Why do my lashes always look flat by noon? You deserve a product that acts like a sturdy foundation for your makeup.
Adding a primer is the missing link in your routine. These Best Drugstore Mascara Primers provide the grip and volume your eyes crave. Let us explore the top choices available.
Key Takeaways
- Look for formulas containing conditioning agents like hyaluronic acid to prevent brittle, dry lashes.
- Choose a tinted primer if you want to avoid white streaks that require heavy coats of mascara to cover.
- Consider a two-in-one product if you want to streamline your makeup bag and save time during your morning routine.
- Check the applicator brush shape because dense bristles offer better separation while fluffy brushes deposit more product for volume.
- Evaluate the size of the tube to ensure you have enough volume for daily use or a compact option for travel.
| Best Overall Value |  |
Essence Lash Princess Mascara Primer | Extremely budget friendly | Boosts lash length | Adds noticeable volume | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Premium Conditioning Treatment |  |
Lancôme Cils Booster XL Primer | Conditions lash hairs | Adds significant thickness | Smooths out texture | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Two In One Solution |  |
Honest Beauty Extreme Length Primer | Space saving design | Clean formula ingredients | Two products included | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Tinted Lengthening Base |  |
Maybelline Sky High Lash Primer | Tinted soft black | Serum infused formula | Easy to cover | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Hydrating Fiber Base |  |
Tarte Tartelette Tubing Lash Primer | Contains hyaluronic acid | Hydrating lash base | Prevents mascara flaking | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Dramatic Volumizing Base |  |
L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Primer | Builds intense volume | Soft white tint | Great for thick lashes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Compact Hydration Essential |  |
Tarte Tartelette Tubing Travel Primer | Travel friendly size | Hydrating hyaluronic acid | Moisturizing lash base | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Complete Lash Set |  |
Essence Lash Princess Bundle Kit | Includes primer and mascara | Coordinated product performance | Great value bundle | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Essence Lash Princess Mascara Primer
If you want to boost your lashes without spending a fortune, this is the primer to pick. It works like a solid foundation for your mascara, helping you achieve extra length and volume that lasts all day.
Just keep in mind that the formula is quite thin, so you need to let it dry down slightly before applying your top coat. This prevents your lashes from getting clumpy or weighed down.
- Brand Name:essence
- Product Type:Mascara Primer
- Pack Count:1
- Additional Feature:Creates a smooth base
- Additional Feature:Pairs with any mascara
- Additional Feature:Simple application process
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Lancôme Cils Booster XL Primer
Think of this as a luxury spa treatment for your eyelashes. It contains micro-fibers that help to thicken and lengthen your lashes while the conditioning ingredients keep them healthy and soft.
The white base is quite pigmented, so be sure to cover it completely with your mascara. It is an excellent choice if you have brittle lashes that need a bit of extra TLC.
- Brand Name:Lancôme
- Product Type:Mascara Primer
- Formula Color:White
- Additional Feature:Infused with conditioning agents
- Additional Feature:Micro-fiber technology
- Additional Feature:Improves overall lash health
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Honest Beauty Extreme Length Primer
This is a clever double-ended tool that includes both a primer and a mascara in one convenient package. It is perfect if you want to save space in your makeup bag or if you travel frequently.
The formula leans toward a clean ingredient profile, which is great if you have sensitive eyes. Just ensure you apply the primer while it is still damp to get the best lengthening results.
- Brand Name:Honest Beauty
- Product Type:Mascara and Primer
- Fluid Ounces:0.27 fl oz
- Formula Color:Black
- Additional Feature:Dual ended applicator
- Additional Feature:Lengthening formula
- Additional Feature:Compact for travel
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Maybelline Sky High Lash Primer
Unlike most white primers that require heavy coverage, this one features a soft black tint. It blends into your lashes naturally, so you do not have to worry about stubborn white streaks peeking through your mascara.
It is infused with a serum that helps to thicken your lashes over time. This makes it an ideal pick if you want a natural look with a bit of extra drama.
