Eyelid Primers
Description
November 1, 2022
By Lisa Petrison
I realized recently that the discoloration that is present in the dark circles under my eyes is also evident in the area above my eyes, and not in a way that I think is especially attractive.
I therefore have been experimenting with various options that I hoped would both cover up the discoloration as well as to provide a good surface for any eyeshadows that I might want to wear.
As with foundations and undereye concealers, many of the options that I tried seemed to settle into the my wrinkles and make them look even worse, and so that eliminated a good many products from consideration.
Another problem is that many eyelid primers contain problematic ingredients with the potential of irritating my sensitive eyelids.
In addition, I am not sure that I feel comfortable using silicone on my entire eyelid area on a regular basis, due to its tendency to clog pores and in general not allow the skin to “breathe” very well.
While I’ve purchased quite a few eyelid primers of various kinds, I’m a little afraid of even trying some of them due to their containing potentially problematic ingredients. Hopefully I can get around to doing that soon.
In the meantime, I have found that a few concealers have worked very well for me as eyelid primers, and so am listing those on this page as well as on the Liquid Concealers page.
TOP PICKS
♣ Living Clean Superstars:
+Ilia Natural Brightening Eyelid Primer ($24)
Kosas Revealer Concealer ($28)
MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot ($23)
+Saie Hydrabeam ($26)
Typology Tinted Concealer ($29)
♠ Additional Possibilities:
Clinique Touch Base for Eyes ($20)
MAC Pro Longwear Concealer ($28)
+Mad Hippie Concealer ($21)
Tarte Sea Powerflex Concealer ($28)
♠ Not Yet Tried:
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Shadow Primer ($14)
MAC Prep + Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base ($27)
Milani Eyeshadow Primer ($9)
Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer ($24)
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion ($24)
♥ Lisa’s Choice:
Ilia Natural Brightening Eyelid Primer ($24)
Kosas Revealer Concealer ($28)
√ Saie Hydrabeam ($26)
Typology Tinted Concealer ($29)
Notes:
1) Living Clean Superstars – Products with high scores on both Performance Rating (5) as well as Ingredients Rating (4/5). + Clean Pick (Ingredients Rating = 5).
2) Lisa’s Choice – Products that I would purchase for my own personal use. √ Lisa’s Favorite
The next section contains affiliate links, which means that Living Clean in a Dirty World may receive a commission if readers click on these links and then purchase products. Living Clean in a Dirty World also may accept product review samples but receives no other compensation from companies mentioned on this website.
Bare Minerals Prime Time Eyeshadow Primer – $19
Overall Rating: 
(3 / 5)
Performance Rating: 
(5 / 5)
Ingredient Rating: 
(2 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Problematic Colorings: Carmine
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: Retinyl Palmitate
The description of this product reads, “Antioxidant-rich eye primer creates a smooth base that prolongs eyeshadow wear,while maximizing color intensity and combatting creasing. Maximizes color intensity and staying power of eye makeup. Prevents creasing and absorbs excess oil. Silky formula with nourishing antioxidants helps ensure your eye looks are smooth.”
I found out after purchasing this item that it contains retinyl palmitate, which is a retinol-type substance that I have decided to avoid.
I tried the product a few times and don’t feel that it was irritating to my eyes, but don’t plan to use it again myself.
I do think that the performance was pretty good and might have continued using it on occasion if it weren’t for the retinol issue.
The product also contains cyclopentasiloxane (a cyclic silicone that is on Credo’s “dirty list”) and some additional silicones.
Size: 0.1 oz.
Ulta Rating: 4.6 Stars (666 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: Unclear
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: No (Retinyl Palmitate)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 6 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane (3), Dimethicone (3), PEG-40 stearate (3), Retinyl palmitate (9), Titanium dioxide (3).
Fragrance Ingredients: Lonicera Caprifolium Flower Extract, Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract
All Ingredients: Isododecane, Barium Sulfate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Cyclopentasiloxane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate , Polyethylene , Triethylhexanoin , Vp/Eicosene Copolymer , Trihydroxystearin , Sorbitan Sesquioleate , Dimethicone , Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract , Propylene Carbonate , Beeswax , Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract , PEG-40 Stearate , Jojoba Seed Oil , Ascorbyl Palmitate , Retinyl Palmitate , Tocopherol , Tin Oxide. May Contain: Mica, Carmine, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Bismuth Oxychloride
Clinique Touch Base for Eyes – $20
Overall Rating: 
(4 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredient Rating: (3 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Problematic Colorings: Chromium Oxide Greens, Ultramarines, Ferric Ferrocyanide, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Carmine
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “Versatile, creamy formula can be worn alone to add color and glimmer. Or, layer under eye shadow as a base. Ophthalmologist tested.”
