15 Best Mascara Primers For Full Coverage (2024) – As Per A Makeup Artist
Say goodbye to messy and clumpy eye makeup while accentuating your look in no time.
Tommy is a New York-based makeup artist with over a decade of experience. He originally hails from Los Angeles and Tokyo and is largely inspired by color, organic life, and spirituality. Tommy has been featured in prestigious publications like Vogue Runway, Vogue Italia, Vanguard, Playbill, and Worldwide, among others.
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Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
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Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
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Want to make your regular mascara work hard and give the best results? If yes, then invest in the best mascara primers to get the most out of your product. Mascara primers help evenly distribute the product across the length of the eyelashes and smoothen out lumps that make the product look clumpy. They also ensure that the product stays on long and does not degrade, smear, or wash off. Mascara primers are the best solution to fix a sleepy face or tired, dull eyes when you need to step out quickly or show up to a gathering. Scroll down to check out the 15 best mascara primers to get flawless lashes.
In This Article
Top 15 Best Mascara Primers For Flawless Lashes In 2024
1. Best Overall:L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Base Primer
When you can get the best of both worlds in a single premium product, why would you need to buy a mascara base and a mascara separately? This eyelash primer from the celebrity-endorsed brand L’Oreal is one of the best mascara primers for full coverage. To add more definition and depth to your eyelashes, a single coat of this lash primer can go a long way in making your eyes look more alluring. This 2-in-one product adds noticeable volume and length that helps in instantly prepping your eyes and creates a smooth barrier between mascara. Specially formulated to resist clumping, it adds five times more thickness to your lashes. This white-volume mascara primer conditions and volumizes your lashes while softening them as well. This high-quality product also helps you achieve thicker-looking natural lashes in four weeks of regular use. This video review based on a tester’s experience with the product will offer more information on the eyelash-defining primer.
Pros
- Doesn’t clump on the lashes
- Instantly thickens lashes by up to five times
- Conditions and softens the lashes
- Thicker-looking lashes in four weeks
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
Cons
- May not curl your lashes properly if you don’t have naturally curled lashes
"This lash primer enhances my lash thickness and length. I like how it makes my lashes look smoother and fuller. I have sensitive eyes but it does not irritate them. Since it applies smoothly and lifts my lashes, I don't see a need to use an eyelash curler as well."
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 36,925 rave reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Long – Lasting:Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real Tinted Lash Primer
You should consider this mink-brown tinted lash primer to do the job if you don’t enjoy applying a white or black colored mascara primer. Made of a water-resistant and long-lasting gel formula, this eyelash primer helps to enhance mascara color and prime your lashes while adding length. As it is infused with pro-vitamin B5, it works actively towards conditioning your lashes, making them look naturally thick and voluminous. It comes with a custom ExtraFlex brush, which helps in lash separation, making them look fuller and more defined. Reviewers on Amazon have noted that the primer can either be used as a mascara base or as mascara itself.
Pros
- Water-resistant tinted formula
- Conditions lashes with pro-vitamin B
- Mink-brown in color
- Custom ExtraFlex brush
- Can be used as a mascara
- Suitable for all skin tones
Cons
- May not be suitable for people with extremely sensitive eyes
"This lash product enhances my lashes with a natural finish. It gives me length without any stiffness. I like how it helps me create casual eye looks without smudging. It is great for people like me who love lightweight and subtle lash tints."
Pro Tip3. Best For Thickess:Jane Iredale Pure Lash Lash Extender And Conditioner
A good way to ensure that you are on the right path of stimulating eyelash growth is by investing in a product that conditions your lashes. This eyelash extender contains algae extracts that keep it conditioned and help in adding length and thickness to your lashes while strengthening them. A single coat of this mascara primer gives your lashes dramatic thickness. Many reviews on online forums have noted that it can also be used on the eyebrows to make them look fuller and defined. It works wonders as a lightweight mascara, helps enhance the natural beauty of the lashes, and looks great on different skin tones.
