Eye Primers

Leyla Wallace
13 min readJun 19, 2024

Welcome to our roundup of the best eye primers on the market! In this guide, we’ll be showcasing some of the top-rated products that can help you achieve a flawless and long-lasting makeup look. From hydrating formulas to color-correcting options, we’ve got you covered with our selection of the top eye primers. So whether you’re looking for a lightweight base or an all-in-one solution, read on to discover the perfect primer for your needs.

The Top 9 Best Eye Primers

  1. Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer: Smooths, Perfects, and Brightens for Enhanced Eyeshadow Application — Revlon’s PhotoReady Eye Primer & Brightener is a lightweight and oil-free product that provides a smoother, brighter base for makeup application, reducing creasing and perfecting skin texture.
  2. Revlon Eye Brightening Primer for Bright Eyes — Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer Plus Brightener provides a lightweight, easy-to-apply primer that minimizes fine lines, brightens the under-eye area, and evenly blends for a flawless, long-lasting finish.
  3. Ulta Beauty Collection: Under Eye Eye Shadow Primer — Revamp your under-eye area with Ulta’s silky smooth Under Eye Primer, delivering both cosmetic and skincare benefits to minimize fine lines and create a flawless base for your concealer.
  4. Ulta Beauty Champagne Tinted Eye Primer for All Skin Tones — Experience a brilliant base with Ulta Beauty’s Tinted Eye Primers — long-lasting, easy-to-apply, and perfect for all skin tones. Cruelty-free and suitable for ages 5 and up. Try now for full coverage and luminous finish.
  5. Colourpop Party Proof Eye Primer: Long-Lasting, Smooth Base for Eye Makeup — Get your eyeshadow game on point with Colourpop’s Party Proof Eye Primer — a smudge-proof, Caffeine-infused primer providing a smooth base for vibrant colors that won’t crease or smudge all day long.
  6. Jason Wu Beauty Wu-Prime Medium Eye Eyeshadow Primer — Experience long-lasting, cruelty-free eyeshadow perfection with the Wu-Prime Eye Eyeshadow Primer — Medium, perfect for all-day intense eye looks and versatile enough as a concealer.
  7. P. Louise Eyeshadow Primer — Rumor 11 Shade for Long-Lasting, Creamy Base — P. Louise Eyeshadow Primer Base in Shade Rumour 02 — A luxurious, long-lasting primer that effortlessly creates a flawless canvas for vibrant eyeshadow application, with a gentle, easy-to-apply formula that blends seamlessly for a perfect finish.
  8. Bbi@ Last Eye Primer 5G: Long-Lasting, No-Smudge Formula for Vivid Eye Makeup — Transform your eyes with Bbi@ Last Eye Primer 5G — a slim, perfect fit primer that doesn’t crease, providing a long-lasting, flawless finish for your favorite eye makeup.
  9. L’Oreal Magic De-Crease Universal Eyelid Primer for Long-Lasting Shadows — L’Oreal Magic De-Crease Eyelid Primer, Nude — 0.2 fl oz, is a universal shade primer that extends eye shadow wear up to 8 hours, preventing creasing and suitable for all skin tones, with a variety of finishes and gentle formula.

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Reviews

Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer: Smooths, Perfects, and Brightens for Enhanced Eyeshadow Application

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Revlon’s PhotoReady Eye Primer & Brightener is a versatile product that aims to smoothen and perfect your undereye area. This lightweight primer softens the skin, diffuses light, and creates a flawless base for your foundation to seamlessly glide on.

Made to cater to different skin types, it’s oil and talc-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free, making it suitable for a wide range of consumers. This primer can be applied alone or under foundation, offering users an even skin texture and a long-lasting finish.

However, some users have reported that it may crease under the eyes, which can be disappointing. Despite the creasing issue, its gentle formula and ease of application have been praised by many, making it a popular choice among those seeking a natural, radiant look.

Revlon Eye Brightening Primer for Bright Eyes

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I recently tried the Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer Plus Brightener, and I must say I’m quite impressed with its performance. The product comes in a slim, sleek tube with a wand applicator that distributes the perfect amount of product with just a twist.

