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Best Eyeshadow Bases & Primers of 2026

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Lisa Bechard

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Eyeshadow bases and primers are essential for achieving a flawless eye makeup look. These products act as a foundation for eyeshadow, creating a smooth and even base for the color to adhere to. They also help to prevent creasing and fading, making your eyeshadow last longer throughout the day. Bases and primers come in a variety of formulas, including cream, gel, and powder, and can be applied with a brush or your fingertips. Whether you're going for a bold and colorful look or a subtle and natural one, using an eyeshadow base or primer is a must-have step in your makeup routine.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Eyeshadow Bases & Primers

#TOP 1

e.l.f. Lock It Down Primer

  • e.l.f.
  • 81994
  • Universal Sheer
e.l.f. Lock It Down Primer Cover

e.l.f. Lock It Down Eyeshadow Primer, Smooth, Creamy Primer For Long-Lasting Eyeshadow, Intensifies Liquid & Powder Color, Vegan & Cruelty-free

The e.l.f. Eyeshadow Primer is designed to keep your eye makeup looking vibrant and fresh all day long. It creates a smooth base that intensifies the color of your eyeshadow, ensuring that your looks pop. This primer is non-greasy, making it easy to apply and helping to prevent smudging and creasing, so you can enjoy your makeup without constant touch-ups. With its sheer finish, it works well with a variety of colors, allowing you to experiment with endless eye looks. Simply pat it on your eyelids for a perfect canvas.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting eyeshadow hold
  • Smooth application
  • Prevents creasing
  • Works on oily skin
  • Affordable price

What We Don't Like

  • Slight drying time
  • May cause mild irritation

What Customers Say

"This eyeshadow primer has been a game-changer for my oily skin—it keeps my eye makeup intact and prevents it from sliding off or creasing throughout the day. I’m really impressed with how well it works!"

"I've tried many primers, but this one is by far the best for the price! My eyeshadow lasts all day, and the smooth texture makes it easy to apply."

"I love how this primer keeps my eyeshadow vibrant and in place for hours. My daughter uses it too and gets the same long-lasting hold—we both highly recommend it!"

#TOP 2

Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer

Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer Cover

wet n wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer, lightweight formula, inflused with Vitamin E

Get the most out of your eyeshadow with Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer. The weightless formula preps your lids for eyeshadow, making it easier to apply and wear for longer periods of time. The primer is enriched with vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties. It dries clear, allowing your eyeshadow to shine. Plus, it's cruelty-free and never tested on animals.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting, all-day wear
  • Prevents creasing and fading
  • Enhances eyeshadow vibrancy
  • Lightweight, smooth texture
  • Affordable price

What We Don't Like

  • Small tube size
  • Slightly tacky if overapplied

What Customers Say

"As someone loyal to high-end brands, I was blown away by how Wet n Wild's Megalast Eyeshadow Primer outperforms pricier options. It makes my makeup last all day without creasing, and the silky texture makes blending so easy. For the price, it's unbeatable and now an essential part of my routine."

"After decades of searching, this is the first eyeshadow primer that truly keeps my makeup in place—even with oily, deep-set lids. My shadows stay perfect for up to 18 hours, and there's no sticky residue or discomfort at all. I can't recommend it enough to anyone struggling with creasing!"

"I was looking for a budget-friendly option and this primer delivers high-end performance. It's lightweight, prevents creasing, and makes colors pop even on hot, humid days. I also appreciate the Vitamin E infusion. Great value for everyday use."

#TOP 3

Milani Eyeshadow Primer

Milani Eyeshadow Primer Cover

Milani Eyeshadow Primer - Nude (0.3 Fl. Oz.)

Milani Eyeshadow Primer is a lightweight and invisible primer that intensifies the color of your favorite eyeshadow and increases its wear from day into night. It works on all skin tones, goes on nude, and dries invisibly. The primer is vegan, cruelty-free, and formulated to be the perfect base for your flawless style. You can swipe a small amount across each eyelid before applying eye makeup and choose your favorite eyeliner and eyeshadow shades to create a look that lasts all day.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting eyeshadow hold
  • Works well on oily lids
  • Easy blending and smooth texture
  • Budget-friendly price
  • Minimizes smudging and creasing

What We Don't Like

  • Occasional slight tube separation
  • Feels tacky before setting

What Customers Say

"I've tried many eye primers, both high-end and drugstore, but this one stands out as my favorite. The texture is just right—neither greasy nor too dry—and it blends seamlessly with my foundation and concealer. My eyeshadows stay vibrant all day without any fading or patchiness, and even my eyeliner stays put. For the price, it's an unbeatable choice and outperforms even more expensive options."

