10 Eyeshadow Primers That Make the Extra Step in Your Routine Worth It (2024)

Applying eyeshadow primer might seem tedious or like an extra unnecessary step in your makeup application routine, but if you want your makeup to stay put throughout the day, it's a step worth taking. "If you put on eyeshadow or liner and notice it fades, creases, or looks messy in a few hours, then a primer could help," says Michelle Clark, senior national makeup artist for MAC Cosmetics. The good news? A wide range of eyeshadow primers are available on the market that get the job done. Finding a good one is all about your makeup style and preferences, of course, which brings us to the next point...

What to consider when choosing an eyeshadow primer

Generally speaking, the more tacky an eyeshadow primer, the better it will hold onto makeup. Primers are typically transparent or beige-colored formulas that "create a smooth canvas. They also act like double-stick tape so eye products stay in place longer," explains Clark. The more opaque a formula is, the more it helps eyeshadow colors pop because it gives coverage that evens out the skin tone for a neutral base. Clear primers are a solid option when you're wearing a full-glam look or no other makeup at all because they often contain ingredients that combat oiliness. So, not only does a quality eye primer prevent oil from breaking down makeup over time, but even if you're not wearing makeup, these formulas can help keep oily lids matte. Alternatively, some formulas offer hydrating benefits so eyeshadow doesn't cling to dry patches or fine lines. Keep scrolling for our favorite primer formulas below, and prepare for eye makeup that really (and truly) lasts.

The experts:

• Michelle Clark, senior national makeup artist for MAC Cosmetics
  

Consider Urban Decay's Eyeshadow Primer Potion the OG of eyeshadow primers, which also comes in shimmer, matte, and anti-aging option. The vegan, waterproof formula makes shadow application easy and smooth. Despite its super-creamy texture, the primer is surprisingly thin in texture and dries translucent within seconds, making it a great choice for everyday wear and oily lids alike. If you want to make highly pigmented eyeshadows appear brighter and protect against annoying cosmetic creasing, then reach for this top-rated eye base that one reviewer describes as their "go-to primer for the last five years."

Clark says this MAC Prep + Prime eye base is her go-to because of its long-lasting formula. "It has 24-hour wear, is lightweight and clear," she says. All skin types and tones can reap the benefits of this formula, including those with oily skin. According to one reviewer, "I have very oily skin and did not expect this to work, but it proved me wrong." The extended eye base also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the skin (and makeup) from environmental aggressors.

Experience the budge-proof powers of this superstar primer. Its formula is super hydrating, thanks to a glow-boosting combination of hyaluronic acid and aloe water, but it dries a bit tacky, all the better to ensure that eyeshadow and eyeliner stay put. You can also use it underneath the eyes to help keep concealer in place. One Sephora reviewer wrote, "I’ve struggled with creasy, cakey under eyes and I used this as an under-eye primer for my birthday makeup. Baby, I was that girl!"

This formula offers crease-proof and non-smudging benefits while boosting the color of your eyeshadow. It goes on beige but dries down to a translucent finish, making it great for all skin tones. It also helps to smooth skin texture, such as fine lines, so your makeup has an even base. Those with sensitive eyes will appreciate that it's ophthalmologist-tested. One Sephora reviewer says, "Best primer for eyelids I have ever used. It goes on smoothly and does not smear or dry out."

If you want an eyeshadow primer that feels, well, weightless upon application, make some room in your makeup bag for this water-based pick. Even though it may not feel like you're wearing anything at all, this primer is actually working overtime to protect eyeshadow from smudging or fading. The texture is creamy and hydrating, making it a great choice for those with dry skin, and the peach-tinted hue helps give a neutral wash of color to the lids before shadow application.

If you don't like the tacky feeling of some primers but still want a product that lasts, this RiRi-approved formula is for you. Once eyeshadow or eyeliner is on, rest assured it isn't going anywhere for hours. One Ulta Beauty reviewer who used it said that their eyeshadow was "fully intact" after taking a dip in the ocean. It's also a great pick for oilier skin types because the lightweight formula dries with a matte finish.

Soften the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and under-eye bags with this 2-in-1 primer-meets-moisturizer. Wear it on its own to reap the brightening and hydrating benefits of hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and caffeine, or apply it under face makeup—the primer promotes long-lasting wear for eyeshadow and it helps concealer look smooth and seamless for hours on end.

Available for less than $10 at your local drugstore, this eye primer (with 33,000 five-star ratings on Amazon) is a steal. It hydrates and plumps thanks to hyaluronic acid and vegan collagen, and it leaves behind a soft, radiant finish to brighten the appearance of your lids. The formula is also vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified. Pro tip: Allow the formula to dry for at least 30 seconds before applying makeup for the best results.

Nothing ruins a fabulous eyeshadow or eyeliner look than oily lids. This formula contains mattifying starches, making it great for long-lasting makeup wear. "Tried this primer as it was suggested for those of us with oil-slick lids and it works great for me. Plus you can't beat the price!," said one Ulta Beauty reviewer. You can also use it on makeup-free days and during times where you want to keep oiliness in check—that's how good the tinted coverage is.

This eyeshadow primer keeps notoriously messy makeup like glitter, foil, and shimmer shadows in place so you don't have to deal with the fallout. It also makes shimmer and shine appear even more sparkly, so your shadow appears bright and pigmented. Not to mention, the primer offers long-lasting hold, is under $8, and can be found at just about any drugstore.

Our beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best formulas. We spoke with a professional makeup artist to learn about what to look for in an eyeshadow primer and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new formulas that hit the market to help you find the best products out there.