The lightweight gel formula blends seamlessly into my skin, creating a smooth finish that feels incredibly comfortable. One of the standout features for me is the brightening effect it has on my under-eye area. The photo chromatic pigments truly reflect light, giving my eyes a more awake and radiant look.

Although the product claims to help reduce visible fine lines and wrinkles, I didn’t notice any significant improvements in that aspect. However, the primer does a great job at keeping my eye makeup in place for longer hours, which is a plus.

One minor downside is that the applicator tends to dispense a bit too much product at once, making it a bit messy to handle. But overall, I’m pleased with the Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer Plus Brightener and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good base and a natural, brightened finish.

Ulta Beauty Collection: Under Eye Eye Shadow Primer

As someone who’s always struggled with under-eye makeup creasing, I was excited to try Ulta’s Under Eye Primer. It’s a smooth, silky primer that promises anti-aging benefits while minimizing fine lines and creating a flawless base for concealer.

My first impression after using it was positive. The primer glided on effortlessly, and the coverage was even. With only a tiny amount, my under-eye area looked instantly smoother and well-prepared for concealer. However, my enthusiasm soon turned into disappointment when I noticed creasing after just a few hours of wear.

Despite the creasing issue, the primer still did an amazing job at keeping my under-eye concealer in place for a longer period of time compared to when I didn’t use any primer. The fact that it’s lightweight and blends easily made it a great addition to my makeup routine.

However, I couldn’t help but notice a drawback: the applicator. It felt low-quality and often picked up too much product, leading to wastage. I wish Ulta had paid more attention to the applicator’s design.

Overall, the Ulta Under Eye Primer is a decent product, but it certainly has its quirks. I’ve experienced both pros and cons, so I believe it’s worth trying if you’re looking for a primer that doesn’t crease and offers some anti-aging benefits.

Ulta Beauty Champagne Tinted Eye Primer for All Skin Tones

The Ulta Beauty Collection’s Tinted Eye Primers boast a range of shades in subtle sheens that can be applied under eyeshadow for enhanced longevity and stayed-power or worn alone as a cream eyeshadow. With a light-catching effect, these primers provide a luminous finish upon application. Notably, they are cruelty-free, making them a great choice for those who wish to support ethical beauty practices.

Many users have praised this product’s performance, labeling it as a “good base, “ “long lasting, “ and a product with a “good finish” that “doesn’t crease. “ Additionally, it’s praised for its “easy to apply” and “blends well” properties, which contribute to a “good coverage” and “good pigmentation. “ The primer provides a sense of “gentleness” on the skin, which users seem to appreciate.

However, some users have pointed out a few cons, like a “low quality applicator” and a possible “bad batch, “ which may have resulted in a different experience for certain users. The shade selection has also been criticized, with one reviewer noting that the color “is a VERY light shade- I am a very pale human, and I did not like it as a stand alone product because it was too pale of a color and too pigmented and shimmery for my personal taste. “

Regardless, the Ulta Beauty Collection’s Tinted Eye Primer remains a popular choice among consumers and continues to gain praise for its effectiveness and convenient use.

Colourpop Party Proof Eye Primer: Long-Lasting, Smooth Base for Eye Makeup

ColourPop’s Party Proof Eye Primer has become my new go-to for an all-day eyeshadow finish. Infused with Caffeine, this primer provides a perfect base for gripping and locking in color. The flexible, flocked paddle applicator ensures smooth and even application. A little truly goes a long way with this product, so I found that using a clean finger to blend it out works best for me.

I have struggled with oily eyelids in the past, but this primer has kept my eye makeup in place all day long. It’s waterproof and oil-based products don’t affect it. Although the wand is not the best for getting product out of the tube, a little squeeze or using the applicator directly on your eyelid works fine.

However, I still find that this primer doesn’t cover up all crease lines perfectly, and sometimes it creases under my lower eyelid, no matter how careful I am with blending. This primer works best for lighter eyeshadow shades, and for contouring my brow bone. The consistency is a bit heavier than other primers I’ve used, but I find that it helps maintain the vibrancy of my eyeshadow.

