The 7 Best Eyeshadow Primers, Tested by Real People

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Jessica Juliao

A group of four eyeshadow primers sitting on a bathroom counter

People / Jessica Juliao

Applying eyeshadow like a pro isn’t always easy, but there are a few things you can do to help yourself. Similarly to choosing thebest foundationand skincare products, eyeshadow needs a good canvas to work on. Enter: eyeshadow primer.

We tested 29 different products for every skin type, environment, and price point, including lightweight and long-wear products, as well as those made specifically for oily or dry lids. Below, the best eyeshadow primers PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer at Kohls.com$22Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Eyes:ILIA Eye Primer at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Waterproof:Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer at AmazonJump to ReviewBest for Oily Lids:Smashbox Shadow Primer at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest for Dry Lids:Rare Beauty Weightless Eye Primer at Sephora$21Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:NARS Eyeshadow Base at Walmart$20Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Milk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer at Amazon$25Jump to ReviewBest Eyeliner:Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Mascara:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Eyelash Curler:Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler at Amazon$33Jump to Review

Best Overall:Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer at Kohls.com$22Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Eyes:ILIA Eye Primer at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Waterproof:Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer at AmazonJump to ReviewBest for Oily Lids:Smashbox Shadow Primer at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest for Dry Lids:Rare Beauty Weightless Eye Primer at Sephora$21Jump to ReviewBest for Beginners:NARS Eyeshadow Base at Walmart$20Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Milk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer at Amazon$25Jump to ReviewBest Eyeliner:Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner at AmazonJump to ReviewBest Mascara:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to ReviewBest Eyelash Curler:Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler at Amazon$33Jump to Review

Best Overall:Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer at Kohls.com$22Jump to Review

Best Overall:Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer at Kohls.com$22

Best Overall:

Best for Sensitive Eyes:ILIA Eye Primer at AmazonJump to Review

Best for Sensitive Eyes:ILIA Eye Primer at Amazon

Best for Sensitive Eyes:

Best Waterproof:Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer at AmazonJump to Review

Best Waterproof:Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer at Amazon

Best Waterproof:

Best for Oily Lids:Smashbox Shadow Primer at Amazon$26Jump to Review

Best for Oily Lids:Smashbox Shadow Primer at Amazon$26

Best for Oily Lids:

Best for Dry Lids:Rare Beauty Weightless Eye Primer at Sephora$21Jump to Review

Best for Dry Lids:Rare Beauty Weightless Eye Primer at Sephora$21

Best for Dry Lids:

Best for Beginners:NARS Eyeshadow Base at Walmart$20Jump to Review

Best for Beginners:NARS Eyeshadow Base at Walmart$20

Best for Beginners:

Best Investment:Milk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer at Amazon$25Jump to Review

Best Investment:Milk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer at Amazon$25

Best Investment:

Best Eyeliner:Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner at AmazonJump to Review

Best Eyeliner:Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner at Amazon

Best Eyeliner:

Best Mascara:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29Jump to Review

Best Mascara:Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara at Amazon$29

Best Mascara:

Best Eyelash Curler:Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler at Amazon$33Jump to Review

Best Eyelash Curler:Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler at Amazon$33

Best Eyelash Curler:

Best OverallFenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye PrimerPHOTO: Sephora$22 at Kohls.comView on Fentybeauty.comStar QualitiesExtremely lightweightOffers crease-proof wearSmooth applicationCompact, easy-to-use applicatorRed FlagsSome testers needed to add additional layers for coverageEyeshadow primers are sort of the unsung heroes of makeup — they’re behind the scenes making sure that your shadow looks the way you want it to. This formula is precisely that. It feels weightless and is undetectable on the lids, but it ensures that your shadow lasts all day. In testing, we loved almost everything about this primer — from its smooth application to its barely-there feel.We appreciated the compact size of the applicator and found it easy to use, but we needed to layer on more product than expected. Because it’s so lightweight, it won’t make much of a difference if you have to add more, but it’s something to note. Overall, though, we were very impressed with this eyeshadow primer and would have no problem recommending it to friends.Size: 0.27 oz. |Long-Lasting:YesPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best OverallFenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye PrimerPHOTO: Sephora$22 at Kohls.comView on Fentybeauty.com

