11 Best Drugstore Eyeshadow Primers Of 2024, Makeup Artist-Recommended
Smoothen your eyelids to hold the eyeshadow in place with the help of these primers.
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special event categories.
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The best drugstore eyeshadow primers can help you get the perfect eye makeup look without exhausting your budget. An eyeshadow primer plays an important role in your beauty routine and eye makeup. It smooths the skin of your lids and ensures that your eyeshadow stays in place all day. It also makes the eyeshadow colors pop.
A good-quality long-lasting primer for your eyeshadow offers a creaseless canvas for your eye makeup colors. Check out our top favorite drugstore eyeshadow primers that have been in the beauty industry and are a must-have in your vanity.
In This Article
11 Best Drugstore Eyeshadow Primers
1. Best Overall Eyeshadow Primer:Laura Geller New York Spackle Waterproof Eye Primer
The Laura Geller New York Spackle Waterproof Eye Primer is the ultimate solution for long-lasting and flawless-looking eye makeup. The primer is easy to use, provides a smooth finish, and intensifies your eye looks. It improves the longevity of eyeshadows and sets the right base for the colors to glide on smoothly. The product also works as a concealer to hide darkness and discoloration under the eyes. With its waterproof formula, it fixes the eye makeup in place and makes your pigmented eyeshadow sweat- and weather-resistant. You can even wear it without any eyeshadow for a subtle nude eye look. This waterproof eyeshadow primer ensures maximum pigmentation and long-lasting wear.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Crease-proof
- Smudge-proof
- Enhances eyeshadow colors
- Suitable for all skin types
- Can be used by mature skin
Cons
- None
Pro Tip2. Best Lightweight Eyeshadow Primer: Milani Eyeshadow Primer
Intensify your eyeshadow color and make it last from day to night by applying the Milani Eyeshadow Primer. It is a lightweight, invisible primer that goes on nude and dries clear to create a smooth canvas on your eyelids for any eyeshadow. This eyeshadow primer has a weightless formula that works on all skin tones and glides smoothly for crease-free wear. It is 100% vegan and cruelty-free. Check this video detailing a tester’s experience with this primer to learn more about it.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Does not dry out instantly
- Blends easily
- Lightweight
- Crease-proof
- Easy to remove
- Value for money
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 6,119 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
3. Best Eyeshadow Primer For Oily Eyelids: Wet N Wild Photofocus Eyeshadow Primer
Oily eyelids can be a recipe for eyeshadow disaster as they can cause any formula, powder or cream, to cake and crease. The Wet N Wild Photofocus Eyeshadow Primer has a mattifying formula that acts as a buffer between your eyelids and eyeshadow, ensuring the eyeshadow stays put without smudging. It preps and brightens your eyelids to make your eyeshadow last all day long. This primer offers smooth, effortless application. It glides on effortlessly and smoothly over the eyelids before applying your favorite eyeshadow. It also dries quickly with a clear finish. It is cruelty-free and PETA-certified. Take a look at this video to explore a reviewer’s experience with this primer and make an informed decision about your purchase.
Pros
- Crease-proof
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Smooth application
Cons
- Leaves a residue
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 2,713 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
Laura Geller New York Spackle Waterproof Eye Primer Best Overall Eyeshadow Primer | Milani Eyeshadow Primer Best Lightweight Eyeshadow Primer | Wet N Wild Photofocus Eyeshadow Primer Best Eyeshadow Primer For Oily Eyelids | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All | Combination |
| Dimensions | - | 1.81 x 0.8 x 6.5 inches | 1.77 x 0.83 x 4.13 inches |
| Weight | - | 0.31 Ounces | 0.32 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 153 | 6,119 | 2,713 |
| Price | $15.43 | $7.97 | $8.6 |
4. Best Quick-Drying Eyeshadow Primer: Covergirl Lid Lock Up Eyeshadow Primer
The Covergirl Lid Lock Up Eyeshadow Primer lets you rock a crease-free eyeshadow look all day long. It preps your eyelid to intensify the color of the eyeshadows. It has a quick-drying formula that binds with the eyeshadow and holds it in place to create a bold look and maximize the wear time. The primer is free of animal testing, making it an ethical choice over the other products.
Pros
- Crease-proof
- Dries quickly
- Suitable for oily skin
- Smooth formula
Cons
- Sticky formula
"This eyeshadow primer stays put, even in the summer season. It applies smoothly without caking or creasing. I use it with a lotion to give me a subtle glow as well. I like it because I can remove it without rubbing my eyelids rigorously."
5. Best Long-Lasting Eyeshadow Primer: Revlon ColorStay Eyeshadow Primer
If you want your eye makeup to last long without creasing or smudging for 24 hours, Revlon ColorStay Eyeshadow Primer is the best choice for you. This lightweight primer from the celebrity-endorsed brand is formulated with skin-loving ingredients like Shea Butter Care Complex that create a smooth surface on your eyelids for eyeshadow application. The universal shade of this eye primer goes well with every skin tone. Its natural finish locks the eyeshadow color all day long.
