: Readers adore these highly pigmented matte eye shadows for their smooth application and staying power. "They blend well, are buildable and last even without a primer," one reader describes. Another comments that the formula is "not chalky like many matte shadows." Reviewers give kudos for the extensive selection of "unique and vibrant" shades.
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.5*
Why it's great: "These little shadows won't crease, migrate or wear off before you take them off," one satisfied reviewer explains. Readers find that the shadows are effortless to apply, ultra-blendable and nicely pigmented. The product comes in "a great color selection, with the most wearable shades." Readers suggest that the darker hues can double as eyeliner. Reviewers agree that these Laura Mercier shadows "are well worth the high price tag."
TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.5*
Why it's great: According to readers, these trios offer classic, long-lasting neutrals that give eyes a flattering sparkle. "My entire face looks different, thanks to this product. [It] just makes my eyes light up!" one user raves. Readers find that the "perfectly matched color combinations" are "lush, finely milled and oh-so-blendable."
If you haven't stashed one of these best eyeshadows in your makeup bag, then you might be familiar with this scenario: You start your day with perfectly made-up eyes. Your lashes are long and lifted, your cat-eye wings are as symmetrical as they'll ever be and your eyeshadow is blended so skillfully that you wish you could give yourself a high five. But a few hours later, you glance in the bathroom mirror to find a pair of shockingly faded, creased eyelids. What was a makeup masterpiece this morning is now a hot mess. We've all been there.
The solution? These 12 best eyeshadows. Our readers report that these face-saving products survive the 9-to-5 grind with flying colors. The best part? The No. 1 pick is under $10. Thank the makeup gods and get yourself ready for 12 glorious game-changers.