The Best Under-Eye Concealers of 2024
Waking up to dark under-eye circles can really put a damper on your morning glow. Even with all the right habits—chugging water, clocking eight hours of sleep, slathering on eye cream—those stubborn under-eye circles can refuse to budge. I never leave the house without at least a little bit of concealer under my eyes—for me, it’s not just a quick fix but a beauty essential. But finding the right one can be tricky.
The first time I discovered concealers, the Maybelline Age Rewind stick was all the hype—and don’t get me wrong, I still love it as an affordable drugstore pick, especially their new pink shade which is so brightening. But over time, as I learned more about my skin type, I started experimenting with different brands.
That’s when I discovered Tarte Shape Tape. Anyone who isn’t living under a rock knows about this concealer, and the hype is real. Its thin consistency and matte finish are great for oily skin like mine. But there are plenty of formulas on the market that are fantastic in their own way. The beauty space is exploding, and we’re spoiled for choice, so let’s look at some of the best under-eye concealers that will work for your skin type.
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Best Overall
Tarte Under Eye Concealer
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Best Budget
e.l.f. Under Eye Concealer
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Best Coverage
Covergirl Under Eye Concealer
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Most Natural Look
Maybelline Under Eye Concealer
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Best for Mature Skin
Winky Lux Under Eye Concealer
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How to Find the Right Under-Eye Concealer for You
When choosing an under-eye concealer for your unique needs, there are a number of factors you should consider, such as coverage, texture, creasing (or lack thereof), shade range, longevity, and application.
Coverage
Coverage refers to the amount of pigment or color intensity a concealer provides on your skin. Concealers come in different coverage levels: full coverage, medium coverage, and sheer coverage. Full coverage concealers provide the most opaque coverage, while sheer coverage concealers provide the least opaque coverage.
Reviewing the coverage of a concealer is important in making a smart shopping decision because coverage determines how effectively your concealer will hide your imperfections. Full coverage concealers are ideal for covering up dark circles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation, while sheer coverage concealers work better for daily use to brighten up the under-eye area and blur minor imperfections. Finding the right coverage for you depends on many factors such as your skin condition, the imperfections you want to cover, your lifestyle, and the occasion.
Texture
The texture of a concealer refers to its formulation and consistency. Texture plays a crucial role in determining the coverage and finish of a concealer. For example, a creamier concealer covers blemishes and dark circles more efficiently than liquid ones. Certain textures will slide off the skin, while others will cling to and emphasize dry patches.
It’s important to choose the right texture based on your skin type. For instance, those with oily skin can benefit from water-based, matte concealers. Dry skin requires hydration, so a creamy, oil-based concealer would be the best option. Make sure to read reviews and labels before you make your purchase to make sure the texture matches your skin type.
Creasing
Creasing is the result of a product settling into fine lines and wrinkles, making it look cakey and unnatural. It’s a common problem with concealers, especially if you have dry or mature skin. Creasing can also happen if you apply too much product, or if your makeup application technique is incorrect.
Nobody wants to look like they have cakey makeup, so it’s important to avoid creasing when applying concealer. The key to avoiding a concealer that creases is to choose the right formula for your skin type. If you have dry skin, choose a hydrating formula that won’t settle into fine lines. If you have oily skin, opt for a matte formula that won’t look greasy or shiny. You should also choose a shade that matches your skin tone, as using a lighter shade can make creasing more visible. Additionally, make sure you're applying the right amount of product (a little goes a long way) and blend it well with a brush or sponge.
Shade Range
Shade range refers to the variety of colors available within a specific product line. In the case of concealer, shade range refers to the variety of skin colors from light to dark that a specific concealer can effectively cover. It’s important to choose a concealer that matches your skin color as closely as possible. If it’s too light or too dark, it will be very noticeable and will not provide an even finish.
So, how do you find the right shade for you? First, identify your skin undertone. Is it cool, warm, or neutral? Cool undertones have pink, red, or blue hues, whereas warm undertones have yellow, peach, or golden hues. Neutral undertones have a balance of both. Once you’ve identified your undertone, choose a shade that matches your natural skin color. It’s always a good idea to test the concealer on your skin before making a purchase, when possible. Many makeup counters and stores offer free samples for you to take home and try out before buying.
Longevity
When referring to concealer, longevity means how long the product lasts without fading or creasing. A long-lasting concealer will keep you looking fresh and bright-eyed all day long, without the need for touch-ups. In order to achieve longevity, you need to ensure that the concealer you choose has a formula that can withstand heat, humidity, and sweat. It should also be smudge-proof, transfer-resistant and crease-resistant.
So, how can you find the perfect long-lasting concealer for your needs? Firstly, consider your skin type. If you have oily skin, it’s best to look for a matte concealer that will last longer and won’t slide off. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, choose a concealer with moisturizing ingredients that won’t settle into fine lines. Additionally, consider the coverage you require. Heavy-duty concealers tend to last longer than sheer formulas, but can look cakey in person. I like to use sheer formulas for daily wear, and heavy-duty concealers for nighttime events and date nights.
