10 Best Eyeshadow Primers UK 2024 | Fenty Beauty, Laura Mercier and More
An eyeshadow primer is a great insurance to any look. It gives your lids a good base to apply eyeshadow to whilst ensuring that it stays in place all day or night. Whether you're looking for a simple base, something to cover up dark circles and veins or to make sure that glitter doesn't budge, there is a perfect primer out there for you. From cult classic brands like Urban Decay, M.A.C and NARS to high street favourites like NYX and Benefit, this guide includes a range of primers suitable for different budgets, purposes and skin types.
In addition to this, this guide will give you a couple of hacks that you might not have known that eyeshadow primer could be used for. Read on to learn more about the best eye primers currently on the UK market and for our ranking of the best 10 which are available on Amazon, Boots and John Lewis.
Quick List - Top Eyeshadow Primers
Urban Decay
A Cult Classic Creating Full Coverage With Only a Tiny Bit of Product
NYX Professional Makeup
A Festival-Essential, Light and Creamy Primer for Glittery Lids
Fenty Beauty
A One-Stop-Shop Primer for All Skin Tones and Types With a Luxuriously Smooth Consistency
As a professional make-up artist of ten years, Marie's job has taken her all over the UK working at top events, on TV shows and making up beautiful brides. For all her clients she loves emphasising their natural beauty by creating a flawless base that still looks like skin.
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Table of Contents
- With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Marie Dancer
- How to Choose an Eyeshadow Primer in the UK
- Choose a Primer Based on Your Level of Experience, Amount of Coverage You Need and the Type of Eyeshadow You’ll Be Wearing1
- Tubes and Wands Are Easier to Use Than Pots and Can Be Applied With either a Finger or a Brush2
- If You Have Sensitive Skin, Make Sure Your Primer Doesn’t Contain Any Silicone or Parabens, as They Could Cause Irritation3
- If You Prefer to Buy Cruelty-Free Products, Look For the Rabbit Symbol to Prove That It Hasn’t Been Tested on Animals4
- What Is an Eyeshadow Primer and Why Should You Use One?
- Marie's Advice on Prepping Your Eye Area for Better Application
- How to Use Eyeshadow Primer Correctly
With Specialist Advice From Makeup Artist Marie Dancer
As a professional make-up artist of ten years, Marie's job has taken her all over the UK working at top events, on TV shows and making up beautiful brides. For all of her clients, she loves emphasising their natural beauty by creating a flawless base that still looks like skin.
Find out more about Marie and what are her favourite makeup products are through her Instagram! She even shares some industry tips on makeup application too. And if you're interested in getting your makeup done by Marie you can contact her via her email found at the top of her page.
How to Choose an Eyeshadow Primer in the UK
- Think About What You Need From Your Primer
- Consider The Differences Between A Tube, Wand Or Pot Primer
- If You Have Sensitive Skin, Avoid Ingredients Like Silicone And Parabens
- If You Want Cruelty-Free Products, Look For The Rabbit Symbol
Choose a Primer Based on Your Level of Experience, Amount of Coverage You Need and the Type of Eyeshadow You’ll Be Wearing
If You’re New to Eyeshadow Primers, Go For a Neutral Primer as They Are Easy to Use and Will Match Your Skin Tone
Neutral eyeshadow primers are by far the most common type of primer you will find and the best choice for those who are just starting out with using eyeshadow primers. The best part about a neutral primer is that you really can't go wrong with them because they go on clear or they match to your skin tone.
An extra benefit of this is that you can extend the primer from your eyelids to also form a base for your eyeliner as well. The only downside to these primers is that they may not have a strong enough coverage to cover dark circles or veins.
If you are wanting extra coverage, consider getting a green concealer!
The perfect all-over base that will gently even out veins, discolouration and resists oil - so no more creases or oily lids. A clear, no-colour eye primer is the most versatile as it will work with any skin tone or eyeshadow look, allowing the shadow to glide on smoothly and last all day. Ideal for someone who is new to make-up or doesn't wear eyeshadow very often as it doesn't require much skill to work with.
Go For a Tinted Primer to Cover Blemishes, Bags, Veins and Other Skin Conditions
Tinted eye primers tend to have a thicker consistency and will cover the blemishes, bags and veins around your eyes that the neutral eye primers won't do as well. These primers come in various shades and finishes that can be blended with your skin or be used on their own as a cream eyeshadow. Layering underneath as a primer for coloured eyeshadows will enhance the vibrancy of the colours.