Pros
- Contains wheat protein and radish extracts
- The unique brush separates each and individual lash to make it look fuller
- Conditions the lashes
- Can be used on the eyebrows
- Can be used as a mascara
Cons
- It contains boric acid which may irritate sensitive eyes
"This lash primer conditions my lashes. It also helps prepare my lashes without the clumpiness. I like how it separates and enhances each lash. It holds up well against smudging too."
Pro TipJane Iredale Pure Lash Lash Extender And Conditioner | Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real Tinted Lash Primer | Jane Iredale Pure Lash Lash Extender And Conditioner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | White | - | PureLash Lash Extender and Conditioner |
| Dimensions | 0.67 x 2.75 x 7.06 inches | 2.5 x 1.5 x 3.5 inches | 1.25 x 0.75 x 4.5 inches |
| Weight | 0.63 Ounces | 0.03 Ounces | 0.04 Ounces |
| Skin Type | - | Normal | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 36,925 | 845 | 1,089 |
| Price | $7.99 | $25 | $20.8 |
4. Best Anti- Breakage:Grande Cosmetics White Mascara Primer
Do you want luscious, thick eyelashes for days? If your answer is affirmative, consider this primer. This primer by Grande Cosmetics is arguably the best mascara primer in white, which is infused with mini fibers that don’t cause flaking. It also contains peptides that help in increasing the longevity of the mascara’s wear. The natural soft waxes (which include beeswax) help in keeping your lashes conditioned and supple. This smudge-proof mascara primer helps prevent breakage, while the hard waxes such as carnauba wax make the lashes firmer for a better hold. This formula is water-resistant and doesn’t smudge. This best waterproof mascara primer is not tested on innocent animals, which makes it ideal for people seeking cruelty-free options.
Pros
- Waterproof primer
- Tiny fibers prevent flaking
- Contains peptides that make the mascara stay on longer
- Smudge-proof
- Contains soft wax and hard waxes
- Ophthalmologist-tested and approved
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- The mascara has to be applied right after the primer. Otherwise, it is hard to cover up the white color.
- It tends to dry up quickly if not stored properly.
5. Best Ergonomic Design:It Cosmetics Tightline Mascara Primer
One of the biggest concerns women have when buying a lash primer comes from the wand. They wonder why they are designed to be thick, especially when its main purpose is to separate each lash, giving them the illusion of being thicker and more defined. If you share the same sentiment, this 3-in-1 black primer will be the best mascara primer for you in one stick! The ergonomic design of the thin spoolie makes it suitable for the application of the base mascara primer, mascara, and eyeliner. The flexible wand comes with bendable bristles that coat from root to tip. Infused with biotin, proteins, hydrolyzed collagen, and peptide-infused lash serum, it also boasts anti-aging properties. The pigments present in this primer help black mascara stand out and thicken it as well. Ethically conscious consumers are obsessed with this mascara as it does not undergo any animal testing.
Tommy Tafoya, a makeup artist, says, “I love a tight, precise wand when working with eyelashes. You can more easily coat the inner lashes, and it helps separate and coat the lashes so they don’t end up too clumpy or spidery.”
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- 3-in-1 product
- Thin and easy-to-use wand
Cons
- It is not waterproof
- Slightly expensive for the quantity
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 910 great reviews on Amazon.
6. Best For Instant Lash Boost:Covergirl Lash Blast Amplify Primer
With a name as telling as this one, it would be disappointing if it didn’t live up to its name, would it not? This white, cult-favorite mascara primer does exactly what it claims. When applied from root to tip, it instantly makes your lashes look longer, settling perfectly on each eyelash. Although it is a rich and creamy formula, it doesn’t feel heavy on the lashes. Infused with conditioning ingredients like argan, jojoba, and coconut oils, it also strengthens the lashes. Reviewers have suggested waiting for 30 seconds to apply the mascara after coating your lashes with this volume-boosting lash primer.
Pros
- Instantly makes lashes look longer
- Lightweight formula
- Contains argan, jojoba, and coconut oils
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be waterproof
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 6,978 reviews claiming its efficacy.
