10 Best Eyeshadow Primers 2026 in the United States

The Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Primer stands out in the eyeshadow primer category with its unique blend of benefits that cater to a variety of users, including those with mature skin. One of its main strengths is the ability to grip eyeshadow, ensuring vibrant color payoff and reducing fallout, which can be particularly beneficial for makeup enthusiasts seeking long-lasting wear. The lightweight, non-greasy formula is another positive feature; it feels comfortable on the skin and minimizes the need for touch-ups throughout the day. Additionally, it includes skin-friendly ingredients that help to even out skin tone and conceal fine lines, making it an excellent choice for those concerned about aging skin.

However, there are some drawbacks worth noting. While the primer is designed for all skin types, individuals with very oily eyelids may find that oil control isn't as robust as some specialized formulas on the market. There might also be a learning curve for those unfamiliar with how to apply eye primers effectively, as it's important to let it dry before applying eyeshadow for optimal results. Finally, the product size of 10g may feel small to some, especially considering its price point, which could make it less appealing to budget-conscious consumers.

This eye primer is ideal for those looking for a product that not only enhances makeup longevity but also offers skin care benefits. It's particularly suited for users with mature skin, but those with extremely oily eyelids may need to explore additional oil control options.

The Urban Decay Matte Eyeshadow Primer Potion Eden is an award-winning eyelid primer that preps your lids for eye makeup. Its formula is cream-based and designed to smooth out the eyelid surface, creating an even base that helps eyeshadow and eyeliner adhere better. The finish is a nude matte, making it versatile enough to suit all skin tones and types. This primer is particularly beneficial for those with oily lids or crepey skin around the eyes because it helps prevent creasing and fading throughout the day.

The product is also vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free, which is a bonus for anyone concerned about ethical and health considerations in beauty products. A little goes a long way, and the built-in flocked wand applicator allows for precise application, ensuring you don't use too much product at once. However, while this primer is marketed as suitable for all skin types, those with dry skin might need to ensure their lids are well-moisturized beforehand to avoid any potential dryness.

Mixing it with other eyeshadows or liners can yield custom, long-lasting looks, but it may require some practice to get the mix just right. It's also relatively small at 0.33 fl oz, so frequent users might find themselves needing to repurchase often. It is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance the longevity and vibrancy of their eye makeup.

The Too Faced Shadow Insurance 24-Hour Eye Shadow Primer is a solid choice for anyone looking to keep their eyeshadow intact for an extended period. Its biggest strength is its longevity—it claims to keep your eyeshadow crease-free and fade-resistant for over 24 hours. This is particularly useful for those who need their makeup to last through long days or special events. Additionally, the primer is waterproof, so it can withstand sweat and humidity, making it versatile for various conditions and skin types.

The formula is vegan and cruelty-free, which will appeal to those who are conscious about animal welfare and the environment. Furthermore, it offers protection against blue light damage and environmental stressors, adding an extra layer of benefit for those who are frequently in front of screens or in urban environments. However, it's worth noting that the primer is translucent with light coverage, which means it doesn't provide any tint to even out skin tone on the lids. Users seeking more coverage or a primer that can also act as a base color may need to look elsewhere.

The gel form of the product is lightweight, which makes it easy to apply without feeling heavy on the lids. This eyeshadow primer excels in longevity and environmental protection but may not be suitable for those looking for a tinted option.