We may earn a commission from links on our website, but this doesn't influence the opinions of our editors.

12 Best Eyeshadow Primers for Creaseless Eye Looks

Last Updated: April 18, 2022

An essential step for a long-lasting makeup look is a primer. Not only for the face but also for your eyelids, which is why we put together a list of the best eyeshadow primers on the market.

Primers are essential to hold color or pigment. Plus, they smooth out the skin, help with discoloration, and create the perfect base for eyeshadow. 

Finding the perfect primer can prove to be difficult, though, which is why we researched the best eyeshadow primers. Here are our picks of the 12 best eyeshadow primers for smooth, creaseless eye looks. 

Best Eyeshadow Primers

Covergirl Lid Lock Up Eyeshadow Primer

This is an affordable and high-quality eyeshadow primer. This neutral tone primer goes on tacky and dries quickly. The tacky texture makes for a great base for eyeshadow to smoothly glide onto the eyelid. 

This primer is recommended when going for bolder makeup looks, metallic shades, and glitter.


Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

This lightweight primer is on the list for a good reason. Known as a cult classic, this eyeshadow primer keeps eye makeup vibrant and crease-free for up to 24 hours

It has a light nude color to it but it dries clearly, leaving a perfect canvas for eye shadow. The formula blends smoothly onto the skin and quickly dries. Plus, the texture of the primer is thicker so they recommend starting small and adding on more product if needed.


NARS Cosmetics Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

One of the most popular eyeshadow primers, this lightweight formula comes in five different shades, so it can be used on different skin tones

It dries instantly after being applied and lets eye makeup blend effortlessly. It is recommended for those with sensitive skin and eyes.


Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eyeshadow Primer

Here is an eyeshadow primer that is easy to apply and lightweight and dries fast. This eyeshadow primer dries to a matte finish that smooths the skin and covers up the veins on the eyelids. 

In addition, it makes the eyeshadow pop, is waterproof, and lasts up to 24 hours.


Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don’t Stray Eyeshadow Primer

This is a multi-tasking eyeshadow primer that primes the eyelids but also hydrates the skin. It is formulated with sodium hyaluronate, vitamin C, and vitamin E for ultimate moisture.

Plus, the primer melts into the skin quickly and dries to a matte finish.

RELATED: 20 Best Eyeshadow Palettes


Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

This light and creamy formula glides onto the skin seamlessly. It has a light neutral tone that helps it to blend into all skin tones and offers an excellent amount of grip for eyeshadow. 

It lasts all day and does melt or smudge eyeshadow.

P.S. Check out our Fenty Skin Review here!


Mac Cosmetics Pro Longwear Paint Pot

This is a multitasking eyeshadow primer that can also be used as a cream eyeshadow. It can be used on all skin types, as it has been tested by dermatologists and ophthalmologists. 

The primer is opaque when applied, provides a solid base for bright eyeshadows, and can also be used as a concealer. 


NYX Professional Makeup Proof It! Waterproof Eyeshadow Primer

Known as the holy grail of eye shadow primers, this transparent and waterproof primer is long-lasting and provides consistent coverage. 

Plus, it seriously amplifies the color of the eyeshadow.


Smashbox Photo Finish 24 Hour Shadow Primer

As the product claims, this eyeshadow primer lasts for up to 24 hours and is also sweat and humidity-resistant.

It is a sheer primer that locks in your look and makes eyeshadow colors more vibrant without letting them fade, crease, or smudge.  


Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer

This eyeshadow primer covers up imperfections and discoloration. It helps the eyeshadow stay on longer with no smudging, and has a creamy texture that leaves a semi-matte finish. 

In addition, it is formulated for all skin types.


e.l.f Cosmetics Shadow Lock Eyelid Primer

This product from e.l.f. is a cruelty-free and vegan-formulated eyeshadow primer. It has a thinner consistency but still works well to prevent creases and fallout of eyeshadow

It is recommended to wait a few minutes for the primer to dry before applying any eyeshadow. 


Hourglass Veil Eye Primer

This silky eyeshadow primer reduces the appearance of age spots and keeps skin hydrated since it is formulated with vitamin E and vitamin C.

A tip when applying this primer is to apply the eyeshadow immediately after applying the primer.

In Conclusion 

The brands mentioned above include affordable options to higher-end eyeshadow primers, as well as products for different skin types.

With this list of the best eyeshadow primers, we know that you will be able to find the product for creaseless, flawless eye looks every time. 

UP NEXT: How To Blend Eyeshadow Perfectly

Leave a Comment