This is a silicone-based cream that comes in a little pot and that is intended to supply a layer of neutral base to the entire eyelid area.
Although the coverage is some extent “buildable,” I feel like it naturally goes on pretty sheer.
The first ingredient is cyclopentasiloxane, which is a cyclic silicone that is on Credo’s “dirty” list but that always seems fine for me.
Some potentially problematic colors also are included.
I have not experienced any irritation as a result of using this product.
The main complaint that I have read about with regard to this product is that it has a tendency to get dried up quickly.
This has not happened to me yet, perhaps because I have taken some measures to present it (including leaving the piece of foil protecting the product in the container, not opening the lid for more than a few seconds, and using a brush rather than my fingers to scoop out the product).
The shade Light Canvas is lighter than my skin and Canvas is darker than my skin, but both seem to work okay on my eyelids.
A third shade (which I have yet to try) is called Nude Rose. I think this might be a pretty shadow on me, though I’m not sure how it would work as base.
The main deterrent to my using this product has been that it seems a bit more fussy than a swipe-and-go option like a shadow stick or concealer wand.
However, probably if I were using it every day and had the brush at hand, it actually wouldn’t take much extra time.
Size: 0.045
Ulta Rating: 4.4 Stars (1179 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: No
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Cyclopentasiloxane, Problematic Colors)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 4 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane (3), Dimethicone (3), Titanium dioxide (3), Chromium oxide greens (5), Ultramarines (3), Ferric ferrocyanide (4), Chromium hydroxide green (4). (Also contains Carmine.)
Fragrance Ingredients; None
All Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Aluminum Distearate, Octyldodecanol, Ceresin, Zinc Stearate, Dimethicone, Microcrystalline Wax, Hydrated Silica. May Contain: Bismuth Oxychloride, Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Iron Oxides, Manganese Violet, Chromium Oxide Greens, Ultramarines, Ferric Ferrocyanide, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Carmine.
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eye Shadow Primer – $14
Performance Rating: Not Yet Rated
Ingredient Rating: (3 / 5)
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “This cruelty-free eyeshadow primer enhances your eyeshadow and protects your makeup all day. Have a dinner date after work? No worries, this eyeshadow primer stays locked in all day. to apply in the morning and go all night long without worrying. Need to fit in a quick workout and don’t have time to reapply? We have you covered. Dries quickly and transparently prepping your eyelids for a smooth and even application of your shadow.”
I have yet to try this product.
Size: 0.35 oz.
Amazon Rating: 4.5 Stars (26,290 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: Unclear
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Unclear
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Cyclic Silicones, Talc, PEG)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 5 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane (3), Talc (5), PEG-40 stearate (4), Dimethicone (3), Titanium Dioxide (3). (Also contains Cyclohexasiloxane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Methicone.)
Fragrance Ingredients: None
All Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Talc, Isododecane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Disteardimonium Hectorite, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Trihydroxystearin, Bismuth Oxychloride, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Propylene Carbonate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Beeswax, PEG-40 Stearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethicone, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Methicone, Tocopheryl Acetate. May Contain: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides
Ilia Natural Brightening Eyelid Primer – $24
♥ Lisa’s Choice
♣ Living Clean Superstar
Overall Rating: (5 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredients Rating: (5 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Processed Fragrance: None
Silicone Level: Low
The description of this product reads, “Our Natural Brightening Eye Primer sets the stage for cream and powder shadows. A blend of mineral pigments that both illuminate the eye area and keep excess oils at bay; ensuring colors pop and the formula stays put. Naturally-sourced botanicals of healing aloe, de-puffing arnica and rejuvenating rose hip ensure the area looks bright-eyed all day. Use alone or with any shadow, liner or multi-use product to enhance performance and wear.”
This product is white in the tube and goes on clear, perhaps with a little translucent brightening from the white pigment.
It contains a small amont of silicone (as the eleventh ingredient) and does not feel very silicone-heavy to me.
It seems to serve as a good base for a variety of different types of eyeshadows and has not seemed to cause any irritation for me.
I think that it is about equal to the Kosas or Saie concealers in terms of how well it performs as a base for shadows.
However, I feel like I slightly prefer the Kosas and Saie products since they provide a base color that covers the darkness on my eyelids.
I see that the user reviews of this product are not very high, with many of these people complaining about creasing.
Apparently this is an issue for people who have oily eyelids, which I definitely do not have.
I do think that this product does not really do the textural issues on my eyelids any big favors, but I’ve not found any products (apart from those that contain a lot of silicone) that help much with that.
