Best Eyeshadow Bases & Primers of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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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

e.l.f. Lock It Down Primer Cover #TOP 1
e.l.f. Lock It Down Primer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Milani Eyeshadow Primer Cover #TOP 2
Milani Eyeshadow Primer
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer Cover #TOP 3
Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Eyeshadow Bases & Primers

#TOP 1

e.l.f. Lock It Down Primer

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.

What We Like
Smooth and creamy application
Long-lasting, no creasing
Waterproof and durable
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Tube difficult to handle
Can be hard to blend
#TOP 2

Milani Eyeshadow Primer

MESP-01
Single
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.

What We Like
Long-lasting eye shadow hold
Affordable and effective
Easy to apply
Suitable for oily skin
Blends well with foundation
What We Don't Like
Color change from old packaging
#TOP 3

Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer

1115561
Beige
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.

What We Like
Long-lasting formula
Prevents creasing
Lightweight and comfortable
Easy application
Affordable and versatile
What We Don't Like
Somewhat sheer coverage
Watery consistency
#TOP 4

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

1704444
Original
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Cover
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (Travel Size), Award-winning Nude Eye Primer, Crease-free Eye Makeup Looks, Smooths & Preps Eyelid Base for Vibrant Color, All-day Wear, Dries Invisible -0.16 fl oz

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer is an award-winning nude eyelid primer that provides visibly smooth lids, vibrant creaseless color, and long-lasting eyeshadow looks. Its polymer technology prevents creasing and fading, making it the perfect base for eyeshadow and eyeliner. The creamy, nude formula works on all skin tones, types, and eye shapes, and is great for oily lids and crepey skin around the eyes. You can also mix it with your favorite eyeshadow or pencil for custom cream shadows and liners. With just a touch, this primer ensures long-lasting, crease-free eyeshadow. The flocked wand applicator allows for precise and controlled application every time.

What We Like
Long-lasting makeup hold
Vibrant eyeshadow colors
Crease-free application
Works well on oily lids
Smooth and easy application
What We Don't Like
May cause irritation for some
Price considered somewhat high
#TOP 5

Smashbox Photo Finish Eye Shadow Primer

C71X010000
Clear
Smashbox Photo Finish Eye Shadow Primer Cover
Smashbox Photo Finish Intensify 24 Hour Eye Shadow Primer | Nourishing, Long Lasting + Vitamin E, 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.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Minimal product needed
Prevents creasing
Great for oily eyelids
Flawless makeup application
What We Don't Like
Can be tough to squeeze out
Some experience slight creasing
#TOP 6

Urban Decay Anti-Aging Primer

1704451
Anti-Aging
Urban Decay Anti-Aging Primer Cover
Urban Decay Anti-Aging Eyeshadow Primer Potion (Travel Size), Nude Eye Primer, Improves Look of Fine Lines & Texture, Smooths & Preps Eyelid Base for Vibrant Color, Crease-free Eye Makeup - 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.

What We Like
Long-lasting performance
Does not dry eyelids
Excellent quality
Easy application
Effective for oily skin
What We Don't Like
Small amount of product
May cause irritation
#TOP 7

NYX Ultimate Shadow & Liner Primer - Light

K0597000
01 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.

What We Like
Great coverage
Long-lasting wear
Enhances eyeshadow pigmentation
Non-drying formula
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Applicator effectiveness varies
Can feel slightly tacky
#TOP 8

ARTDECO All In One Eye Primer

4052136084948
Neutral
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.

What We Like
Good color and coverage
Long-lasting eye makeup
Easy application
Moisturizing feel
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Texture may not suit everyone
Color correction could improve
#TOP 9

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Sin

1325554
Sin (nude shimmer)
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Sin Cover
Urban Decay Shimmer Eyeshadow Primer Potion Sin, Shimmer Eye Primer, Crease-free Eye Makeup Looks, Smooths & Preps Eyelid Base for Vibrant Color, All-day Wear, All Skin Tones, Vegan - 0.33 fl oz

The Urban Decay Eye Primer is an award-winning product designed to enhance your eyeshadow application. This shimmery nude primer smooths your eyelids, allowing for vibrant, creaseless color that lasts throughout the day. With its advanced polymer technology, it effectively prevents creasing and fading of both eyeshadow and eyeliner, ensuring your makeup stays fresh. Its creamy texture works well on all skin types and tones, giving you a beautiful base for any look. Plus, you can mix it with your favorite eyeshadows for a custom cream effect, making it a versatile addition to your makeup routine.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Excellent eyeshadow base
Great for oily skin
Shimmery finish
Easy application
What We Don't Like
May be too shimmery
#TOP 10

MAC Prep Plus Prime Eye Base

MAC
0773602335374
Cranberry
MAC Prep Plus Prime Eye Base Cover
Prep Plus Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base by MAC for Women - 0.4 oz Primer

MAC Eye Base Primer ensures your eyeshadow stays vibrant and in place for a full 24 hours. Its unique formula prevents creasing and smudging, allowing you to enjoy a flawless look throughout the day. You’ll appreciate the lightweight texture, which feels almost invisible on your eyelids, making application a breeze. Additionally, this primer enhances the color of your eyeshadow, giving you bold and long-lasting results that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're preparing for a day at work or a night out, this primer is an essential addition to your makeup routine.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Prevents creasing
Smooth application
Cost-effective compared to stores
Minimal product needed
What We Don't Like
Preference for toxin-free ingredients
Buying Guide Image

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 90,829 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 $13.73.

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., Milani, wet n wild, URBAN DECAY, Smashbox. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

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.

Eyeshadow Bases & Primers Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand e.l.f. Milani wet n wild URBAN DECAY Smashbox URBAN DECAY NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP ARTDECO URBAN DECAY MAC
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 Enhances eyeshadow color and wear, prevents fallout Extending, Prepping, Conditioning, Smoothening, Nourishing - Smooths skin and strengthens. Blends effortlessly, blurs textures, and is sweat and humidity resistant. Optical blurring pigments create a soft-focus effect that minimizes redness and smooths texture. Fine Line Treatment, Exfoliating, Smoothening 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. Extends eye shadow wear by 24 hours Helps eye shadow stay colour-true Prevents eye shadow from fading and creasing Lightweight Ophthalmologist tested Dermatologist tested Non-acnegenic For all skin types
Coverage Full Lightweight Lightweight - Light buildable Full,Lightweight Light Coverage buildable Medium to Full
Item Form Cream Cream Cream - Lotion Cream Cream Cream Cream Liquid
Skin Type All All All, Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal - All Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal All All Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal All
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy