As a makeup artist and beauty editor, I’ve had my fair share of struggles with eyeshadow primers. Up until a few years ago, I could never get my eyeshadow to last longer than an hour, tops. I put it down to my oily eyelids and assumed I had to say goodbye to eyeshadow altogether. However, I was determined to find a solution, and I’m thrilled to share with you my top picks for the best eyeshadow primers that actually work.
The Importance of Eyeshadow Primers
Before we dive into the best eyeshadow primers, let’s talk about why they’re essential for a long-lasting makeup look. Eyeshadow primers create a smooth, even surface for eyeshadow to adhere to, preventing creasing and fading throughout the day. They also help to bring out the pigment of your eyeshadow, making it look more vibrant and intense. In short, a good eyeshadow primer is the key to a flawless, long-lasting eye look.
The Challenges of Finding a Good Eyeshadow Primer
As someone with oily eyelids, I know how frustrating it can be to find an eyeshadow primer that works. Many primers on the market claim to be “oil-control” or “long-lasting,” but often fail to deliver. I’ve tried countless primers over the years, only to be left with creased, faded eyeshadow that looks more like a mess than a masterpiece. But, I’ve finally found some winners that I’m excited to share with you.
The Best Eyeshadow Primers That Actually Work
1. Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
As a makeup artist, I’ve tried my fair share of eyeshadow primers, but Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base is hands down the best. This liquid primer comes in a clear formula that dries down to a matte finish, perfect for prepping your eyes for any number of colourful eyeshadow looks. The doe-foot applicator makes it easy to swipe straight onto the lid, and the product is easy to apply, even for those with oily eyelids like me.
I’ve found that this primer really keeps my eyeshadow in place all day, even after hours of bar hopping around Soho. It’s also great for those with dry eyelids, as it creates a smooth, even surface for eyeshadow to adhere to. The only downside is that I find I can go through a tube quite quickly, but it’s worth it for the results.
2. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer
For those with dry eyelids, I highly recommend Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer. This hydrating formula is packed with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and aloe water, making it perfect for those who struggle with dryness. The clear formula and doe-foot applicator make it a dream to use, and the results are impressive.
This primer creates a smooth, long-lasting base for eyeshadow, and I’ve found that it works beautifully under powder eyeshadow. However, I did find that it wasn’t as long-lasting as some of the other primers in this roundup, but it’s still a great option for those with dry eyelids.
3. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion is a bit of an icon in the makeup world, and for good reason. This liquid primer comes in a light beige colour that dries down to a clear finish, perfect for prepping your eyes for eyeshadow. The doe-foot applicator makes it easy to swipe straight onto the lid, and the formula is smooth and easy to apply.
I loved testing this primer because it was great at minimising creasing throughout the day. I applied a nude powder eyeshadow on top, and it had barely creased by the time I got home from work. Very impressive considering my eyeshadow has normally creased by the time I walk through the office door in the morning.
4. Too Faced Shadow Insurance
Too Faced Shadow Insurance is a lightweight primer that’s perfect for those who want a smooth, even surface for eyeshadow. The formula is smooth and creamy, making it easy to apply, and the packaging is a little more bulky than some of the other primers in this roundup. However, the results are well worth it.
I found that this primer worked beautifully under powder eyeshadow, creating a smooth, long-lasting base that looked great all day. The only downside is that the packaging is a little more bulky, but it’s still a great option for those who want a lightweight primer.
5. Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer is a multi-purpose product that can be used as both a concealer and an eyeshadow primer. The formula is smooth and easy to apply, and it creates a smooth, even surface for eyeshadow to adhere to. I’ve found that this primer works beautifully under powder eyeshadow, and it’s a great option for those who want a versatile product.
I’ve also found that this primer is great for those with oily eyelids, as it helps to control oil and prevent creasing. The only downside is that it’s a bit more expensive than some of the other primers in this roundup, but it’s still a great option for those who want a multi-purpose product.
Conclusion
As a makeup artist and beauty editor, I’ve finally found some eyeshadow primers that actually work. From Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base to Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer, these products have revolutionised my makeup routine and helped me to achieve long-lasting, flawless eye looks. Whether you have oily or dry eyelids, there’s an eyeshadow primer out there for you. So, next time you’re getting ready for a night out, remember to give one of these primers a try – your eyes will thank you!
