The Best of Eye Primers

[Image by Julia DiNardo; backstage at the Betsey Johnson Spring 2013 show]

Of course you have your eyeliner, eyeshadow, and mascara,  application routine down pat but what about adding an eye primer into the mix? Like any kind of primer, eyelid-specific primer is used as a base layer for your eyeshadow to make sure it stays put and looks fresh all day long. Similar to concealer most brands offer a selection of hues that you can select for the eyelid primer  based on a match for your skin type, while others have an all-encompassing shade that works well on a variety of skin types and shades.. The real difficulty comes down to finding one that works for you, at a price point you’re willing to do. Dont worry, we are here to help! Selected below are top picks that will give you the ultimate bang for your buck.

e.l.f. (eyeslipsface) is a good, inexpensive option that  you will love to keep in your beauty armada.  The e.l.f. Essential Eyelid Primer costs just $1, and comes in four shade options; several of them have some shimmer to them, hence clear is our absolute, versatile, favorite.  The e.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow Primer, $3, is 100% mineral based with no parabens,  preservatives, or chemical dyes, available in two shades (sheer or blush), and is an important tool to keep mineral eyeshadow, which is known to quickly fade, in place all day long.

NARS Cosmetics is a favorite over here at FPD, so the brand’s Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base is constantly in-hand! It  has a slightly thicker, but still lightweight, translucent consistency that is perfect of keeping eyeshadow from creaseing and smudging. Plus, the product uses polymer and mineral power to cling to color and reduce blemishes. At $24 it is a bit more of an investment, but trust us; it’s worth it for a long-lasting look.

bareMinerals Prime Time Eyelid Primer, $18, not only helps preserve your eye makeup, but also gives your eyes a little highlighting action. You can choose between a gold or pearl sheen to revamp your color, whether you choose to wear it with or without eyeshadow. The product is, of course, made with 100% bare minerals and vitamins, so it is great for sensitive skin too.

LORAC Behind The Scenes Eye Primer, $21, takes a slightly different approach; first, it is packaged in a slanted tube rather than a footed wand, so you apply it directly to the lid for a clean and controlled application. It is also made without oils, fragrances, dyes, and parabens, meaning it is absolutely ideal for those with skin issues.

Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion Tube, $20, produces a primer that comes in a variety of colors from shimmery gold and sheer nude to matte tawny. Depending on your style and outing, Urban Decay is sure to have a primer to match. The product is also meant to be multipurpose, used as a brow bone or inner eye highlighter.

–Danielle Sepanek

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