This content may earn compensation from retailers or from purchases made through included links. The best eye shadow primers can be the deciding factor between makeup that lasts all day and color that fades by midday. One application helps eye shadow appear more vibrant, blend effortlessly, and stay put without creasing or fading. Think of it as prepping your eyelids before applying makeup.
Today’s formulas go beyond basic hold. 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 longer, the right primer can make a visible difference. Below are expert-approved picks from Allure editors and makeup artists that prove great eye makeup starts before the shadow goes on.
6 Best Eye Shadow Primers
Editor Favorites: Eye Shadow Primers That Deliver Results
Why it’s worth it: The Urban Decay 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 extends wear time without settling into fine lines or feeling heavy. The lightweight, serum-like texture glides on smoothly without buildup or patchiness. It feels slightly tacky, helping eye shadow stay in place all day.
The Original shade is a sheer translucent beige, Eden offers a matte beige finish, and Sin delivers a pale champagne shimmer. An anti-aging version is also available, formulated with plumping peptides and brown algae for mature skin. This primer suits nearly anyone looking to enhance eye makeup longevity.
Best Overall Wear: A Primer That Keeps Color Locked In
Why it’s worth it: Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer applies invisibly and holds eye shadow like double-sided tape without settling into lines. Pittsburgh makeup artist Patty Bell explains that its thin, flexible formula blends easily over the delicate eyelid area. It keeps makeup intact for up to eight hours and contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate while creating a softly blurred finish.
The formula includes blue agave for grip, along with niacinamide and aloe for added moisture. Bell even suggests using it under the eyes to help prevent concealer creasing, making it a truly multi-purpose product.
Best for Mature Eyelids: Smooth, Crease-Resistant Coverage
Why it’s worth it: The NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer is one of Bell’s top recommendations and offers impressive performance for its price. The lightweight formula spreads quickly and evenly, making application easy for all skill levels. It comes in four natural-looking shades that can even be worn alone as cream eyeshadow.
These shades help conceal veins and even out discoloration, creating a smooth base on the lids. Enriched with vitamin E, the primer keeps eyelids moisturized throughout the day and helps prevent dryness and flaking.
Best Affordable Option: Pro-Level Results on a Budget
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 on contact, leaving behind a barely-there layer. New York City makeup artist Nick Barose told Allure he appreciates how it grips shadow without adding weight or altering color.
He notes it has been a staple in his kit for decades because it allows pigment 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 does not cause dryness, making it ideal for clean blending and long wear.
Best for Dry Eyelids: Prevents Flaking and Fading
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. The formula contains oil-absorbing silica to reduce shine and maintain a smooth eyelid surface throughout the day.
The colorless, silky texture works across all skin tones and creates a base that helps eye shadow adhere properly. This results in brighter color payoff, easier blending, and extended wear. Its waterproof formula resists fading and smudging, even in humid or rainy conditions. While the brand claims 24-hour wear, it reliably performs through long 12-hour days.
Best for Oily Lids: Long-Lasting Oil Control
Why it’s worth it: Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer comes in two shades designed to balance and correct eyelid tone. The light blue shade helps neutralize redness, purple tones, and visible veins, while the peach shade brightens dull lids for a more awake appearance.
Once applied, eyelids look smooth and even, creating the perfect base for both powder and cream shadows. The formula also offers skincare benefits, featuring aloe for soothing hydration, lanolin acid to lock in moisture, and safflower seed oil to nourish skin without feeling heavy or greasy.