If you choose to use a shade that doesn't match your skin tone, as with any eye look there is margin for error so be sure to be more careful when applying these types of primers. Nevertheless, this type of primer is a great choice for those that want to cover up any skin concerns.
Tinted eye primers offer slightly more than a clear primer, the tint allows the eyeshadow to look true to colour by blocking out imperfections and creating a stronger look.
For an intense smokey eye, try a dark brown or even black eyeshadow primer as your base then pack a slightly lighter shadow on top, this will create dimension. To brighten and open up the eyes, opt for a lighter colour primer than your skin. This will lift the lid and allow lighter shades to shine true.
Pick a Special Glitter Eye Primer to Stop Any Fall-Out When Wearing Glittery Eyeshadows
Despite the name, this primer doesn't contain any glitter, but instead is a formula created specifically for eyeshadows that have glitter in it or just for pure glitter to help against fall out. This type, like the aforementioned primers, is clear in colour making it easy to apply and blend.
The main difference with this type of primer is that it is much tackier in consistency to ensure that the glitter properly adheres to the lid without creasing, smudging or fall out. You can also use this primer to apply glitter to other parts of your face and body. This type of primer is only really necessary for those who use glitter or glitter eyeshadows; for everyone else, a neutral or tinted primer will do the trick.
Glitter can be frustrating to work with, competing with colourful specks all over your freshly applied foundation. A good glitter adhesive primer will ensure that most of the glitter pigment stays on the lid for maximum colour and sparkle impact.
For best application always do your eyes first to wipe off any fallout and apply the glitter primer over with a synthetic brush, allowing it to dry down slightly creating a tacky base. This will enable the glitter to stick and stay, if the primer is too wet you may pull off what you have just applied.
Tubes and Wands Are Easier to Use Than Pots and Can Be Applied With either a Finger or a Brush
The bulk of eye primers that you will find will be of the tube or wand variety and these types tend to be easier to use for everyone. With a tube applicator, you get the freedom to apply the primer with a finger or a brush. The only thing to be wary of is the trapped air inside a tube that may force out more product than you want.
A wand applicator eliminates the issue of squeezing out too much product, but gives you the freedom to uses the applicator to apply the product or with the wand and blend out with your fingertips. Because the wand sits inside the product, it's important to ensure your skin has been properly prepped and cleansed to reduce cross-contamination.
You'll find the pot primers to have the thickest consistency and be a higher coverage. It is recommended that you use a brush to pick up the product, which is something you will have to buy separately and so should keep in mind the extra expense, but some prefer to use their fingers to warm it up.
With all primers it's important to keep the lid sealed tight otherwise it will dry out quickly - a squeezy tube will have the most longevity as the air can't reach inside. Depending on how much coverage you need a pot will usually be heavier, whereas a wand applicator will generally be a thinner formula for a natural look. Check how many grams you get in each for the best value for money!
If You Have Sensitive Skin, Make Sure Your Primer Doesn’t Contain Any Silicone or Parabens, as They Could Cause Irritation
Looking out for particular ingredients in primers can be the difference between a good or bad experience. One of the main ingredients of contention in the world of cosmetics is silicone, largely for its tendency to block pores from breathing. Because of this, having silicone in your primers may not be the best ingredients for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Silicone is rarely labelled as it is on the ingredients list, so rule of thumb when looking for silicone in a product is to look for words that end with -icone e.g. dimethicone. However, if there is something you're not sure of, always refer to the relevant websites.
Another ingredient to look out for is the use of parabens. Parabens are a family of chemicals used as a preservative to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mould. While this is a good ingredient to have if you choose to use a pot primer, if you are concerned about a reaction, it's best to look for paraben-free products.
Sensitive skin will prefer a liquid or light cream primer as this will allow the skin to breathe. Make sure to look for formulas that are fragrance-free if you are easily irritated. Due to containing fewer ingredients and pigment, a clear primer would be the first option if you are particularly sensitive. Perhaps try a brand that usually suits your skin, or give it a go in-store where possible to avoid wasting your money.
If You Prefer to Buy Cruelty-Free Products, Look For the Rabbit Symbol to Prove That It Hasn’t Been Tested on Animals
In recent years, this has become a large area for discussion as more and more consumers are seeking out cruelty-free products; largely recognisable by a rabbit symbol found somewhere on the body of the product from 'Cruelty Free International'.