All in all, I think that this product does help eyeshadows to go on easier and last longer, and therefore that it may be worth using.
Size: 0.1 oz.
Credo Rating: 3.9 Stars (38 reviews)
Credo Clean: Yes
Clean at Sephora: Yes
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Yes
EWG Ingredient Rating: 4 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Rosa canina seed oil (3), Dimethicone (3), Chamomile flowers (3)
Fragrance Ingredients: Rosa canina seed oil, Vanilla bean, Rosemary leaf, Chamomile flowers
All Ingredients: Water, Glycerin*, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice*, Polyglyceryl-2 Oleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Coco-caprylate, Jojoba Esters, Rosa Canina Seed Oil*, Olive Fruit Oil*, Dimethicone, Mica, Vanilla Bean*, Rosemary Leaf*, Arnica Montana*, Chamomile Flowers*, Phenethyl alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopherol. *Certified Organic Ingredients.
Kosas Revealer Concealer – $28
♥ Lisa’s Choice
♣ Living Clean Superstar
Overall Rating: (5 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredient Rating: (4 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: None
Retinoids: None
The Kosas concealer is one of the few products without silicone that I have found serves as a good base for my eyeshadow without exacerbating my wrinkles.
It also works pretty well as a concealer for under my eyes and on the rest of my face, though I still prefer some other products (such as the Jones Road Face Pencils) for that purpose.
I feel like the hydrators (such as sodium hyaluronate and squalane) in this product help to decrease the dryness of my eyelid area, but without giving it a greasy feeling that oil-based products can.
It’s interesting to see that this product contains caffeine, since that is something that I have found to be very helpful in eye creams with regard to reducing puffiness around the eyes.
Consistent with the ingredients list, this product feels pretty clean to me.
I have not found it to be irritating when used as an eyelid primer or on other areas of my face.
I have Tone 03 (“light with subtle golden undertones”) and it seems to have worked well for me in general, on my face as well as on my eyelids.
Size: 0.20 oz.
Sephora Rating: 4.2 Stars (1501 reviews)
Credo Clean: Yes
Clean at Sephora: Yes
Drunk Elephant Clean: Meets Criteria
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Sodium Benzoate)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 3 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Sodium benzoate (3).
Fragrance Ingredients: Arnica montana flower extract, Rosemarinus officinalis extract
All Ingredients: Aqua, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Mica, Octyldodecanol, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Undecane, Glycerin, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Tridecane, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Galactoarabinan, Sunflower Seed Wax, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Caffeine, Dunaliella Salina Extract, Foeniculum Vulgare Oil, Glyceryl Oleate, Sunflower Seed Oil, Lecithin, Maltodextrin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Panthenol, Rosmarinus Officinalis Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Tocopherol, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides
MAC Prep + Prime 24-Hour Extend Eye Base – $27
Performance Rating: Not Yet Rated
Ingredient Rating: (3 / 5)
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “A shadow primer specially formulated to prolong the look of your eye makeup. This primer keeps eye makeup looking fresh and vibrant all day. Extends the wear of your eye shadow for up to 24 hours! This innovative new formula saves shadows from creasing and fading, while allowing hues to stay colour-true for up to a full day. Comfortable and lightweight, it is infused with the rich antioxidant vitamin E and is ideal for all skin tones and types.”
Size: 0.4 oz.
Ulta Rating: 4.6 Stars (168 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: No
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Unclear
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Talc, PEG)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 6 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Dimethicone (3), Talc (5), Tocopheryl acetate (3), PEG-40 stearate (3), Titanium dioxide (3). (Also contains Dimethicone Silylate.)
Fragrance Ingredients: None
All Ingredients: Dimethicone, Isododecane, Talc, Dimethicone Silylate, Trihydroxystearin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Kaolin, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Vp/Eicosene Copolymer, Trioctyldodecyl Citrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lecithin, Bisabolol, Triethylhexanoin, Silica, Alumina, Propylene Carbonate, Ethylene/Methacrylate Copolymer, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Stearic Acid, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Peg-40 Stearate, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Bismuth Oxychloride.
MAC Pro Longwear Concealer – $28
Overall Rating: (4 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredient Rating: (3 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “A liquid concealer that provides full matte coverage for up to 24 hours. A lightweight, liquid, long-lasting concealer with a comfortable matte finish. This pro concealer gives a smoother, flawless look to skin. The full-coverage formula helps to conceal blemishes, dark spots, skin discolouration and undereye circles.”
I bought this concealer on the recommendation of a MAC representative, back when I was first trying to figure out what the best way to address the dark circles under my eyes.
The product actually did do a pretty good job of covering up the problem without making my wrinkles look worse, and I did not react to it negatively at all.
