Nars - Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

This came in a package of Nars eye products, along with mascara, eye makeup remover and a liquid eyeliner pen. At first, I didn't really get excited about it. I tried the other products, threw this in a drawer, and pretty much forgot about it. Then one day I was rooting around in my drawer looking for an eyeshadow, and my hand closed around this. I thought, "hey, why not?" So I tried it out.

Now, eyeshadows are a challenge for me. I have a lot of problems with creasing, and even some of the best shadow primers don't work for me all day long (don't hate me, but UDPP is one of them).

So you can imagine my surprise when this worked like a dream. It went on smoothly, it did a great job of holding my shadow in place - and, best of all, it lasted all day. I don't think it will replace my Too Faced Shadow Insurance (mainly because it's quite expensive and I'm not a fan of applicators that go back into the product - easier to contaminate with bacteria that way) but I'm definitely glad I gave it a try!

Ratings:
Packaging: 3/5 

Product quality: 5/5
Worth the price? It's good, but not better than cheaper alternatives. If you really like Nars, or if you find it as part of a package, give it a try. If you're on a budget, stick to one of the cheaper alternatives.
Would I purchase again? Possibly.

Cruelty-Free? Still looking into it.

Where to find it: Nars online.

Too Faced - Shadow Insurance

 To view image source, click on image

I suffer from major creasing because my lid area is quite small and overlaps when I blink. For this reason, I can't use even BeneFit Creaseless Cream shadows without creasing by the end of the day. I've tried pretty much everything out there (MAC Paint Pots, UDPP, Smashbox Photo Finish...) and I have to say that I've had the best results with this primer.

It is slick and easy to apply, which I like because I have very sensitive/delicate skin. Once it's on there, my shadow stays put all day long. No creasing, no fading. I've found that this works even better than UDPP for me, though I still do use both. The only reason to use a different primer in my opinion is if you are using shadows that have a glitter/lustre finish, which will cling better to the tacky base that MAC Paint Pots provide.

As mentioned in other reviews, the tube is much easier to use than the UDPP container and you need so little of the product that one tube will lase for months, even with daily use. I'd highly recommend giving this a try, even if you've been disappointed by other supposedly fantastic primers!

Ratings:
Packaging: 5/5
Product quality: 5/5
Worth the price? Definitely!
Would I purchase again? Unless another great primer comes along, this will always be close at hand.

Cruelty-Free? Yes - appears on PETA's Cruelty-Free list.
Where to find it: Sephora in store and online, London Drugs in store.