Makeup

12 Best Primers for Long-Lasting Eye Makeup

Liners, shadows, and mascaras can end up looking like a hot (smudged) mess at the end of the day if you don't use a good primer. Keep on your eye makeup with these reader faves

by Allie Flinn, Jessica Amaris

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If you don't prime before applying eye makeup, you're committing a serious makeup crime. If you aren't convinced that you need (or have time for) this crucial step, maybe this will do it: Experts say that the No. 1 way to prevent makeup from melting and smudging is to prime. (Think about it this way: Taking an extra 10 seconds in the morning to apply eye primer is quicker than spending five minutes wiping eyeliner off your lower lids in the afternoon.)

To prevent these kinds of makeup mishaps, we've combed through hundreds of reviews of eye primers to bring you the 12 that work best. Readers say these primers do exactly what they're supposed to: Keep your eye makeup looking as fresh as it did the moment you applied it — all day.

Image via Imaxtree

SEE NEXT PAGE: Best Eye Primer No. 11: Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer, $21

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products mentioned

Smashbox Photo Finish Lid Primer

7.6

Lancome Aquatique

7.9

E.L.F. Studio Eye Primer & Liner Sealer

8.6

LORAC Behind The Scenes Eye Primer

8.6

bareMinerals Prime Time Eyelid Primer

8.7

Mary Kay Eye Primer

8.8

As low as $0.00

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Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

8.7

Laura Mercier Eye Basics

8.9

Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer

9.1

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NYX HD Eyeshadow Base

9.1

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Mirabella Beauty Prime for Face and Eyes

9.3

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Older comments

Some brands never heard of. Some good tips.

by Dee Tuesday, May 7, 2013 at 05:40PM Report as inappropriate

Have to disagree with the "Maybelline New York Ultra-Liner." The old brush and formula were better, but it works very well, especially for the price.

by GigiSD Wednesday, March 20, 2013 at 01:05PM Report as inappropriate

Good to know, I was hoping to see something that I use :)

by Monique3 Friday, March 1, 2013 at 07:50PM Report as inappropriate

I have recently just heard of eye primers. I have always used foundation on my eyelids and it seems to work just fine for me.

by lori_testy Tuesday, February 12, 2013 at 01:55PM Report as inappropriate

I just started wearing eyeshadow primers, and this definitely helps me pick one. I have the oiliest eyelids. My eye makeup is gone is 2 hours. Think I'll try the Urban Decay!

by kimber314 Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at 02:06PM Report as inappropriate

it's a crime not to prime

by LittleBunny Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 11:05PM Report as inappropriate

Primers really help keep my make-up stay on longer than on its own.

by Sari Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at 07:20PM Report as inappropriate

I disagree w/the opinion that primers are a waste unless one has oily eyelids. I have extremely dry skin and I have to use a primer for there to be no creases, no crepeyness, & for shadows to have staying power.

by moxie1956 Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at 05:16PM Report as inappropriate

I might have to invest in one of these.

by tulipsarebetter Wednesday, January 2, 2013 at 08:38PM Report as inappropriate

Thanks

by EricaC123 Saturday, December 29, 2012 at 07:09AM Report as inappropriate