Concealers are no strangers to the beauty scene. And considering that no one’s skin can be flawless all the time, despite a meticulous skincare routine, having the best concealer handy is quite helpful in blurring out pesky imperfections. 

Acne spots and blemishes have a bad reputation for making an unwelcome appearance right before a major event. And no matter how much you ice it or spice it (with acne treatments), it would be unrealistic to expect the spot to subside instantly. Similarly, you may experience other skin problems such as dark circles, enlarged pores, hyperpigmentation, visible veins, etc. that could use some temporary cover-up. 

That's where a top-notch concealer swoops in to save the day. Whether you're going for a full-glam look or embracing the beauty of a natural makeup vibe, a reliable concealer would ensure that your skin looks smooth and spotless. Moreover, people who don’t like using foundations a lot can still put together their base makeup by using a concealer and baking it with a pigmented setting powder. 

Through some research, I found that the first recorded use of concealer dates back to ancient Egypt, where Cleopatra herself used a mixture of beeswax, ivory, and ochre to conceal blemishes. Today’s beauty enthusiasts don’t have to go through that hassle as concealers come in various formulas — liquids, creams, and balms — offering different (often customizable) levels of coverage. They can also help in color correction, and brighten the under-eye areas. 

In my opinion, the crème de la crème of concealers should meld into your skin and harmonize with your makeup style. And should stay true to the promises to stay put from morning coffee to lights out. So, let's check and uncover the best concealer to effortlessly elevate your beauty routine.

Well, I hope you got the gist about the dark-circle vanishing wands. Now, let’s move on to the top picks for better chances of getting a blemish-free selfie!

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  Editor’s Choice

  NYX Cosmetics HD Studio Photogenic Concealer

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Well, when it comes to taking the cake for the best concealer on my list, the HD Studio Photogenic Concealer definitely stands out. This lightweight liquid marvel isn't just another concealer that pops up on your screen but hides that popped pimple scars in no time. Offering medium to heavy coverage, it effortlessly camouflages imperfections, discoloration, and stubborn under-eye circles – without looking cakey or obvious on the face. 

What's more? It does all this without any cakey buildup, for a natural-looking finish that's as dependable as your morning coffee. Besides, its skin-conditioning abilities are an added perk. I give it a 5/5 rating without a doubt! 

Key Ingredients: Coconut oil and aloe leaf extracts 

Shades: 23

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 10 hours 

Size: 0.11 oz

2

Best for All-day Wear

L'Oreal Paris Infallible Full-wear Concealer

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A lifesaver for my daily makeup routine, I love how this concealer stays put up on my skin for almost the whole day. It effortlessly hides imperfections and blemishes, and if we double up with a darker shade, it also works as a contour. 

Packed with antioxidants like vitamin E, the concealer not only covers flaws while doubling as a contour/highlighter, but also nourishes the skin. The extra-large applicator ensures maximum coverage in a single stroke, camouflaging under-eye circles, acne scars, and discoloration flawlessly. Plus, its waterproof, non-greasy formula withstands any weather without transferring, fading, or flaking. With its diverse shade range, there's a perfect match for every skin tone. 

Quick Tip:

After applying and blending out this concealer, set it with translucent powder for a long-lasting hold.

Key Ingredients: Tocopheryl and glycerin

Shades: 25

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: All day

Size: 0.33 fl oz.

3

Best Matte Concealer

Covergirl Trublend Undercover Full-coverage Concealer

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Having combination skin can make finding suitable coverage for the T-zone area challenging, but this concealer has effectively addressed my dark spots in that region. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, it hydrates the skin and prevents the makeup from drying out. Its lightweight yet full-coverage formula seamlessly blurs imperfections while leaving my skin feeling velvety smooth. 

Its matte finish, according to me, is perfect for oily skin girls who want that shine-free glow on the go that lasts all day. Plus, the large fluffy applicator makes the application a breeze. All in all, the product is a definite win for my skincare routine.