While many companies are or are slowly transitioning into becoming completely cruelty-free, some of the more well-known brands do still test on animals. This is due to the various regulations of certain territories that still require animal testing to be able to pass their sanctions for general sale.
10 Best Eyeshadow Primers in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Original | | A Cult Classic Creating Full Coverage With Only a Tiny Bit of Product | |
2 | NYX Professional Makeup Glitter Primer | | A Festival-Essential, Light and Creamy Primer for Glittery Lids | |
3 | Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer | | A Primer Made With Skin-Friendly Ingredients | |
4 | Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Amplifying Eye Primer | | A One-Stop-Shop Primer for All Skin Tones and Types With a Luxuriously Smooth Consistency | |
5 | Benefit Stay Don't Stray | | Dual Functioning Primer that Holds Eyeshadow and Concealer infused with anti-aging vitamins | |
6 | Elizabeth Arden Advanced Eye Fix Primer | | An Eyeshadow Primer That Holds in Moisture While Maintaining Colour Vibrancy | |
7 | NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base | | Dermatologically-Tested and Fragrance-Free, Perfect for Sensitive Skin Types | |
8 | Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Eye Base | | Featuring Colour Correcting Properties, Sodium Hyaluronate and Vitamins for Treating Tired Eyes | |
9 | Smashbox Photo Finish 24-Hour Shadow Primer | | Tested to Withstand Sweat and Humidity for 24 Hours - Great for Those Who Are Always on the Go | |
10 | MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Paint Pot | | A Primer for Those Who Want Highly Pigmented Colour With Seemless Coverage |
A Cult Classic Creating Full Coverage With Only a Tiny Bit of Product
This has been a crowd favourite for many years with its strong formula and cruelty-free ethics. Even though it's in a small container, this primer will truly go the distance because the smallest amount with give you a full and clean coverage.
Primer potion blends beautifully into all skin tones without causing a crease shadow and cleans up any imperfections on the skin's surface. Additionally, it maintains the vibrancy and longevity of your eyeshadow. You really can't go wrong with this one!
A Festival-Essential, Light and Creamy Primer for Glittery Lids
For such a small price, this eye primer really goes the distance. With a strong but light and creamy formula, it holds every single sparkle in place while minimalising the glitter fallout.
But not only does it hold in the place the glitter on your eyes, but it can also be used all over the face and body. So if you're off to a festival, this is a great product to have in your bag.
A Primer Made With Skin-Friendly Ingredients
This primer from Laura Mercier is perfect for those who are looking for something long-lasting and with medium coverage. Its lightweight yet creamy formula helps to create an ideal base for eyeshadow whilst also covering imperfections. It is also a great solution for those who are looking to stop creasing.
What makes this product stand out in particular is it's number of skin-friendly ingredients. Its non-comedogenic formulation means that this primer would be suitable for even those with more sensitive skin. Yet, it is best to double check the ingredient list as the product is not paraben-free.
A One-Stop-Shop Primer for All Skin Tones and Types With a Luxuriously Smooth Consistency
The main point of this product is that it uses an 'invisipink' formula that seamlessly blends into all skin tones without leaving streaks. This weightless formula boosts eyeshadow vibrancy and creates a smooth surface for effortless blending and with its small applicator tip, it's easy to control where the product goes as a little goes a long way with this one.
With a luxurious consistency, this primer will magically even out skin tone and texture around the eyes to create a smooth, even canvas to apply your eyeshadows and liners to.
Dual Functioning Primer that Holds Eyeshadow and Concealer infused with anti-aging vitamins
This pocket rocket primer packs a punch with its ability to hold eyeshadows and concealer around the eyes with just several small dots. Benefit has also packed in vitamin C and E to hydrate and help fight the signs of ageing.
Thanks to it being so lightweight, you won't feel like you have too much product on your skin, and if you feel like you need more coverage this is a great option for build-ability without caking.
An Eyeshadow Primer That Holds in Moisture While Maintaining Colour Vibrancy
This product does all the things you need from an eye primer like controlling creasing, streaking and fade while forming a barrier between the eyelids and the eyeshadows or liners to help keep the product stay put and fresh for longer. Did we mention it forms an occlusive barrier to lock in moisture?
Having been dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested, this primer is suitable for most skin types. Yet, because this primer isn't free from parabens, those with sensitive and acne-prone skin should avoid this product. Those looking for cruelty-free primers should also avoid this product.
