The right eye primer can make a noticeable difference on aging eyelids by preventing the unflattering creasing that often occurs as skin matures. A good primer helps eyeshadow stay in place longer, some for up to eight hours, while keeping colors smooth and vibrant. Over the past several months, I’ve tested numerous eye primers, keeping only the best performers and returning the rest.
If possible, I recommend asking for samples at Sephora before committing to a full-size product. This can save you an extra trip if a primer doesn’t work for your needs. Below are my favorites, along with a couple I wouldn’t recommend. These primers work well with both matte and shimmery eyeshadows.
High-End Favorites
Too Faced Shadow Insurance Anti-Crease Shadow Primer
This primer is easy to apply and blends effortlessly. Eyeshadow stays in place for up to eight hours without touch-ups, and creasing is virtually nonexistent.
Tarte Clean Slate 360° Creaseless Eye Primer
This product needs to be shaken well before use to ensure proper consistency, otherwise, it may not blend as smoothly and could lead to wasted product. While this isn’t my favorite feature, once applied correctly, it goes on beautifully and gives shadows a subtle glow. It lasts all day with no creasing.
LORAC Behind the Scenes Eye Primer
This primer has my favorite applicator of the bunch. You can apply it directly from the tube or dispense a small amount onto your fingers for blending. It delivers excellent all-day wear with no creasing.
High-End Duds
Benefit Air Patrol
This primer is overpriced and comes in a container that’s difficult to use, often resulting in wasted product. It applies greasy and, although it dries fairly quickly, the sheen is unflattering on mature lids. After just a few hours, it leaves eyelids looking oily and creased. It’s also the most expensive primer on this list.
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
While this primer applies smoothly and has a nice consistency, it creases on mature lids. It may be better suited for younger skin.
Drugstore Favorite
Milani Eyeshadow Primer
This is one of my all-time favorites. It applies smoothly, blends easily, lasts all day, and does not crease. Best of all, it costs less than half the price of most high-end primers, making it an exceptional value.
Wild Card
MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Painterly
Although not technically a primer, this product works beautifully as an eyeshadow base when applied after primer. It evens out discoloration and creates a smooth canvas for shadow. When using this, you can skip concealer on the lid and apply concealer only under the eyes.