Later I found that unlike most other concealers that I have tried, this product works well as a matte eyelid primer as well, drying down to a nice matte finish that lasts for a long time and that does not emphasize my wrinkles.
Unfortunately, this product does include a long list of moderately problematic ingredients, including three kinds of silicone (cyclopentasiloxane, PEG/PPG-18/18 dimethicone and dimethicone); a surfactant (laureth-7); and two preservatives (phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin).
I therefore think that it may be best to try to avoid using it on a regular basis unless it really seems necessary to do so.
I still am happy to have it as a tool in my makeup bag though.
Size: 0.30 oz.
Ulta Rating: 4.2 Stars (962 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: No
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Cyclic Silicone, PEG, Laureth-7, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 5 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane (3), PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone (3), Tocopheryl acetate (3), Dimethicone (3), Laureth-7 (3), Phenoxyethanol (4), Chlorphenesin (3), Titanium dioxide (3). (Also contains Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Methicone.)
Fragrance Ingredients: None
All Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Water, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Butylene Glycol, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Tribehenin, Magnesium Sulfate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Methicone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Laureth-7, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Sorbic Acid. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides
MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot – $23
♣ Living Clean Superstar
Overall Rating: (5 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredient Rating: (4 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Problematic Colorings: Blue #1, Chromium hydroxide green, Chromium oxide greens, Ferric ammonium ferrocyanide, Ferric ferrocyanide, Ultramarines, Yellow #5. (Note: This discussion applies only to the shades Painterly, Bare Study, Groundwork, Vintage Selection, Layin Low, Soft Ochre, Contemplative State, Born to Beam, and Bougie. Other shades may include aluminum powder.)
Silicone Level: None
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “A long-wearing, blendable eye primer and/or cream shadow that can be worn alone or with other products and lasts for 24 hours. MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot goes on creamy and dries to an intense, vibrant finish that lasts for 24 hours. The innovative second skin-like creamy shadow formula blends smoothly over lids and creates seamless, buildable coverage without looking heavy or cakey. Its superior colour purity stays true and will not streak or crease. Pro Longwear Paint Pot can be mixed with other products, like M·A·C shadows and liners.”
These “paint pots” are another silicone-based product from MAC that have performed very well for me in terms of coloring discoloration on my eyelids, serving as a good base for shadow, and not emphaizing my wrinkles.
These come in a variety of shades, including some bright ones that are intended for use as eyeshadows rather than as eyeshadow bases.
I have tried just the neutral shades though, including Painterly (“nude beige”) and Vintage Selection (“frosted dirty peach”).
The product description includes a list of a variety of potentially problematic coloring agents, including aluminum powder. Whether that is used in the shades that I have tried, I don’t know.
Like the Clinique Touch Base product, the Paint Pots seem to have the potential to dry out and therefore may be best used up quickly.
I think that although these products are thicker and are applied differently than the MAC concealer described above, the functionality of the neutral shades is pretty much the same with regard to this usage.
Although aluminum powder is listed as an ingredient, a MAC representative did an inquiry and then informed me that all the shades that I think would be appropriate for eyelid primers (along with some other shades) did not include any aluminum powder.
The shades stated as not including aluminum powder are Painterly, Bare Study, Groundwork, Vintage Selection, Layin Low, Soft Ochre, Contemplative State, Born to Beam, and Bougie. I do not yet have information about whether or not other shades in this product include that ingredient.
Size: 0.17 oz
Ulta Rating: 4.5 Stars (1107 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: No
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Problematic Colorants)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 6 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Dimethicone (3), Tocopheryl acetate (3), Titanium dioxide (3), Blue #1 (7), Chromium hydroxide green (4), Chromium oxide greens (5), Ferric ammonium ferrocyanide (4), Ferric ferrocyanide (4), Ultramarines (3), Yellow #5 (6). (Also contains Dimethicone Silylate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane.)
Fragrance Ingredients: None
All Ingredients: Isododecane, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Dimethicone, Polyethylene, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Quaternium-90 Bentonite, Dimethicone Silylate, Silica, Octyldodecanol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lecithin, Trihydroxystearin, Carnauba Wax, Propylene Carbonate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Tin Oxide, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate,. May Contain: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Bismuth Oxychloride, Blue 1, Bronze Powder, Carmine, Chromium Hydroxide Green, Chromium Oxide Greens, Ferric Ammonium Ferrocyanide, Ferric Ferrocyanide, Manganese Violet, Ultramarines, Yellow 5
Note: This discussion is applies only to the shades Painterly, Bare Study, Groundwork, Vintage Selection, Layin Low, Soft Ochre, Contemplative State, Born to Beam, and Bougie. Other shades may include aluminum powder and thus are excluded from the discussion.
