You may receive compensation from retailers or through purchases made using these links. The best eye shadow primers decide whether your makeup stays flawless all day or fades before lunch. Just one layer helps eye shadow appear more vibrant, blend effortlessly, and resist creasing or fading. Think of it as prepping your eyelids so makeup applies smoothly and lasts longer.
Today’s formulas go beyond holding pigment in place. They help smooth texture, even out skin tone, and offer added benefits like hydration or oil control. If you notice fine lines around your eyes or want shimmer shades to look brighter and last all day, choosing the right primer truly matters. Below are expert-approved picks showing that great eye makeup starts before the shadow.
6 Best Eye Shadow Primers
Editor Favorites: Eye Shadow Primers That Truly Deliver
Why it’s worth it: Urban Decay’s Eye Primer Potion has remained a favorite among editors and makeup artists for years. Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Dresher previously shared with Allure that it helps eye shadow last longer without settling into fine lines or feeling heavy. The formula feels lightweight and serum-like, gliding smoothly without patchiness or buildup.
Its slightly tacky finish grips shadow without feeling sticky. The Original shade appears as a sheer beige, Eden offers a matte beige look, and Sin adds a soft champagne shimmer. There’s also an anti-aging version made for mature skin with plumping peptides and brown algae. This primer suits almost anyone wanting longer-lasting, smoother eye makeup.
Best Overall Hold: Urban Decay Primer That Keeps Color Locked
Why it’s worth it: Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer goes on completely clear and acts like double-sided tape for eye shadow without settling into fine lines. Pittsburgh-based makeup artist Patty Bell explains that its thinner texture makes it easy to blend across the delicate eyelid area.
It keeps eye makeup in place for up to eight hours and includes hyaluronic acid to hydrate while creating a softly blurred finish. Blue agave adds grip, while niacinamide and aloe boost moisture. Bell even suggests using it under the eyes to help prevent concealer from creasing, making this a truly multitasking product.
Best for Mature Eyes: Smooth, Crease-Free Coverage
Why it’s worth it: NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer is one of Bell’s top affordable picks that performs well beyond its price. The formula feels light on the skin and blends quickly, making application simple for anyone.
It comes in four natural shades that can double as cream eyeshadow. These tones help conceal visible veins and uneven color while creating a smooth base. Enriched with vitamin E, it keeps lids moisturized all day and prevents dryness or flaking.
Goodbye Hair Dye for Grey Hair: The Conditioner Add-In That Gradually Restores Natural Colour
Best Budget Option: NYX Primer with Pro-Level Results
Why it’s worth it: NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base works quietly behind the scenes to enhance every eye look. The sheer formula disappears instantly, leaving behind a lightweight layer you barely feel.
New York City makeup artist Nick Barose told Allure he loves how it grips shadow without heaviness or interference. With rice extract and sea whip extract, it hydrates and protects the delicate eye area. It wears more like skincare than makeup, helping shadow blend cleanly and stay vibrant without dryness.
Best for Dry Lids: NARS Base That Prevents Flaking
Why it’s worth it: If you own a Too Faced eyeshadow palette, the brand’s Shadow Insurance Eye Primer helps those shades perform at their best. It contains oil-absorbing silica to control shine while keeping lids smooth.
The silky, colorless formula works on all skin tones and creates a base that helps shadow adhere properly. The result is brighter color, easier blending, and longer wear. Its waterproof formula resists smudging and fading, even in humid or rainy conditions.
Best for Oily Lids: Too Faced Primer with Long-Lasting Control
Why it’s worth it: Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer comes in two shades designed to even out eyelid tone. The light blue shade helps neutralize redness and visible veins, while the peach tone brightens dull-looking skin.
Once applied, lids look smooth, even, and refreshed, and eye shadow stays in place whether you use powders or creams. The formula also cares for your skin, featuring aloe for soothing moisture, lanolin acid to lock it in, and safflower seed oil that nourishes without feeling heavy.