Key Ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate and tocopheryl acetate

Shades: 30

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: All day 

Size: 0.33 fl oz.

4

Best for Defining Face Edges

Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer

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With its moisturizing creamy texture, this multi-tasking concealer effortlessly brightens, smoothens, and lifts the skin for a radiant complexion. Offering full coverage with a flawless matte finish, it's like magic in a tube. What's more? It doubles as a contour and a highlighter, if you get a shade darker and lighter respectively, and gives quite a natural finish at that. 

The formula is quite easy to blend, which eases the application very well. Moreover, the ingredients infused in it, such as mango seed butter, licorice root, and shea butter leave your skin feeling rejuvenated and pampered. Trust me, this one's worth the hype.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, mango seed butter, and licorice root extracts

Shades: 37

Cruelty-free: Yes 

Wear Time: All day

Size: 0.33 fl oz.

5

Best for Mature Skin

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-aging Concealer

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Though I'm young and ready to take on the world, this redness and fine-lines-reducing concealer is my go-to for flawless skin. Its smooth, creamy texture offers full coverage for up to a good 10-hour gap without smudging or budging. The product gracefully conceals imperfections like dark circles, redness, and age spots with a dab or two. 

Formulated with anti-aging peptides, collagen, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, it not only covers but also improves the appearance of wrinkles. On the other hand, many customers rave about its color, durability, and performance, mentioning its ability to match their skin tone and provide an opaque/natural finish that lasts all day in the sun and out. 

After trying, I got the clue that this is a multitasking solution for youthful-looking skin.

Key Ingredients: Hydrolyzed collagen, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E

Shades: 24 

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: All day

Size: 0.11 fl oz.

6

Best for Dry Skin

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Concealer Stick

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This “lipstick-lookalike” (actually put it on my lips once) stick concealer by Neutrogena is a revelation for its easy-to-use and put-in-the-bag design. Infused with the goodness of purified hyaluronic acid, it not only conceals but also quenches thirsty skin, leaving it feeling revitalized. 

Plus, its non-greasy, lightweight formula ensures a natural finish without any cakey buildup keeping one fresh-faced all day. And with its ophthalmologist-tested formula, it's a safe bet for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers alike. Embrace flawless coverage with a hydrating twist – this concealer is a must-try!

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid 

Shades: 5

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 7-8 hours

Size: 0.12 fl oz.

7

Best for Dark Circles

Revlon PhotoReady Candid Antioxidant Concealer

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Revlon's cost-effective concealer is an excellent fix for raccoon eyes even in the direst situations. Packed with anti-pollution and antioxidant ingredients like caffeine and niacinamide, it not only camouflages imperfections but also protects my skin. And, considering it is devoid of comedogenic oils, triclosan, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances, it's a win for sensitive skin, too. 

Its plush doe-foot applicator makes application a breeze, especially for delicate under-eye areas. However, the shade range could be improved. Overall, I'd give it a solid 4 out of 5 for its affordability and effectiveness.

Key Ingredients: Caffeine, niacinamide, aloe leaf extracts, titanium dioxide, cucumber fruit extracts, and tocopheryl acetate

Shades: 18 

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 9-10 hours

Size: 0.34 fl oz.

8

Best for Dark Spots

Dermablend Quick Fix Concealer

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Let me tell you about this incredible long-wearing concealer stick I've been using. It's like a magic wand for my skin, providing flawless coverage for all my imperfections. Besides, the product is adequately gentle on aggravated skin, including acne scars to dark circles. 

To add more, this product is sensitive skin-tested, so no worries there. Its staying power is also very impressive — up to 16 hours of transfer-resistant wear, which many swear by! Also, I’ve found that setting it with a translucent powder locks it in place for the whole day. Trust me, if you're looking for natural-looking coverage that lasts, this is the one.

Key Ingredients: Allantoin, kaolin, beeswax and carnauba wax

Shades: 9

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 12-16 hours

Size: 0.16 fl oz.

