Eye shadow primers are essential for ensuring your makeup lasts all day, preventing fading or creasing. A good primer makes your eye shadow appear more vibrant, smoother, and longer-lasting. Beyond simply providing hold, modern formulas offer additional benefits like hydration, oil control, and texture smoothing. Whether you’re dealing with fine lines or want your shimmer shades to pop, the right primer can transform the look and longevity of your makeup. Below, we’ve compiled some editor and artist-approved options that deliver great results for all eye types.
Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion: Trusted by Artists
The Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion has been a staple in the makeup world for years. This lightweight formula is known for making eye shadow last longer, without sinking into fine lines or feeling heavy. Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Dresher mentions that its serum-like texture glides on evenly, leaving a slight tackiness to help the shadow stay in place all day. The primer is available in multiple shades, including Original (sheer translucent beige), Eden (matte beige), and Sin (champagne shimmer). An anti-aging version is also available, featuring plumping peptides and brown algae, making it suitable for mature skin.
Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer: Long-Lasting Hydration
The Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer is a favorite for its invisible finish and superior hold. Pittsburgh makeup artist Patty Bell appreciates how its thinner consistency makes it easy to blend on the delicate eyelid area, ensuring the primer doesn’t settle into fine lines. Once applied, it keeps eye makeup intact for up to 8 hours. With ingredients like hyaluronic acid for moisture, blue agave for grip, and niacinamide and aloe for hydration, this primer works well for aging eyes and can also be used under the eyes to prevent concealer creasing.
NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer: Affordable and Effective
The NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer is an affordable option that delivers pro-level performance. It’s lightweight and easy to spread, with four natural shades that work as a subtle cream eyeshadow or base. These shades neutralize veins and uneven tones, creating a smooth canvas for eye shadow. Infused with vitamin E, this primer keeps eyelids moisturized throughout the day and prevents flaking, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality, budget-friendly option.
NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base: For a Smooth Finish
The NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base is essential for creating flawless eye looks. The sheer formula grips shadow without feeling heavy, allowing the pigment to shine through. New York City makeup artist Nick Barose has relied on this base for years because it lets colors pop without altering the shadow’s tone. Featuring rice extract and sea whip extract, this primer hydrates and protects the delicate skin around the eyes, ensuring the makeup stays intact while feeling like skincare rather than a typical makeup product.
Too Faced Shadow Insurance: Best for Oily Lids
If you have oily lids, Too Faced Shadow Insurance is a great primer option. Its oil-absorbing silica helps control shine, creating a smooth surface for eye shadow to adhere to. The primer works across all skin tones with its colorless texture, ensuring brighter color payoff, easier blending, and longer wear. Its waterproof formula resists fading and smudging, even in humid or rainy conditions, making it a reliable choice for all-day wear.
Laura Mercier Eye Basics: For Even-Toned Lids
Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer is available in two shades: a light blue to neutralize redness and purple tones, and a peach to brighten dull-looking skin. Both shades help even out the skin tone and create a smooth base for eye shadow. The primer provides skin benefits like soothing aloe, moisturizing lanolin acid, and nourishing safflower seed oil. Once applied, it keeps eye shadow in place, whether using powder or cream formulas, ensuring a fresh, long-lasting look throughout the day.