"I struggle with extremely oily eyelids and have always had issues with eyeliner transferring. After trying this primer, my eyeliner stays flawless all day long, and my lids look naturally filtered. It has a comfortable, velvety finish and even makes my black liner look more pigmented. Highly recommend for anyone with oily lids!"

"This product is a real value find. It smooths out my eyelids, covers discoloration, and keeps eyeshadow in place for hours. The only minor downside is that sometimes the tube separates a bit, but a quick shake fixes it. Overall, it's better than pricier brands I've used."

#TOP 4

Smashbox Photo Finish Eye Shadow Primer

Smashbox Photo Finish Eye Shadow Primer Cover

Smashbox Photo Finish Intensify 24 Hour EyeShadow Primer | Nourishing, Long Lasting + Vitamin E for Eyeshadow Makeup, 0.34 Fl Oz

The Smashbox Eye Shadow Primer is designed to create the perfect foundation for your eye makeup. It effortlessly blends into your eyelids, smoothing out any texture for a flawless base. This primer not only enhances the vibrancy of your eye shadow but also keeps it looking fresh for up to 24 hours. You can say goodbye to fading and creasing, as this product helps make your eye shadow resistant to smudging. Additionally, it nourishes your eyelids while providing protection against sweat and humidity, ensuring your look stays intact all day long.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting eye makeup
  • Prevents creasing
  • Enhances eyeshadow color
  • Makes application smoother
  • Suitable for oily skin

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly drying for some
  • May cause sensitivity

What Customers Say

"I've tried plenty of eye primers, but this is the only one that keeps my makeup crease-free and vibrant all day. It really makes a difference, and I couldn't be happier with the results."

"I absolutely love how this primer keeps my eyeshadow bold and prevents creasing. Even with my oily skin, my makeup lasts through the day without fading. Definitely a game changer for me!"

"After using this primer, my eyeshadow still looked fresh and flawless even after 12 hours. It’s well worth the price, and I’m amazed at how long my makeup stays put."

#TOP 5

Urban Decay Anti-Aging Primer

Urban Decay Anti-Aging Primer Cover

Urban Decay Anti-Aging Eyeshadow Primer Potion Travel Mini - Nude Eye Primer for Crease-Resistant & Long-Lasting Makeup, Improves Look of Fine Lines & Texture, Smooths & Preps Eyelid Base - 0.16 fl oz

The Urban Decay Primer is a nude eyelid base that helps balance your skin tone and texture, ensuring your eye makeup stays bold and crease-free all day. It features ingredients like Dermaxyl, which smooths the appearance of wrinkles, and Kalpariane, which hydrates and firms the skin for a youthful look. Additionally, optical blurring pigments provide a soft-focus effect, helping to reduce redness and enhance the overall appearance of your eyes. This primer also intensifies the vibrancy of various eyeshadow finishes, making your eye looks pop while keeping them fresh throughout the day.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting eyeshadow hold
  • Prevents creasing
  • Hydrating and moisturizing formula
  • Enhances eyeshadow vibrancy
  • A little goes a long way

What We Don't Like

  • Higher price point
  • Anti-aging formula less effective

What Customers Say

"I've tried a lot of eyeshadow primers, but this is the only one that truly keeps my makeup looking fresh and in place all day. I've even repurchased it, and I always recommend the anti-aging version to friends!"

"The Urban Decay Anti-Aging Eyeshadow Primer Potion has totally transformed my makeup routine. I have dry skin, and this primer keeps my eyelids comfortable and hydrated, with no flakiness or tightness. My eyeshadow stays bright and crease-free from morning to night—it's absolutely worth every penny."

