The art of creating a smooth, natural-esque makeup base needs to be perfected with patience and practice. You have your key steps - prep, foundation and conceal. While a good primer and expert blending skills can take care of steps 1 and 2, when it comes to the under-eye area a lot of it comes down to picking the right concealer and how you apply it.
Under-eye concealers work by reflecting light away from the under-eye area, making it appear brighter and, in turn, making you look more awake. Diverse formulations and undertones can also target stubborn dark circles and other discolourations. Here are Tira’s top picks of the best under-eye concealers to help you create a natural-looking complexion every time.
1. Maybelline New York Fit Me Concealer:
The best concealer for dark circles, according to TikTok, this lightweight formula blends effortlessly into the skin, giving you a natural-looking finish. A hydrating formulation that helps to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, this one is also suitable for mature skin types. Dermatologist-tested, ophthalmologist tested, and non-comedogenic, this fragrance-free formulation is ideal for people with sensitive eyes.
2. Smashbox X Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector:
This iconic concealer/colour-correcting cream uses Backlight Technology to infuse peach and apricot-toned colour correctors with light-reflecting illuminators. The result is a formula that deflects the light away from dark circles and smooths the skin around the eyes for an even and radiant look. It is enriched with vitamin E to help hydrate dry, delicate under-eye area and keep it moisturised.
3. Bobbi Brown Mini Skin Full Cover Concealer:
Feather-light but full-coverage, you will get the best of both worlds with this one! With a 16-hour wear and smear-proof finish, this skin-perfecting formula disguises dark circles and keeps your under-eye area looking even-toned. The flexible, skin-gripping formula hugs and move with your facial expressions which prevent creasing by the end of the day. It’s also infused with hyaluronic acid to plump up the look of tired under-eyes further.
4. PAC Spotlight Liquid Concealer:
Come monsoon, you will need a stunning water-resistant formula, and this lightweight concealer will come in handy for that. The watery consistency does not fold in small creases and is easy to blend. Infused with skin-loving and brightening properties, you can help fade the look of dark circles and give your skin a brightened appearance. Available in a whopping 27 shades, the vegan and cruelty-free formulation also makes it an ideal pick for lovers of clean beauty.
5. Wet N Wild Coverall Concealer Palette:
For deep-set dark circles with considerable hyperpigmentation, you must go an extra step to colour-correct under the concealer. This palette is the perfect tool for you to balance your skin tone, where the red/orange hue can help cancel out any unwanted purple discolouration and under-eye circles. Layer the corrector palette with your regular concealer and set it with powder for maximum coverage.
How to use under-eye concealers
When you find your ideal pick, here’s a 3-step routine to get it on:
- Use a small amount and apply it in a triangular shape under your eyes. Blending it outwards towards your cheeks.
- If you are going in with a colour corrector first, make sure to go with a red/peach/orange to neutralise any blue or purple tones in the area.
- Finish with a light dusting of setting powder to keep your concealer in place all day.