Confused about eyeshadow primer and eyeshadow base? This should help.

If you love wearing eye makeup, you should consider investing in these! Primer and Base are NOT the same thing… this is a common misconception for even those of us who are quite familiar with cosmetics. Many companies market primers as “eye shadow base”, although they might do similar things.

So what is an eye primer?

Primer is used to help eye shadow last longer, prevent eye shadow creasing and helps eye shadow show up better on the eye. It keeps the eyelids from getting oily & boosts the performance of even the worst quality eye shadows. Most primers are a liquid-type product, similar to a concealer. Often they come with a doe-foot applicator or in a squeeze tube. It is easiest to apply eye primer with your fingers. You shouldn’t use too much primer or you’ll negate its purpose altogether. A few drops of primer will work. Blend primer across the eyelid, until it disappears (most primers are skin coloured). Either way, the colour should be very faint on the eye.

And what is an eye shadow base?

An eye shadow base is normally a cream product used to intensify the pigmentation of eye shadow but they don’t always prevent creasing as the texture is thicker. Eye shadow base often comes in jars or pots or even as cream eye shadow – meaning it could come in any colour. Light pink or skin colours are the best shades for making your eye shadow stand out. Eye shadow base is also best applied with a finger! You only need a small amount or you’ll see creasing. You can wear both primer & base – base would go on after primer. Primer controls eyelid oils better than a base would alone.

Some people think that they can use a concealer as a primer – I don’t think so! Concealers contain oil in it & is much too thick for the thin skin on the eyelids. Doing so will make your eye shadow crease more!

Sometimes people with oily eyelids might feel that by applying eye primer their lids get more oily! That is true! There’s not much you can do about it. Keep tissues or oil blotting sheets with you & pat your lids lightly. Since oil is the culprit for eye makeup woes, getting rid of excess will really help.

Quick Tip: Use your finger to blend the primer down along your lower & upper lash lines. Get it as close to your lashes as possible. Primer will help with longevity of eye liner & all your eye makeup!

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