Meeting the great concealer challenge can be one of the toughest beauty tests for anyone trying to make zits and dark circles disappear. Every major brand sells one or more options and it’s important to note that there are many different features and price points. Read on for our favorite eight concealers, including information on their coverage, consistency, and efficacy.
Among the main challengers is the MAC Studio Fix Concealer, which retails from £25. This innovative product provides rapid all over coverage that never creases into fine lines. It’s the first option big enough to attract a serious competitor. Unlike other spray paints, users should be warned of its signature paint-like aroma—which some may find off-putting.
Another of their best-known offerings is the Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer, starting at £29.50. The formula puts forth dreamy, full-coverage, comfortable wear and recently expanded its range to an impressive 56 shades. Most users rave over this product but a few have observed that it isn’t hydrating enough. It happens to be the most expensive option cost-per-milliliter.
Affordable Options
If you’re trying to stick to a budget, the Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer is a good lower-cost option, available from £2.25. This creamy concealer provides buildable, long-wearing coverage and a chunky soft-touch applicator lets you apply on the go. It takes rapid mix to get the most effective outcomes.
The NYX Bare With Me Serum Concealer is another purse-friendly option, starting from £6.51. It comes in a lightweight serum-like texture in a clear pump bottle and gives skin a refreshed, healthy, slightly dewy look. While many will love its creamy texture, those with oilier skin may want to look elsewhere.
“Think of it as layering strategically based on the coverage you want,” – Genevieve
Premium Picks
If you’re looking to level up your beauty routine, we highly recommend the Laura Mercier Real Flawless Concealer. At £28.50, it’s the perfect little splurge to luxe-up your outfit! It has a soft matte finish, which looks super natural on the skin.
The Milani Conceal + Perfect Concealer, £13, is known for its effortless blendability and full coverage. With positive reviews from users on its performance, it’s a great daily workhorse.
“It’s worth investing in a formula that performs well, wears comfortably, and treats your skin kindly. But ultimately, choose one that fits your budget and meets your needs.” – Jamie Genevieve
Application Tips
When using concealer, pros advise building strategically depending on specific coverage requirements. Genevieve shares her technique: “I usually apply concealer after foundation to brighten and perfect specific areas. Apply concealer first to touch up dark spots or pigmentation. Then, layer on foundation to smooth it all out for a flawless finish.
More than just finding the right shade, proper prep of the under-eye is key. O’Neill advises, “Hydrate the undereye area well, apply a nourishing eye cream, and use a light hand – less is more.” This together will make even the most lightweight concealers go further and give the most skin-like finish.
“Concealer sits closely on your skin, often covering spots or sensitive areas, so quality really does matter,” – Jamie Genevieve