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 all day or fades by midday. With a single application, a quality primer helps eye shadow look more vibrant, blend more smoothly, and remain crease-free for hours. Think of it as properly prepping your eyelids before applying makeup.
Modern formulas do much more than extend wear. They help smooth texture, even out skin tone, and offer added benefits such as hydration or oil control. If you notice fine lines around your eyes or want shimmer shades to appear brighter and last longer, the right primer can completely transform the result. Below are editor- and artist-approved picks that prove great eye makeup starts before shadow is applied.
Editor-Approved Eye Shadow Primers That Truly Perform
Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion
The Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion has remained a long-standing 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 on the lids.
The lightweight formula has a serum-like texture that spreads evenly without patchiness or buildup. It feels slightly tacky, helping shadow stay in place throughout the day without becoming sticky. The Original shade appears as a sheer translucent beige, Eden offers a matte beige finish, and Sin provides a soft champagne shimmer. An anti-aging version is also available, formulated for mature skin with plumping peptides and brown algae. Overall, this primer works well for nearly anyone looking to improve eye makeup longevity.
Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer
The Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer applies completely invisible and grips eye shadow almost like double-sided tape, without settling into fine lines. Pittsburgh-based makeup artist Patty Bell notes that its thinner consistency makes it easy to blend across the delicate eyelid area.
Once applied, it helps keep eye makeup in place for up to eight hours. The formula includes hyaluronic acid for moisture and a softly blurred finish, along with blue agave for grip, plus niacinamide and aloe for added hydration. Bell also recommends using it under the eyes to help reduce concealer creasing, making it a versatile, multi-use option.
NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer
The NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer is a standout affordable option that delivers results beyond its price. The lightweight formula spreads quickly and feels comfortable on the skin, making it easy to apply even for beginners.
Available in four natural-looking shades, it can double as a subtle cream eyeshadow on its own. 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.
NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
The NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base is a behind-the-scenes essential that quietly enhances every eye look. Its sheer formula disappears on contact, leaving a barely noticeable layer on the lids.
New York City makeup artist Nick Barose has noted that it grips eye shadow without feeling heavy or altering the color applied on top. He values how it allows pigments to remain true and vibrant. The formula includes rice extract and sea whip extract to help hydrate and protect the delicate eye area. It wears more like skincare than traditional makeup, avoiding dryness while improving wear time and blending.
Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Primer
The Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Primer helps eye shadows perform at their best, especially when paired with the brand’s palettes. It features oil-absorbing silica to control shine and keep lids smooth throughout the day.
The silky, colorless texture works across all skin tones and creates a reliable base that improves shadow adherence. This results in brighter color payoff, easier blending, and extended wear. Its waterproof formula resists fading and smudging, even in humid conditions. While marketed for 24-hour wear, it comfortably holds up through long 12-hour days.
Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer
The Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer is available in two shades and works particularly 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, lids look smooth and balanced, and eye shadow stays in place throughout the day with both powder and cream formulas. The formula also delivers skincare benefits, featuring aloe for soothing hydration, lanolin acid to lock in moisture, and safflower seed oil to nourish the skin.