Milani Eyeshadow Primer – $9
Performance Rating: Not Yet Rated
Ingredient Rating: (3 / 5)
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “Oily eyelids are over! Intensify the color of your favorite eyeshadow and increase its wear from day into night with our lightweight, crease-proof Milani Eyeshadow Primer. Our lightweight, invisible eyeshadow primer goes on nude and dries invisibly — you’ll know it’s working by the professional and smooth look of your eyeshadow. Fallout? Forget about it. Our eyeshadow primer works on all skin tones and is never drying, giving you the perfect base for electric eye looks. Go for flawless style fearlessly — this eyeshadow primer is influencer & fan approved! Vegan.”
I have not yet tried this product.
Size: 0.3 oz.
Ulta Rating: 4.2 Stars (330 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: Unclear
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Unclear
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Talc, Phenoxyethanol, Cyclic Silicone, PEG)
EWG Product Rating: 2 (green)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 5 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Talc (5), Phenoxyethanol (4), Cyclopentasiloxane (3), Dimethicone (3), PEG-40 Stearate (3). (Also contains Trimethylsiloxysilicate.)
Fragrance Ingredients: None
All Ingredients: Isododecane, Talc, Mica, Cyclopentasiloxane, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Trihydroxystearin, Polyethylene, Triethylhexanoin, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Dimethicone, Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-40 Stearate, Synthetic Beeswax, Propylene Carbonate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Water. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Bismuth Oxychloride, Iron Oxide
Mad Hippie Concealer – $21
Overall Rating: (4 / 5)
Performance Rating: (4 / 5)
Ingredient Rating: (5 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: None
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “Taking a cue from the the professionals who mix and match to create the perfect shade, our concise line of concealers are formulated for blending, allowing everyone to create their perfect shade. Our concealers are translucent blends meant to work with a variety of tones. Featuring rejuvenating peptides & antioxidants, these mineral concealers are packed with skin care actives that work to rejuvenate & reduce the appearance of skin discoloration over time! Apply under eyes and on blemishes, or apply as a lightweight foundation.”
The Mad Hippie Concealer is a product with a clean ingredients list that has done a better job than most in terms of serving as an eyeshadow base and covering my dark circles.
The problem is that this product seems to accentuate my wrinkles much more than the Kosas concealer or the silicone-based products discussed on this page.
Perhaps part of the reason for this is that even though the product includes moisturizers such as sodium hyaluronate and shea butter, it feels on the dry side to me compared to the Kosas concealer.
Although I feel that this is a pretty clean product and that I have not reacted to it, it does have a quite strong herbal smell. I do not really object to this smell but it certainly is noticeable.
The product is available in only six shades. The company suggests that people may want to buy two different shades and then mix them together to get their perfect shade, but that is not something that I think I ever would do because it sounds so fussy.
I have Shade #30 (described as “Fair with peachy, pink undertones. Peach shade works well to cover bluish under eye discoloration.”) and think that the color has been appropriate for use in my eye area.
Size: 0.35 oz.
Mad Hippie Rating: 4.5 Stars (29 reviews)
Credo Clean: Meets Criteria
Clean at Sephora: Meets Criteria
Drunk Elephant Clean: Meets Criteria
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Yes
EWG Product Rating: 3 (yellow)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 3 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Aloe (3), Peppermint extract (4)
Fragrance Ingredients: Mallow extract, Peppermint leaf extract, Primula veris extract, Alchemilla vulgaris extract, Veronica officinalis extract, Melissa officinalis leaf extract, Achillea millefolium extract
All Ingredients: Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Castor Seed Oil, Caprylic Capric Triglycerides, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 (and) Glycerin (and) Aqua, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sucrose Polystearate (and) Cetyl Palmitate, C10-18 Triglycerides, Squalane (vegan), Behenyl Behenate, Sodium, Stearoyl Glutamate, Glycerin, Phenethyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexyl Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Shea Butter, Jojoba Esters, Sodium Hyaluronate Acid, Tocopherol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Gigawhite (Water, Glycerin, Mallow Extract, Peppermint Leaf Extract, Primula Veris Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract, Veronica Officinalis Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract), Hesperidin, Iron Oxides
Milk Hydro Grip Eye Primer – $24
Performance Rating: Not Yet Rated
Ingredient Rating: (4 / 5)
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: None
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “A 93% natural, invisible eye primer for eyeshadow and concealer that creates a smooth base and locks down color for up to 8 hours to help prevent creasing, fading, and smudging. This product is 93% natural, vegan, clean, cruelty-free, paraben-free, oil-free, alcohol-free, silicone-free, fragrance-free, and gluten-free.”