Pros
- Crease-proof
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight formula
- Made with natural ingredients
- Blends easily
- Suitable for all skin tones
- Affordable
Cons
- Thin consistency
- Oily formula
"I can apply this primer smoothly. It has good staying power and does not budge even on the sweatiest of days. I can pair it easily with the concealer to create the perfect base for an eye look. It also helps layer and blend different eyeshadows."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 5,460 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
6. Best Multipurpose Eyeshadow Primer: L.A. Girl High Definition (HD) Pro Primer Eyeshadow Stick
The L.A. Girl HD Pro Primer is a lightweight, non-sticky eyeshadow primer stick that holds locks in your eye makeup and makes it last all day long. Its smooth formula glides easily over the eyelids and preps them for a flawless and even eyeshadow application. This formula coats the eyelids perfectly, providing full coverage to enhance the color of your eyeshadow. This multipurpose eyeshadow primer stick acts as a makeup base and is suitable for all skin types. Many reviewers feel that the natural color of this primer helps enhance the color of your eyeshadows to create a vibrant look.
Pros
- Multipurpose
- Lightweight texture
- Non-sticky
- Travel-friendly
- Glides effortlessly for smooth application
- Intensifies the eyeshadow color
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- None
"This eye primer is the perfect base for vibrant eyeshadow colors. It does not crease or cause any cakiness. It makes the lids appear oil- and shine-free. I recommend applying it with a sponge for a smoother texture. It can also be used for subtle to smokey eye looks."
7. Best Brightening Eyeshadow Primer: Maybelline New York Master Prime Eyeshadow Primer
The Maybelline New York Master Prime Eyeshadow Base has a luminous glow and smooth formula that glides seamlessly on the eyelids to add instant brightness to tired eyes. It is tested by ophthalmologists to ensure it does not irritate your eyes. This iridescent eyeshadow primer’s champagne pink hue with glitter is quite seductive and blends perfectly with all skin tones to offer a bold eye look. Its shimmery finish lends a gorgeous and fresh glow to any eyeshadow you wear on top of it.
Pros
- Shimmer finish
- Smooth application
- Can be used alone
- Long-lasting
- Suitable for oily eyelids
- Affordable
Cons
- Thick formula
- Dries out quickly
"This eyeshadow primer brightens my eyes and smooths out the lid texture. It dries quickly but does not settle into lines and creases. It is easy to apply and gives me a seamless base for the other eye makeup products."
8. Best For All Day Wear:Too Faced Shadow Insurance Anti-Crease Eyeshadow Primer
If you want to crease-proof eye makeup and condition your upper eyelid, then the Too Faced Shadow Insurance Anti-Crease Eyeshadow Primer is the right one for you. It contains Vitamin E and silicone that keep your eyelid area hydrated and healthy while adhering the eyeshadow to your skin all day. Just take a drop of this primer, and it is the perfect base for eyeshadow. Apply and blend it well to get a smooth and flawless canvas. This blendable eyeshadow primer doesn’t fade, smudge, or let your makeup melt to keep its true color intact.
Pros
- No creasing
- No smudging
- No fading
- Suitable for all skin types
- Smooth application
Cons
- Not long-lasting
9. Best Clear Formula: Wet n Wild Photo Focus Eyeshadow Primer
The primer features a smooth and easy application that glides seamlessly and dries instantly with a clear matte finish. It preps your eyelids for eye makeup while brightening and extending the color of your eyeshadows. This drugstore eyeshadow primer also creates a smooth canvas without weighing down your eyelids or making them feel crunchy.
Pros
- Matte formula
- Smooth and effortless application
- Clear finish
- Easy-to-apply
- Long-lasting
- Brightens the eyelids
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not suitable for mature skin
- Leaves behind residue
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 2,713 great reviews on Amazon.
10. Best Anti-Aging Primer: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
If you want a nude eye primer with anti-aging benefits, then Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion is perfect for you. It evens out your skin tone and improves texture keeping the eyeshadow crease-free and truly intact all day with an invisible finish. It is infused with dermaxyl and kalpariane that improve signs of aging, smoothes wrinkles while hydrating and plumping the skin. It also improves skin elasticity and softness. The blurring pigments offer a soft-focus effect that reduces redness and awakens tired, fatigued eyes. It blurs the finest wrinkles and leaves a smooth base for smudge-proof eyeshadow application, delivering exceptional results. It is available in 4 shades.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Long-lasting
- Easy to use
- Suitable for oily lids
Cons
- None
11. Best Antioxidant-Rich Eyeshadow Primer:Palladio Eyeshadow Primer
Palladio Eyeshadow Primer is formulated with antioxidants and vitamins like A, C, D, and E, and essential botanicals nourish and moisturize the skin. The eyelid primer is a silicone-based primer that is sheer and glides on smoothly like silk. It also eliminates creasing, enhancing shadow vibrancy all day. Moreover, the soft, puff-tipped angled applicator is ideal for precise application. This universal shade is suitable for all skin tones.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Vitamin-infused
- Cruelty-free
- Silky smooth formula
- Dries quickly
Cons
- None
"This eyeshadow primer stays put for a long time. Its lightweight texture does not cause any cakiness. Moreover, it helps blend the eyeshadows well if you are into layering two or more shades. The soft and angled puff applicator helps apply the liner without creating any messes."
