The Eyelash Primers You Need to Boost Your Eye Makeup Look

Applying a makeup primer is a great way to ensure a seamless base for your makeup, not to mention it can extend its wear. And while many people’s minds go straight to face primer when they hear any mention of makeup priming, there are several types of primers that can improve how your makeup looks and feels. 

Eyelash primer, for instance, helps to boost your mascara so your lashes will look longer and voluminous, and some even contain conditioning ingredients that help soften your lashes and improve the comfort of wearing your mascara. If you’re interested in trying out a lash primer for yourself, keep reading to find out more about the product, and the best eyelash primers you can add into your routine today.

What Is Eyelash Primer?

An eyelash primer is a product that creates a smooth and even base for your mascara. Lash primers also increase the volume, lift and length of your lashes, and the smooth base means fewer clumps  and no spider lashes when you apply your mascara. Eyelash primer can also help you avoid those dreaded raccoon eyes by giving your mascara staying power (more clinging to your lashes and less dropping under your eyes), even when you’re wearing a washable formula. 

The Best Eyelash Primers to Boost Your Lashes 

Now that you know how effective lash primer can be for the life of your eye makeup, it’s time to give it a try. Pick any of the products below and enjoy a lash look that you’ll be proud to share across all your social platforms.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Primer

For thicker, longer lashes, try this classic lash primer that’s been a consumer favorite for nearly a decade. The lightweight formula helps to build volume and length on every one of your lashes, for a bolder and more dramatic eye look. The primer also conditions your natural eyelashes over time, so they won’t feel or look crunchy when you are and aren’t wearing mascara. Layer it with L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Washable Bold Eye Mascara in a classic black shade or bold color such as Cobalt Blue or Deep Green.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara Primer/Base

This pink-tinted primer is all about volume, and it pairs perfectly with the L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Washable Mascara. It comes with a soft and wavy mascara wand that has 200 bristles, so you can be sure that the brush will coat even your hard-to-reach inner lashes with the volumizing formula. The primer also contains conditioning rose oil to further help your mascara adhere to your lashes for longer wear.

How to Apply Lash Primer

Applying lash primer is a simple step that won’t add that much extra time to your makeup routine. 

Step 1. Place the lash primer brush at the base of your lashes and gently sweep it up to the tip.

Step 2. Allow your mascara primer to dry before sweeping on another coat or moving on to the next step.

Step 3. Layer your mascara on top, using as many coats as you need to complete your look. Then comb and separate your lashes if necessary and you’re done.

Editor’s tip: Many lash primers are lighter in color than mascara, so be sure that your mascara completely covers the color of the primer. 

Do You Let Lash Primer Dry Before Applying Mascara?

One small but important part of applying lash primer is so key we had to mention it again: Make sure that the primer is dry before moving on to mascara. This way, you can ensure that your lashes are fully coated with the primer before you apply your mascara, and this also helps you avoid the two formulas mixing together — especially if they're two different colors. Apply your lash primer, wait one minute for it to set and dry, and then move on to your mascara.

Next: The Best Lengthening Mascaras for Longer Lashes

Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn, Art Director: Hannah Packer, Associate Creative Producer: Becca Solovay, Digital Tech: Katy Andrascik, Photo Assistant: Sam Kang, Makeup Artist: Jonet Williamson, Hair Stylist: Akihisa Yamaguchi, Wardrobe Stylist: Melina Kemph, Wardrobe Assistant: Kayla Martinez, Model: Adrianne Kiara