Overall, ColourPop’s Party Proof Eye Primer is a great option for those looking for a long-lasting, smudge-proof finish.

Jason Wu Beauty Wu-Prime Medium Eye Eyeshadow Primer

Introducing the Jason Wu Beauty Wu-Prime Eye Eyeshadow Primer, a medium-toned offering that ensures long-lasting, intense color payoff with its lightweight, smooth formula. Perfect for both neutral and bold eye looks, Wu-Prime boasts a versatile, comfortable finish that can even be used as a concealer.

With a cruelty-free, clean beauty ethos, this primer is a standout in the market and a favorite among makeup enthusiasts.

P. Louise Eyeshadow Primer — Rumor 11 Shade for Long-Lasting, Creamy Base

Elevate your eyeshadow game with P. Louise’s Eyeshadow Primer Base in shade Rumour 02. This luxurious, creamy primer provides the perfect canvas for your eyeshadows to truly pop.

The dense, full-coverage formula ensures a flawless and crease-free look, making it ideal for carving out brows and brightening up your under-eye area. Perfect for creating a seamless base for both heavy makeup and everyday looks.

The rich selection of shades offers a color to complement any skin tone, while the non-drying formula covers up pigment without washing out your natural eye color. This must-have product is beloved by makeup enthusiasts for its versatility, long-lasting wear, and vibrant color payoff.

Bbi@ Last Eye Primer 5G: Long-Lasting, No-Smudge Formula for Vivid Eye Makeup

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I recently stumbled upon the Bbi@ Last Eye Primer 5G, and it has become an essential part of my daily makeup routine. The slim, perfect fit allows for better adherence of my eye makeup products, and the vivid color payoff is impressive. The no-smudging formula ensures that my eye makeup stays put for long-lasting wear.

One thing that stood out to me is the ease of application. It’s simple to apply a thin layer onto my eye lids, gently tap it with my fingertip, and let it dry. This primer has also been great at preventing creasing throughout the day.

However, one drawback I’ve noticed is that the primer dries out quickly and doesn’t last very long after opening. But overall, the pros definitely outweigh the cons, and I’m happy with my purchase. If you’re looking for a lightweight, long-lasting eye primer, the Bbi@ Last Eye Primer 5G is definitely worth a try.

L’Oreal Magic De-Crease Universal Eyelid Primer for Long-Lasting Shadows

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Using L’Oreal Magic De-Crease Eyelid Primer for the first time, I immediately noticed the smooth application. The primer’s lightweight texture blended seamlessly with my shadow, providing excellent coverage. I was impressed with the lasting power, as my eye shadow stayed put for hours without creasing or smudging. The universal shade matched my skin flawlessly, no matter the foundation or shadow I layered on top.

However, there were a couple of downsides. First, I found it a bit challenging to get the product out of the tube. Its tiny opening and applicator seemed to limit the amount of primer I could use at once. Additionally, although my skin felt gently treated, others reported some slight irritation.

In summary, the L’Oreal Magic De-Crease Eyelid Primer is perfect for those seeking a long-lasting, crease-free shadow. While minor issues with the product’s packaging and potential skin sensitivity exist, its pros clearly outweigh the cons.

Buyer’s Guide

An eye primer serves as a game-changer in elongating your makeup’s lifespan and achieving a refined, flawless finish. This remarkable product prepares your eyelids for enhanced adherence of your eyeshadow, eyeliner, and other cosmetics, effectively preventing creasing, fading, and smudging throughout the day. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the critical aspects to contemplate when selecting an eye primer and provide some invaluable advice to help you make a well-informed decision.

The Significance of an Eye Primer

An eye primer is indispensable in creating a seamless and uniform base for your makeup, enabling other products to glide on with unparalleled ease. This remarkable product aids in minimizing the visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, and pores, resulting in a more youthful and radiant appearance. Furthermore, a superior eye primer can significantly prolong the durability of your makeup, keeping it looking fresh for extended periods.

