Concealer tends to be the one product that makeup lovers and minimalists share a common love for, because whether you opt for full-on glam or a pared-down, natural look, it’s essential. As the cold weather takes hold, our eyes tend to show the signs of the drop in temperatures, with one study finding that winter ages our eyes by an average four years and eight months. And, let’s not even think about the effect Christmas party season had…
Do I really need an under-eye concealer?
Under-eye concealers have the near-impossible task of brightening and concealing dark circles while also keeping puffy bags at bay. The devil may work hard, but under-eye concealers work harder, making it seem as if you’ve had a full night’s sleep when you’re running on just a few hours.
On my journey to finding ‘The One,’ I’ve tried a long list of concealers. Many have left my under eyes looking chalky and cakey, settling into the creases.
As someone with dark skin, one of the main issues I’ve experienced is flashback – that’s when a concealer might look fine in person, but once a photo is taken, the under-eye area appears chalky with white rims. Not exactly the desired finish for your Insta feed, right?
What’s the best concealer for under eye circles?
The best concealers are those that are hydrating and lightweight, especially as the under-eye area is so sensitive. The first step in finding The One? Deciding on the type of coverage you’d like – so whether you want a sheer formula with the intention of blurring imperfections, or something that will conceal entirely.
How do I find the right concealer shade for covering dark circles?
Next, it’s all about finding the perfect colour match. The trick is to opt for one 2-3 shades lighter than your skin, then make sure it matches your skin’s undertone (cool, warm or neutral) for the perfect blend.
The general rule of thumb is to look at the colour of your veins: if they’re greenish, you have warm undertones; if they’re purple or bluish, you have cool undertones.
How do I apply under-eye concealer?
Concealer application has really changed over the years, thanks to Instagram providing us with different hacks, depending on the desired effect. At first, the primary approach was to dot concealer underneath the entire under eye before blending it out.
Now, for a more ‘lifted’ look, makeup artists are applying concealer in just the inner and outer corners of the eyes. Then, you can pick from the holy trinity of blending options: applying with your fingers, a sponge or brushes, depending on the finish you’re after.
Which brands do the best under-eye concealers in 2022?
Here are my pick of the best under-eye concealers that can cover up just about everything – except your sins.
1. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
There is a reason why this concealer is number one in America. NARS’ hero product has a whopping 30 shades, with a creamy texture and luminous finish. It contains a light-diffusing mineral powder, which brightens and corrects uneven skin tone. Plus, the amazing shade range means you’ll be able to match your skin’s undertone, too.
This will conceal the look of fine lines and wrinkles and also contains a multi-active botanical blend, including magnolia bark extract, grape seed extract and vitamin E, to nourish and strengthen the skin barrier.
For more of a sheer finish, use a damp makeup sponge, but if you prefer your concealer to be a little higher in coverage, apply with a brush instead.
2. Too Faced Super Coverage Concealer
This is described as ‘super coverage’ – and it truly does what it says on the tin, covering even the darkest of circles without feeling heavy on skin. This product is vegan-friendly and won’t budge for 12 hours.
I’m especially a fan of this one, because it was carefully formulated to ensure that there is absolutely no flashback; a claim I can wholeheartedly confirm is true. Plus, it comes with a doe foot sponge that has points on for easy yet precise application.
One of its biggest benefits is the oil-free formula, which means that even after a long time wearing it, the concealer still won’t separate and gather in any creases.
3. Glossier Stretch Concealer
Renowned for its no-nonsense beauty products, Glossier’s buildable yet dewy concealer covers dark circles, redness and blemishes.
It contains two hero ingredients: mineral pigments to brighten and elastic micro waxes, which allows the concealer to move with your skin, instead of sitting flat and looking cakey. There are 12 shades to choose from, and the texture is incredibly light and creamy.
This can be applied with a brush but looks absolutely seamless when tapped on with fingers too, as the heat of your skin helps it to blend like a dream. Stretch is also fantastic if you’re someone who doesn’t like wearing foundation and prefers to just use concealer, as it offers lightweight but effective coverage.
If you buy nothing else from Glossier, let this be top of your list.
4. Benefit Boi-ing Cakeless Concealer
This full-coverage concealer will cover both dark under-eye circles and blemishes. It is so gentle on skin and doesn’t cake or crack, and a little bit goes a very long way here (meaning more bang for your buck).
A tiny dot will blend to cover the entirety of your under-eye area, but if you use a damp Beautyblender, you can create more of a sheer finish.
This concealer has the ability to banish dark circles and make you look well rested, even if you’re running on empty. It’s waterproof and will stay put for 24 hours. Honestly, what’s not to love?
5. Revolution Conceal and Define
After finally arriving at Boots, I could not have been more excited to get my hands on Revolution’s legendary products – including this concealer.
It comes in an incredible 50 shades with a choice of seven different undertones, meaning there really is one for everyone. In fact, one of these concealers sells every 20 seconds in the UK and it’s really no wonder, due to the lightweight yet full-coverage formula.
It’s now also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t block your pores or create breakouts, plus it’s vegan and cruelty-free. Conceal and Define has a matte finish, brightening even the most tired eyes, while also staying put without creasing or melting. It truly does it all.
6. Maybelline Instant Anti-Age Eye Eraser
Maybelline’s Eye Eraser is enriched with goji berry extract for optimal hydration, and with a few quick swipes of the sponge applicator, dark circles will be banished in an instant.
Named the UK’s number one concealer of 2020, it targets dark circles, fine lines, redness and blemishes quickly and easily. And while concealers can sometimes sit in your pores after wearing them for a long time, this vegan formula never does.
All you need is the handy wand’s cushion tip applicator and your finger to blend, which means that this is the perfect concealer to take with you on the go.
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