The concept of eye shadow is easy, but the reality can be more frustrating to deal with. Often, eye shadow will not go on as smoothly as you wish, or may gather or clump in the creases of your eyelids. Further, shadow can easily rub or flake off over the course of the day, leaving your color uneven and faint. Primer helps to hold eye shadow, glitter, and other color in place while preventing creasing and smudging.

By applying primer before using eye shadow, you can ensure that your makeup will stay in place throughout the day. It will not slide or gather in the wrinkles around your eyes. Some primers include a light shimmer or tint to add a layering effect to your eye shadow. Others address skin issues such as roughness on the eyelids or noticeable redness. By neutralizing these problems before applying makeup, you will achieve better results.

Eyelid primers are available in different forms, allowing you to customize and choose your preferred texture and application method. Some come in a tube like lip gloss and include an application sponge. Others have a more gel-like consistency and can be applied with a makeup sponge or with your finger. Other primers are stored in a tube that only requires you to squeeze a small amount out for application with your finger or a cotton swab.