The Best Under Eye Primer That Keeps Eyeshadow Crease-Free
The creasing of makeup in the under-eye region is very common. But that doesn’t make it any less frustrating, because your makeup then settles into your wrinkles and fine lines or maybe even expression lines. And this happens irrespective of how you blend or apply your concealer.
And now the solution - prepping your skin with the best under eye primer before applying concealer. Setting powder then over your concealer does not cause any amount of creasing. And that’s an exciting piece of news to those who put on eye makeup on a daily basis, isn’t it?
So if you happen to be one of them, then you might want to check out my top 10 list!
The 10 Best Primers for Your Under Eye
1. e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Under Eye Primer
It says hydrating only, what about the nourishing part? No doubt, this e.l.f. Cosmetics Under Eye Primer is a nourishing and hydrating formula with green tea, Ginkgo Biloba, shea, aloe, and vitamins.
The primer sets up the perfect base for your concealer. And its peach tone brightener reduces the visibility of dark circles even, thus making your eyes look refreshed and fuller.
Lastly, it’s a PETA-certified cruelty-free and vegan primer, just like every other formulation by the same brand.
2. SmashBox Photo Finish Hydrating Under Eye Primer
You’re more likely to keep buying these tubes, but not because each tube contains very little primer. In fact, this SmashBox formula offers the best value for the money you spend on it since just a teensy amount goes a long way. But because this under eye primer is crease-resistant.
Needless to say, it prevents the smudging or fading of your eye makeup. Plus, the primer maximizes the vibrancy of colors. Many women love it for its ability to improve dark circles and puffiness. And because it works as a layer of extra hydration as well.
3. Becca Anti-Fatigue Under Eye Primer
I can tell you for certain that coming across an under eye primer infused with caffeine, matcha green tea, and cucumber is a rare occurrence. So when you do, you ought to seal the deal immediately. Simply because these ingredients condition your under-eye skin while also smoothing out and blurring the appearance of puffiness and fine lines.
Its velvety, sheer texture melts effortlessly into the skin. And that means applying the primer is a very quick and easy task. Consider it as a balm to keep your under-eye region smooth and crease-free throughout the day, even if you’re 60 years old.
4. Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Primer Makeup
Thank Me Later Eyeshadow Base has earned over 10,000 reviews on Amazon - for what? My research proves it’s because of two very compelling reasons. Firstly, the eye primer is a cruelty-free cosmetic. And secondly, the non-greasy, lightweight formula works best for not just preventing creases but also for oily skin.
The pearl powder is the thing responsible for brightening and balancing the skin tone while also combating oil.
This eyeshadow base has a transparency that dries up in a matter of just a few seconds to create a crease-free, smooth layer for enhancing your eyeshadow color.
5. L’Oreal Paris Magic Perfecting Base Face Primer
Maybe you have large pores on your nose, fine lines around your mouth, and bags under your eyes. In that case, how about buying a primer formulated to address all of these concerns together? That’s the best part about L’Oreal Cosmetics, including this one.
The silky-smooth primer shrinks your pores, thus creating the perfect base for a foundation that further tackles enlarged pores. But, more importantly, it blends into your under-eye area and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles for preventing creasing. It sort of magically camouflages all your problems all day long.
6. Bellaterra Cosmetics Eye Shadow Primer
Starting off on the right note is always necessary, correct? So let me tell you that this Bellaterra Cosmetics primer is hypoallergenic and made using only pure, natural minerals. It not only prevents your eye makeup from moving into your wrinkles and fine lines but also absorbs oil throughout the day.
Concealing dark circles and hiding veins to create a smooth, clean canvas with the help of no toxic chemicals, fillers, additives, preservatives, oil, etc. is a big deal. And that too without any animal testing. So, as is evident, there are plenty of things to like about this eyeshadow primer.
7. It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Full Coverage Concealer
If you have mature skin, then you’re bound to appreciate every ounce of this anti-aging, waterproof under eye concealer. It works best when it comes to banishing dark circles instantly. The formula stays on all day long and gives you a naturally younger-looking appearance.
