If you’ve ever noticed your concealer creasing, settling into fine lines, or fading by midday, you’re not alone. That’s where an under-eye primer can make a big difference. It’s an often-overlooked product, but it can be a game changer, helping your concealer last longer and stay fresh without the hassle.

Under Eye Primer

Simply put, under-eye primer is a product made to prep the delicate skin around your eyes before applying makeup. It’s usually light and packed with ingredients that hydrate, smooth, and address specific concerns like fine lines or dark circles. Think of it as a skincare and makeup hybrid that creates the perfect base for your concealer.

Why Should You Use It?

1. Stops Creasing: One of the main problems with under-eye makeup is creasing. A good primer smooths the skin, making it easier for concealer to blend and stay in place.
2. Keeps Skin Hydrated: The under-eye area can be prone to dryness. A primer with moisturizing ingredients helps keep skin nourished, preventing your concealer from looking cakey or settling into lines.
3. Brightens the Eyes: Many under-eye primers have a slight tint or light-reflecting particles to brighten up the area, helping you look more awake and refreshed.
4. Makes Your Makeup Last Longer: By creating an even base, primer helps your concealer stay in place, so you don’t need to constantly touch up throughout the day.

How to Use Under Eye Primer

1. Start with Skincare: Begin with a gentle eye cream or moisturizer to hydrate the skin, creating a smooth base.
2. Apply the Primer: Use your ring finger (which applies the least pressure) to gently tap a small amount of primer under your eyes. Focus on areas where you tend to see dryness or creasing.
3. Blend It In: Gently blend the primer until it’s absorbed into the skin.
4. Follow Up with Concealer: After the primer has set, apply your concealer. You’ll notice it glides on much smoother and stays in place longer.

Key Ingredients to Look For

• Hyaluronic Acid: For hydration and plumping.
• Peptides: To smooth out fine lines and support skin elasticity.
• Vitamin C: For brightening dark circles.
• Light-Reflecting Particles: To add a subtle glow and make you look more awake.

Adding an under-eye primer to your routine might be just the thing you need for a flawless finish. It creates a smooth base, helping your concealer stay fresh and last longer throughout the day. Give it a try, and you’ll see the difference!

Recommended Products

1. Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Under Eye Primer

• Why it’s great: This primer is packed with vitamins C and E, plus peptides to hydrate and smooth the delicate under-eye area. It also helps brighten dark circles and creates a smooth base for concealer.
• Best for: Those with dry or dehydrated under-eye skin.

2. Tatcha The Silk Peony Melting Eye Cream

• Why it’s great: A luxurious blend of botanicals like peony and Japanese ingredients, this product works as both an eye cream and primer. It hydrates, reduces fine lines, and refreshes the under-eye area.
• Best for: Sensitive or mature skin in need of hydration and anti-aging benefits.

3. Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector

• Why it’s great: A creamy formula that combines a primer with a color corrector, specifically for brightening dark circles. Its peachy tint neutralizes under-eye discoloration, giving you a fresh, awake look.
• Best for: Brightening and correcting dark circles.

4. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (Original)

• Why it’s great: Though it’s designed for eyeshadow, this primer works wonders under the eyes, too. It prevents creasing and keeps your makeup in place all day.
• Best for: Those looking for an all-purpose primer that gives smoothness and longevity.

5. Milani Prime Shield Face Primer

• Why it’s great: A budget-friendly option that smooths the under-eye area and has a mattifying effect. It’s great for those with oily skin who need a little more control in this area.
• Best for: Oily or combination skin types.

6. Laura Mercier Hydrating Primer

• Why it’s great: This primer is full of hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, making it perfect for adding moisture and creating a smooth base for concealer. It helps your makeup last longer and leaves your under-eye area hydrated.
• Best for: Dry skin that needs both hydration and longer-lasting wear.

7. e.l.f. Hydrating Under Eye Primer

• Why it’s great: An affordable, effective option that hydrates and smooths the under-eye area while helping reduce puffiness and giving you a dewy finish.
• Best for: Those on a budget with dry or dull under-eye skin.

8. Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer

• Why it’s great: Known for its ability to hydrate and refresh, this primer contains coconut water and probiotics to nourish the skin. It’s perfect for those who want a smooth base and extra hydration.
• Best for: All skin types, especially dry or tired-looking skin.

These primers are great for different needs—whether you’re after hydration, brightness, or longevity. Find one that fits your skin concerns, and you’ll see the difference it can make!

Frequently Asked Questions About Under Eye Primer

1. What does an under-eye primer do?

An under-eye primer helps smooth and hydrate the skin before applying concealer. It reduces creasing, prevents makeup from settling into fine lines, and helps your makeup stay fresh longer throughout the day.

2. Is an under-eye primer necessary?

If you’ve ever had trouble with concealer creasing, fading, or highlighting fine lines, then yes, an under-eye primer can make a big difference. It helps your makeup go on smoothly and stay in place for longer.

3. Can I use a regular face primer under my eyes?

While you can, under-eye primers are specifically made for the delicate skin around your eyes. They’re usually lighter and more hydrating, making them a better fit for addressing concerns like puffiness and dark circles.

4. How do I apply under-eye primer?

After moisturizing, apply a small amount of primer under your eyes using your ring finger (it applies the least pressure). Gently blend it in, and let it set before applying your concealer.

5. Is under-eye primer good for all skin types?

Yes! There are primers for different skin needs. For dry skin, look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. If you have oily skin, a mattifying formula might be a better choice. Just pick one that suits your skin’s needs.

6. Can under-eye primer help with dark circles?

Many under-eye primers are designed to brighten the area with light-reflecting particles or color-correcting ingredients, so while they aren’t a complete solution, they can certainly help reduce the look of dark circles and give you a more awake appearance.

7. Does under-eye primer make my concealer last longer?

Yes! A good primer creates a smooth base, helping your concealer stay in place and last longer without needing constant touch-ups.

8. Can I skip eye cream if I’m using an under-eye primer?

While some primers do have moisturizing ingredients, it’s still a good idea to use an eye cream, especially if your under-eye area is very dry. You can layer both, starting with the eye cream, then applying the primer.

9. Are there any side effects to using an under-eye primer?

Most under-eye primers are safe, but if you have sensitive skin, it’s always smart to patch-test before using a new product. Look for formulas that are free from harsh chemicals or fragrances to avoid irritation.

10. Do I need concealer to use under-eye primer?

Not at all! Under-eye primer can be used alone to hydrate and smooth the area, giving you a refreshed look without makeup. It can also be a great base for other eye makeup like eyeshadow or eyeliner if you wear those.