Skip to content

Top Navigation

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • FOOD
  • HOLIDAYS
  • ENTERTAINING
  • HOME
  • GARDENING
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING
  • WEDDINGS
  • SHOP
  • DIY
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS
  • LIFE
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Pin FB

Explore Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 5 Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors That Will Never Go Out of Style, According to Interior Designers

      5 Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors That Will Never Go Out of Style, According to Interior Designers

      Choose a shade that works with a range of backsplash and countertop materials. Read More
    • Let Go of These 8 Household Items as We Start the New Year

      Let Go of These 8 Household Items as We Start the New Year

      Reclaim your space by parting with things in your home you no longer use or have been damaged over time. Read More
    • 93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

      93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

      From chili and chicken cutlets to spaghetti and meatballs and sheet-pan salmon, consider this your ultimate guide to making a fast weeknight dinner. Read More
  • FOOD

    FOOD

    See All FOOD
    93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

    93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

    From chili and chicken cutlets to spaghetti and meatballs and sheet-pan salmon, consider this your ultimate guide to making a fast weeknight dinner.
    • Breakfast & Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch Recipes
    • Dinner Recipes
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Dessert Recipes
    • Drink Recipes
    • Salad Recipes
    • Side Dishes
    • Soup Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Quick & Easy Recipes
    • Vegetarian Recipes
    • Cooking How-Tos
    • Baking
    • Menu Planning
    • Food News & Trends
    • Wine
    • Mastering the Holiday Meal
    • What's for Dinner
    • All Recipes
  • HOLIDAYS

    HOLIDAYS

    See All HOLIDAYS
    40 Valentine's Day Dessert Recipes That You'll Fall in Love With

    40 Valentine's Day Dessert Recipes That You'll Fall in Love With

    The sweetest way to say "I love you" is with one of these heartfelt, homemade Valentine's Day desserts. Whether you're looking for a treat for your partner, your Galentine's crew, or the co-workers who adore your home baking, you'll find plenty of inspiration in this collection, filled with heart-shaped cakes, cupcakes, and cookies—plus, easy chocolate truffles and decadent mousses and parfaits. Our recipes include desserts for two to share and sweets that feed a crowd. We rate them all above a bunch of red roses any day.
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Hanukkah
    • Christmas
    • New Year's Eve
    • Valentine's Day
    • St. Patricks Day
    • Passover
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
  • ENTERTAINING

    ENTERTAINING

    See All ENTERTAINING
    6 Things to Always Clean Before Guests Come Over

    6 Things to Always Clean Before Guests Come Over

    You don't have to give your house a top-to-bottom scrub before guests arrive, but there are a few areas you should pay attention to.
    • Seasonal Entertaining & Decorating
    • Halloween Party Ideas
    • Dinner Party Ideas
    • Adult Halloween Costumes
  • HOME

    HOME

    See All HOME
    6 Kitchen Paint Trends to Consider in 2023

    6 Kitchen Paint Trends to Consider in 2023

    Bolder tones, like cherry red and deep olive green, will dominate in the heart of the home.
    • Home Design & Decor
    • Paint Colors & Palettes
    • DIY Home Projects
    • The Well-Kept Home
  • GARDENING

    GARDENING

    See All GARDENING
    How to Winter Sow—Plus, 6 Expert-Approved Seeds to Plant During the Cold-Weather Months

    How to Winter Sow—Plus, 6 Expert-Approved Seeds to Plant During the Cold-Weather Months

    These blooms are tolerant to the chilly conditions, which will allow you to get ahead on your spring flower garden.
    • Container Gardening
    • Flower Gardens
    • Houseplants
    • Landscaping
    • Vegetable Gardens
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    How to Remove Hard Water Stains From a Glass Shower—and Prevent Future Build-Up Before It Forms

    How to Remove Hard Water Stains From a Glass Shower—and Prevent Future Build-Up Before It Forms

    The spots develop when water dries on glass and leaves behind the minerals that were trapped inside.
    • Cleaning
    • Storage & Organization
    • Laundry & Linens
  • WEDDINGS

    WEDDINGS

    See All WEDDINGS
    Experts Say These Are the 7 Things Happy Couples Regularly Do Together