"I've been using this primer for years, and nothing else comes close. It holds my eyeshadow perfectly, prevents creasing, and works well even on its own. One tube lasts for months because you only need a little bit each time."

#TOP 6

Elizabeth Mott Eye Primer

Elizabeth Mott Eye Primer Cover

Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Primer - Long-Lasting, Eyeshadow Primer Base for Oily Lids & Crease-Free Wear - Smudge-Proof, Lightweight, Cruelty-Free - 10g

Enhance the pigment of your eyeshadow and keep your look long-lasting with Elizabeth Mott Eye Primer. Crafted with high-quality ingredients, this paraben-free and cruelty-free primer provides a flawless base for your eye makeup. Its lightweight and non-greasy formula ensures that you won't need constant touch-ups and won't feel heaviness around the eyes. In addition to evening your skin tone, this primer combats oily lids and creasing, conceals discoloration, and balances your complexion. With Elizabeth Mott Eye Primer, you can achieve bold and vibrant eyeshadow looks without the fear of fallout or fading. Say goodbye to smudged makeup and hello to long-lasting perfection.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting makeup hold
  • Enhances color vibrancy
  • Works with oily skin
  • Small amount needed
  • Keeps brows in place

What We Don't Like

  • High price
  • Can highlight dry patches

What Customers Say

"I've relied on this primer for years because it keeps my eye makeup flawless through sweat, heat, and even roller coasters. Even cheap eyeshadows look vibrant and smooth when I use it. A tiny bit covers a lot, and it’s compatible with all my waterproof eyeliners. The only thing to watch for is not overapplying or using too much with creamy products, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredible."

"Due to a thyroid condition, I lost all my facial hair, including my eyebrows and lashes. Eyebrows are crucial for my communication, so finding products that last on my oily skin has been a struggle. This primer is a game changer—my drawn-on brows stay put for 24 hours with just a pinhead-sized dab. One tube lasts nearly two years. I pair it with a setting spray for all-day wear and sometimes add an eyebrow sealer for 2-3 days of perfect brows. This primer gave me back confidence and natural-looking brows that don’t budge."

#TOP 7

NYX Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer - Light

NYX Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer - Light Cover

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer, Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Primer - Light

NYX Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer is a vegan eye primer that extends makeup wear and provides vibrant, saturated color with no-smudge, no-crease, longwearing eye looks. The lightweight formula is creamy with a soft blurring effect and has a unique doe foot applicator for easy, smooth application. This cruelty-free brand is acknowledged by PETA and offers a full range of eye makeup products from eyeshadow palettes to eyebrow makeup and more.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting eyeshadow hold
  • Enhances color intensity
  • Works well for sensitive eyes
  • Good value for price

What We Don't Like

  • Mild irritation for some users
  • Can feel sticky or heavy

What Customers Say

"This is the best eyelid primer I’ve tried—my eyeshadow stays vibrant all day, and the light shade really brightens my eyes. The product arrived quickly and in perfect shape. I highly recommend it!"

"I have sensitive, dry eyes and usually struggle to keep makeup in place, but this primer made my eyeshadow and liner last through my long workdays. It’s affordable, effective, and you only need a little. It quickly became a staple for me!"

"Unfortunately, the formula was too sticky for my liking and made eyeshadow difficult to blend. My eyeliner ended up smudging, and I had to toss out all the tubes I bought. I wish it worked better for me."

#TOP 8

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Nude

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Nude Cover

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion - Nude Eyelid Base Primer, for Smooth & Crease-Resistant Eye Makeup, Waterproof & Long-Lasting, Translucent Shade, Universal for All Skin Tones - 0.33 fl oz

The Urban Decay Nude Primer is a smooth, nude base that helps prevent creasing, dryness, and cracking on your eyelids, so your eye makeup stays vibrant and fresh all day. This vegan primer uses advanced polymer technology to even out imperfections, making it great for oily lids and textured skin. Its creamy formula dries clear, giving you the flexibility to create either bold or natural looks that suit any skin tone or eye shape. Plus, the precise flocked wand applicator allows for controlled and easy application every time, making your makeup routine more convenient and flawless.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting eyeshadow hold
  • Prevents creasing and smudging
  • Works well for oily eyelids
  • Lightweight, smooth formula
  • Minimizes staining from pigments

What We Don't Like

  • Small tube size
  • Price is a bit high

What Customers Say

"For me, this is the go-to primer for eyeshadow longevity—it keeps my look fresh from morning to night, whether I'm going for a subtle or bold style. I love how it acts as a protective base that reduces staining and prevents creases, making my makeup look flawless all day."