7. Best For Full Lashes:Urban Decay Subversion Eyelash Primer
Urban Decay Subversion eyelash primer is a transparent mascara primer that helps to create long, voluminous lashes. This conditioning and protective formula uses a unique blend of panthenol and vitamin E to condition and strengthen lashes while providing curl and definition. This primer helps to create a more dramatic effect when applied under mascara and can also be used to condition lashes. It’s a must-have for those looking for lush, full lashes. According to online reviews, this primer also holds your mascara in place for a long time and offers a clump-free look. Moreover, the product is not tested on animals, which makes it an appropriate option for ethically conscious makeup lovers.
Pros
- Conditioning
- Creates a protective barrier
- Transparent
- Creamy texture for easy application
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Difficult to remove
- Not ideal for sensitive eyes
"This lash primer applies smoothly and thickens my lashes. It keeps them curled and neat without irritating my sensitive eyes. It is easy to apply and prevents clumping. It gives me fluttery and full lashes that hold up all day."
8. Best For Unbeatable Length:Pur Fully Charged Mascara Primer
Flutter your eyes away like they do in the movies with the help of this statement-making mascara primer that stretches your lashes. Yes, it not just thickens and adds dramatic volume to your lashes, but also stretches them with its magnetic technology. Infused with carnauba wax, this primer lengthens the lashes to prep them for a seamless mascara application. This lengthening mascara primer also contains panthenol and sunflower seed oil, which condition the lashes and prevent breakage. When applied to the upper and lower lashes, it provides unbeatable length. Additionally, ethically conscious makeup enthusiasts have praised this product for being an ideal cruelty-free option.
Pros
- Uses magnetic technology to stretch lashes
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Vegan-friendly
- Paraben-free
- Contains sunflower seed oil for deep conditioning
Cons
- May get clumpy upon heavy application
"This mascara primer gives me voluminous and long lashes that hold up well in heat. It is easy to apply and gives a natural finish to my lashes. It does not cause clumpiness or flakiness."
9. Best For Dry Lashes:Clinique Lash Building Primer
Let your mascara reach its full potential by applying this buildable primer as a base product. A single undercoat of this product will make your lashes look thicker and make your mascara last longer. We tend to forget that our lashes need some love too. Harsh chemicals and cleansing agents often take a toll on our lashes, leaving them dry and brittle. This white mascara primer from the celebrity-endorsed brand Clinique contains moisturizing ingredients that condition and improve the overall texture of your lashes. It comes with a unique polymer formula that makes your mascara last longer.
Tommy Tafoya, a makeup artist, says, “If you struggle with flakey or dry lashes, this would be a great fit for you to keep them hydrated and looking fresh for longer.”
Pros
- Reduces dryness in lashes
- Long-lasting
- Creamy formula
- Ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- Tends to get clumpy if applied in excess
"This lash primer provides an enhanced lash look without heavy application. I don't see a dramatic difference myself, but it's nice for a natural appearance. It shapes my lashes without any fuss. It is great for those who love simple eye makeup looks."
10. Best Nourishing Ingredients:Essence Cosmetics Volume Booster Lash Primer
Not only is this lash primer incredibly cute, but it’s equally effective too. The buildable formula of this base primer will instantly make your lashes look several times thicker than they naturally do. Infused with nourishing ingredients such as acai oil and mango butter, it also helps in conditioning the lashes. You can apply a single coat of this lash primer for a subdued look or extra coats if you are going for a more dramatic look. Many reviewers have suggested applying the mascara within 30 seconds of using this amazing mascara primer.
Pros
- Buildable formula
- Contains acai oil and mango butter
- Affordable
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- Some may find the formula slightly thick
"This lash primer adds volume without much fuss - a bonus for my simple routine. It works well with waterproof mascara and does not irritate my sensitive eyes. It enhances my lash length before mascara application. I give it a moment to set for the best results."
11. Best For Thick Natural Lashes:Tarte Opening Act Lash Primer
According to a recent study conducted by Tarte, each and every participant said that this lash primer made their eyes look more open. Infused with skin-rejuvenating ingredients, this primer is considered to be one of the best mascara primers for thick and natural-looking lashes. It contains carnauba wax that aids in flawless application, olive esters that condition and protect the lashes, and vitamin C that helps fight free radicals. A unique element about this lash primer is the revolutionary 360° magniLASH brush, which separates every eyelash for ease of application and exceptional results. Made without parabens, this lash primer is safe for contact lens wearers as well.