Applicator Type
Another aspect to consider is the applicator. Some concealers come with a wand, while others have a pump or come in a pot. A wand applicator is precise and easy to apply, while a pot concealer is more suitable for heavier coverage. A pump applicator is great for when you need larger areas of coverage.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Concealer
A good concealer can work wonders, but there are some extra steps you can take to help the concealer you choose work to the best of its ability.
Prep Your Skin
Before applying concealer, make sure your under-eye area is well-prepped by moisturizing with a lightweight eye cream and using a hydrating or silicone-based primer to create a smooth base.
Tip: Try out an eye cream or serum with ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or topical caffeine to treat dark circles over time.
Apply in Thin Layers
When applying the concealer, do so in thin layers using a small, fluffy brush or damp beauty sponge. This technique prevents creasing and provides a natural-looking coverage. Also remember: less is more!
Try the "Triangle Method"
Apply the concealer in a triangle shape under your eyes, with the base of the triangle along your lower lash line and the point towards your cheek. The triangle concealer technique effectively covers dark circles, brightens the under-eye area, and creates a lifted appearance, giving you a refreshed and awake look.
Set with Powder
Setting your under-eye concealer with powder helps prevent creasing and gives a lasting, flawless finish. Choose a lightweight translucent or yellow-toned powder and apply it sparingly using a small fluffy brush or damp sponge. Gently tap off excess powder and press it onto the under-eye area, focusing on crease-prone areas. After applying, use a clean brush to sweep away any extra powder. Avoid over-powdering to maintain a natural look.
Comparing the Top Under Eye Concealers of 2024
Tarte Under Eye Concealer
Pros
- Very high coverage
- Long-lasting
- No creasing
Cons
- Has fragrance
The Tarte Shape Tape concealer has been a classic in the beauty community for years—and we get why. It has a vegan, super-blendable formula that allows for full coverage with a flawless matte finish. This concealer also doubles as a contour/highlight product and provides the skin with an instantly brighter, smoother, and firmer look.
Here’s what one of our beauty editors has to say: “I love the texture, and it blends really well with a finger, sponge, or brush. It’s extremely long-lasting — I wear it all day long for work and the gym afterward (about 10 hours). The only drawback is that it’s scented. It’s a nice smell, but I prefer unscented products.”
The creamy, easy-to-blend formula won’t flake or crease and nourishes the skin with mango seed and shea butter that helps to illuminate for a lifted effect. It also utilizes ingredients that help retain skin elasticity and protect against free radical damage and licorice root extract that can help brighten dark circles.
Overall, despite the fragrance and the fact that it’s on the pricier end, the Tarte Shape Tape concealer is an excellent product for those looking for full coverage and a flawless matte finish in a formula that won’t flake or crease. The nourishing ingredients used also make it beneficial in helping to brighten the skin and protect against degeneration from free radical damage.
e.l.f. Under Eye Concealer
Pros
- High coverage
- Long lasting
- 23 different shades
Cons
- Creases on dry skin
While the e.l.f Hydrating Camo concealer is well known in the beauty community for its low price point, its quality has it up in the ranks with all the expensive high-end options. It’s super high coverage and can easily last all day without smudging or fading.
Because it’s available in an impressive 25 shades, it’ll be easy to find the perfect one for your skin tone. And if you have sensitive skin, you can rest assured that this product is vegan and cruelty-free, as well as free from phthalates, parabens, nonylphenol, ethoxylates, triclosan, and triclocarban.
Here’s what one of our beauty editors has to say: “Using this, I can skip foundation because it’s so high coverage and a single bottle lasts me months. The only thing I don’t like is that when my skin is dry it shows the texture so you’ll need to moisturize well before using it.”
Overall, e.l.f.’s Hydrating Camo concealer is an ideal choice for those looking for an effective product that also supports their skincare needs and values while delivering amazing results. With its lightweight feel and full-coverage formula, it’s easy to see why this concealer has become such a popular choice among beauty lovers everywhere!
Covergirl Under Eye Concealer
Pros
- Affordable
- Very high coverage
- All-day wear
Cons
- Thicker formula can be tricky to apply
Despite not being hyped much on TikTok, the Covergirl TruBlend Undercover concealer delivers in pretty much every category. It provides all-day coverage with a matte finish that won’t cake or flake, despite extended wear. The lightweight formula provides full coverage without feeling heavy or greasy.
Here’s what one of our beauty editors has to say: “I was seriously impressed with this Covergirl concealer. Despite being a drugstore brand, it feels like a luxury product when you’re wearing it. The formula is very thick, so that might take some getting used to. I recommend using a wet beauty blender instead of a brush.”
The Covergirl TruBlend Undercover concealer is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, so it’s a great choice for those looking for a more ethical makeup option. And it’s certified by Cruelty-Free International, so you can be sure your purchase isn’t supporting animal testing.
Overall, this is a great choice for those who want full coverage and a matte finish without sacrificing cost or ethics. Its lightweight formula will leave skin looking smooth and flawless in just one application, and its lasting power ensures you won’t have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day.