"I have very oily, hooded eyelids, and this is the only primer that keeps my eyeshadow in place for hours without creasing. It dries fast and feels comfortable, so even though the tube is small and not cheap, it's absolutely worth it for the results."

"My sensitive, oily lids finally met their match with this primer! It holds my shadow in place all day and doesn't irritate my eyes at all. The formula is so lightweight and smooth, it's become a staple in my makeup routine."

#TOP 9

ARTDECO All In One Eye Primer

ARTDECO All In One Eye Primer Cover

ARTDECO All In One Eye Primer - Long-Lasting Eyeshadow Base, Neutralizing & Concealing - Makeup Primer for Vibrant, Crease-Free Eye Makeup – 0.17 Fl. Oz

The ARTDECO Eye Primer is your ideal companion for perfect eye makeup. This all-in-one solution helps to balance and conceal your eyelids while ensuring your eyeshadow lasts all day. With its lightweight formula, it enhances the color of your eyeshadow, making it more vibrant and preventing any creasing. It’s suitable for all skin tones and is dermatologically tested, so you can trust that it’s gentle on your skin. Plus, applying it is easy—just use your finger or a brush to achieve a smooth, even base that keeps your eye makeup looking fresh and flawless.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Silky, smooth texture
  • Long-lasting eye makeup hold
  • Evens out lid discoloration
  • No irritation for sensitive skin
  • Works for mature skin

What We Don't Like

  • Not full coverage for all
  • Some shadows may crease

What Customers Say

"I've finally found an eye primer that glides on effortlessly and doesn’t irritate my sensitive, combination skin. It leaves my eyelids looking naturally even-toned, hides redness, and keeps my eye makeup intact all day. Plus, a little goes a long way—I only need to repurchase twice a year. At 51, this is a real gem in my routine!"

"As someone who's tested many primers, I can say this is the best I’ve used—smooth application, no creasing, and it keeps my shadow in place from morning to night. I often wear it alone for a subtle, natural look, and it works beautifully on my 57-year-old skin."

"I was seeking a budget-friendly alternative to pricey primers and this one surpassed my expectations. It’s very soft, applies without any tugging, and keeps my eyeshadow looking fresh. I’ll definitely be buying it again!"

#TOP 10

Urban Decay Matte Eyeshadow Primer Potion Eden

Urban Decay Matte Eyeshadow Primer Potion Eden Cover

Urban Decay Matte Eyeshadow Primer Potion Eden - Matte Eye Primer for Crease-Resistant & Long Lasting Eye Makeup, Smooths & Preps Eyelid Base, For More Vibrant Eyeshadow, All Skin Tones - 0.33 fl oz

The Urban Decay Matte Primer is designed to give you smooth, crease-free eyelids, making your eyeshadow look vibrant and last all day. It works well on all skin tones and types, including oily lids and delicate skin around the eyes. This primer uses advanced technology to keep your eyeshadow and eyeliner from fading or creasing, so you don’t have to worry about touch-ups. Plus, its creamy nude matte finish prepares your eyelids perfectly for any look, whether bold or natural. It’s also cruelty-free and free of parabens, making it a great choice for conscious beauty lovers.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Long-lasting eyeshadow hold
  • Conceals discoloration and veins
  • No creasing or caking
  • Easy, seamless application
  • Works well on oily lids

What We Don't Like

  • Color may be too fair
  • Slightly dry texture for some

What Customers Say

"I've found that this eyeshadow primer keeps my makeup in place all day and prevents creasing, even with my oily eyelids. It evens out my skin tone, covers imperfections, and makes my eyeshadow appear much smoother and more vibrant."

"As someone in my 50s, I'm thrilled that this base blends seamlessly and doesn't accentuate dryness or lines. It covers blue undertones and veins, providing a truly even canvas for my eye makeup."

