Here’s my take — straight from the “I can’t believe this is under twenty‑five bucks” files — on why the Julep Eyeshadow 101 Cream‑to‑Powder Waterproof Shadow Stick is one of the Amazon beauty steals I genuinely geek out over.
Let me set the stage: I’ve tested dozens of Amazon beauty finds from cult-favorite lipsticks, viral serums, and high-end lookalikes, and I’m always chasing that sweet spot where “affordable” and “high performance” meet. This Julep shadow stick is one of the rare ones that really nails it.
Even after Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days, it’s still a beauty must-have you can score for less than $20, and in this price zone, it feels nothing short of magic.
First, a little social proof: as of my latest check, this stick has more than 54,000 rave reviews. Not to mention, more than 10,000 shoppers purchased it in the past month; that’s serious traffic. You don’t get that kind of volume unless something is resonating, and after testing it, I can attest that it’s worth the spot in your quick-morning makeup routine.
Why did it catch my attention in my tests? Because it’s deceptively simple but offers serious versatility. The formula is cream-to-powder: when you swipe, it starts creamy but dries (fairly quickly) to a powdery, waterproof finish. That means you can use it as a base, a solo shadow or even as a long-wear liner base.
It comes in shimmer, metallic and matte finishes, so you can mix and match textures depending on your mood or skin tone.
Let me walk you through my personal application ritual — the little dance I developed so this thing doesn’t leave creases or odd patches:
First, prep your lid as you normally would (primer or a light dusting of translucent powder helps, especially if your lids are oily). Then, twist up the stick and draw a few short strokes across the eyelid (inner corner to mid, or even dot in a stripe). Before it fully sets, use the built-in smudger tip or your finger to gently blend outward and upward, softening edges.
If you want extra intensity, layer a second light swipe, or dust a coordinating powdered shadow over it to mute or pop shimmer. Once it dries down — and trust me, it will — it resists smudging or shifting through the day (in many users’ experience). Some say it lasts up to 24 hours.
For more adventurous looks, I sometimes apply it just along the lash line, and then drag a brighter powder over my lid, or use it as a base for a glitter topper. Because it’s waterproof in its dry form, it can anchor more delicate textures. That’s what I mean by versatility: this eyeshadow stick handles minimalist “just one swipe” days, as well as more layered, dramatic looks.
In short, the Julep Eyeshadow 101 stick is a reliable tool in my stash. It gives me creamy application, long wear, texture options, and fun layering possibilities — for a fraction of what I’d pay for high-end sticks. For less than $20, it’s a no-brainer to grab one (or several shades).
Beauty doesn’t have to break the bank — sometimes it just needs clever timing and a little testing.
more eyeshadow picks
This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.