Best OverallFenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

Best Overall

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

PHOTO: Sephora

Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

$22 at Kohls.comView on Fentybeauty.com

Star QualitiesExtremely lightweightOffers crease-proof wearSmooth applicationCompact, easy-to-use applicatorRed FlagsSome testers needed to add additional layers for coverage

Star QualitiesExtremely lightweightOffers crease-proof wearSmooth applicationCompact, easy-to-use applicator

Extremely lightweight

Offers crease-proof wear

Smooth application

Compact, easy-to-use applicator

Red FlagsSome testers needed to add additional layers for coverage

Some testers needed to add additional layers for coverage

Eyeshadow primers are sort of the unsung heroes of makeup — they’re behind the scenes making sure that your shadow looks the way you want it to. This formula is precisely that. It feels weightless and is undetectable on the lids, but it ensures that your shadow lasts all day. In testing, we loved almost everything about this primer — from its smooth application to its barely-there feel.

We appreciated the compact size of the applicator and found it easy to use, but we needed to layer on more product than expected. Because it’s so lightweight, it won’t make much of a difference if you have to add more, but it’s something to note. Overall, though, we were very impressed with this eyeshadow primer and would have no problem recommending it to friends.

Size: 0.27 oz. |Long-Lasting:Yes

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara StaplesPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Two bottles of Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer displayed on a white surface next to a compact mirror

Hands holding an uncapped Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer and its cap

Hands holding a capped bottle of Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

Two bottles of Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer displayed on a white surface next to a compact mirror

Hands holding an uncapped Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer and its cap

Hands holding a capped bottle of Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

Best for Sensitive EyesILIA Eye PrimerPHOTO: AmazonView on Amazon

Best for Sensitive EyesILIA Eye Primer

Best for Sensitive Eyes

ILIA Eye Primer

PHOTO: Amazon

Ilia Natural Brightening Eye Primer

View on Amazon

Lightweight, creamy product

Spread evenly and easily

Red FlagsNot as long-lasting as some othersNot great for oily lids

Not as long-lasting as some others

Not great for oily lids

Putting up with red, itchy eyes in order to wear makeup? No, thank you. While it’s tempting to avoid makeup altogether if you have sensitive skin, we promise that the right formulas can make all the difference. This eyeshadow primer packs healing and anti-inflammatory botanicals such as aloe, arnica, and rosehip. In addition to brightening the eye area, this gentle formulation helps to soothe irritation and keeps lids looking their best.

Size:0.8 oz. |Long-Lasting:No

ILIA Natural Brightening Eye Primer next to a compact mirror and eyeshadow

Best WaterproofLaura Mercier Eye Basics PrimerPHOTO: AmazonView on Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$25 at WalmartStar QualitiesProduct dried quicklyFelt smooth and lightweightTint wasn’t visible under light eyeshadowRed FlagsNot everyone loves a tinted eye primerWhether you’re going to a wedding and a few tears may be shed, you’re cutting onions for dinner, or you just have teary eyes, a waterproof primer can help save your shadow. This one from Laura Mercier promises a water-resistant finish to prolong the life of your eyeshadow without creasing or smudging. We liked how smoothly it went on, and we felt like we weren’t wearing anything at all. It also dried quickly and was easy to apply.We were concerned about the colored pigment, but it didn’t prove to be an issue. We applied a light eyeshadow shade and the primer’s color didn’t show through. Even though it didn’t affect our overall experience, we would prefer the formula to be a little more transparent.Size:0.18 oz. |Long-Lasting:YesPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best WaterproofLaura Mercier Eye Basics PrimerPHOTO: AmazonView on Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$25 at Walmart

Best WaterproofLaura Mercier Eye Basics Primer

Best Waterproof

Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer

Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer

View on Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$25 at Walmart

Star QualitiesProduct dried quicklyFelt smooth and lightweightTint wasn’t visible under light eyeshadowRed FlagsNot everyone loves a tinted eye primer

Star QualitiesProduct dried quicklyFelt smooth and lightweightTint wasn’t visible under light eyeshadow

Product dried quickly

Felt smooth and lightweight

Tint wasn’t visible under light eyeshadow

Red FlagsNot everyone loves a tinted eye primer

Not everyone loves a tinted eye primer

Whether you’re going to a wedding and a few tears may be shed, you’re cutting onions for dinner, or you just have teary eyes, a waterproof primer can help save your shadow. This one from Laura Mercier promises a water-resistant finish to prolong the life of your eyeshadow without creasing or smudging. We liked how smoothly it went on, and we felt like we weren’t wearing anything at all. It also dried quickly and was easy to apply.

