Nichido Stardust Eyeshadow in Blue Lagoon

I was really impressed by the color payoff and texture when I first swatched the Nichido Stardust Eyeshadow in Blue Lagoon (P168) at the mall. I didn't think twice and added it to my cart. When I got home though, I was really dismayed when I re-swatched the newly opened palette. Well, it wasn't a total bust, but it's honestly not something I would use.

So why was there a difference of quality between the tester and the new palette? I read an explanation somewhere that the oils in the fingers of those who swatch makeup tend to mix in with the powder, making it creamier and somehow intensifying its color. I know, gross! But that's how it works. 

The eyeshadow is pretty useless by itself, but over a base like the Urban Decay Primer Potion or the Too Faced Shadow Insurance, it will come out nicely. Don't expect any vibrancy though. I also didn't see a lot of shimmer, which may be a good thing for some, but for a product named "Stardust Eyeshadow" I expected something with a little more glimmer.

Gritty texture

Over the TFSI

This product isn't completely terrible though. If you're a student on a budget, this is perhaps your best option because the color combination is nice, plus it's flattering on Pinay skin. It's also compact and comes with a mirror, making it easier to fit in any bag. It does show up on the lids - with a bit of work. But yeah, it's not completely hopeless.

If you don't have an eyeshadow primer, you can simply apply this eyeshadow wet or over a thin layer of concealer to increase the pigmentation and lasting power.

Overall, you really get what you pay for. It's only P168, but in the bigger scheme of things, you could have just saved that and added few hundred bucks for another brand. If you're looking for cheap but good drugstore eyeshadow, I suggest Maybelline, Fanny Serrano, In2It or 4u2. :) Do try the Nichido Girls Night Out eyeliners though, those are really good deals.