Are you tired of spending hours perfecting your eyeshadow only for it to then run off a few hours later? You can touch-up your look in the mirror, or purchase a cosmetic product which promises to keep your eyeshadow in place all day. In this article, we’re uncovering eye primers, including the main benefits of using them and out five recommended products. With anti-fading and smudge-proof formulas, eye primers make your make-up application easier, so you don’t need to worry about any difficult processes. Let’s take a look at our findings.
The Importance of an Eye Primer
An eye primer essentially helps to hold your make-up in place so it doesn’t slip off throughout the day. Without applying it, eyeshadow can sink into any fine lines and wrinkles, thus emphasizing the areas you want to hide. By creating a smooth base, it’s also easier to apply your make-up so the pigmentation applies easily. Also, by creating an even canvas, this speeds up the application process and makes eyeshadow much easier to apply. If you don’t currently use one, you might find that eyeshadows are difficult to blend and require a lot of time and patience to evenly distribute.
As you wear make-up throughout the day, your eyelids can become greasy and hold moisture. Consequently, your eyeshadow can move or fade, which means that all of your hard work has gone to waste. However, by limiting the amount of excess oil held by your eyelids, your make-up stays for longer. Eye primer can also hide any dark spots or uneven color patches on your lids.
Eye primers work similarly to face primers, but create a less smooth finish which enables your eyeshadow to stick and stay in place. Alternatively, you can wear this cosmetic go-to alone to perfect any discoloration. Some have a slight hint of color, whilst others are neutral for a translucent finish.
The Best Eye Primers to Hold Your Eyeshadow
Before you get too excited and purchase any eye primer on the shelves, consider if you’re looking for a liquid or cream-based product. Cream eye primers tend to provide less coverage, which is great for a natural look. Although, if you’re looking to hide any discoloration or intend to use a vibrant eyeshadow, we recommend a liquid formula.
Here are some of the best eye primers from make-up brands you can trust.
Eye Base Primer – Cult Beauty
This eye primer by Cult Beauty is ideal to wear alone for a natural finish. By reducing the appearance of redness and fatigue, this product leaves the eyes looking brighter and provides a more youthful appearance. Alternatively, smooth it onto the eyelids before applying eyeshadow to keep your make-up lasting all day without any touch-ups. Specifically designed for mature skin, Cult Beauty use ingredients which remove any creases around the eye area. With this added benefit, we love how this eye primer helps your make-up last longer while improving your confidence.
Apply this before your favorite eyeshadow, and you’ll notice how it holds your make-up in place all day. Also, applying your make-up is easier and you’ll notice that you need less product than before using this eye primer. We love that this product doesn’t falsify your appearance. Instead, you look natural and people won’t even notice you’re wearing a product. This is why it’s a useful eye primer to wear alone – especially in the cold weather when your eyelids can become tight and taut. Thanks to its lightweight texture, you won’t even feel that you’re wearing a product. Once you use this product, you won’t want to live without it. With a fresh feeling, it’ll also make you feel more awake, thus being a great asset for those early mornings.
Master Prime Eyeshadow Primer – Maybelline
Are you tired of your eyeshadow sitting in your creases? If so, you need a product you can trust to prepare the eye area. This Maybelline Master Prime product works by creating a smooth surface on your eyelids before applying your makeup. If you’ve noticed that your eyelids are starting to droop and you’re looking more tired than usual, then this is a great go-to eyeshadow primer. As you apply the product, you’ll notice how it feels fresh and liberating on the lids; it’s a great morning primer to get you set for the day. However, it’s still suitable for sensitive skin and people who were contact lenses. In fact, many customers with sensitive eyes found that this primer soothes their delicate skin. Hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist tested, it’s a life-changer.
This eye primer comes in three different shades. If you’re torn between two colors, we recommend choosing the lightest shade as you can always darken your lids with eyeshadow. Also, each shade has a purpose: to illuminate, matte and smooth. Choose accordingly to your goals. If you want to look more awake, then illuminate will brighten the eye area. Matte is great for oily skins – particularly if you notice that your eyeshadow quickly slips off. Alternatively, for even coverage, we recommend the smooth option. Simply swipe the wand onto your lids and blend with your finger. It only takes a few seconds to apply and absorbs quickly – which is great for times you’re running behind.
