Kaia Gerber’s Makeup Artist Told Me The Secret Behind Camera-Ready Eye Makeup

Celebrity and editorial makeup artist Lauren O’Leary, who has worked with a star-studded list of clientele, gave me the scoop on budget-friendly eye primers. “An eye primer is a product applied to the eyelid to help smooth and even out the lid for a more even, longer lasting eyeshadow application,” begins O’Leary. “It also helps shadow and eyeliner stay on longer without creasing or moving.” She recommends applying the product lightly and evenly with a brush or your finger on the eyelid and up to the brow bone. To avoid using too much primer, aim to use a small amount of product on the finger or a brush for smooth application then blend, blend, blend!

When selecting an eye primer, O’Leary prefers versatile products that work for many skin tones, are illuminating, and blend easily. “I like the Maybelline Master Prime Eyeshadow Base. It works on many skin tones because it comes in 3 different shades, has a bit of a brightening iridescence to it and comes with a little wand in the cap to apply it with,” says O’Leary. NYX’s Proof It! Waterproof Eyeshadow Primer is also a favorite of hers due to its translucent finish and easy-to-use wand applicator. Because it’s waterproof, the product also allows for the smooth and seamless application of eyeshadow.

Ready to discover your new favorite drugstore eye primer? Keep reading and get your wallet ready for a major makeup kit glow up.