9

Best Concealer for Acne

Almay Clear Complexion Concealer

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When you least expect it but desperately need to hide those nasty zits, this concealer from Almay is one to rely on. Not only does it effectively cover acne spots and discolorations, but it also contains salicylic acid to help fight acne – talk about a win-win. Adding on, it has a creamy texture that blends seamlessly, and the end result doesn’t look greasy but clean and mattified. 

What's even better is that it's hypoallergenic and formulated with soothing ingredients like aloe and chamomile, ensuring it won't aggravate my sensitive skin. Overall, I'm impressed by its quality and effectiveness in giving a clear complexion.

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, aloe vera, zinc oxide, tocopheryl acetate, and chamomile 

Shades: 6

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 10-15 hours

Size: 0.3 fl oz.

10

Most Affordable

Rimmel London Stay Matte Concealer

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‘Boasting a reputation among beauty enthusiasts, the Rimmel London Stay Matte Concealer lives up to its acclaim. With a claim to match 99% of US skin tones, its versatile application extends beyond concealing imperfections to serving as the foundation. By testing it on, the proud concealer proved its mettle by ensuring a radiant complexion that stays matte even when you sweat it out at outdoor events. 

Its impressive shine control formula coupled with a comfortable feel, makes it a good addition to one’s makeup routine. To sum it up, I recommend this concealer for all my girlies with acne spots and raccoon eyes around the globe!

Key Ingredients: Tocopheryl acetate

Shades: 20

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 15-18 hours

Size: 0.23 fl oz.

11

Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-use Sculpting Concealer

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As sassy as its name suggests, the Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Concealer is a force to reckon with for blemish-free face cards. This versatile concealer doesn't just cover but aims to build and sculpt for a natural look in the sun or evening soirees. Packed with skin-loving ingredients like coconut water and hyaluronic acid, it ensures crease-free, weightless wear that's as smooth as silk. 

When I tested it on my skin, I was blown away by its ability to aptly blend and provide excellent coverage with a single swatch. The diamond-shaped doe-foot applicator is a genius touch to the product, as it allows for precise application. The only downside? It might be a tad pricey, but I personally find it to be a good purchase. 

Key Ingredients: Coconut water, sodium hyaluronate, alpine rose extracts and hyaluronic acid 

Shades: 20

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 12 hours

Size: 0.50 fl oz.

12

Benefit Boi-ing Industrial-strength Concealer

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Say hello to the Benefit Boi-ing Industrial-strength concealer, the concealed gem of makeup! This creamy, full-coverage wonder works magic, camouflaging everything from blemishes to dark circles, and leaving you with a flawless matte finish. With six shades to choose from, it's like having a treasure trove for your complexion. 

The infused vitamin E conditions the skin and brings a touch of skincare luxury to the party. What I even vouch for is the application is a piece of cake: just dab, pat, and blend for spot-on perfection or an all-over glow. With its customizable coverage, it's the ultimate weapon for makeup mavens. I'd crown it with 4.5 sparkly stars out of 5!

Key Ingredients: Kaolin and tocopheryl acetate

Shades: 6

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 20-22 hours

Size: 0.1 fl oz.

13

YSL Beauty Touche Éclat Radiant Touch Concealer

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For my luxe makeup lovers, the YSL Beauty Touche Éclat Radiant Touch Concealer is the holy grail of luminosity. Adored by makeup artists, models, and celebs alike, the rich concealer doesn't budge but stays put from day to night. Its magical formula is infused with antioxidant vitamin E and ruscus extract, banishing signs of fatigue while illuminating your complexion. 

More so, it also contains the goodness of Moroccan calendula extract that aims to soothe and protect, making it a treat for your skin. Perfect for enhancing lips and adding a natural glow, this shimmer-free brightening pen is a must-have in any beauty arsenal. 

Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, ruscus extract, and Moroccan calendula extract

Shades: 14

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 4-5 hours

Size: 0.1 fl oz.

