Allow me to cut right to the chase. I've been shopping for and writing about beauty deals for quite some time. Since 2022, my 9-to-5 has been spent scrolling through sale sections and reviewing the best beauty products, which means that I'm unusually prepared to take on the mammoth sale that is Amazon Prime Day. Deals on cult beauty products, hair tools, and aesthetician-recommended skincare run amok, which may sound like a beauty lover's dream but could be a casual shopper's worst nightmare. To cut through the chaos, I headed to Amazon's Outlet—a page hidden a few scrolls into Amazon's Prime Day category tabs that hosts some of the steepest deals on must-have brands—and found a gold mine full of deals on brands like Dyson, Nutrafol, Medicube, and more, slashed up to 73%.

No, that's not a typo. The deals here are tucked away in the shadowy depths of Amazon's sale section, but lucky for you, I'm using my deal-sleuthing skills to bring them to the light. OGX shampoos are on sale for as little as $3, and red light therapy masks are nearly 50% off. I'm warning you now: You'd better act fast. Many of these discounts are lightning deals, meaning they won't last until tomorrow. This isn't a sale section to sleep on, so scroll with haste.

Below, see the 29 steeply (and rarely) discounted products worth nabbing before they're gone.

Top Prime Day Beauty Deals in Amazon's Outlet

• Hair-Growth Must-Have: Nutrafol Women's Balance Hair Growth Supplements, $70 (was $88)
• Celeb-Loved Multitasking Skincare Device: Medicube Booster Pro, $150 (was $220)
• Highest Discount (73% Off!): Naked Sundays CabanaGlow Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, $10 (was $35)
• Internet-Favorite Concealer: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer, $19 (was $32)

But that's not where this treasure trove of discounts ends. Keep scrolling for 19 more deals on Shark hair tools, editor-loved K-beauty products, and summer fragrances seeing staggering sales.

Shop More Must-See Sales

As someone who adores a “no makeup” makeup look, has eczema and extremely dry skin, and, most importantly, despises the feeling of too many products on my face, I’m forever on the hunt for lightweight base products that cover my blemishes and dark spots without looking cakey or flaking. And although there’s a time and place for a BB cream, and I’m always partial to a tinted SPF, for me, nothing has ever come close to a concealer pen.

What Is a Concealer Pen?

A concealer pen merges your typical liquid concealer with skin-loving ingredients, then packs it into a sleek bottle with a built-in applicator brush. It lets you precisely cover blemishes and hyperpigmentation without the heaviness of classic foundation. The click-style design also dispenses exactly the amount of product needed, making it mess-free and easy to take on the go.

As someone who has very dehydrated and sensitive skin, I reach for this hydrating concealer year-round; however, I think it really comes into its own throughout summer when we all want to avoid layering too many heavy complexion products. Whether I’m heading to the office, a night out or on a sun-soaked getaway, a concealer pen will make doing my makeup quick, easy and streamlined, all with the added skincare ingredients that will nourish and protect my skin.

What Are the Benefits of a Concealer Pen?

A concealer pen comes with many benefits:

1. Natural-looking finish: Concealer pens are lightweight formulas that allow for targeted application. This stops makeup from looking too cakey or feeling heavy on the skin. These formulas can also be built up or applied sheer, meaning you can achieve a finish that’s as natural as you’d like.

2. Skin-loving ingredients: Concealer pens are packed with a number of skincare benefits, often using ingredients such as vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and caffeine that help to hydrate the skin and eliminate dark circles with continued use.

3. Easy to take on the go: The sleek, leak-proof packaging of a concealer pen makes it small enough to fit in a clutch, purse or handbag, enabling easy touch-ups on the go.

Convinced and ready to pick out your perfect concealer pen? Well, luckily for you, I’ve tried many, and below, I’ve rounded up the eight best formulas to suit every skin type and budget.