    Experts Say These Are the 7 Things Happy Couples Regularly Do Together

    • Real Weddings
    • Wedding Party
    • Wedding Planning & Advice
    • Wedding Ceremony & Reception
    • Wedding Jewelry
    • Dresses & Style
    • Wedding Beauty & Wellness
    • Wedding Registry
    • Wedding Showers & Parties
    • Love & Marriage
    • Wedding Travel
  • SHOP
  • DIY

    DIY

    See All DIY
    Ready for a New Hobby? These Are the 8 Craft Trends to Try in 2023

    Ready for a New Hobby? These Are the 8 Craft Trends to Try in 2023

    From disco ball art to punch needle embroidery, these are the projects that will dominate the DIY world in the new year, experts say.
    • Dyeing
    • Holiday Crafts
    • Kids' Crafts
    • Knitting
    • Paper Crafts
    • Sewing
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    The Truth About Slugging: Will Applying Petrolatum Jelly to Your Skin Really Make It Glow?

    The Truth About Slugging: Will Applying Petrolatum Jelly to Your Skin Really Make It Glow?

    In short, yes—should you have a skin type that might benefit from an occlusive product.
    • Beauty
    • Health & Wellness
    • Live Well
  • LIFE

    LIFE

    See All LIFE
    9 Dog Breeds That Look Like Puppies Even When They're Fully Grown

    9 Dog Breeds That Look Like Puppies Even When They're Fully Grown

    Puppies are irresistible. We fall in love with their big eyes, little button noses, fluffy tails, and clumsy paws. And yet, like any pet, puppies grow up and turn into dogs. Some breeds, like the Old English Sheepdog or Great Dane, will grow to become larger in size than most people. But not all dogs are destined to become giants. There are some breeds that stay small in size even when they're fully grown. You may want a forever puppy if you are used to smaller animals. Maybe you have a small apartment or just want a canine companion that you can easily carry along with you anywhere you go. Small dogs are also great for families with young children or those of senior age who are best matched with a breed they can physically handle. Fortunately, some specialty dog breeds are mixed to look like puppies throughout their entire lives—and they are sure to melt your heart the second you lay your eyes on them. 
    • Family
    • Pets
    • Travel
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. marthastewart.com
  2. Beauty
  3. The Best Eyeshadow Primers on the Market

The Best Eyeshadow Primers on the Market

Rebecca Norris, Freelance Writer
By Rebecca Norris Updated February 02, 2023
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Pin
person applying eyeshadow primer with small black handle makeup brush
Credit: Getty / Emma Innocenti

Ensure your eyeshadow stays put with these formula-locking products.

Start Slideshow

1 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
person applying eyeshadow primer with small black handle makeup brush
Credit: Getty / Emma Innocenti

With the right products, a steady hand, and some blending, you can make easily make your eyes the focal point of your face (a must these days, since the lower halves of our visages are covered by masks). Ultimately, crafting a pretty, neutral eye look takes practice—but no matter how painstakingly you approach perfecting this skill, smudges, creases, and caking will happen if you do not begin with the correct base. And that is where eyeshadow primer comes in.

To preserve your eye makeup throughout the day, simply begin with a primer—a step that is more imperative than you've likely realized, especially if you have oilier skin. Still, it's not enough to select any old formula or use a wash of foundation as a base. Rather, you'll want to scoop up a product specifically designed to prepare this delicate area of skin for makeup, creating a subtle base for bold and neutral colors alike to build up on top. What's more, you'll want to use an option that promises long-lasting wear—otherwise, there's truly no point in using one at all.

If you're ready to work this essential step into your beauty routine, but don't know quite where to start, you're not alone. There are a myriad of options on the market today—and it is for this very reason that so many people skip over the product altogether. That's why we went ahead and did the work for you. To save you from having to cull through hundreds of formulas, we curated several of the best eye makeup primers available right now. Choose the one that best suits your needs but rest assured that you truly can't go wrong with any of these options.

1 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Urban Decay

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
Credit: Courtesy of Sephora

With a decade-long cult following, it's safe to say this formula is the ultimate contender for your eye priming needs. The creamy formula creates a base for vibrant eye looks and promises up to 24 hours of wear.

Shop Now: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, $24, sephora.com.