"I appreciate that the fair, corrective color of this primer lets me use it alone to brighten my lids or as a base for bolder eyeshadow looks. A little goes a long way, and it lasts all day without caking."

Eyeshadow Bases & Primers Comparison Table

#TOP 1 e.l.f. Lock It Down Primer Cover

e.l.f. Lock It Down Primer

#TOP 2 Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer Cover

Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer

#TOP 3 Milani Eyeshadow Primer Cover

Milani Eyeshadow Primer

#TOP 4 Smashbox Photo Finish Eye Shadow Primer Cover

Smashbox Photo Finish Eye Shadow Primer

#TOP 5 Urban Decay Anti-Aging Primer Cover

Urban Decay Anti-Aging Primer

#TOP 6 Elizabeth Mott Eye Primer Cover

Elizabeth Mott Eye Primer

#TOP 7 NYX Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer - Light Cover

NYX Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer - Light

#TOP 8 Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Nude Cover

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Nude

#TOP 9 ARTDECO All In One Eye Primer Cover

ARTDECO All In One Eye Primer

#TOP 10 Urban Decay Matte Eyeshadow Primer Potion Eden Cover

Urban Decay Matte Eyeshadow Primer Potion Eden

Brand e.l.f. wet n wild Milani Smashbox URBAN DECAY Elizabeth Mott NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP URBAN DECAY ARTDECO URBAN DECAY
Product Benefits Intensifies eyeshadow color, increases wear time, prevents smudging and creasing, and creates a smooth canvas for makeup; made from skin-loving ingredients and is 100% cruelty-free and vegan Conditioning, Extending, Nourishing, Prepping, Smoothening Enhances eyeshadow color and wear, prevents fallout Smooths + strengthens eyeshadow makeup. Longwearing, this primer is sweat and humidity resistant. Optical blurring pigments create a soft-focus effect that minimizes redness and smooths texture. Crease Proof, Smoothening Smoothening, Long-lasting With polymer technology, this primer dries invisibly & creates the perfect base for eyeshadow & eyeliner. Intensifies the look of metallic, shimmer, matte, and glitter eyeshadows. Enhances eyeshadow longevity, color intensity, and application precision; offers dermatologically-approved formula; and promotes aesthetic appeal With polymer technology, this primer visibly smooths lids & creates the perfect base for eyeshadow & eyeliner.
Item Form Cream Cream Cream Lotion Cream Cream Cream Cream Cream Cream
Skin Type All All, Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily All All Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily All All Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily All Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily
Package Information Tube Tube Tube Tube Tube Tube Tube Tube Tube Tube
FTB Score
9.8
9.7
9.5
9.5
9.5
9.3
9.3
9.2
9.1
9.0
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you use eyeshadow primer and base?

It is not recommended to use both eyeshadow primer and base together, as different formulas may not work well when layered. If you choose to experiment, apply the primer first and use thin layers of each product.

2. What is the difference between eyeshadow primer and eyeshadow base?

The main difference is that an eyeshadow base enhances the color of your shadow, while a primer not only enhances color but also helps prevent creasing and extends the longevity of your eyeshadow.

3. What should you use as a base for eyeshadow?

Eyeshadow primer is the recommended base for eyeshadow. It is specifically formulated to act as a grip for eyeshadow, providing better pigment payoff. However, if you need a quick alternative, concealer can also be used as a base.

4. Is it necessary to use eyeshadow base?

Eyeshadow primer is necessary if you want your eye makeup to last for more than a few hours. It helps your eyeshadow stay in place and prevents creasing. Skipping eyeshadow primer may result in shorter wear time and less vibrant eyeshadow.

5. Do you really need eyeshadow primer?

Eyeshadow primer is necessary if you want your eye makeup to last for more than a few hours. It helps your eyeshadow stay in place, prevents creasing, and extends the longevity of your eye look.

Editor's Notes

During our eyeshadow bases & primer research, we found 48 eyeshadow bases & primer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 213,734 customer reviews through our big data system to write the eyeshadow bases & primers list. We found that most customers choose eyeshadow bases & primers with an average price of $14.86.

The eyeshadow bases & primers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of eyeshadow bases & primers, including e.l.f., wet n wild, Milani, Smashbox, URBAN DECAY. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.