Couture Eye Primer – YSL
This YSL product is another of the best eye primers for mature skin. Its sole purpose is to provide a neutral finish which makes you feel confident enough to wear alone. However, you can choose to apply eyeshadow over the top, and this YSL eye primer promises to lock in the product for the entire day. Not only that, but the eye primer amplifies the color and enhances the pigmentation in your eyeshadow. If you’re tired of discoloration on your lids, this Couture Eye Primer reveals your natural color with only a small amount of product. As a result, your eyes won’t feel heavy with make-up, and you may even find that you require less product.
It’s super easy to use this eye primer. Simply dab with a clean finger and gently blend over your eyelid. Thanks to the luxurious formulation, there’s no pulling or tugging, and you’ll notice how evenly and smoothly your eyeshadow sticks to your eyelids when you wear this primer. Many customers who have hooded eyelids found that this product had a lifting effect and opened up the eye area. By leaving a skin-like appearance, it won’t even look like you’re wearing a product on your lids, and you won’t be able to feel it either.
Eye Base Essentials – Trish McEvoy
Trish McEvoy developed this eye base to correct the discoloration or darkness around the eye area. As a result, you’re left with brighter eyes which look more youthful and awake. Thanks to the special formula, the ingredients also make you feel ready for the day with a cooling-effect. You can wear this eye primer alone for a natural look, or apply eyeshadow over the top to lock it in place all day. Many customers think highly of how this eye primer illuminates the eye area, which is ideal if you’re prone to late nights.
Available in five shades, this eye base caters to all needs and skin tones to leave your eyes looking brighter and more awake. With a satin finish, it feels luxurious on the skin and doesn’t leave behind a sticky residue like some eye primers. If you tend to struggle applying an even line of eye liner, this eye base helps you to achieve a solid line as it smooths out any creases. Depending on which shade you choose, you can also use this eye primer as a highlighter and contour around the face. With light-reflecting pigmentation, it illuminates and brightens skin to leave you with a youthful glow.
Eye Primer Duo – Tom Ford
Tom Ford developed this eye primer to smooth away the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s also the best eye primer to smooth away any bags around the eyes. Place the product underneath the eye to reveal a natural look and smooth the surfaces. With a cream texture, this eye primer is soft to apply and eliminates any creases. With slightly heavier coverage than the other eye primers listed above, this Tom Ford product is ideal for any significant redness or dark patches around the eyes.
This Tom Ford eye primer also comes with powder, which is great to further lock in the product and ensure your eyeshadow lasts for longer. As a result, this eye primer offers 15 hours of staying power. We also love the appearance of this eye primer, as it comes in a handy, well-designed package which is easy to store in your makeup bag.
Have You Tried an Exceptional Eye Primer?
We hope you enjoyed reading our top five eye primers to keep your makeup staying in place all day. There are plenty of eyeshadows which promise to reduce creasing and help to illuminate the eyes. However, not all live up to their promises – especially if they’re highly pigmented. But with the added benefit of an eye primer, you increase how long your eyeshadow lasts. Plus, eye primers won’t break the bank and will actually save you money in the long run by not having to use as much makeup.
Do you own an eye primer which delivers exceptional results? If so, share your recommendations in the comments. Otherwise, choose your favorite product above and give it a try. Don’t forget to let us know your experience!
FAQs
Does eye primer help with wrinkles? ›
Under-eye primers create a smooth canvas for you to doll up your eyes with beautiful makeup. Eye primers reduce the appearance of wrinkles and hide them away. As known often, eye primers increase the staying power of your eye makeup.
What shade of eye primer should I use? ›You'll get the truest color if you stick to a transparent primer or one with very little color. If you're doing a smokey eye or a dark eyeshadow, look for a darker primer to add depth to your look. If you are using multiple colors and really want them to pop, try a white primer.