Pros
- Contains vitamins and other nourishing ingredients
- 360° brush
- White-tinted lash primer
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested
- Vegan
- Mineral oil-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- The packaging of waterproof and non-waterproof variants can be difficult to differentiate.
12. Best Lash-Separating:Lashfood Conditioning Collagen Lash Primer
Sculpt your lashes into long, thick, and voluminous ones by applying a coat of this lash primer before mascara to increase mascara longevity. It contains collagen which helps in adding to the volume of your lashes and a nano-peptide complex which keeps them nourished. With its thickening microfibers, you will instantly notice that your lashes are stretched and extended. The brush of this lash-separating mascara primer has large and perfectly placed soft bristles that separate each eyelash, making your eyes look more open.
Pros
- Contains collagen for volume
- Nano-peptide complex nourishes the lashes
- Comes with thickening microfibers
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Slightly expensive
"This lash product defines my lashes without causing damage or breakage. I like how it prepares my lashes for dramatic eye looks. It makes my lashes appear both fuller and stronger."
13. Best Drugstore:MAC False Lashes Maximizer
Improve your eye makeup or simply enhance your look for the day with this nourishing and conditioning drugstore mascara primer. A creamy but lightweight formula that clings to your lashes without clumping or feeling heavy, this base primer holds the secret to long and thick lashes. This lash-enhancing mascara primer comes with an ultra-thickening formula that promotes length and volume. Coupled with a double-lush brush, you can easily curl your lashes with this MAC maximizer before applying mascara. Although it is a white mascara primer and appears white upon application, it dries quickly to reveal a semi-clear base. If you like trying out contact lenses in different colors, you’re in luck as it’s completely safe for contact lens wearers.
Pros
- Conditions the lashes
- Quick-drying formula
- Clump-free
- Creamy eyelash primer
- Thickening formula
- Comes with double-lush brush
- Lightweight, airy texture
- Long-lasting
- Ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- The product tends to accumulate at the opening of the tube and thickest area of the brush
"I absolutely love this lash primer because it conditions my lashes. It improves their texture without any fuss or breakage. The best part is that it thickens and plumps individual lashes without any clumpy finish."
14. Best Amplified Effect:Blinc Lash Primer
Don’t we just adore a product that is easy to apply and equally easy to wipe off? Formulated especially to condition, strengthen, and volumize your eyelashes, this primer goes that extra mile to provide nourishment as well. A single coat of this lash-strengthening primer will help your mascara settle better, giving way to an amplified effect. The soft bristles of the brush coat each and every eyelash from root to tip, in one smooth stroke. Clean-up is as easy as pie as it can be washed away with the mascara with some lukewarm water. This primer is also free from parabens, fragrances, and oils. It is the best lash primer.
Pros
- Volumizes and curls eyelashes
- Easy to apply and wipe off
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- May not be smudge-proof
"I like this eyelash primer because it enhances my mascara performance. It stays for a long time and gives me great length. It does not smudge or transfer. I apply it patiently to avoid a clumpy finish."
15. Best Buildable Formula:Smashbox Photo Finish Lash Primer
Cute, compact, and well-packaged, this little gem can elevate your eyelash game in a matter of minutes. Now you can achieve the long and voluminous lashes that you’ve always desired, with this non-clumping mascara primer that lifts your eyelashes like no other! It separates and defines your lashes while allowing the mascara to stay on longer. A translucent mascara formula, it is also buildable. With this primer, you can expect a flawless finish without any spiking or clumping.
Pros
- Conditions the eyelashes
- Lash-boosting formula
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Doesn’t clump
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Some may not like the thin brush
"This Smashbox lash primer amplifies my lashes in thickness and length. I like how it lifts the lashes without making them appear clump. The best part is that it makes my lashes appear healthier and rejuvenated."
Now let’s take a look at the buying guide to help you choose the right primer.
A Helpful Buying Guide For The Best Mascara Primer
What Does A Mascara Primer Do?
