Compensation may be earned from retailers or when products are purchased through these links. The best eye shadow primers decide whether your eye makeup stays flawless all day or fades away before noon. One simple layer helps eye shadow appear more vibrant, blend effortlessly, and stay put without creasing or fading. Think of it as prepping your eyelids before makeup. Today’s formulas go beyond holding color in place. They help smooth texture, balance uneven tone, and offer added benefits like hydration or shine control. If you notice fine lines around your eyes or want shimmer shades to look brighter and last longer, choosing the right primer truly matters. Below, discover expert-approved picks from Allure editors and professional makeup artists who agree that great eye makeup starts underneath.
Top-Rated Eye Shadow Primers Worth Trying
Editor Favorites: High-Performance Eye Shadow Primers
Why it stands out: Urban Decay’s Eye Primer Potion has remained a go-to choice for editors and makeup artists for years. Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Dresher previously shared with Allure that it helps eye shadow last significantly longer without settling into fine lines or feeling heavy. The formula feels lightweight and serum-like, spreading evenly with no patchiness. It has a subtle tackiness that grips shadow without feeling sticky. The Original shade offers a sheer translucent beige, Eden delivers a matte beige finish, and Sin adds a soft champagne glow. There’s also an anti-aging version made for mature skin, featuring plumping peptides and brown algae. This primer suits nearly anyone wanting better wear and smoother eye makeup.
6 Eye Shadow Primers That Keep Makeup Smooth Vibrant and Crease-Free From Morning to Night
Best Long-Wear Option: Urban Decay Primer That Holds Color
Why it stands out: Milk Makeup’s Hydro Grip Eye Primer goes on completely invisible and works like double-sided tape for eye shadow without settling into creases. Pittsburgh-based makeup artist Patty Bell notes that its thin, flexible formula blends easily across delicate eyelids. It keeps makeup in place for up to eight hours while using hyaluronic acid to add moisture and create a softly blurred look. Blue agave enhances grip, while niacinamide and aloe boost hydration. Bell even suggests applying it under the eyes to reduce concealer creasing, making this primer a truly multi-use staple.
Best Choice for Mature Lids: Smooth and Crease-Free Wear
Why it stands out: The NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer is another favorite recommended by Bell, delivering impressive performance at an affordable price. Its lightweight formula spreads quickly and evenly, making application easy for beginners and pros alike. Available in four natural-looking shades, it can double as a cream eyeshadow on its own. These shades help conceal veins and even out discoloration while creating a smooth base. Infused with vitamin E, the primer keeps eyelids moisturized and prevents dryness or flaking throughout the day.
Best Budget Pick: Professional Results at a Lower Price
Why it stands out: NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base works quietly behind the scenes to elevate any eye look. Its sheer formula disappears instantly, leaving behind a barely-there layer. New York City makeup artist Nick Barose told Allure he loves how it grips shadow without heaviness or interference. He’s relied on it for decades because it allows color to truly shine. Formulated with rice extract and sea whip extract, it helps hydrate and protect the delicate eye area. The texture feels more like skincare than makeup and avoids dryness while improving wear and blendability.
Best for Dry Eyelids: A NARS Base That Prevents Flaking
Why it stands out: If you regularly use Too Faced palettes, the brand’s Shadow Insurance Eye Primer helps those shades perform at their best. The formula includes oil-absorbing silica to control shine and keep lids smooth. Its colorless, silky texture works across all skin tones and creates a base that grips shadow effectively. This results in brighter color payoff, easier blending, and longer wear. The waterproof formula resists smudging and fading, even in humid or rainy conditions. While the brand claims 24-hour wear, it performs reliably through long 12-hour days.
Best for Oily Lids: Too Faced Primer with Oil Control
Why it stands out: Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer is available in two shades designed to even out eyelid tone. The light blue option helps neutralize purple or pink discoloration, while the peach shade brightens dull-looking skin. Once applied, eyelids appear smooth and balanced, providing the perfect canvas for powder or cream shadows. The formula supports long-lasting wear while also caring for the skin. Aloe soothes and hydrates, lanolin acid locks in moisture, and safflower seed oil delivers nourishment without feeling heavy or greasy.