Dermatologically-Tested and Fragrance-Free, Perfect for Sensitive Skin Types
This product is dermatologically tested and fragrance free, making it a good option for those who tend to have sensitive skin. NARS has created a primer that prevents smudging and caking while making sure your eyeshadow has that just-applied look all day.
Some have found that this primer has made the skin on their eyelids dry out and have resorted to having to use a heavier moisturiser to compensate. For those with oiler lids, this may not be a good choice for you.
Featuring Colour Correcting Properties, Sodium Hyaluronate and Vitamins for Treating Tired Eyes
This Bobbi Brown primer doesn't just seamlessly prep your eyes with its cushiony texture, it also contains Sodium Hyaluronate and is vitamin enriched to hydrate those tired eyes. In case that wasn't enough, this formula also possesses colour correcting properties to help with stubborn dark circles.
Perhaps the main point of contention is its high price point, but for what it does, it may be worth the investment. Some may also already be using a separate eye cream and may not wish to layer too many products and so it may be better to avoid this one.
Tested to Withstand Sweat and Humidity for 24 Hours - Great for Those Who Are Always on the Go
This product from Smashbox really lives up to its 24-hour namesake. Made to withstand sweat and humidity and tested within a studio setting and outdoors, this is a great product for those on the go all day and night.
For those with particularly oily or dry eyelids, this product may not be suitable for fighting against those issues and has been known to cause smudging and flaking after several hours.
A Primer for Those Who Want Highly Pigmented Colour With Seemless Coverage
MAC cosmetics are always a strong favourite for those looking for a high-pigmented and long-wear primer. This product goes on like a second skin and has a smooth, creamy and buildable consistency that won't look too heavy or streak.
However, if you are a newcomer to the primer game, this primer could be difficult to use as it is pigmented and requires a more precise application. There is also only a small shade range that will not cover all skin tones and may not be suitable for lighter and darker individuals.
What Is an Eyeshadow Primer and Why Should You Use One?
An eyeshadow primer is applied onto the eyelids and around the eyes to create a solid base for your eyeshadow and eyeliner. The eyelid can become quite oily throughout the day and so an eyeshadow primer will eliminate this issue by absorbing the excess oil and filling in fine lines to prevent your look from creasing or smudging.
Why not just use face primer on your eyelids? As we've mentioned, eyeshadow primers create a glue-like tackiness for eyeshadow to stick to, while a facial primer smooths out the skin's surface, forming a barrier between the skin and any liquid products like foundations and concealers, which is not what you need from an eye primer.
If you looking for a new face primer, why not instead check out our guides on the best primers for dry skin and oily skin!
So what about eyeshadow primers and eyeshadow bases? These terms can generally be used interchangeably but they just offer different benefits. While they are both applied in the same way, a primer prevents excess oil and ensures longevity, while a base focuses on enhancing colour and vibrancy over oil control.
Marie's Advice on Prepping Your Eye Area for Better Application
'Some primers will state what skin type they are more suited towards. But for dry skin, make sure to apply a small amount of eye cream first to create moisture as primers will feel drier to hold the make-up in place. For exceptionally oily eyelids, clean the area of all residue and run a light layer of your powder on first, followed by the primer.'
'For the best results, I usually set the eye primer with a neutral coloured eyeshadow before packing on the other colours - this will create an even base and you won't have patchy eye make-up.'
How to Use Eyeshadow Primer Correctly
There is really no hard and fast rule for when you should apply primer, but the key point for applying any type of make-up is to make sure that you have clean hands before you start. This will ensure that there aren't any bacteria that can be transferred onto the products and then onto the skin's surface.
You can choose to apply it when you apply your facial primer and have your base all prepped and ready to go, as some like to start with their eyeshadow before the foundation. Others apply their foundation first and follow up with eyeshadow, in this case, it's also okay to apply primer after your foundation.
Once you've applied your primer to your eye area, let it dry for a few seconds to allow the primer to become tacky and go ahead and get started on your eyeshadow. Once it's dried down, you can start on your snatched eyeshadow look!
Written and researched by Yasmin Mitake
Top 5 Eyeshadow Primers
No. 1: Urban Decay｜Eyeshadow Primer Potion Original
No. 2: NYX Professional Makeup｜Glitter Primer
No. 3: Laura Mercier ｜Eye Basics Primer
No. 4: Fenty Beauty｜Pro Filt'r Amplifying Eye Primer
No. 5: Benefit｜Stay Don't Stray
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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