A mascara primer preps the eyelashes for mascara, but that’s not all it does. It also strengthens, thickens, and adds volume to lashes, making them look fuller and longer. Some primers condition and nourish eyelashes, while others use magnetic technology to stretch the lashes, making them look naturally longer.
How To Choose Mascara Primers
Before settling on a mascara eyelash primer, you should keep these following points in mind:
- Look for a primer that is creamy yet lightweight. A creamy formula helps make the eyelashes look extremely thick.
- Invest in a nourishing and conditioning formula as it helps boost lash health and prevents eyelashes from becoming brittle.
- A buildable and voluminous mascara primer is beneficial, especially if you want full coverage on some days and a subtle eye on others.
- Due to the sensitive skin around the eyes, it is important to choose a product that contains natural ingredients and is preferably free from parabens, sulfate, mineral oils, and fragrances.
- The wand or the spoolie also makes a huge difference when it comes to choosing a mascara primer. Pick one with soft bristles that can reach each eyelash and separate it properly.
Let us now understand how to apply a mascara primer for exceptional results.
How To Apply Mascara Primer?
Step 1:
Start with a clean face. Wash your face and eyes properly, ensuring that no residues of the previous day’s makeup are left behind.
Step 2: Pump the wand of the mascara primer a few times inside the tube.
Step 3: Take the wand out and wipe off the excess product on the opening of the tube.
Step 4: Apply the primer from under the lashes, curling it upwards. Start from the root to the tip. Don’t apply too much product to avoid clumping.
Step 5: Wait for 30 seconds.
Step 6: Apply a light or dense layer of mascara as per the desired look and ensure that you have concealed all of the mascara primer.
Infographic: 4 Tips To Keep Your Mascara From Clumping
Mascara primers ensure that the time and effort you put into getting the perfect lash effect holds good for the entire day. But you need to take some extra care to keep your mascara lasting long and smudge-free. Check out the infographic below for simple tips to prolong your mascara’s lifespan without clumping your lashes.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Your makeup routine is incomplete without an expertly crafted mascara. Mascaras instantly brighten up your eyes. Unfortunately, chemical-based mascaras can irritate your sensitive eyes and lead to shading of eyelids. If you want to go with a nude makeup look, you can pick up mascara primers to enhance your eyes and prevent them from becoming dry. The mascara primers are made of natural ingredients that are gentle on your lashes. The L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Base Primer is a popular product as it creates a perfect base for mascara and enhances the lashes. You can pick up the Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real Tinted Lash Primer if you want a subtly tinted product for a defined look. Further, if you want to boost the health of your lashes while adding length and thickness, the Jane Iredale Pure Lash Lash Extender And Conditioner is a great option. The primers that made our list are smudge-proof, waterproof, and cruelty-free. In addition, they are easy to use and hydrate the lashes. Check out the buying guide to choose the right products of your preferred choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does mascara primer really work?
If you know how to use it well, yes, it does work. It adds volume, thickness, and length to your eyelashes while preparing them for mascara. It also makes the mascara last longer.
What is the best drugstore mascara primer?
The L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Base Primer Base, It Cosmetics Tightline Mascara Primer, and Blinc’s Lash Primer are some of the best drugstore mascara primers. You may refer to the list above to find out more about the best drugstore mascara primers.
Is a lash primer good for your lashes?
Too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. So, moderation is the key. When lash primers are not used in excess, they can be good for the lashes. They give your lashes a fuller and thicker appearance, and most good-quality mascara primers also nourish and condition the lashes.
Can you wear eyelash primers without mascara?
Yes, some people use a primer as an alternative to mascara. However, if you are using a white mascara base, it is better to coat it with black mascara.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Srijita De, the author of this article, is passionate about makeup and loves experimenting with different products. Her deep interest in the field helps her understand the current beauty trends and people’s requirements. She consulted professionals and reviewed various product reviews to curate this list of the best mascara primers that give full coverage. The products are listed keeping your needs and quality parameters in mind. You can go through the detailed description of each product to know about its type, formulation, coverage, and other important factors before picking the right one for yourself.
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