- Brand Name:Maybelline
- Product Type:Lash Primer
- Formula Color:Soft Black
- Pack Count:1
- Additional Feature:Lengthening properties
- Additional Feature:Thickening serum base
- Additional Feature:Washable formula
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Tarte Tartelette Tubing Lash Primer
If your lashes feel dry or brittle, this primer is your new best friend. It is infused with hyaluronic acid to keep your lashes hydrated while the tubing technology creates a long lasting base for your mascara.
The full size tube provides plenty of product to last you for months. It is particularly effective at preventing flaking throughout the day.
- Brand Name:tarte
- Product Type:Conditioning Mascara Base
- Formula Color:White
- Additional Feature:Vegan and cruelty free
- Additional Feature:Tubing technology
- Additional Feature:Promotes fuller lashes
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L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Primer
This primer is designed to build serious volume before you even touch your mascara. It applies as a soft white coat that plumps each lash, making it much easier to achieve a thick, fanned out effect.
Because it creates such a bold base, it works best if you enjoy a full glam look. Just make sure to use a quick hand so the formula does not dry too fast.
- Brand Name:L'Oreal Paris
- Product Type:Mascara Primer
- Fluid Ounces:0.27 fl oz
- Formula Color:Soft White
- Additional Feature:Thickening base formula
- Additional Feature:Smooth application wand
- Additional Feature:Pairs with volumizing mascaras
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Tarte Tartelette Tubing Travel Primer
This is the same highly rated formula as the full size, just in a portable package. It is the perfect size to toss in your purse or carry-on bag for quick touch-ups on the go.
The conditioning properties make it a reliable choice for maintaining lash health while traveling. It provides the same moisturizing benefits as its larger counterpart without taking up space.
- Brand Name:tarte
- Product Type:Conditioning Mascara Base
- Formula Color:White
- Additional Feature:Vegan and cruelty free
- Additional Feature:Easy to transport
- Additional Feature:Same performance as full-size
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Essence Lash Princess Bundle Kit
If you are starting from scratch, this bundle is the most logical purchase. It includes both the primer and the mascara, ensuring they work perfectly together to maximize length and volume.
It is a simple way to upgrade your routine without guessing which products complement each other. The pair is designed to provide a cohesive look that is both striking and long-lasting.
- Brand Name:essence
- Product Type:Primer and Mascara
- Pack Count:2
- Additional Feature:Extreme lengthening results
- Additional Feature:Increased volume effect
- Additional Feature:Complete lash system
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to use a primer before my mascara?
You do not strictly need one, but it is a massive help if you want extra volume or length. It provides a smooth base that makes your regular mascara adhere better and last longer. If your lashes are thin, a primer acts as a scaffolding that makes your final look appear much denser. It is a simple step that upgrades your results without much effort.
Will the white primer show through my black mascara?
It might show if you are not careful. You must apply your black mascara while the primer is still slightly damp to ensure the dark pigment covers the white base completely. If you have trouble covering the white, try using a tinted primer instead. It blends away much easier if you miss a few stray hairs.
Should I let the primer dry completely before applying mascara?
No, you should avoid waiting for it to dry entirely. If the primer sets into a hard, dry state, your mascara will have a difficult time gripping the lashes. Apply your mascara when the primer is tacky to the touch. This creates a strong bond between the two layers for a smooth finish.
Is it difficult to remove primer at the end of the day?
Some primers can add a bit of grip, which makes your mascara stay on longer. You might need a dual-phase makeup remover or an oil-based cleanser to break down the bond effectively. Do not scrub your eyes harshly. Simply hold a soaked cotton pad over your lashes for ten to fifteen seconds to let the formula dissolve.
Can I use primer on my bottom lashes?
You can, but apply it very sparingly. The skin under your eyes is prone to smudging, and adding extra product can lead to raccoon eyes by the afternoon. Focus the primer on the tips of your bottom lashes rather than the roots. This provides a bit of definition without the risk of migration.
