With times like these where we are constantly masked up due to our new normal, our eyes are the only visible parts of our face. Hence, eye makeup looks have evolved into expressing most of our creativeness through it. However, they aren’t invincible to being smudged or falling off which is why you need a secret little weapon to make sure it sticks. Therefore, what you need are eyeshadow primers and here is a list of Beauty Insider’s top picks.

Eyeshadow primers are handy products formulated to keep your eye look intact while preventing smudges and fading to occur. Similar to a face primer, they help by creating a smooth canvas that will in turn grip onto the makeup, keeping your work of art safe. They may sound unnecessary but if you’ve ever wanted to create a gorgeous eye look with bold, bright colours, having eyeshadow primers will help you big time.


1. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion – Original

If we need to start this list with a classic cult-favourite it has to be the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion. These eyeshadow primers are loved by many for their creamy formula that blends easily into the eye crease. It is made through polymer technology that makes it a perfect canvas to showcase your skills.

Additionally, it works amazingly when you work it with bright, intense colours. However, do note that a little goes a long way.

Why we love it:

  • Great texture
  • Makes eyeshadow last longer

Price: $35.00

Where to buy: Sephora

2. SMASHBOX 24 Hour Photo Finish Shadow Primer

If we want to talk about classics, the SMASHBOX 24 Hour Photo Finish Shadow Primer. I personally use this on my hooded almond eyes which creases products so easily when I don’t use eyeshadow primers. With that, this primer is a lifesaver for those who struggle a lot with creasing.

Additionally, this formula is lightweight and won’t weigh down on your lids especially if they’re hooded.

Why we love it:

  • Works well with glitters
  • Doesn’t melt against oily skin

Price: $34.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. Milani Eyeshadow Primer

If you are searching for a more affordable option, the Milani Eyeshadow Primer is undeniably a fan favourite. It is loved by many due to its reasonable price point that doesn’t differ from its effectiveness. This formula applies on nude but seamlessly vanishes when dried so you won’t have that awkward colour pop up. 

Why we love it:

Vegan

Long-lasting

Price: $15.15

Where to buy: Watsons

4. Etude House Proof 10 Eye Primer

K-beauty lovers, this one’s for you! The Etude House Proof 10 Eye Primer is not only our cheapest recommendation but is also super effective. This is an essential need in everyone’s makeup bags. Additionally, it creates a great blank canvas that will make your colours pop and wearing glitter is stress-free of it falling off. It lasts all day and night where creasing is non-existent.

Why we love it:

  • Longevity
  • Matte finish

Price: $9.80

Where to buy: Althea

5. NARS Tinted Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

With over two thousand reviews on Sephora, the Tinted Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base by NARS is known as a fan favourite. Although these eyeshadow primers are tinted, they come in multiple shades but if that still doesn’t suit your fancy- go clear!

This lightweight formula glides smoothly and sets effortlessly on eyelids that will help incredibly well at popping bright colours. To add, this primer is smudge-proof that you could accidentally rub your eyes and it wouldn’t transfer at all!

Why we love it:

  • Long-lasting
  • Smudge-proof

Price: $40.00

Where to buy: Sephora

6. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer

A recent personal purchase I made was the Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer and I am absolutely in love with it. This lightweight formula blends seamlessly well onto the eyelid with its slight pink tone.

To add, this primer works well with Singapore’s humid and hot weather. You could rock a cut crease with a graphic liner and have it last all day.

Why we love it:

  • Great bendability
  • Doesn’t weigh down

Price: $33.00

Where to buy: Sephora

7. Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer

The Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer is the highest reviewed eyeshadow primers in our list and for very good reasons. If you love using bold, daring colours, this will ensure that your work of art stays on all day long. The formula is potent but blends amazingly well and although there’s no applicator, your finger will be just as useful.

Why we love it:

  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof and oil-proof

Price: $37.00

Where to buy: Sephora

8. HOURGLASS Veil Eye Primer

Lastly, our recommendation for good eyeshadow primers is the Hourglass Veil Eye Primer. We love it when makeup is formulated with skin-friendly ingredients and this primer is exactly that, containing vitamins E and C. However, to get the best out of it, you need to apply your eyeshadow immediately on top for a beautiful, long-lasting look.

Why we love it:

  • Silky texture
  • Hydrating

Price: $48.00

Where to buy: Sephora