Factors to Consider

When selecting an eye primer, take into account the following factors to guarantee you acquire the optimum product for your requirements:

  1. Formulation: Opt for a primer with a formula tailored to your skin type and concerns, such as hydrating, matte, or anti-aging. 2. Texture: Select a lightweight and non-greasy texture that does not obstruct pores or weigh down your eyelids.

Applying Eye Primer

To achieve the most desirable outcomes, adhere to these guidelines when applying your eye primer:

  1. Cleanse and moisturize your eyelids prior to applying any products. 2. Utilize a small, flat brush or your ring finger to delicately dab the primer onto the entire eyelid area, ensuring thorough coverage of the inner corners for optimal crease control. 3. Allow the primer to set for a few seconds before applying your eyeshadow or other cosmetics to guarantee even application and longevity.

Additional Recommendations

Here are some additional suggestions to help you maximize the benefits of your eye primer:

  1. Explore multi-tasking primers that also function as a skin brightener, wrinkle reducer, or shadow enhancer to streamline your makeup routine and save money. 2. Take your skin’s sensitivity into consideration, and opt for a hypoallergenic or fragrance-free primer if you have sensitive eyes or delicate skin prone to irritation. 3. Store your eye primer in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight, to preserve its efficacy and longevity.

FAQ

Why is an eye primer so crucial for my makeup routine?

Eye primers are a fantastic addition to any makeup routine for multiple reasons. Not only do they serve as a base for your eyeshadow, eyeliner, and other makeup products, but they also facilitate a smooth surface for application. By filling in pores and fine lines, they ensure a base that is crease-free and smudge-proof. The longevity and intensity of your makeup are also significantly enhanced with the use of an eye primer, delivering a vibrant and long-lasting finish.

What are the benefits of using an eye primer?

Several advantages come with using an eye primer. Firstly, they lengthen the wear of your eyeshadow and eyeliner, ensuring a long-lasting look. Secondly, they prevent smudging and creasing, resulting in a smooth and seamless makeup application. Primers also intensify the color payoff and longevity of applied makeup products, making your eyeshadow more vivid and eyeliner more precise. Moreover, eye primers help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, providing a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

How do I select the right eye primer for my skin type?

When choosing an eye primer, ensure it aligns with your skin type and the type of makeup you typically use. If you have oily skin, opt for a primer with a matte or oil-control finish to keep your eyelids dry and prevent makeup from melting or smudging. Individuals with drier skin should choose a primer with a hydrating formula to prevent flaking. Sensitive skin users should search for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products, free from common irritants like parabens, sulfates, and mineral oil. For those with specific concerns like dark circles or redness, look for primers with color correction and brightening properties to minimize their appearance.

Can an eye primer be used as a base for other makeup products?

Absolutely! Eye primers are versatile and can serve as a base for various makeup items, including eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, and even concealer. They help create a smooth surface for easier application and prevent creasing or smudging throughout the day. By using an eye primer, you can also enhance the wear and longevity of your other makeup products, ensuring they last longer and maintain a vibrant appearance. Primers are particularly beneficial for those who have oily lids or struggle with their makeup fading or smudging throughout the day.

Are there any side effects or precautions to consider when using an eye primer?

Generally, eye primers are safe for most individuals and do not result in significant side effects. However, some people may experience irritation or redness due to specific ingredients or fragrances. If you have sensitive skin or experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist for further advice. When applying an eye primer, follow the product instructions and avoid getting any into your eyes. Always apply primer to clean, dry skin to ensure optimal results and prevent irritation. Additionally, follow the recommended application order of other eye products for optimal performance and longevity.

Which brands are associated with the production of high-quality eye primers?

Numerous reputable brands produce high-quality eye primers. Some well-known options include Nars’ Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion, Too Faced’s Shadow Insurance, and Benefit’s Stay Don’t Stray Longwear Eyeshadow Primer. These brands offer a range of formulas and finishes to cater to various skin types and preferences. Other reputable brands include Anastasia Beverly Hills, MAC Cosmetics, Estée Lauder, and L’Oréal Paris. When selecting an eye primer, consider your skin type, makeup preferences, and choose a product from a reputable brand that aligns with your needs.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I may earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

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