I have very sensitive skin and MAC eyeshadows irritate me — which MAC lines are safest for reactive skin?

MAC's Conscious Beauty page says that their products don't contain any phthalates, parabens (except in some Pro products), formaldehyde-donors, SLS/SLES, synthetic microbeads, or some controversial colorants. This means that people with sensitive skin may be less likely to get skin discomfort.

According to INCIDecoder, the "Eyeshadow Connect-in-Color" recipe has mild moisturizers such as caprylyl glycol, tocopheryl acetate (a type of Vitamin E), and octyldodecyl lactate. These are all better for sensitive skin because they are not too harsh.

However, a lot of MAC powder eyeshadows still have talc, mica, iron oxides, and sometimes phenoxyethanol in them as preservatives. This may still cause slight irritation for some people, especially those with eczema on their eyelids or perfume allergies.

Do a patch test behind your neck or on the inside of your arm if you have sensitive skin. Also, avoid glitter and use matte or satin finishes instead.

Cream or stick shadows tend to shed fewer particles, and always gently remove your makeup at the end of the day.