Maybelline Under Eye Concealer
Pros
- Natural finish
- Lightweight and hydrating
- Color correcting capabilities
Cons
- Packaging wastes some of the product
The Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer is super popular on TikTok so we were excited to try it. It’s packed with Haloxyl, a powerful anti-aging ingredient that works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eye area. The concealer has a lightweight formula that doesn’t cake or crease, making it easy to get a natural skin-like finish.
Here’s what one of our beauty editors has to say: “It has a great feel if you want a light velvety texture. It’s not cakey and blends in well. The only thing I don’t like is the sponge applicator. It’s hard to use and wastes a lot of the product which is a huge drawback for me.”
Despite the poor packaging, this concealer is a good choice if you’re going for the coveted no-makeup makeup look. Unlike other concealers that crease and enhance the texture of your skin, the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind seamlessly blends into the skin for a natural finish. It also comes in 18 different shades, making it relatively inclusive for different skin tones.
Winky Lux Under Eye Concealer
Pros
- Lightweight and moisturizing
- Doesn’t cake or crease
- Contains collagen, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin E
Cons
- Limited range of shades
The Winky Lux Peeper Perfect Under Eye concealer is our top pick for mature skin because it’s super lightweight and doesn’t crease around fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, this special concealer contains collagen, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin E to moisturize while neutralizing uneven skin tones, resulting in brighter and more awake-looking under-eyes.
Here’s what one of our beauty editors has to say: “It has good coverage without being too thick or cakey. Unlike other concealers, it doesn’t show off all the texture around my eyes. The only thing I don’t love is that it doesn’t normally last all day, but that might be partly my fault because I rub my eyes a lot.”
This concealer also has amazing versatility as it can be used both as an under-eye brightener and a full-coverage foundation. A little goes a long way so you won’t need to use a lot of the product at once. If you’re worried about its lack of longevity, try priming beforehand and setting it with a setting powder.
People Also Ask
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Q: What’s the best under-eye concealer?
A:The best under-eye concealer will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what type of coverage you’re looking for, as well as your skin tone, texture and type when making the selection.
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Q: Which under-eye concealer is right for my skin type?
A:The best under-eye concealer for your skin type will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Generally speaking, those with dry skin should look for formulas that are more hydrating and those with oily skin should opt for oil-free or matte formulas. Be sure to also look at the concealer’s ingredients if your skin is sensitive.
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Q: How do I apply under-eye concealer correctly?
A:When applying under-eye concealer, start by lightly dabbing the product either with the wand applicator, brush, sponge or your fingertips to blend it into the skin around your eyes in an outward motion. Blend the product out until there are no visible lines or streaks. If necessary, you can finish with a powder to seal it in place and prevent creasing.
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Q: Which shade of under-eye concealer should I choose?
A:Choosing the right shade of under-eye concealer is important in achieving a natural-looking finish. Select a shade that closely matches your natural skin tone or is just a shade lighter than it. Avoid shades that are too light or too dark, as they can draw attention to the problem area or make your dark circles more noticeable.
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Q: Should I buy a special brush to apply under-eye concealer?
A:Using a special brush when applying under-eye concealer can help achieve a more precise application, but it's not essential. You use your fingertips or a beauty blender to apply the product. The important thing is to make sure you blend the product completely until there are no visible lines or streaks left behind.
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Q: What ingredients are used in an under-eye concealer?
A:Under-eye concealers typically contain ingredients such as moisturizing agents, waxes, oils, pigments and light-reflecting particles that help brighten up dark circles and even out the skin. They may also contain sunscreen to protect the delicate skin area from harmful UV rays and different types of vitamins and antioxidants to nourish the skin while providing coverage.
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Q: Does using under-eye concealer prevent wrinkles?
A:No, using under-eye concealer will not necessarily prevent wrinkles or fine lines around your eyes as these are usually caused by natural aging processes as well as lifestyle factors such as smoking and sun exposure which cannot be reversed by makeup alone. Using an anti-aging regimen in addition to wearing an SPF under-eye cream can help slow down the appearance of wrinkles. Plus, some concealers do have beneficial skin ingredients to help take care of the delicate undereye area.
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Q: How long does an under-eye concealer last?
A:The wear time of an under-eye concealer will depend on its formula, how much product has been applied, and what type of base makeup you have applied beforehand (like a primer). Generally speaking, most formulas can provide up to 12 hours of wear time when applied correctly. Adding powder after can also help it last longer.
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Q: Is an expensive under-eye concealer better than budget-friendly brands?
A:Not necessarily. Expensive concealers may offer superior coverage due to their higher-quality ingredients and formulations, but there are plenty of affordable brands that offer excellent coverage as well. It will ultimately come down to personal preference and budget.
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Q: What are some tips for getting the most out of my under-eye concealer?
A:Some tips for getting the most out of your under-eye concealer include: applying a thin layer (as too much product can cake up), blending in small circular motions with either a brush or your fingertips until all visible lines are evened out, setting with powder after application to keep it in place throughout the day, reapplying if needed at any point during wear time, and removing all makeup before bedtime so your skin can breathe overnight.
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