14

Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-refreshing Concealer

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All honesty here, from one of my favorite skincare brands, Shiseido, comes the Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer. This liquid wonder instantly erases imperfections like dark circles and blemishes, offering weightless, buildable coverage that lasts all day (based on my personal experience). After testing I found that its hydrating formula and innovative applicator enable a seamless application. The precision tip targets tricky areas while the curved silhouette effortlessly contours and highlights. 

To toot its horn even more, its ActiveForce Technology shields the skin against sweat and oil, whereas other ingredients in it offer antioxidant benefits. Overall, my rating for this impressive concealer is a 4.5 for flawless, radiant skin that stays fresh all day.

Key Ingredients: Wild thyme extracts and polymers 

Shades: 20

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 20-22 hours

Size: 0.19 fl oz.

15

PÜR Beauty 4-in-1 Sculpting Concealer

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This 4-in-1 Sculpting Concealer swoops in like a superhero for blemish-prone skin! Infused with superfood ingredients and moisture-locking sodium hyaluronate and caffeine, it's like a shot of espresso for my skin, as it wakes it up and locks in hydration. The blendable formula effortlessly camouflages imperfections while brightening and plumping, leaving me with a flawless complexion. 

Plus, its multitasking abilities mean I can conquer multiple skincare concerns in one swipe. It's a game-changer for anyone who wants easy-to-wear, medium-to-full coverage that actually cares for your skin. Trust me, this concealer is a total lifesaver!

Key Ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate, caffeine, and energy complex

Shades: 16 

Cruelty-free: Yes

Wear Time: 15-18 hours

Size: 0.13 fl oz.

Now let's head to the buying guide below for precise recommendations, ensuring you find the best product without any guesswork.

1. Find a Concealer That Matches Your Skin Tone: For the concealer to offer good results in covering imperfections, the shade you pick must be as close to your natural complexion as possible. If you want your concealer to double up as a highlighter, then opt for a shade lighter, and a shade darker for it to double up as a contour. 

2. Consider Coverage Needs: Invest in a concealer only if it offers medium-to-high buildable coverage! Sheer coverage in a concealer is not very useful as it doesn’t serve the main purpose of using one. For under-eye circles, opt for medium concealers, and for blemishes or pigmentation, a high-coverage concealer would be more suitable.

3. Longevity: Look for concealers that offer long-lasting wear, especially if you need your makeup to stay put all day. After all, frantically re-applying makeup isn’t a pleasant thing that anyone wants to indulge in!

4. Formula: Be mindful of the ingredients in a concealer, especially if you have sensitive skin. Prioritize formulas that are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic.  

5. Applicator: For seamless makeup application, it is important to invest in a concealer with a good-quality applicator. Decide if you like a wand applicator, or a doe-foot applicator — based on what you find suitable for easy application.

1. Prep Your Skin: Begin with a clean, moisturized face to ensure smooth application and prevent creasing.

2. Use Minimal Product: Less is more when it comes to concealer. Start with a small amount and build up as needed.

3. Apply Strategically: Target areas that need coverage, such as under-eye circles, blemishes, or redness, using a precise brush or your fingertip.

4. Blend Seamlessly: Use gentle tapping or dabbing motions to blend the concealer into your skin, ensuring a natural finish.

5. Set with a Powder: To prevent creasing and increase longevity, set your concealer with a translucent powder using a fluffy brush.

6. Concealer Before Foundation: For a more natural look, apply concealer before foundation to see how much coverage you need.

7. Brighten the Under Eyes: Choose a concealer one to two shades lighter than your skin tone to brighten and counteract dark circles.

8. Warm up the Product: If using a creamy concealer, warm it up between your fingers before applying it to enhance blendability.

9. Blend Edges: Make sure to blend the edges of the concealed area seamlessly into your foundation for a flawless finish.

10. Consider Multiple Shades: Depending on the area you're covering, you may need different shades for different parts of your face.