These are the 11 best drugstore eyeshadow primers available online. If you are a beginner and do not know how to use an eyeshadow primer, check out the next section.
What Is An Eyeshadow Primer?
An eyeshadow primer is a liquid or cream-based product that is applied on the eyelids to make the eyeshadow you apply on top of it look vibrant and last long. It also helps in the smooth application and blending of eyeshadows and offers maximum pigmentation.
Check out the next section to know why you should pick a high-quality eyeshadow primer.
Benefits Of Using An Eyeshadow Primer
- Applying eyeshadow primer before eyeshadow makes the latter last longer. Wearing an eyeshadow without a primer underneath can make your eyelids look greasy and cause the eyeshadow to fade.
- Applying primer helps in applying eyeshadow smoothly and evenly like a pro.
- Those with dry eyelids tend to struggle with the smooth application of eyeshadow. It often results in the uneven blending of colors. A thin layer of eyeshadow primer with a creamy texture helps in the even application of eyeshadow color. It also prevents the eyeshadow from settling in the fine lines.
- A primer holds the eyeshadow in place and makes it look more vibrant.
- It prevents the creasing, smudging, and fading of eyeshadows.
Now, let’s check out the step-by-step application of eyeshadow primer.
How To Apply An Eyeshadow Primer
- First, clean your face and eye area with a cleanser, and follow up with a lightweight cream.
- Using a small eyeshadow brush, apply a thin layer of eyeshadow primer onto your lids.
- Gently tap on the eyeshadow primer without tugging or pulling on your skin for a perfect base.
- Now, the blank canvas is ready to apply eyeshadow.
Infographic: Key Ingredients To Look For In Drugstore Eyeshadow Primers
If you desire a crease-free, seamless eyeshadow look, prepping your lids with drugstore eyeshadow primers is very essential. They infuse essential nutrients into your lids and improve their texture. These formulas are enriched with potent ingredients that prepare your lids for effortless eyeshadow application. Check out the infographic below and learn which ingredients you must look for when buying an eyeshadow primer.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Eye makeup is quite difficult compared to other kinds of makeup. However, using the right set of makeup products and other affordable options can enhance the eyes! Perfect eye makeup is incomplete without a drugstore eyeshadow primer. These primers easily blend with eyeliners to give that flawless appearance. They are made of organic ingredients and are gentle on the skin. Try the Laura Geller New York Spackle Waterproof Eye Primer, as it glides smoothly and also acts as a concealer. For a long-lasting look that suits every skin color, the Revlon ColorStay Eyeshadow Primer is the best choice. If you want to conceal fine lines and create a flawless base for your makeup, use the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion. These drugstore eyeshadow primers offer you crease-free eye makeup and premium finishing. In addition, these products are vegan, smudge-proof, and long-lasting. However, if you have sensitive skin, side with an expert-recommended formula that is free of irritants. Read the reviews and go through our buying guide to pick an ideal product. Remember to conduct a patch test with the primer you have chosen to detect allergic reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best eye primer brands?
Some of the best eye primer brands are NYX Professional Makeup, Milani, Wet N Wild, and Covergirl.
Is it necessary to apply an eye primer?
Yes, eye primers keep your eye makeup from appearing creased and cakey. They also enhance the eyeshadow colors and make your eyes look flawless.
Can I use a face primer as an eyeshadow primer?
Yes, you can use a face primer as an eyeshadow primer, but it is not recommended to do so. Most face primers contain silicone which is not a good ingredient for your delicate eyes. If you do not have an eyeshadow primer, consider using a concealer in its place.
Is there a difference between a primer and an eyeshadow primer?
There are no major differences between a regular primer and an eyeshadow primer. The differences can lie in their formulas, as some ingredients used in face primers, like silicone, are not great for the delicate skin on your eyelids. Eyeshadow primers are mostly made of gentler formulas.
Is a concealer or a primer better for eyeshadow?
Both concealer and primer are equally important to make your eye makeup stand out. While concealers cover discolorations, eye primers offer a smooth base for your eyeshadow. However, some beauty enthusiasts skip the step of applying a primer as concealers can also do the job of offering a clear base for the rest of your eye makeup.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Baishali Bhattacharya, a certified makeup technique guide and image consultant, has compiled this list of the best drugstore eyeshadow primers to help you get a crease-free eye makeup look. She has carefully selected these primers after thorough research on their constituents, blending ability, and effect on the skin. She has also included a buying guide and the pros and cons of each product.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Read full bio of Baishali Bhattacharya
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