What is the difference between eye primer and eyeshadow primer? ›Keep in mind, an eyeshadow base is not formulated to prevent creasing or fading. On the other hand, eye makeup primer is a beauty essential used to create a smooth and even canvas. It works in your favor to keep creasing and natural oils at bay to help your eye makeup go the distance.
Should you let eye primer dry before applying eyeshadow? ›Applying eye primer is super easy, so your morning routine will be smoother than it's ever been. Simply take a pea-sized dollop of Thank Me Later Eye Primer and smooth it over your lids. Then, all you have to do is let it dry before applying your favorite eyeshadow!
Do you put concealer over eye primer? ›A concealer will also help cover up any discoloration or veins, which will create a smooth, even canvas for you to work on. Since eyeshadow primer is specifically formulated to act as a grip for eyeshadow and offers the best pigment payoff, we recommend opting for it first.
Do you rub eye primer in? ›How To Put On Eye Primer. Applying eyeshadow primer is simple. Dab a tiny amount onto your eyelid and lightly rub it in small, circular motions with your ring finger. But go easy on how much you use!
Should mature skin wear a primer? ›Makeup primers are applied as the foundation layer under your makeup to improve the way your foundation sits on your skin. The best primer for aging skin is one that that will moisturize. Primers can extend the wear of your makeup and help conceal pores, wrinkles, and blemishes.
Does older skin need a primer? ›"No matter your age, you should always choose a primer that addresses your skin type and feels good on your face.
Do you put eye primer on before or after foundation? ›"When applying eye shadow I suggest applying the eye shadow first before you apply foundation to avoid the fallout. First apply a thin layer of eye shadow primer, then eye shadow and eyeliner where you desire," celebrity makeup artist Billie Gene said.
What can I use instead of eye primer? ›WHAT CAN BE USED IN PLACE OF EYESHADOW PRIMER? The best news is, there's no need to buy another product. Concealer works just as well as any store-bought eyeshadow primer. You want a light, liquid concealer that smooths on lids easily, but isn't too moist.
How do I choose the right primer? ›
When choosing a makeup primer, you'll want to find one that matches your skin type. If you have dry skin, look for a hydrating primer to keep your skin moisturized. For oily skin, choose a mattifying primer, which will help reduce the oil in your skin.
What do you put on eyelids before eyeshadow? ›PRIME Eye makeup prep is primarily associated with a simple eye primer, and it's definitely key step to ensuring your eyeshadow applies smoothly and lasts all day (and night) without creasing or smudging. After creating a clean base, gently apply a SMALL amount of eyeshadow primer to the eyelids.
Do you put foundation on eyelids? ›Never put concealer or foundation on your eyelids as a base, it will cause your eye makeup to crease.
Do you put mascara on when primer is wet or dry? ›Step 3: Let Your Primer Dry
Kind of makes sense. However, some believe you should wait at least 30 seconds to allow the primer to fully dry before attempting to coat the lashes with mascara. We recommend you try both ways and see which one works best for you.
“The naturally occurring oil layer on the lids are the root cause of eyeshadow creasing,” says Kaushik, who has worked with celebrities like Sonam Kapoor Ahuja and Kareena Kapoor Khan. Thoroughly cleansing the skin with a mild cleanser is just the start, she shares.
Does primer go on before or after mascara? ›Apply your eyelash primer right before mascara application in your normal makeup routine. Working one eye at a time, be sure to thoroughly coat your lashes in the primer for an even, volumized look. For more noticeable results, we like to go in with two coats of primer.
What is the difference between eyelid primer and face primer? ›Face primer and eye primer are supposed to let your makeup go smoothly and help it last longer. However, they have different formulas and purposes. Face primers are made to provide a smooth canvas for the foundation, while eye primers are used to make eyeshadow grip the eyelids and prevent creasing.
Which brand of primer is best? ›- Lakme Absolute Blur Perfect Matte Face Primer. ...
- Maybelline New York Primer. ...
- L'Oreal Paris Infallible Lasting Primer. ...
- Faces Canada Ultime Pro Primerizer Primer + Moisturizer. ...
- Europe Girl Primer. ...
- SUGAR Cosmetics - The Most Eligiblur - Smoothing Primer. ...