I have yet to try this product.
Size: 0.29 oz.
Sephora Rating: 4.3 Stars (586 reviews)
Credo Clean: Meets Criteria
Clean at Sephora: Meets Criteria
Drunk Elephant Clean: Meets Criteria
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Sodium Benzoate, Benzoic Acid, Phenoxyethanol)
EWG Product Rating: 5 (yellow)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 4 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Aloe leaf juice (3), Tocopheryl acetate (3), Sodium benzoate (3), Benzoic acid (3), Phenoxyethanol (4). (Also contains Cornstarch, Cannabis Sativa Seed Extract, Citric Acid.)
Fragrance Ingredients: Rhus verniciflua peel wax, Agave tequilana leaf extract, Cannabis sativa seed extract
All Ingredients: C9-12 Alkane, Tapioca Starch, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Octyldodecanol, Silica, Hydrogenated Styrene/Isoprene Copolymer, Triacontanyl PVP, Sunflower Seed Wax, Tribehenin, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Corn Starch, Shorea Robusta Resin, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Wax, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Agave Tequilana Leaf Extract, Cannabis Sativa Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, C10-18 Triglycerides, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Triolein, Glyceryl Dioleate, Maltose, Water, Panthenol, Citric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Benzoate, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol.
Saie Hydrabeam – $26
♥ Lisa’s Choice
♣ Living Clean Superstar
Overall Rating: (5 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredients Rating: (5 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Processed Fragrance: None
Silicone Level: None
Retinoids: None
The description of this product on the Saie website reads, “Meet the skin-enhancing, face-filtering concealer from the future. Packed with clinically-tested, powerhouse ingredients like Squalane, Glycerin, Cucumber, and Tomato extract, Hydrabeam is your ultra-hydrating sheer concealer that covers just enough and illuminates a lot. Our unique formula has a lightweight, whipped-gel texture that blurs, brightens, and creates a fresh and glowing finish under eyes and anywhere else you please.”
While I would not use this product as a concealer, I do think that it has worked really well for me as an eyeshadow base.
It is gentle enough for me to use on my eyelids and provides a nice surface that seems to get along well with my powder as well as my cream eyeshadows.
I feel like the slight shimmer of the product is a positive rather than a negative when I use it above my eyes, and that it does not exaggerate textural issues to any significant extent when used that way.
I thus am giving it 5 Stars for performance on this page, but only 4 Stars on the Liquid Concealers page.
Nine shades of the product are available. I have Shade 2 (“for light to medium skin tones with golden undertones”) and the color seems fine for me.
Size: 0.2 oz.
Sephora Rating: 4.6 Stars (373 reviews)
Credo Clean: Meets Criteria
Clean at Sephora: Yes
Drunk Elephant Clean: Meets Criteria
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Yes
EWG Ingredient Rating: 4 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Licorice root extract (4), Titanium dioxide (3)
Fragrance Ingredients: Elderberry fruit extract, Tomato fruit extract, Cucumber fruit extract
All Ingredients: Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Tribehenin, Elderberry Fruit Extract, Silica, Licorice Root Extract, Jojoba Seed Oil, Squalane, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Mica, Tomato Fruit Extract, Cucumber Fruit Extract, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Rice Starch. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides.
Tarte Sea Powerflex Concealer – $28
Overall Rating: (4 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredients Rating: (3 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Processed Fragrance: None
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “This concealer offers comfy-yet-powerful full coverage with a natural matte finish and hydroflex technology that moves with skin, so it won’t cake or crease. It blurs and brightens dark under-eye circles and feels like an eye cream with up to 24-hour hydration. It is waterproof, crease-proof, sweatproof, and dermatologist tested.”
This is another product that has worked better for me as an eyelid primer than as a concealer.
It contains a number of different silicone ingredients, which seem to be unnecessary to provide coverage on my skin but that work particularly well as an eyeshadow base.
It dries down totally and has served as a nice base for both powder and cream shadows.
The product contains phenoxyethanol as well as some silicones with PEGS’s.
Although I was a little worried about using it on my eyelids, I do not feel that I experienced any irritation from it at all.
All 32 shades of the product are available in both full-size ($28) and mini ($12) versions. I appreciated the chance to try it for a more reasonable price.
Being able to just buy the minis and then replace the product more frequently has some appeal for me.
I have the color Light Sand (“fair to light skin with warm, golden undertones”), which is on the yellow side compared to most foundation/concealer products that I have tried.
Size: 0.33 oz.