We were concerned about the colored pigment, but it didn’t prove to be an issue. We applied a light eyeshadow shade and the primer’s color didn’t show through. Even though it didn’t affect our overall experience, we would prefer the formula to be a little more transparent.

Size:0.18 oz. |Long-Lasting:Yes

PHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer displayed on a white surface next to a compact mirror

Hands uncapping the Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer

Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer displayed on a white surface next to a compact mirror

Hands uncapping the Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer

Best for Oily LidsSmashbox Shadow PrimerPHOTO: Smashbox$26 at Amazon$26 at Target$19 at Walmart

Best for Oily LidsSmashbox Shadow Primer

Best for Oily Lids

Smashbox Shadow Primer

PHOTO: Smashbox

Smashbox PHOTO FINISH INTENSIFY 24 HOUR SHADOW PRIMER

$26 at Amazon$26 at Target$19 at Walmart

Star QualitiesGoes on light pink and dries clearIt makes eyeshadow colors popUndetectable under shadowRed FlagsIt can be difficult to get the product out of the tube

Star QualitiesGoes on light pink and dries clearIt makes eyeshadow colors popUndetectable under shadow

Goes on light pink and dries clear

It makes eyeshadow colors pop

Undetectable under shadow

Red FlagsIt can be difficult to get the product out of the tube

It can be difficult to get the product out of the tube

Our oily-lidded tester said that it didn’t add to the greasiness that she usually experiences and didn’t crease. The product appears light pink when first applied, but it dries clear, and our tester couldn’t feel it at all. Even better, she said that the primer made a huge difference in color payoff and that her eyeshadow colors popped more than they did without the primer.

In terms of packaging, our tester mentioned wishing the tube was bigger, and other testers said that dispensing the product from the tube can be difficult.

Size:0.34 oz. |Long-Lasting:Yes

Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer leaning on compact mirror

hands holding Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer

Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer leaning on compact mirror

hands holding Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer

Best for Dry LidsRare Beauty Weightless Eye PrimerPHOTO: Sephora$21 at Sephora$21$15 at Kohls.comView on Rarebeauty.comStar QualitiesVelvety smooth texturePeachy tint disguises discolorationHas a hydrating and cooling effectDried down almost immediatelyRed FlagsIt may crease on oily lidsYou won’t get a super long-wear finish from itOily lids make it tough to wear eyeshadow because of creasing, but dry lids can complicate things in a different way. This primer formula is creamy, so it makes for a smooth base to apply eyeshadow. A lot of long-wear primers are drying because they have to grip onto the shadow, but you won’t get a dry or sticky feeling with this one. This can be an issue for those who already have oily eyelids, as some testers found that this formula caused more creasing and smudging than usual.Our dry-lidded tester raved about this primer’s tinted peach color and said it brightened up her entire eye, even covering the dark veins on her lid that usually bug her. She also loved the detail-oriented design of the bottle, which features one flat side so the tube won’t roll off whatever surface it’s on while you do your makeup.Size:0.10 oz.|Long-Lasting:NoPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best for Dry LidsRare Beauty Weightless Eye PrimerPHOTO: Sephora$21 at Sephora$21$15 at Kohls.comView on Rarebeauty.com

Best for Dry LidsRare Beauty Weightless Eye Primer

Best for Dry Lids

Rare Beauty Weightless Eye Primer

Rare Beauty Always An Optimist Weightless Eye Primer

$21 at Sephora$21$15 at Kohls.comView on Rarebeauty.com

Star QualitiesVelvety smooth texturePeachy tint disguises discolorationHas a hydrating and cooling effectDried down almost immediatelyRed FlagsIt may crease on oily lidsYou won’t get a super long-wear finish from it

Star QualitiesVelvety smooth texturePeachy tint disguises discolorationHas a hydrating and cooling effectDried down almost immediately