- Lotus Makeup Proedit Silk Touch Luminizing Primer.
After you moisturize your face, "apply a small amount of primer, about the size of a dime, to the center of your forehead, nose, each cheek and chin, and then rub it in, focusing on the problem areas," says Picou. Give the primer a few minutes to set before applying your foundation and other makeup.
Do I need separate under eye primer? ›Eyelids, eyelashes, and lips are different surfaces, and the cosmetics you use on them consist of different formulas. For best results, you should use a special primer on each area. You may be familiar with makeup primers for your face, but the goodness doesn't have to stop there.
Can I use Vaseline as eye primer? ›
Vaseline acts in the same way concealer or cream shadow does to help eye shadow look more vibrant. However, Vaseline seems to give the shadow more grip and makes it look more luminous. All you have to do is rub a little bit onto your lids before proceeding with your usual eye-shadow techniques.
Where does eye primer go on your face? ›Eyeshadow primer is a liquid- or cream-based product that is applied on the eyelids to make shadows and eyeliner go on smoother and last longer.
Do you moisturise before applying primer? ›Step 1: Apply After Moisturiser
To apply a face primer, it is best applied using your fingertips. Simply use a peanut-sized amount and blend all over your face after applying moisturiser.
- Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation: Best for coverage. ...
- Pai The Impossible Glow Hyaluronic Acid & Sea Kelp Bronzing Drops: Best for glowing skin. ...
- Trinny London BFF De-Stress Tinted Serum: Best for moisturising.
- Best overall: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Hydrating Makeup Primer.
- Best multitasker: MAC Prep and Prime Fix+ Primer and Setting Spray.
- Best for blurring pores: Rare Beauty Pore Diffusing Primer.
- Best value: Elf Hydrating Face Primer.
- Best for oily skin: It Cosmetics Your Skin but Better Makeup Primer+
Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Oil-Free Primer. As the OG primer for makeup artists and beauty lovers, the Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Oil-Free Primer can do no wrong. “It truly lives up to its name 'Smooth and Blur,” says Scibelli.
Do you rub primer all over your face? ›Makeup primers are designed to smooth out textured skin so that foundation can glide on easily over them. You might think that rubbing the product into the skin would be the best way to do this but patting it onto your face gives better results. Applying your primer with fingers can help the product melt into the skin.
Do you put primer all over your face? ›Not applying primer all over the face.
Greenberg says that if you don't put primer everywhere you're planning to put foundation, you're asking for trouble. Some of your makeup will go on more evenly than the rest, and some will probably wear off more quickly, creating a patchy, uneven mess.
Best medium coverage foundation for mature skin
Whenever makeup artist Alex Glynn is working with a client with mature skin, she reaches for Charlotte Tilbury's Light Wonder. “This foundation is so lightweight, meaning there's less chance of it settling in to fine lines,” says Glynn.
Which e.l.f. primer works best for mature skin? The Hydrating Face Primer from e.l.f. nourishes dry and mature skin and helps makeup stay put all day long.
Can I just wear a primer and no foundation? ›
You can absolutely use a primer without makeup! They are fantastic for that “I'm not wearing any makeup” makeup look. They offer a smooth complexion without the heaviness of foundation, and they neutralize redness from acne and irritation.
How do you keep makeup from settling in wrinkles? ›Exfoliate at least once a week to eliminate dry skin cells so that the makeup can sit well on top of the skin. Apply a lightweight moisturizer and let it set before applying foundation. Use a smoothing primer to help to blur fine lines and wrinkles. Don't forget that less is more when it comes to applying foundation.
Which primer goes on first? ›In skin care routines, moisturizers are the second-to-last step to lock in all the other skin health products that you may have used, like toner or serum. But when it comes to primer versus moisturizer, remember moisture comes first. Aptly named, primer does just that—primes the skin for makeup application.
Can I use BB cream as eye primer? ›Eye shadow primer replacements could be - Foundations, BB/CC/DD creams, Concealers, any nude eye shadow which matches your skin tone.