Sephora Rating: 3.5 Stars (67 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: Yes
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (PEG, Phenoxyethanol)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 3 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Dimethicone (3), Lauryl PEG-10 Trimethylsiloxy silylethyl dimethicone (3), Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 dimethicone (3), Phenoxyethanol (4). (Also contains Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Caprylyl methicone, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Dimethicone crosspolymer, Dimethicone/vinyl dimethicone crosspolymer.)
Fragrance Ingredients: Sargassum Pacificum Thallus Extract, Gardenia Taitensis Flower Extract, Lemon Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
All Ingredients: Water, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Dimethicone, Isododecane, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Methicone, Lauryl PEG-10 Trimethylsiloxy Silylethyl Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Coconut Oil, Sargassum Pacificum Thallus Extract, Gardenia Taitensis Flower Extract, Tomato Leaf Cell Culture Extract, Pancratium Maritimum Extract, Turnip Root Extract, Lemon Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Hydroxide, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Tocopherol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Polyglutamic Acid, Hydrolyzed Ginseng Saponins. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides
Typology Tinted Concealer – $29
♥ Lisa’s Choice
♣ Living Clean Superstar
Overall Rating: (5 / 5)
Performance Rating: (5 / 5)
Ingredients Rating: (4 / 5)
Lisa Irritation Level: None
Processed Fragrance: None
Silicone Level: None
Retinoids: None
The description of this concealer states, “Medium high coverage. Natural finish. Reduces dark circles and puffiness all at once. Enriched with caffeine, niacinamide and cornflower hydrolate to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, long term. Also suitable for correcting imperfections. 97% naturally-derived formula.”
This is a French brand of skincare products that just started offering a few tinted products in 2022.
There is now a U.S. website that accepts orders, with the products (at least so far) being shipped to consumers from France.
I feel that both the foundation and the concealer have worked really well for me.
The Typology concealer seems to contain more oil than most other liquid concealers and to blend into my skin well even if I am not wearing any other foundation products.
I feel that it offers substantial coverage without drawing attention to my wrinkles or making it obvious that I am wearing any makeup at all.
The product seems to me to be moisturizing and nourishing, but it does not give my skin a shiny appearance or sticky feeling.
I like the idea that it includes caffeine and other ingredients thought to reduce puffiness and dark circles, though I haven’t experimented with it enough on its own to make a conclusion as to how much it has actually helped.
I think that the product works well in a variety of ways, including under my eyes and for general camouflaging of redness or other problem spots.
It also works almost as well (or maybe just as well) as the Kosas Revealer Concealer as an eyeshadow base.
The tube contains a generous amount of product and thus seems to me a pretty good value for the price.
The product is available in six shades. I have Shade 2 (“light skin with pink, neutral or yellow undertones”) and feel that it has been a good color for me.
Size: 0.5 oz.
Typology Rating: 4.2 Stars (321 reviews)
Credo Clean: Meets Criteria
Clean at Sephora: Meets Criteria
Drunk Elephant Clean: Meets Criteria
EU Compliant: Yes
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Sodium Benzoate)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 3 (yellow)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Sodium benzoate (3)
Fragrance Ingredients: None
All Ingredients: Water, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Jojoba Esters, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Tri(Polyglyceryl-3/Lauryl) Hydrogenated Trilinoleate, Silica, Caffeine, Niacinamide, Magnesium Sulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol. May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides.
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion – $24
Performance Rating: Not Yet Rated
Ingredient Rating: (3 / 5)
Problematic Colorings: None
Silicone Level: High
Retinoids: None
The description of this product reads, “Create endless eye looks that last with our not-so-secret weapon, Eyeshadow Primer Potion. This creamy eye primer keeps your eyeshadow crease-free, your eye color vibrant, and your application smooth. Formulated with polymer technology, this vegan beauty essential serves as the perfect base for your eyeshadow and eyeliner, filling in any surface imperfections and prepping lids for all-day wear.”
I have yet to try this product.
Size: 0.33 oz.
Ulta Rating: 4.5 Stars (13735 reviews)
Credo Clean: No
Clean at Sephora: No
Drunk Elephant Clean: No
EU Compliant: Meets Criteria
Pregnancy Pick: Maybe (Talc, Phenoxyethanol, Cyclic Silicone, PEG)
EWG Product Rating: 2/3 (green/yellow)
EWG Ingredient Rating: 2 (green)
EWG Problem Ingredients: Talc (5), Phenoxyethanol (4), Cyclopentasiloxane (3), Dimethicone (3), PEG-40 stearate (3). (Also contains Trimethylsiloxysilicate.)
