Best Eyeshadow Bases of 2025

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 29 Jan 2025

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Eyeshadow bases are a must-have for any makeup enthusiast looking to achieve a flawless eye makeup look. These products are designed to create a smooth and even surface on the eyelids, allowing eyeshadow to adhere better and stay in place for longer periods. Eyeshadow bases come in a variety of shades to match different skin tones and can also enhance the vibrancy of eyeshadow colours. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, using an eyeshadow base can help you achieve a professional-looking eye makeup that lasts all day.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

e.l.f. Lock It Down Eyeshadow Primer for Long-Lasting Colour Cover #TOP 1
e.l.f. Lock It Down Eyeshadow Primer for Long-Lasting Colour
ftb score rating icon 9.9
NYX Ultimate Shadow and Liner Primer, Light Cover #TOP 2
NYX Ultimate Shadow and Liner Primer, Light
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Makeup Revolution Long Lasting Eye Primer Cover #TOP 3
Makeup Revolution Long Lasting Eye Primer
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Eyeshadow Bases

e.l.f. Lock It Down Eyeshadow Primer for Long-Lasting Colour

81994
Beige
7 g (Pack of 1)
e.l.f. Lock It Down Eyeshadow Primer for Long-Lasting Colour Cover
e.l.f. Lock It Down Eyeshadow Primer, Smooth, Creamy Primer For Long-Lasting Eyeshadow, Intensifies Liquid & Powder Colour, Vegan & Cruelty-free

The e.l.f. Eyeshadow Primer is designed to lock down your eye look while enhancing the vibrancy of your eyeshadow. Its non-greasy formula creates a smooth base, helping to intensify the colour of both liquid and powder shadows. This primer also increases the wear time of your makeup, ensuring it lasts throughout the day without smudging or creasing. With a sheer finish, it accommodates a wide range of eye looks, making it a versatile addition to your makeup routine.

What We Like
Long-lasting eyeshadow wear
Enhances eyeshadow colour
Non-greasy formula
Suitable for various eye looks
Vegan and cruelty-free
#TOP 2

NYX Ultimate Shadow and Liner Primer, Light

K0597000
01 Light
1 Count (Pack of 1)
NYX Ultimate Shadow and Liner Primer, Light Cover
NYX Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow and Liner Primer, Vitamin E Infused, Vegan, Light

The NYX Shadow and Liner Primer is a versatile product designed to enhance your eye makeup. This ultimate primer can be used alone for a natural, blurred look or as a base to extend the wear of your eyeshadows and eyeliners. Its super creamy formula provides a soft blurring effect, ensuring a smooth finish. The convenient doe foot applicator hugs your eyelids, making application easy and efficient. Infused with vitamin E, this vegan and cruelty-free primer is perfect for those seeking a gentle yet effective makeup solution.

What We Like
Extends wear of makeup
Soft blurring effect
Easy applicator for smooth use
Vegan and cruelty-free
Can be worn alone

Makeup Revolution Long Lasting Eye Primer

1285902
Light
15 ml (Pack of 1)
Makeup Revolution Long Lasting Eye Primer Cover
Makeup Revolution Ultimate Eye Base, Long Lasting Eye Primer For All Day Wear, Light, 15 ml

The Revolution Eye Base is essential for anyone looking to extend the wear of their eye makeup. With its long-lasting hold, you can enjoy vibrant looks that last all day without fading. The formula's super thick consistency ensures a crease-free application, giving you a smooth finish every time. Being vegan and cruelty-free, this primer aligns with ethical choices, allowing you to enhance your beauty without compromise. Simply prep your lids with this primer before applying your favourite shades for stunning results.

What We Like
Long lasting hold
Crease-free application
Vegan formula
Cruelty-free certified

Profusion Cosmetics Pigment Base Eyeshadow Primer

2H901-2
Neutral
25 g (Pack of 1)
Profusion Cosmetics Pigment Base Eyeshadow Primer Cover
Profusion Cosmetics Pigment Base Eyeshadow Primer, Achieve Vibrant Looks with Pigment Boosting Primer and Lock in Color with Blendable Formula, Get Bold Colors and Glittery Shimmers, Neutral

The Profusion Pigment Base Primer offers a long-lasting formula that keeps your eyeshadow vibrant and crease-free all day. Its creamy texture improves colour vibrancy, ensuring your eyeshadow appears more intense and true to the pan. With versatile shade options, you can choose a base that complements any eyeshadow colour and finish. Application is made easy as the primer glides smoothly onto your eyelids, allowing for a flawless base with just your fingertips.

What We Like
Long-lasting wear
Enhances colour vibrancy
Versatile shade options
Easy application
Suitable for all skin tones
#TOP 5

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Original, 10ml

S1880606
Original
10 ml (Pack of 1)
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Original, 10ml Cover
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, Smooths Out Imperfections and Prepares the Eyelids for Makeup, Vegan Formula, Shade: Original, 10ml

The Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer offers a creamy, vegan formula designed to keep your eyeshadow looking flawless. With its polymer technology, it ensures that your eyeshadow remains crease-free and vibrant throughout the day and night. Simply apply a small amount before your eyeshadow for a smooth application that lasts. This primer is perfect for creating a variety of eye looks that stand the test of time, giving you confidence in your makeup all day long.