2 of 12

3 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Makeup By Mario

makeup by mario master eye prep set
Credit: Courtesy of Makeup by Mario

Consider this compact your one-stop shop for eye prep: The product trio conceals imperfections and discoloration, corrects shadow mistakes, and sets your final look.

Shop Now: Makeup By Mario Master Eye Prep and Set, $28, sephora.com.

3 of 12

Advertisement

4 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

MAC

MAC Prep + Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base
Credit: Courtesy of MAC

This ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested primer is a safe choice for all, but especially for those with sensitive eyes. The beloved formula delivers 24 hours of crease-free wear—even when layered with a glitter-based shadow.

Shop Now: MAC Prep + Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base, $24.50, maccosmetics.com.

4 of 12

5 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Benefit Cosmetics

Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don't Stray Eyeshadow Primer
Credit: Courtesy of Ulta

Not only does this top-rated product work to make lid makeup last, but it'll also help keep your concealer in place since it can be applied under the eyes. Plus, it's infused with a form of hyaluronic acid, as well as vitamins C and E, so it also hydrates and brightens with ever wear.

Shop Now: Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don't Stray Eyeshadow Primer, $26, nordstrom.com.

5 of 12

6 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

bareMinerals

bareMinerals Gen Nude Eyeshadow + Primer
Credit: Courtesy of Ulta

Here's a unique option: In addition to acting as a base for shadow, this formula from bareMinerals is pretty all on its own.

Shop Now: bareMinerals Gen Nude Eyeshadow + Primer, $20, ulta.com.

6 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Too Faced

Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Shadow Primer
Credit: Courtesy of Sephora

This creamy eyeshadow primer deserves a spot in your makeup bag, plain and simple. One dab blended into each lid and you can expect fade-proof, crease-free wear for up to one full day.

Shop Now: Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eye Shadow Primer, $22, sephora.com.

7 of 12

8 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Milani

Milani Eyeshadow Primer
Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

Not all top-rated eyeshadow primers are expensive. This drugstore pick is forever commended for its invisibly smooth effect.

Shop Now: Milani Eyeshadow Primer, $4.99, amazon.com.

8 of 12

9 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Smashbox

Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer
Credit: Courtesy of Ulta

Blend this best-selling primer onto your lids and you can look forward to less fallout and longer wear. The coveted formula is even sweat- and humidity-proof, so it can stand up to just about anything.

Shop Now: Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Eyeshadow Primer, $22, ulta.com.

9 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Filt'r Amplifying Eye Primer
Credit: Courtesy of Sephora

This lightweight, color-boosting eye primer has earned endless accolades since it launched in 2018. The formula works to grip eyeshadow particles, which extends wear time.

Shop Now: Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Filt'r Amplifying Eye Primer, $22, sephora.com.

10 of 12

11 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

NARS

NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
Credit: Courtesy of Nordstrom

Infused with antioxidant-rich deep-sea extract, this eyeshadow primer does more than simply make your eye makeup look good—it makes your lids smoother and plumper with time.

Shop Now: NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, $26, nordstrom.com.

11 of 12

12 of 12

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

CoverGirl

Covergirl Lid Lock Up Eyeshadow Primer
Credit: Courtesy of Ulta

This quick-dry eye primer is cruelty-free and a bargain, to boot. Layer it on before your favorite eyeshadow and you can expect long-lasting wear that doesn't feather, flake, smear.

Shop Now: Covergirl Lid Lock Up Eyeshadow Primer, $6.29, ulta.com.

12 of 12

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Rebecca Norris

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 12
    2 of 12 Urban Decay
    3 of 12 Makeup By Mario
    4 of 12 MAC
    5 of 12 Benefit Cosmetics
    6 of 12 bareMinerals
    7 of 12 Too Faced
    8 of 12 Milani
    9 of 12 Smashbox
    10 of 12 Fenty Beauty by Rihanna
    11 of 12 NARS
    12 of 12 CoverGirl

    Share & More

    Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
    Martha Stewart

    Learn More

    • Contact Us
    • Customer Service
    • Media Kit
    • Martha's Blog
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • FAQ
    • Corporate
    • International
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithMartha Stewart is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2023 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Martha Stewart. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.marthastewart.com

    Sign in

    View image

    The Best Eyeshadow Primers on the Market
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.