Velvety smooth texture

Peachy tint disguises discoloration

Has a hydrating and cooling effect

Dried down almost immediately

Red FlagsIt may crease on oily lidsYou won’t get a super long-wear finish from it

It may crease on oily lids

You won’t get a super long-wear finish from it

Oily lids make it tough to wear eyeshadow because of creasing, but dry lids can complicate things in a different way. This primer formula is creamy, so it makes for a smooth base to apply eyeshadow. A lot of long-wear primers are drying because they have to grip onto the shadow, but you won’t get a dry or sticky feeling with this one. This can be an issue for those who already have oily eyelids, as some testers found that this formula caused more creasing and smudging than usual.

Our dry-lidded tester raved about this primer’s tinted peach color and said it brightened up her entire eye, even covering the dark veins on her lid that usually bug her. She also loved the detail-oriented design of the bottle, which features one flat side so the tube won’t roll off whatever surface it’s on while you do your makeup.

Size:0.10 oz.|Long-Lasting:No

Two bottles of Rare Beauty Always An Optimist Weightless Eye Primer displayed on a white surface next to a compact mirror

Person looking at their reflection in a lit makeup mirror with a finger on their eyelid

Two bottles of Rare Beauty Always An Optimist Weightless Eye Primer displayed on a white surface next to a compact mirror

Person looking at their reflection in a lit makeup mirror with a finger on their eyelid

Best for BeginnersNARS Eyeshadow BasePHOTO: Sephora$20 at Walmart$26 at Kohls.com$26 at BloomingdalesStar QualitiesGrippy texture excellent for oily lidsIncludes a doe foot applicatorLong-wear finishRed FlagsIt can have a drying effect on lidsThere are a few things that blew us away with this shadow primer. Our tester had never worn eye shadow primer before, but after trying this one, she said that she was going to start. Her favorite thing about it was its balm-like texture that applied easily and lasted all day. Unlike other primers, this one has a few shades to choose from, too, so you can pick the one that best flatters your skin tone. Our tester liked how it blended into the skin as if she weren’t wearing anything at all.We love that it has a doe foot applicator, so you don’t need an extra brush nor do you have to stick your finger into a jar. Some reviewers felt the wand was alittletoo long, but since it’s not for precise lines or a design — you just have to cover your lids — you don’t have to be too precious with your application.Although it has good-for-you ingredients in it, there is a drying effect (which is needed to grip the shadow) but someone with dry lids may want to look for something a little more hydrating. For those with oily lids, though, this grippy texture is a total game-changer.Size:0.26 oz.|Long-Lasting:Yes

Best for BeginnersNARS Eyeshadow BasePHOTO: Sephora$20 at Walmart$26 at Kohls.com$26 at Bloomingdales

Best for BeginnersNARS Eyeshadow Base

Best for Beginners

NARS Eyeshadow Base

NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

$20 at Walmart$26 at Kohls.com$26 at Bloomingdales

Star QualitiesGrippy texture excellent for oily lidsIncludes a doe foot applicatorLong-wear finishRed FlagsIt can have a drying effect on lids

Star QualitiesGrippy texture excellent for oily lidsIncludes a doe foot applicatorLong-wear finish

Grippy texture excellent for oily lids

Includes a doe foot applicator

Long-wear finish

Red FlagsIt can have a drying effect on lids

It can have a drying effect on lids

There are a few things that blew us away with this shadow primer. Our tester had never worn eye shadow primer before, but after trying this one, she said that she was going to start. Her favorite thing about it was its balm-like texture that applied easily and lasted all day. Unlike other primers, this one has a few shades to choose from, too, so you can pick the one that best flatters your skin tone. Our tester liked how it blended into the skin as if she weren’t wearing anything at all.

We love that it has a doe foot applicator, so you don’t need an extra brush nor do you have to stick your finger into a jar. Some reviewers felt the wand was alittletoo long, but since it’s not for precise lines or a design — you just have to cover your lids — you don’t have to be too precious with your application.

Although it has good-for-you ingredients in it, there is a drying effect (which is needed to grip the shadow) but someone with dry lids may want to look for something a little more hydrating. For those with oily lids, though, this grippy texture is a total game-changer.

