5 Best Drugstore Eyeshadow Primers - Apr. 2023

Updated February 2023

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Bottom line

Pros

Cons

An inexpensive alternative to Urban Decay's iconic primer, this also lasts all day without creasing.

Pros

This primer holds eyeshadow extremely well while accentuating the color. It goes on smoothly with a creamy texture. Works well on aging skin. Cruelty-free and vegan.

Cons

The beige and nude tone doesn't tend to work as well for dark complexions.

Best Bang for the Buck

NYX Professional

Glitter Primer

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Specialty Shimmer Pick

Bottom Line

Lightweight cream that goes on smoothly and will keep your glam glitter going all evening.

Pros

Helps prevent fallout by sealing loose, glittery powder and shimmery shades without feeling gluey or heavy. Also works well for everyday makeup where extra hold is needed.

Cons

Some found the application required a bit of a learning curve. A few reports of irritation.

A lightweight, quick-drying cream that evens up color and texture for flawless eye makeup application.

Pros

Goes on with a velvety texture and dries sheer, making it good for older skin. Makes eyeshadows look more pigmented and has a brightening effect. Paraben-free.

Cons

Doesn't work as well with oily skin, especially in humid conditions.

Urban Decay

Award-Winning Eyeshadow Primer Potion

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Long-lasting Application

Bottom Line

Great for oily eyelids or long festivities, this creamy primer keeps your eyeshadow clean and vivid all day.

Pros

Keeps your eyeshadow and eyeliner in place for long periods of time. Sheer and "invisible", won't mess with the colors of your palette. Dries quickly and smoothly. Small enough to fit into your purse. Suitable for several skin types.

Cons

Some complaints about the quality of the applicator.

Wet & Wild

Photofocus

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Perfect for Young Eyes

Bottom Line

A great choice for oily skin, which works where more expensive brands have failed.

Pros

Applies easily and smoothly, and only needs a small amount of product for even further savings. Sets well and stops shadow from creasing or bleeding.

Cons

Does not work as well for mature skin, shows up flaws.

HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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If you want flawless eyeshadow that's going to last all day, you need to use eyeshadow primer. Eyeshadow primer is a more solid cream than face primer so that it can grab onto the pigments in the shadow and "set" the color. It will also help reduce the oils that cause shadows to crease or fade, and smooths out skin texture for a better canvas for your eyeshadow. Note that eyeshadow base is something different — these are an even stickier consistency for a more intense color pop. Choose a primer that's either sheer or close to your skin tone, so that your makeup colors aren't distorted.

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