Even a teensy bit is enough for lasting throughout the day. And for covering very large under eye dark circles. On top of that, the texture is not at all greasy and oily.
8. Revlon PhotoReady Eye Primer
Women with textured skin should firstly choose a foundation to provide the perfect coverage. But before applying the foundation, it’s necessary to create a smooth canvas using this PhotoReady Eye Primer by Revlon.
What it does is contain photo-chromatic pigments that reflect and bend light for minimizing your under-eye concerns and balancing out your skin texture.
It’s a lightweight gel that reduces the visibility if creases, fine lines, and wrinkles around your eyes while also brightening the area. And extra points for being paraben-free, fragrance-free, talc-free, and oil-free.
9. Shany Eye & Lip Primer/Base
This one too is free of parabens, talc, etc. Meaning this primer too is a hypoallergenic formula suitable for sensitive skin.
The formulation contains incredibly nourishing ingredients and vitamins for not only preventing the smudging of your eye makeup but also for keeping the skin around your eyes well-nourished. Even your lips can make the most of these benefits.
Stumbling upon a long-lasting, hypoallergenic primer that works on both eyes and lips is a rare occurrence you know. Especially one that’s infused with such amazing moisturizing properties!
10. Colorscience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy
Think of this one as an anti-aging eye primer and eye cream. One that’s equipped with SPF-35 sun protection! The first of its kind, no doubt, Colorscience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy contains dynamic anti-aging ingredients that work even on sensitive skin.
Plant-based, natural hyaluronic acid is also infused into the primer/cream to boost hydration. Along with other natural, plant-based elements that support collagen production and reduce hyperpigmentation.
The presence of such powerful clinical anti-aging ingredients, as well as mineral-based SPF, is sure to target your puffiness, dark circles, wrinkles, and fine lines.
Who Should Use Under Eye Primer?
Women with aging skin often apply eye primers to keep their fine lines and wrinkles from creasing. Eyeshadow tends to settle into even expression lines. So if you want to prevent your eye makeup from smudging, fading, or creasing, then prepping your skin with an under eye primer is necessary.
But what if you don’t apply makeup? Does that mean you need not use an eye primer? Well, not necessarily. Aging skin, especially under your eyes, always demands proper hydration. It’s what keeps the skin’s elasticity and collagen production intact. And eye primers, at least the best ones I’ve reviewed, are infused with ingredients that provide this kind of nourishment.
How to Apply Eye Primer Properly?
If eye makeup is a part of your daily beauty routine, then it’s only beneficial to prep your skin with an under eye primer the right way. And here’s the right way.
Every makeup routine should always start with a thoroughly cleansed face. So make sure you get rid of impurities and excess oil before applying anything on your face.
What to Use Instead of Eye Primer?
Maybe you don’t wish to buy or don’t have an under eye primer. In that case, how do you get the job done without it? Here are eye primer alternatives that don’t disappoint when it comes to preventing creasing of your eye makeup.
1. Lip Gloss
The texture of lip gloss is sticky, isn’t it? So it’s common sense to assume that the stickiness keeps the eyeshadow color in place. In fact, lip gloss on your eyelids even adds a touch of natural sheen.
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Most of us know that aloe vera is a very common moisturizing ingredient in skincare and beauty products. It’s a part of many eye primers as well. So why not use just aloe vera gel instead? For moisturizing your eyelid the oil-free way. Just wait for the gel to dry out before you put on your eye makeup.
3. Concealer
A lightweight, long-lasting concealer is sure to act as a great primer alternative when it comes to keeping your eyeshadow intact all day or night long.
4. White Eyeliner
Did you know that you can use a white liner pencil for lightly filling in and smoothing out your eyelids? Even this keeps your eye makeup from creasing. Moreover, a white eyeliner pencil also makes your eyeshadow color look brighter.
5. Liquid Foundation + Setting Powder
First, you apply some liquid foundation and allow it to dry completely. Then it’s time for your favorite setting powder. This combination is a time-saving and efficient way to prime your eyes while also keeping oil away.
