This article may include compensation from retailers or from purchases made through selected product links. The best eye shadow primers often determine whether your makeup stays fresh from morning to night or fades by midday. With a single layer, a good primer helps eye shadow look more vibrant, blend effortlessly, and remain in place without creasing or fading. Think of it as properly preparing your eyelids before any color goes on. Modern formulas do more than extend wear. They help smooth texture, even out skin tone, and offer benefits like hydration or oil control. If fine lines are visible around your eyes or shimmer shades tend to dull quickly, the right primer can completely transform the finish. These editor- and artist-approved picks prove that flawless eye makeup starts before the shadow is applied.
Editor-Approved Eye Shadow Primers
Editor Favorites: Eye Shadow Primers That Perform
The Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion has long been a trusted favorite among editors and makeup artists. Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Dresher has shared that it helps eye shadow last longer without settling into fine lines or feeling heavy. The lightweight formula has a serum-like texture that spreads evenly without patchiness or buildup. It leaves a slightly tacky finish, allowing shadow to stay in place all day without feeling sticky. The Original shade offers a sheer translucent beige, Eden provides a matte beige, and Sin delivers a soft champagne shimmer. There is also an anti-aging version designed for mature skin, featuring plumping peptides and brown algae. Overall, it’s a versatile option that works well for nearly everyone.
Best All-Day Hold: A Primer That Locks In Color
Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer applies completely invisible and works almost like double-sided tape for eye shadow, without settling into fine lines. Pittsburgh makeup artist Patty Bell explains that its thinner consistency makes it easy to blend over the delicate eyelid area. Once set, it keeps eye makeup in place for up to eight hours. The formula includes hyaluronic acid to add moisture and create a softly blurred finish. It’s also made with blue agave for grip, along with niacinamide and aloe for added hydration. Bell even recommends using it under the eyes to help reduce concealer creasing, making it a truly multi-purpose product.
Great for Aging Eyes: Smooth, Comfortable Wear
The NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer is one of Bell’s favorite budget-friendly options and delivers results far beyond its price. The lightweight formula spreads quickly and feels comfortable on the skin, making it easy for anyone to apply. It comes in four natural-looking shades that can also be worn alone as a subtle cream eyeshadow. These shades help conceal visible veins and uneven tone while creating a smooth base. Infused with vitamin E, the primer keeps eyelids moisturized throughout the day and helps prevent dryness or flaking.
Best Affordable Pick: Pro Results Without the Price
NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base is a behind-the-scenes staple that quietly enhances every eye look. The sheer formula disappears upon application, leaving behind a weightless layer. New York City makeup artist Nick Barose has shared that he values how it grips shadow without feeling heavy or altering the color placed on top. He notes it has been his go-to for years because it allows pigment to truly stand out. The formula contains rice extract and sea whip extract to hydrate and help protect the delicate eye area. It wears more like skincare than traditional makeup, avoiding dryness while improving wear time and blendability.
Best for Oily Lids: Long-Lasting Shine Control
If you regularly use Too Faced palettes, the brand’s Shadow Insurance Eye Primer helps those shades perform at their best. The formula features oil-absorbing silica to control shine and keep lids smooth throughout the day. Its silky, colorless texture works across all skin tones and creates a reliable base that helps shadow adhere properly. This results in brighter color payoff, easier blending, and extended wear. The waterproof formula resists fading and smudging, even in humid or rainy conditions. While it claims 24-hour wear, it comfortably lasts through 12-hour days, which is still impressive.
Best for Evening Skin Tone: A Balanced, Awake Look
The Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer is available in two shades and works especially well for evening out eyelid tone. The light blue shade helps neutralize purple and pink undertones, including redness and visible veins. The peach shade brightens dull-looking skin and creates a more awake appearance. Once applied, eyelids appear smooth and balanced, and eye shadow stays in place all day with both powder and cream formulas. The formula also offers skincare benefits, featuring aloe to soothe and hydrate, lanolin acid to lock in moisture, and safflower seed oil to nourish the skin.
