Do You Need Under-Eye Primer?

Whether you’re a makeup addict or makeup novice, chances are you’ve heard about the wonders of makeup primer. This must-have makeup product can help smooth lines, blur imperfections, and increase the lifespan of your makeup look. Need we say more? That said, with one quick Google search, you’ll see that there’s more than one type of primer. Sure, you may be familiar with face primer and eye primer—perhaps you even have a lip primer in your collection—but have you considered adding an under-eye primer to your makeup bag? If you’re unsure what an under-eye primer is and if it’s a necessity, we’re here to share all the details. Read on for the 4-1-1.

WHAT IS UNDER-EYE PRIMER?

Before we talk about if you need under-eye primer, let’s go over what under-eye primer is. As you can probably guess, this type of primer is specifically meant to be applied under your eyes. Since the under-eye area tends to need a little extra moisture, these primers are often hydrating, which helps to keep the rest of your under-eye makeup from settling into fine lines.

Under-eye primer checks the same boxes that many primers do—it helps create a smooth, even canvas, keep your makeup looking fresh, and blur imperfections. Speaking of the latter, under-eye primers are typically formulated to help reduce the appearance of dark circles—meaning you won’t have to worry about color correcting your under-eye area if you’re a bit sleep-deprived.

3 REASONS TO USE UNDER-EYE PRIMER

If you need help vetting this type of primer before determining if it deserves a spot in your routine, here are three reasons to use an under-eye primer.

Use an under-eye primer if…you’re prone to creasing under your eyes. As we mentioned above, under-eye primer will keep your makeup from settling into fine lines and wrinkles. If you find yourself having to use your finger to smooth out creased under-eye makeup on the regular, it’s time for you to start priming under your eyes.

Use an under-eye primer if…you want your makeup to stay put. Let’s be real—how many times have you expertly applied under-eye concealer, only to have it fade throughout the day and leave you with tired-looking eyes? We’ve all been there. An under-eye primer will help keep your makeup looking fresh and prevent fading throughout the day and night.

Use an under-eye primer if…you don’t feel like wearing makeup. You don’t have to plan on wearing a full face of makeup to put under-eye primer to use. In fact, it’s a great no-makeup alternative. If you feel like going bare-faced, but want to give your under-eye area a boost, apply an under-eye primer to help reduce the appearance of any dark circles and provide hydration.

HOW TO USE UNDER-EYE PRIMER

If you’re ready to add an under-eye primer to your daily regimen, you’ll need to learn how to use one for the best results. Follow the steps below to put under-eye primer to use.

STEP #1. CLEANSE YOUR SKIN

Any makeup routine starts with clean, fresh skin. Saturate a cotton pad with the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types to remove any excess oil and impurities for a clean canvas. Follow up with the rest of your morning skin care routine.

STEP #2. GRAB YOUR UNDER-EYE PRIMER

Apply a pea-size amount of under-eye primer to your fingertip, then pat it onto your under-eye area using your ring finger. Make sure to pat, not rub, since the skin under your eyes is extremely delicate! Use this time to apply an eye primer to your lids as well.

STEP #3. APPLY YOUR MAKEUP

Apply your eye makeup in whichever way you choose and let your under-eye primer work its magic. Layer a long-lasting concealer and setting powder on top for a look that really won’t budge.

Next up: Speaking of different types of primer, hair primer is totally a thing, too. Check out our article, What Is Hair Primer?, to learn more.