My 4 Go-to Eyeshadow Primers
Hey there friend!
Summer is almost over and I’m legitimately sad. Though we couldn’t do the usual outside activities, I still liked seeing the sun out longer and the rays warming my skin as I made my grocery runs (because that’s the most frequented place right now). With my mask, I’ve opted for keeping my skin moisturized and enhancing my eyes.
Can we talk about eyeshadow primers? Lets! Today I’m sharing my 4 go-to eyeshadow primers. Whether I’m doing a light everyday look or a heavier and bolder look, these are my staples. I know some like using concealer or foundation as their primer or eyeshadow base but I’m not a fan. Personally, when I’ve tried I got nothing but creasing and movement. I mean eyeshadow was just slip slip slipping away. So for me, primers are the standard.
Eyeshadow primers can be clear, neutral tone, or colored. Using primers helps to:
Provide a base for your shadow to stick to and control oil on your eyelids
Prevent creasing
Increase wear time
Neutralize skin tone and any discoloration
Provide an enhanced base for brighter/bolder colors
So here’s my go-to list and why I love them.
MAC Cosmetics Paint Pots
Now you all know I started my makeup journey at MAC so I’m a little biased but over the years, the paint pots have been CONSISTENT. Paint pots are creamy eyeshadow primers that come in multiple colors. You can wear them as a primer or as as a stand alone shadow (#beautytrick). They’re creamy enough to blend but dry down rather quickly. You can apply it with your finger or with a brush.
Urban Decay Primer Potion (Original)
I started using this primer when I started doing a lighter everyday makeup application. It’s lightweight and light in color. For that reason, this is not a primer; deeper skin tones should use as a stand alone shadow. It’ll look pasty. However, underneath your regular eyeshadow it’s great and a quick go-to. Primer potion comes with a wand for application. Swipe the wand across your lid and blend with your finger to smooth before applying shadow. You’ll be set and ready to go.
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick
I’ve always admired these sticks because of the smooth consistency and color range. It’s marketed more as an eyeshadow stick than a primer, but I definitely use it as a primer and shadow. Caviar sticks can be worn as a stand alone shadow by rubbing the stick on your eyelid and even in your crease if you like. Placement is key when using alone. You can also apply shadow on top, as I’ve done multiple times, to enhance shadow color and create a smooth sheen on my eyes.
Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish Primer
I used to freelance with Smashbox and got to see this primer in action and I became a fan. This primer does NOT move. Friend, once it’s on and, blended in, it is ON and not budging. I tend to apply this shadow with my finger although you can apply it with a synthetic brush. A little goes a long way and it dries quickly so you’ve got to move with intention. Also, a very light almost translucent pink color, it’s not a primer I would recommend wearing alone but under eyeshadow.
The next time you’re pulling together your look make sure to include an eyeshadow primer, keep your shadow in place and enhance your eyes.
To get 1-on-1 coaching and lesson for your eye makeup, sign up for the All About the Eyes virtual makeup lesson. In this intimate lesson you’ll learn how to groom your brows, properly apply primer, place eyeshadow, and blend to create a flawless eye. Whether you want to create a signature everyday eye or a dramatic smokey eye, let’s do it together! (false lash application is optional)
Talk you soon,
~LJ