Image via Mecca Max

Of all the facial features, eyes are the hardest to paint. Applying liner, shadow and pigment is essentially an art form – one that many makeup artists spend years perfecting.

Thanks to innovation though, even if you’re not a professional, you can still pull together an impressive look. All you need is a stack of easy-to-use formulas that do the heavy lifting for you — just swipe, blend and forget. So here’s our edit of the best (and easiest) new launches for your shopping pleasure.

read more: BLINK BIG. 7 OF THE BEST NEW EYESHADOWS TO TRY

Sisley Paris OMBRE ÉCLAT LIQUIDE, $65. SHOP NOW

If you find powder shadows fussy, the easiest alternative is a liquid. Ombre Éclat Liquide is a new formula from Sisley that’s super light in texture, so it doesn’t settle, crease or cake. Instead, it deposits a sheer, luminous wash of colour across the lid that’s equally beautiful on its own, or paired with a smudge of eyeliner.

Westman Atelier Eye Pods Rendezvous, $133. SHOP NOW

Made with usability in mind, these creamy shadow pots from Westman Atelier apply like a dream. Part gel, part compact powder, they work best when warmed up with a dense shadow brush before buffing into the lid. The trio of shadows work well together, or on their own for a clean look.

Mecca Max Zoom shadow stick max, $19. shop now

Just in from Mecca Max comes these matte shadow sticks. They’re super soft and malleable, so can easily be traced along the lash line and blended with fingers for the world’s easiest smoky eye. Once set, they do have great longevity, though.

Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Mechanical Gel Liner, $42. SHOP NOW

Gel liner can feel like a hard sell if you’re not skilled in the eye makeup department, but the creamy consistency of this Hourglass iteration is very user-friendly. Trace it along the water line for subtle definition, or create a simple wing by pulling out towards the edge of the brow. If it’s uneven, simply soften with your finger or a buffing brush.

Loveseen Iris Lash, $33. SHOP NOW

Strip lashes are arguably the hardest eye makeup trick to master, but Loveseen make the process infinitely better. The key is the soft, flexible band and lightweight lash, making it easier than usual to affix it to the lash line. Iris is soft and feathery, so looks very natural as well.

Multi-Use Highlighting Top Coat, $52. SHOP NOW
If you want a glossy, glazed eye in seconds, Chanel’s innovative Highlighting Top Coat is for you. It’s an iridescent sheen that dries down, so it gives off a glass finish without all the tackiness. Pair it with a liner, or wear alone for a minimalistic look.