“My eye make-up never used to last – until I tried this product”

With creams, powders and liquids to choose from – all with varying effects – you can take your pick when it comes to the eyeshadow formulas that best work for you. But if you, like me, have tried them all in the hopes of finding one that lasts through the day, with no creasing in sight, I’m here to report that it might not be just down to the eyeshadow you pick, but the step you must include before.

I’m talking about eyeshadow primer. I used to think it was an unnecessary step that I only thought about when I had time, but there’s definitely some merit to the product category. Think of them as the glue to your eye look.

If you’ve spent the time to create a wash of colour over the lid, the last thing you need is to see it crumble within an hour of application. This is why you need an eyeshadow primer. The best one I’ve found for my lids? The Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer. 

The cream product not only makes any eyeshadow product you pop on top crease-proof, but it also mattifies your lid for the best canvas and helps set your eye look. What’s more, it somehow makes my eyeshadow more pigmented.

The cream disappears once applied to create a soft-focus finish and controls any excess oils, helping to stop your shadow from flaking. Simply apply it and let it dry for a few seconds before applying your eyeshadow.

It not only affects longevity, but also helps to prevent any smudging from occurring – ideal for when you’re opting for anything with a slight shimmer. Plus, it becomes invisible once it sinks into the skin, so you can apply any formula you like over the top.

Once upon a time, a smoky eye would crease after a few seconds, and a cream shadow would disappear by lunch, but it’s clear to see the difference this extra step has made in my make-up routine. It grips eye products like no other I’ve used to prevent any pesky fading. 

Images: Charlotte Bitmead; courtesy of brand