Size:0.26 oz.|Long-Lasting:Yes

Best InvestmentMilk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer PrimerPHOTO: Sephora$25 at Amazon$25 at Kohls.comView on Spacenk.comStar QualitiesClear formula that’s wearable on all skin tonesIt can also be used under the eyeCruelty-free formulaRed FlagsSome testers felt that it didn’t dry down wellThis primer is truly unique because it was formulated with two uses in mind: for making eyeshadow last on the lid and to prevent concealer creasing under the eyes. If you’re an avid makeup wearer, you may be familiar with baking in order to set your concealer, but this makes itsomuch easier. Plus, you only need one product, so there are fewer tubes to tote around in yourmakeup bag.The clear color is a standout and really impressed us during application. We liked that we were able to see the real color of our shadow instead of it being mixed with the pigment of a primer. The product is vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free, we just wish that the bottle was made from recycled plastic.Size:0.29 oz. |Long-Lasting:YesPHOTO: People / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: People / Tamara Staples

Best InvestmentMilk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer PrimerPHOTO: Sephora$25 at Amazon$25 at Kohls.comView on Spacenk.com

Best InvestmentMilk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer

Best Investment

Milk Makeup Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer

MILK MAKEUP Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer

$25 at Amazon$25 at Kohls.comView on Spacenk.com

Star QualitiesClear formula that’s wearable on all skin tonesIt can also be used under the eyeCruelty-free formulaRed FlagsSome testers felt that it didn’t dry down well

Star QualitiesClear formula that’s wearable on all skin tonesIt can also be used under the eyeCruelty-free formula

Clear formula that’s wearable on all skin tones

It can also be used under the eye

Cruelty-free formula

Red FlagsSome testers felt that it didn’t dry down well

Some testers felt that it didn’t dry down well

This primer is truly unique because it was formulated with two uses in mind: for making eyeshadow last on the lid and to prevent concealer creasing under the eyes. If you’re an avid makeup wearer, you may be familiar with baking in order to set your concealer, but this makes itsomuch easier. Plus, you only need one product, so there are fewer tubes to tote around in yourmakeup bag.

The clear color is a standout and really impressed us during application. We liked that we were able to see the real color of our shadow instead of it being mixed with the pigment of a primer. The product is vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free, we just wish that the bottle was made from recycled plastic.

Size:0.29 oz. |Long-Lasting:Yes

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer sitting on a bathroom counter

MILK MAKEUP Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer sitting on a bathroom counter

MILK MAKEUP Hydro Grip Eyeshadow and Concealer Primer

If you’re shopping for eyeshadow primers, you might want to also add these other PEOPLE-Tested makeup products to your cart to complete your look. Our recommended picks go through rigorous testing from both our editors and independent testers.

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye LinerView on Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24$14 at SephoraToo Faced Better Than Sex Mascara$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at SephoraTweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler$33 at Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24 at SephoraMilk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye LinerView on Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24$14 at Sephora

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

View on Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24$14 at Sephora

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at Sephora

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara

Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara

$29 at Amazon$16 at Nordstrom$29$16 at Sephora

Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler$33 at Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24 at Sephora

Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler

Tweezerman ProMaster Eyelash Curler

$33 at Amazon$24 at Nordstrom$24 at Sephora

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer

$38 at Amazon$38$20 at SephoraView on Milkmakeup.com

What to Know About Eyeshadow Primers

Formulation

The job of an eyeshadow primer is to “lock in place and not affect eyeshadow colors,” explains celebrity makeup artist and founder of the eponymous brand,Ashunta Sheriff. So while not all formulas are created equal, know that you’re starting with a pretty similar goal amongst all formulations. From there, you can take into account other important words on the label, such as waterproof, long-wear, tinted, and more. These buzzwords will help inform your decision so that you can pick the right eyeshadow primer for you.

Season

Like the rest of your skin, your eyelids can have different needs throughout the year. In the summer, when you factor in sweat from high temps, paired with humidity and the possibility of greasier lids, it would be smart to go forSMASHBOX 24-hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer. But, in the winter with the cold weather outside and the heat cranked inside, lids may experience more dryness, soRare Beauty Always An Optimist Weightless Eye Primerwould be the way to go.