6. Highlighter
Unless your favorite highlighter belongs to the neon yellow category, you can use it as an eye primer alternative. This particular formula does more than just create a smooth base. It also adds more glow and brightness to your eyeshadow color.
Choosing the Best Primer for Your Under Eye
It’s not a difficult task, but you have to take a few factors into account when buying.
Natural Ingredients
To be honest, this should be the case not just with eye primers but all cosmetics. Artificial ingredients tend to cause skin damage in the long run. So always pick a primer made using natural ingredients like plant-based hyaluronic acid, vitamins, aloe vera, shea, etc. As these also nourish your skin to make it look younger.
Aging Spots Eraser
Aging signs around the eyes like wrinkles and fine lines are very common. So an under eye primer with real anti-aging benefits is your best choice.
These benefits often take the form of age-defying ingredients such as Ginkgo Biloba, vitamins, green tea, peptides, hydrolyzed collagen, and more. So you don’t have to worry about wrinkles, fine lines, puffiness, and even dark circles.
Perfect Makeup Base
For the perfect makeup base, a primer that’s greasy-free, moisturizing, and antioxidant-rich is sure to keep your eye makeup from settling into your expression and fine lines. The smooth, oil-free canvas it creates also keeps your under-eye region hydrated for a longer time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Vaseline As Eye Primer?
The answer is yes only if you don’t have oily skin. Otherwise, Vaseline as a primer is bound to make the face look even more oily. But if your skin type is not oily, then petroleum jelly is sure to act as a great eyeshadow primer. It allows the eyeshadow color to shine through and stay put for longer.
What Is the Difference Between Eye Primer and Face Primer?
The former is specifically formulated for keeping your eye makeup from fading, smudging, or creasing all day long. Under eye primers also neutralize the natural skin tone of your eyelids. And enhance the color of your eyeshadow, thus making the shade look more vibrant.
As for face primers, their primary goal is to smooth out the texture of your skin to create a canvas ready for foundation and concealer. In comparison to face primers, eye primers are thicker and heavier. It’s only natural to assume that face primers offer a more lightweight texture for preventing your foundation from caking.
Does Primer Fill In Wrinkles and Fine Lines?
If it’s a primer suitable for mature or aging skin, then it’s bound to fill in your wrinkles and fine lines. Meaning such primers with anti-aging ingredients keep your makeup from moving into your wrinkles and fine lines. And when anti-aging benefits are included, then you should also expect your skin to look naturally more youthful.
Why Does Under Eye Concealer Crease?
If your concealer is too dry and/or too thin, then it’s inevitably going to crease. In the case of under-eye concerns like dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and puffiness, a concealer with more hydrating ingredients and creamy yet oil-free texture is sure to keep creasing at bay.
Can I Use Concealer Instead of Eye Primer?
If you’ve run out of your under eye primer, then feel free to apply a layer of your daily concealer over your eyelids as your eyeshadow base. No doubt, it creates a smooth, even canvas while also neutralizing any discoloration.
Is Eye Primer and Concealer the Same Thing?
Although you can apply concealer instead of an eye primer, but that doesn’t mean both serve the same purpose. The latter is specifically formulated for preventing eye makeup creasing by combating oil. As for concealers, their main function is to even out your skin tone by covering blemishes and spots.
The Final Say
Many women neglect the under-eye area in their skincare and beauty routine. And that doesn’t make any sense because the skin around your eyes is the most delicate, thus it demands more attention and care. So why not incorporate eye primers into your daily beauty regimen for hydrating and moisturizing that region.
I have reviewed plenty of eye primers with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, etc. and anti-aging ingredients such as green tea, Ginkgo Biloba, etc. These condition your skin and give it a more youthful appearance.
So, as is evident, an eye primer can do more than just keep your eye makeup from creasing. It’s also about doing away with puffiness, dark circles, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Since your eyes are covered, you might want to have a go at face primer recommendations next: Best Primer for Textured Skin, Best Primer for Large Pores, Best Primer for Wrinkles and Fine Lines.