Fragrance Ingredients: None
All Ingredients: Isododecane, Talc, Cyclopentasiloxane, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Trihydroxystearin, Polyethylene, Triethylhexanoin, Hydroxystearic/Linolenic/Oleic Polyglycerides, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Dimethicone, PEG-40 Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Synthetic Beeswax, Propylene Carbonate, Water. May Contain: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Bismuth Oxychloride.
Shopping List
This section lists products that seem that they may have potential and that I am hoping to try in the near future.
Readers are highly encouraged to bring other relevant products that they have tried to my attention so that I can add them to this list.
Chantecaille Next Generation Eye Base – $38
Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer – $28
PYT Beauty Baby Got Base Eye Primer – $14
Trash Can
Burt’s Bees Eyeshadow Primer ($10): I ordered this product directly from Burt’s Bees, and it arrived so dried-up that it was totally unusable. Since other Burt’s Bees products have been similarly unusable, I am thinking that this company needs to do a better job of managing its inventory. EWG gives the product a 5 (yellow), citing as potentially problematic natural fragrance (8) and phenoxyethanol (4).
Ulta Matte Eye Primer ($12): This product has gotten quite a few good reviews on the Ulta website, but it irritated my eyes to the point where I had to wash it off within a few minutes. The only EWG problem ingredients listed are titanium dioxide (3) and cyclopentasiloxane (3), both of which usually are okay for me. There are many other chemicals listed as also having been used in this product though, and it also could be that contamination was an issue.
About This Website
The Living Clean in a Dirty World shopping website is designed to provide guidance to those seeking out products that are relatively low in toxicity and that provide generally positive user experiences.
Although the skincare and makeup sections have a particular focus on products appropriate for women who are in their 40’s or beyond, the information provided may be useful for other people as well.
The products are curated by Lisa Petrison, who has been focused on helping people to improve their health by avoiding toxicity since 2008 and who heads the Paradigm Change organization.
Her Living Clean in a Dirty World blog site discusses a variety of topics of relevance to those who are working to pursue a more natural lifestyle with less exposure to harmful toxicity.
Lisa is the author of several books, including A Beginner’s Guide to Mold Avoidance (co-written with Erik Johnson).
She also runs the Paradigm Change website (focusing on issues related to toxic mold illness) and the Mold Avoiders Facebook group (designed for the discussion of all topics of interest to those pursuing the mold avoidance approach described in the “Beginner’s Guide” book).
Lisa was born in August 1964 and has yet to try cosmetic surgery, Botox or other cosmetic treatments requiring interactions with a physician, or beauty products containing retinoids.
In her former life, Lisa worked as a business school professor, as a marketing consultant to a variety of large companies, and as a reporter covering the advertising industry.
She holds a Ph.D. in marketing and social psychology from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University as well as B.S./M.S. degrees from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern.
Lisa would like to extend a special note of appreciation to Ellen Kleiman-Redden for her help in trying out products and discussing issues related to this project.
She also would like to thank the many members of the Mold Avoiders community who have shared suggestions of products to be included here.
A Note From Lisa
Products that I have tried or researched and that I have not found to be acceptable from a toxicity standpoint have been omitted entirely from the discussions on this website.
However, since a goal of this project is to introduce people to a range of options in terms of price and functionality, some products discussed on this site include ingredients that may not be appropriate for everyone.
It’s my hope that all individuals making their way to this site will find at least a few options from each product category that meet all of their own needs and wants from a variety of perspectives.
The vast majority of cosmetics marketers now offer affiliate programs in which Internet content creators may earn commissions if people who are referred to the companies’ sites by clicking on links end up making purchases.
I participate in quite a few individual affiliate programs as well as in the Sovrn/Viglinks program (which automatically converts regular links into revenue-generating links).
Links on this page that may result in affiliate income may include – but are not necessarily limited to – those from the following companies: Alima Pure, Amazon, Bare Minerals, Burt’s Bees, Chantecaille, Clinique, Credo, Elizabeth Mott, Goop, Ilia, Kosas, Laura Mercier, Lilah B., MAC, Mad Hippie, Milani, Milk Makeup, Pharmaca, PYT Beauty, Sephora, Ulta, and Urban Decay.
Reader comments about products discussed on this website are very welcome.
Thoughts may be shared either by posting them in the comments section at the bottom of this page or by sending them directly to me at the following email address:
info at paradigmchange dot me
Companies that would like to offer me complimentary products to try out may contact me at this address as well.
Individuals who are seeking out less-toxic products or who are interested in pursuing a cleaner and healthier lifestyle may want to sign up to receive occasional email newsletters from Living Clean in a Dirty World.
Thanks very much for visiting the Living Clean shopping site!
Links on this page are in orange (no underlining).
