A good concealer does far more than cover imperfections—with the right formula and application technique, it can transform the entire complexion. Illuminating concealers in particular are a makeup artist staple thanks to their ability to brighten, lift and subtly perfect the skin without masking it. Whether it’s muting dark circles, softening shadows or adding a fresh, light-reflective finish, the right formula can make skin look healthier and more awake in seconds. But not all illuminating concealers are created equal, and knowing how to choose and apply them makes all the difference.
Celebrity makeup artist Emily Clarkson stresses that technique is just as important as product choice. “Placement and texture are important when it comes to concealing, as adding too much or the wrong product can emphasise the area,” she explains. “For example, you wouldn't use an illuminating concealer on spots or scars that you don't want to draw attention to.”
What Are Illuminating Concealers?
Illuminating concealers are designed to brighten and enhance the skin rather than simply conceal. Unlike heavy, matte formulas, they often contain light-reflecting pigments that diffuse shadows and add a soft glow, making them ideal as an undereye concealer or around the nose. “The goal isn’t to hide the skin completely, but to reflect light in a way that makes the complexion look smoother, fresher and more awake," says Clarkson.
What to Look for
When shopping for an illuminating concealer, texture is key. Look for hydrating, creamy concealer formulas that won’t settle into fine lines, especially for the delicate under-eye area. Clarkson recommends pairing “a hydrating eye cream teamed with a brightening concealer” for the most flattering result. Coverage level also matters—sheer to medium works best for illumination, while thicker formulas are better reserved for blemishes. Shades with subtle pink or peach undertones can help counteract darkness, while overly shimmery finishes should be avoided if you want a natural glow rather than sparkle.
How to Apply an Illuminating Concealer
For under eyes, Clarkson prefers using her ring finger, warming the product on the back of the hand first so you don’t over-apply. “The under eye is so delicate and usually an area you find concealer will sit in fine lines,” she explains. She also advises applying concealer after foundation and any cream products to avoid using too much. For an extra-natural finish, she recommends mixing concealer with a pea-sized amount of moisturiser to sheer it out even further for controlled coverage and a more skin-like glow.
The Best Illuminating Concealers
- Best Overall: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen
- Best for Natural Makeup: Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Tint + Brighten
- Best for Everyday: Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer
- Best for Mature Skin: Sisley Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen
- Best for Shade Range: Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Eye Brightener
1. Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen
A cult classic in the illuminating concealer category, Touche Éclat is loved for what it doesn’t do as much as what it does. Rather than masking the skin, it uses light-reflecting pigments to brighten shadows and add a rested, luminous effect. Its weightless feel and natural finish make it perfect for applying under the eyes and around the nose.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Crease-resistant
- Easy brush applicator
Cons
- Very sheer coverage
- Expensive price point
2. Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Tint + Brighten
This cooling under-eye tint is best-suited to those who prefer glow over coverage. It feels hydrating and comfortable on tired skin, with the rollerball applicator ideal for delivering a subtle brightening wash that blends effortlessly. On low-maintenance days, I roll it all over my face, then blend with a sponge.
Pros
- Refreshing application
- Lightweight
- Hydrating
Cons
- Very light coverage
3. Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer
Designed to illuminate rather than mask, this concealer has an easy-to-blend texture and skin-like finish—perfect for giving a subtle lift to the under-eye without looking heavy. I find that it layers well both under and over foundation and doesn’t cling to dryness.
Pros
- Easy to blend
- Flattering on textured skin
Cons
- May struggle to conceal very dark circles
4. Sisley Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen
A luxurious hybrid of concealer and highlighter, this brightening formula gives skin a true lit-from-within glow. Clarkson recommends this as being particularly "smoothing and flattering for mature skin," as it subtly diffuses shadows without settling into lines.
Pros
- Creamy texture
- Great for fine lines and dullness
Cons
- Expensive price point
- Limited shade range
5. Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Eye Brightener
Designed specifically to neutralise under-eye darkness, this illuminating concealer is praised for its extensive shade range and colour-correcting undertones. I love how lightweight it feels while still visibly lifting the under-eye area, but for particularly stubborn shadows, I find it works best layered under concealer rather than alone.
Pros
- Inclusive shade range
- Lightweight
Cons
- Needs layering
6. Saie Hydrabeam Sheer Brightening Under Eye Concealer
A true skincare-makeup hybrid. The silky formula applies smoothly and feels not only immediately hydrating but comfortable throughout the day, making it ideal for dry or sensitive under-eyes. Coverage is sheer but buildable, giving a very natural finish.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Doesn't cling to dry patches
Cons
- Not enough coverage for very dark circles
7. Kosas Revealer Super Creamy and Brightening Concealer
A favourite among makeup artists and a frequent sell-out, this concealer is praised for its creamy texture and skin-boosting ingredients. It brightens without creasing and feels nourishing rather than drying. The coverage is very generous, and a little goes a long way in concealing just about anything.
Pros
- Buildable coverage
- Hydrating
- Long-wearing
Cons
- May need setting on oily skin
8. MAC Studio Radiance 24hr Luminous Lift Concealer
This concealer combines an ultra-pigmented formula with a more modern, radiant finish. It strikes a perfect balance of coverage and glow, and wears well throughout the day, staying fresh without looking flat or heavy. The shade range is particularly impressive, too.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Smooth finish
Cons
- Can crease if over-applied
- Needs good under-eye prep
9. Rare Beauty Positive Light Under Eye Brightening Concealer
This concealer delivers a soft, luminous finish that looks natural and effortless. The cooling metal applicator makes application a genuinely enjoyable experience. Clarkson praises its creamy consistency and brightening effect, especially on dark circles.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Can crease on very oily under-eyes
10. Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer
A staple in many a makeup artist's kit because the formula strikes a sweet spot between coverage and radiance—so it works well for all skin types and concerns. Clarkson loves that it perfects the skin without masking it, making it ideal for both the under eyes and targeted brightening.
Pros
- Buildable coverage
- Multitasking formula
Cons
- May crease if layered heavily
11. Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer
A modern classic, this cult concealer is praised for its ability to cover while still looking skin-like. I actually think this is one of the few concealers I've tried that works well for both under eyes and breakouts.
Pros
- Buildable medium-to-full coverage
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Expensive price point
12. Armani Luminous Silk Concealer
Mirroring the efficacy and elegance of Armani's Luminous Silk Foundation (one of my personal favourites), this luxurious concealer offers refined coverage with a soft glow. It also contains caffeine, a great ingredient to help refresh the eye area.
Pros
- Blends beautifully
- Wide shade range
Cons
- Expensive price point
13. Erborian Super BB Concealer
Blending BB cream benefits with targeted concealing, this formula melts into the skin, somehow both appearing invisible and making a noticeable and lasting impact on dark under-eyes.
Pros
- Contains skincare benefits
- Easy to apply
Cons
- Limited shade range
How We Tested
Each illuminating concealer was tested across multiple skin types and concerns, including dark circles, dryness and redness. We assessed texture, coverage, wear time and how products sat on bare skin, over foundation, and throughout the day. Particular attention was paid to creasing, brightness and overall skin finish.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.