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How do you apply your eyeshadow primer/base?


How do you apply your eyeshadow primer/base? Brush, fingers, sponge-tip applicator? Does it depend on the consistency? How so?

I always use MAC’s 249 to apply the primer, regardless of the consistency — whether it’s thick, thin, or liquid.

Thanks to Jill for today’s question! Got a question idea? Submit yours here.

40 Comments

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FadBurger Avatar

Fingers, I just my fingers for all aspects of my eyes. I know they are clean because I do it after I washed my face…I probably wash my hands like 5 different times in the morning haha.

Kimme Avatar

Always with my fingers. I am looking to try the new sigma percisions brushes that are like fingers so excited about that cant wait to try :0)

Carolito Avatar

Normally I first use a synthetic brush, like the ones for cream eye shadows (most of the time Bobbi Brown’s), and then my fingers to blend.

Lee Avatar

I dot on UDPP with the applicator and then blend it out with my fingers and over that I apply a paint pot with a MAC brush (it’s one for creams, maybe a 242?). I have to double up on the primer/base ’cause my eyelids are so heavy and hooded.

Michelle Brown Avatar

I squeeze a dollop of primer on a clean fingertip before dabbing half of the dollop on one eyelid and the other half on the other eyelid. Then, I use the fingertip to spread the primer all over my lids and browbones.

Meiya Avatar

For primers like TFSI or UD Primer Potion – I’ll use my finger.

For MAC Paintpots used as a base, I’ll generally use a brush
– 235 for a thin wash across the lid or on the brow
– 242 for placing on the lid (I find that for colored paint pots, this brush is great for making the color not too sheer and not too packed on)
– 234 or 217 if I’m using the PP as a base for a smokey eye

Garianne Avatar

I use the wand to apply a little of UD primer potion on my lid and then spread it around the entire lid & undereye lid with my finger. I like using my finger because it can feel if I have used too much.

CeeBee Avatar

Fingers!
I tried using brushes (both synthetic and natural) and I just couldn’t get even coverage or enough product on my actual eyelid as opposed to in the bristles of the brush (which then required multiple washings) – I’m lazy like that…

Veronica Avatar

Depends on what I’m using. If I’m doing foundation beforehand, I’ll use the concealer brush to brush it on. Most of the time, however, I’ll just use the applicator to spread it in the middle of the area I’m covering, then use my fingers to cover the lid.

Liz Avatar

Regardless of the type of primer (pot, tube or wand) I always warm it up between my fingers, then apply onto the eyelid with my fingers as well. Quick and simple, no need to complicate this part of my makeup routine.

camilla armitage Avatar

I apply a yellow-based primer {which I can’t use on my face for that reason} on my lids with my fingers and let it sink in for 15-20 minutes before I apply my make-up.

Jill Avatar

yay just saw that you posted my question! thanks christine! 🙂 been so busy this week I haven’t had much chance to read your blog – catching up now 🙂 good to know I am in the majority – use my fingers. may try a brush now though.

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