The Best Eye Shadow Primers for Long-Lasting Makeup We may earn compensation from retailers or from purchases of products through these links. The best eye shadow primers make the difference between makeup that stays perfect all day and makeup that fades before lunch. One application helps your eye shadow appear more vibrant and blend smoothly without creasing or fading. Think of it as preparing your eyelids before applying makeup. Modern formulas do more than just keep color in place. They smooth out texture & balance skin tone while offering benefits like hydration or oil control. The right primer makes a real difference if you have fine lines around your eyes or want your shimmer shades to look brighter and last throughout the day. Keep reading for recommendations from Allure editors and makeup artists that prove great eye makeup starts with what you apply before the shadow.
Editor’s Top Picks: Eye Shadow Primers That Truly Deliver
Best All-Rounder: Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion
Why it stands out: The Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion has been a long-time favorite among editors and makeup artists. Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Dresher notes that it extends the wear of eye shadow without settling into fine lines or feeling heavy. Its lightweight, almost serum-like texture spreads smoothly for an even finish. Slightly tacky but not sticky, it ensures eye shadow stays in place all day. The primer comes in Original (sheer translucent beige), Eden (matte beige), and Sin (pale champagne shimmer), along with an anti-aging version enriched with plumping peptides and brown algae, perfect for mature skin. Ideal for anyone looking to enhance their eye makeup longevity.
Top Performer for Mature Lids: Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer
Why it stands out: Milk’s Hydro Grip Eye Primer is invisible and acts like double-sided tape for eye shadow, keeping it from settling into fine lines. Pittsburgh makeup artist Patty Bell highlights its thin formula, making it easy to blend on delicate eyelids. It holds eye makeup in place for up to eight hours and contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and create a smooth, blurred effect. Infused with blue agave for grip and niacinamide and aloe for hydration, it can also be applied under the eyes to prevent concealer creasing. This primer is truly multi-purpose.
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Best Affordable Option: NYX Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer
Why it stands out: The NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer delivers professional-quality results at a budget-friendly price. Its lightweight formula spreads quickly, making it easy for anyone to apply. Available in four natural shades, it can even be worn alone as cream eyeshadow, helping to conceal veins and uneven skin tones. Enriched with vitamin E, it keeps eyelids moisturized and prevents dryness and flakiness throughout the day.
Perfect for Dry Eyelids: NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
Why it stands out: NARS’ Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base is a subtle, behind-the-scenes hero that enhances every eye look. Its sheer formula blends seamlessly into the skin, creating a nearly invisible layer that grips shadow without feeling heavy. New York City makeup artist Nick Barose praises its ability to make colors pop while providing hydration through rice extract and sea whip extract. This primer works more like skincare than makeup, ensuring smooth blending and longer wear without dryness.
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Best for Oily Lids: Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Primer
Why it stands out: The Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Primer is ideal for those with oily lids. Its formula contains oil-absorbing silica to minimize shine and maintain a smooth surface for eye shadow. The colorless, silky texture works on any skin tone, ensuring brighter, longer-lasting eyeshadow. Its waterproof formula resists fading and smudging, with the brand claiming up to 24 hours of wear, though it performs well for at least 12 hours.
Great for Evening Out Tone: Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer
Why it stands out: Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer comes in two shades that help even out eyelid skin tone. The light blue shade conceals purple and pink tones, while the peach version brightens dull skin for a more awake appearance. After application, eyelids feel smooth and even, and eye shadow stays in place all day, whether powder or cream. It also nourishes the skin with aloe, lanolin acid, and safflower seed oil, keeping it hydrated and comfortable throughout wear.
