I was introduced to pigments and loose eyeshadows about 2 years ago and in the process I built up quite a collection of them. I then got to wondering what the difference was between pigments and loose powder eyeshadows and why some companies called them such.

From left: Make Up For Ever Star Powder #90920, Barry M Dazzle Dust #14, MAC Coco pigment

MAC Cosmetics as most will know, sell pigments. These are jars of loose pigment powder that you can use not only as eyeshadow, but also for lips and face. Originally, these were supposed to be the basic ingredient of coloured makeup. Mix it with clear gloss and you get your custom coloured gloss. Use it on cheeks and you get a blush. Continue Reading