What are the three types of primer? ›Types of Primers. There are three basic types of primers: oil-based, latex and pigmented shellac primer. Each has its strengths and weaknesses and works best on certain surfaces and in particular circumstances.
What are the four types of primer? ›- Matte primer. A matte primer is a god send for people with oily skin. ...
- Hydrating primer. Another popular type of primer is a hydrating primer also known as an oil based primer. ...
- Illuminating Primer. An illuminating primer does a very similar job as a silicone primer. ...
- Colour correcting primer.
The Maybelline Master Prime Primer is a classic drugstore primer that delivers a smooth, even base for your foundation. It helps blur texture and pores while adding more wear time to your makeup. This has been named a dupe for the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer at a fraction of the cost, and with a more lightweight feel.
What kind of eyeshadow should an older woman wear? ›4. Opt for Matte Eyeshadow. While a pop of shimmer in the inner corners is always a good idea, Salgado says, those with mature eyes might find matte eyeshadow more longwearing and less likely to fade on mature skin. Stock up on matte eyeshadow palettes that are pigmented without emphasizing fine lines.
What Colour eyeshadow is best for over 60? ›The short answer is: stay natural. It means using neutral colours like light brown, light pink, beige, or gray. Any shade of these colours will likely look good on you. Generally, nude colours are an excellent choice for mature eyes because of the natural look they provide.
What type of eyeshadow is best for Crepey eyelids? ›Try grape, bronze, or purple liner. For you brown-eyed beauties, go for charcoal, green, navy, or black for darker skin tones. Hopefully, you're not like me having meltdowns over crepey eyelids.
What color eyeshadow makes eyes look younger? ›
Neutral and pink colored eye shadows also make you look younger. Neutrals will also complement your everyday look without making you feel that you have over done your makeup, whether you are in the office or college.
How can a woman over 60 look classy? ›- Big patterns, bold colors. ...
- Breathable Fabrics Reign Supreme. ...
- Embrace the unexpected. ...
- Balance timeless with trends. ...
- Mix textures and metals. ...
- Eye-catching accessories. ...
- Denim that fits like a dream. ...
- Updated basics.
Opt for a lighter eyeshadow rather than a dark, smoky shade on your eyelids and around the eyes, like Jenna Dewan Tatum. "Highlighting the corners makes eyes look brighter and fresh," says Ahnert. "Use a light color shadow in matte or shimmer to inner corner, lower lash line in outer corner, and the inner lid."
What color eyeliner is best for mature eyes? ›White to bright. “Use a white (or nude) kohl pencil eyeliner on your waterline for an instant eye lift. White eyeliner is a secret weapon to give the effect of wider, more awake and brighter eyes. Choose a water and smudge proof brand that will stay put all day.”
Should you wear eyeliner over 60? ›Adding a sweep of eyeliner is an absolute must when doing eye makeup for mature skin over 60. It adds a beautiful structure to the face and can frame your eyes as the standout features they are. A pencil eyeliner is good for aging eyes because it softens the lash line and makes your fringe look fuller.
Should an older woman wear mascara on bottom lashes? ›This will help achieve youthful looking lips. DON'T wear mascara on your lower lashes. Playing up your lower lashes can make your eyes look droopy and draw attention to dark circles. It makes the eyes look older and accentuates the under eye wrinkles.
Should I wear primer under my eyes? ›Not only do you not need an eye primer, using one could make skin problems in the delicate eye area worse. Eye primers tend to clog pores, which can lead to milia — those tiny white bumps that often form under your eyes or around your nose.
What is the best filler for upper eyelids? ›Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane or Juvederm are more appropriate in the thin skin of the upper eyelids.
How do you smooth aging eyelids? ›- Use an excellent natural eye cream that hydrates, smooths wrinkles and revitalises skin.
- Be extra kind to skin around the eyes when applying make-up and taking it off.
- Tone eyelids with precise exercises.
- Protect eyes from the sun with sunscreen, hats and sunglasses.
Also, blend and bring your crease color up, so it's visible with eyes open. On wrinkled eyelids use tapping motions with your brush or fingers. If you start to use windshield motion the way you see in videos, your eyeshadow will not blend as well.