Price

While it may seem like an extra step to use a primer, not to mention an additional cost to buy one, Sheriff says that it’s worth it because it’ll help your eyeshadow look its best. If you’re going to be wearing primer every day (a.k.a. going through a lot quickly), it might benefit you to opt for a product in the lower price range likeRare Beauty Always An Optimist Weightless Eye Primerat $21, but if you’re trying to treat a specific concern or have sensitive eyes that won’t tolerate most formulas, it makes sense to spend more on something likeIlia Natural Brightening Eye Primerfor $25.

We invited product testers into the lab to test 29 eyeshadow primers. Each tester had the opportunity to test one or more per category (lightweight, long-wear, oily or dry lids, etc.)

Frequently Asked QuestionsIf you want long-lasting shadow sans creasing or smudging, the short answer is yes, an eyeshadow primer is essential. While anundereye concealeris an okay option in a pinch, actual eyeshadow primers are formulated specifically for the lid and have certain benefits that a concealer does not. “I recommend using an eyeshadow primer because a concealer is going to actually taint your eyeshadow colors,” says Sheriff. An eyeshadow primer also has the power to lock in your eyeshadow, prevent creasing, and enhance the color and texture of your shadow, while a concealer does not.Typically,face primerscontain silicone, which you wouldn’t really want on your eyes. The texture of a face primer may actually mess with the look of your shadow rather than improve it or make it last longer. If you think of the base formulas you put on over a face primer, they’re much different than eyeshadow, so the primer formulas for your face and eyes are going to need to be different, too.There are different types of eyeshadow primers to address varying needs such as if you require a waterproof finish, if you have oily lids and are concerned about creasing, or if you have dry lids and need hydration. When you’re choosing the primer formula for you, it’s important to prioritize which elements matter most to you. “If you’re trying to lock in makeup so that it lasts all day, look for an eyeshadow primer that does that,” says Sheriff. If you’re looking to combat discoloration on your lids, a translucent primer wouldn’t be the one for you. The same goes for sensitive eyes; you would be doing yourself a disservice to put something super long-wear on your eyes since it may contain irritating ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you want long-lasting shadow sans creasing or smudging, the short answer is yes, an eyeshadow primer is essential. While anundereye concealeris an okay option in a pinch, actual eyeshadow primers are formulated specifically for the lid and have certain benefits that a concealer does not. “I recommend using an eyeshadow primer because a concealer is going to actually taint your eyeshadow colors,” says Sheriff. An eyeshadow primer also has the power to lock in your eyeshadow, prevent creasing, and enhance the color and texture of your shadow, while a concealer does not.

Typically,face primerscontain silicone, which you wouldn’t really want on your eyes. The texture of a face primer may actually mess with the look of your shadow rather than improve it or make it last longer. If you think of the base formulas you put on over a face primer, they’re much different than eyeshadow, so the primer formulas for your face and eyes are going to need to be different, too.

There are different types of eyeshadow primers to address varying needs such as if you require a waterproof finish, if you have oily lids and are concerned about creasing, or if you have dry lids and need hydration. When you’re choosing the primer formula for you, it’s important to prioritize which elements matter most to you. “If you’re trying to lock in makeup so that it lasts all day, look for an eyeshadow primer that does that,” says Sheriff. If you’re looking to combat discoloration on your lids, a translucent primer wouldn’t be the one for you. The same goes for sensitive eyes; you would be doing yourself a disservice to put something super long-wear on your eyes since it may contain irritating ingredients.

Lisa DeSantisis a writer who covers the beauty space. Her work has appeared in InStyle, Byrdie, Glamour, Mother.ly, Cosmopolitan, Well & Good, Allure, and many other outlets. To bring you this review, she spoke with our testers about a variety of eyeshadow primers and gained their insights about considerations such as formulation, price, and options to suit the time of year. While researching eyeshadow primers, we spoke with Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks, founder of Ashunta Sheriff Beauty.

Our Expert PanelAshunta Sheriff-Kendricks,founder of Ashunta Sheriff Beauty.

Our Expert Panel

Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks,founder of Ashunta Sheriff Beauty.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com