What We Like
Crease-free all-day wear
Vibrant colour retention
Smooth application
Vegan formula
#TOP 6

Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer, Lightweight and Long-Lasting

WnW115561E
Neutral
10 g (Pack of 1)
Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer, Lightweight and Long-Lasting Cover
Wet n Wild Megalast Eyeshadow Primer, Ultra-Creamy and Lightweight Make-up Base with Transparent Finish and Long-Lasting Formula Neutral

The Wet n Wild Eyeshadow Primer is designed to enhance your eye makeup and ensure it lasts from morning to night. Its lightweight formula means you won’t even notice you’re wearing it, providing all-day comfort. Enriched with vitamin E, this primer not only sets your eyeshadow but also helps keep your eyelids feeling fresh. Simply apply a small amount to each lid, and you’ll find that even loose glitter pigments adhere effortlessly, giving you a flawless finish.

What We Like
Long-lasting eye makeup
Lightweight and comfortable
Vitamin E enriched
Easy application for all shadows
#TOP 7

KIKO Milano Pearly Eye Base for Eyeshadow

KM0031000100144
Pearly
10 ml (Pack of 1)
KIKO Milano Pearly Eye Base for Eyeshadow Cover
KIKO Milano Pearly Eye Base | Brightening eye base that improves the hold and enhances the colour of your eyeshadow

The KIKO Pearly Eye Base is designed to brighten your eyelids, enhancing the colour and hold of your eyeshadow. Its pearly finish adds a delicate sheen, making your eyes look illuminated and fresh. Enriched with wild rose extracts and pigments, it effectively neutralises the tone of your eyelids, providing a smooth canvas for application. Plus, the silky texture feels refreshingly cool, ensuring comfort as you apply your makeup.

What We Like
Brightens eyelids effectively
Enhances eyeshadow colour
Silky, cool texture
Pearly finish adds sheen
Neutralises eyelid tone
#TOP 8

Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eyeshadow Primer

TMLEP
Clear Eye Primer
10 g (Pack of 1)
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eyeshadow Primer Cover
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eyeshadow Primer for Long-Lasting Power Grip - Eye Primer Makeup Base to Control Oil & Prevent Creasing for All-Day - Eye Primer for Mature Skin - 10 g

The Elizabeth Mott Eyeshadow Primer is your go-to base for achieving stunning eye makeup. Infused with effective Korean ingredients, it enhances the pigment of your eyeshadow for a bold, vibrant look. Designed to control oil, it ensures that your makeup lasts throughout the day without any fallout. This primer is particularly beneficial for mature skin, as it helps conceal fine lines and provides a smoother application. With its lightweight and non-greasy formula, you can enjoy a comfortable wear without the need for constant touch-ups.

What We Like
Long-lasting eye makeup
Controls oil effectively
Suits mature skin
Lightweight, non-greasy formula
Enhances eyeshadow pigment
#TOP 9

Max Factor Miracle Prep Eyeshadow Primer, Universal Shade

33250063000
transparent
6 ml (Pack of 1)
Max Factor Miracle Prep Eyeshadow Primer, Universal Shade Cover
Max Factor Miracle Prep Eyeshadow Primer, Universal Shade, Long-lasting Formula For All Skin Tones, 6 ml, transparent, (Pack of 1), 33250063000

The Max Factor Eyeshadow Primer is designed to prepare your eyelids for a flawless eyeshadow application. This primer ensures your eyeshadow lasts longer and remains crease-proof throughout the day. It smoothens your eyelids, making it easier to apply eyeshadow evenly. Additionally, the universal shade works well with all skin tones, enhancing the vibrancy of your chosen colours. With this product, you can enjoy a more intense eyeshadow look while maintaining a polished finish.

What We Like
Long-lasting eyeshadow wear
Smoothens eyelids for easy application
Crease-proof formula
Universal shade for all skin tones
#TOP 10

Rimmel Magnif'eyes Eye Primer for Lasting Eyeshadow

34668390001
6 ml (Pack of 1)
Rimmel Magnif'eyes Eye Primer for Lasting Eyeshadow Cover
Rimmel Magnif'eyes Eye Primer

The Rimmel Eye Primer is designed to help your eyeshadow last for up to 24 hours, ensuring you look fabulous all day long. It is crease, smudge, and transfer proof, meaning you can confidently go about your day without worrying about your makeup fading or smearing. Additionally, it intensifies the colour of your eyeshadow, giving you a vibrant look that stands out. If you prefer a more natural appearance, this primer can also be worn alone to create a smooth, even skin tone around your eyes.

What We Like
Long-lasting up to 24 hours
Crease and smudge proof
Intensifies eyeshadow colour
Can be worn alone
Waterproof eyeshadow support
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the base for eyeshadow?

Eyeshadow base is a cream-based product that boasts a thick, tacky texture. It bonds to the eyeshadow and intensifies the color for a more vibrant and radiant look. You can typically find eyeshadow bases in various shades that can be used to customize your beauty look.

2. What eyeshadow base is best?

These are the best eyeshadow primers you can buy:. Best Overall: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion.Best Drugstore Option: CoverGirl Lid Lock Up Eyeshadow Primer.Best Clear Option: NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base.Best For Vibrant Eye Makeup: Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eyeshadow Primer.

3. Is eyeshadow base necessary?

EYESHADOW PRIMER CAN HELP EYE SHADOWS LAST LONGER. When you wear eye shadow without a primer underneath, it should come as no surprise when your makeup starts to move or fade over time. Throughout the day, your eyelids can start to look greasy, and the excess oils can cause your eye shadow to start fading.

Editor's Notes

During our eyeshadow base research, we found 46 eyeshadow base products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 185,277 customer reviews through our big data system to write the eyeshadow bases list. We found that most customers choose eyeshadow bases with an average price of £5.99.

The eyeshadow bases are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of eyeshadow bases, including e.l.f., NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP, Revolution Beauty London, Profusion Cosmetics, Urban Decay.

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.