The Best Concealer Pens, According to a Beauty Writer

● Best Overall: YSL Touche Eclat High Cover Concealer (£32)
● Best Luxury Concealer Pen: Victoria Beckham The Concealer Pen (£64)
● Best Affordable Concealer Pen: L'Oreal Paris True Match Concealer Eye Cream (£11)
● Best Dewy Concealer Pen: CAIA Radiant Touch Concealer (£25)
● Best Matte Concealer Pen: MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen (£28)

1. YSL Touche Eclat High Cover Concealer

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty The Concealer Pen

3. L'Oréal Paris True Match Concealer Eye Cream

4. CAIA Cosmetics Radiant Touch Concealer

5. MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Every-Wear All-Over Face Pen

6. No7 Pro Artist Touch Up Concealer

7. Chantecaille Le Camouflage Stylo

8. Clé De Peau Beauté Radiant Corrector

How I Tested

As a beauty writer, I’ve tested many different concealer pens over the years. To bring you the best, I evaluated each formula based on its ability to blend seamlessly into my skin without looking cakey, how long it lasts on my skin without creasing, as well as its skincare benefits.

Why Trust Us?

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including haircare, makeup, skincare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures 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 our closest friends and family members.

The best part about being a beauty writer is, hands down, trying the latest makeup products. Between foundations, blushers, bronzers, and highlighters, something new lands on my desk almost every week. And although I’m very grateful for this and would never, ever take it for granted, I do have a confession to make: I’m extremely lazy when it comes to my beauty routines, so anything that requires too much effort usually doesn’t keep my attention for very long. But if there’s one product that gets a yes from me almost every time, it’s a multi-use makeup stick.

Easy to use, requiring minimal effort, and with the ability to take them with you on the go, multi-use sticks make up the bulk of my cosmetics pouch. And they're especially useful in summer, when I want to avoid layering too many heavy complexion products when it’s hot outside. Whether I’m heading to the office, a night out or on a tropical holiday, these hybrid products make getting ready quick, simple, and also help my makeup look natural and glowy instead of cakey or too “overdone”.

Now, I’m well aware that the sheer number of makeup sticks on the market can be very overwhelming. But luckily for you, I’ve tried hundreds of them, so to help sift through the noise, I’ve decided to focus on the seven stand-out multi-use makeup sticks that I’ve tried.

From foundation-concealer hybrids that will give you a seamless base, to blonzers that will make everyone think you’ve just come back from a sun-soaked getaway, keep scrolling to discover the best multi-use makeup sticks according to a beauty writer.

The Best Multi-Use Makeup Sticks

• Best Overall Multi-Use Stick: Merit Beauty The Minimalist Stick (£34)
• Best Luxury Multi-Use Stick: Dior Glassy Multi-Use Glow Stick (£37)
• Best Affordable Multi-Use Stick: Maybelline Lifter Multi-Use Stix (£10)
• Best Multi-Use Complexion Stick: Ilia Skin Rewind Complexion Stick (£48)
• Best Multi-Use Cheek Stick: NARS The Multiple Stick (£33)

1. Merit Beauty The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

2. Dior Glassy Multi-Use Glow Stick

3. Maybelline New York Lifter Multi-Use Stix

4. Ilia Skin Rewind Complexion Stick

5. NARS The Multiple Stick

6. Chanel Baume Essentiel Multi-Use Glow Stick

7. Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Stick

How I Tested

As a beauty writer, I’ve tested many multi-use makeup sticks over the years. To bring you the best, I evaluated the different ways each stick could be used on my face, their ability to blend seamlessly into my skin, and how easy they are to use.

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 some 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.

I have a love-hate relationship with concealer. Whenever I have dark under-eyes or blemishes, it's my best friend for quickly and easily covering them. However, even after testing hundreds of formulas, I'm yet to find a concealer that doesn't look dry or cakey after a few hours of wear. So, when I saw more and more brands creating a new wave of "blurring" formulas, I was immediately intrigued.

All I want is a lightweight, hydrating concealer that beautifully blurs my under-eyes. I'm a big fan of blurring skin tints and foundations, and often refer to them as a filter in a bottle. If my concealer could have the same effect, then I know my makeup would immediately be taken to the next level.

Therefore, I've taken it upon myself to test some of the best options on the market. From brand new launches to a couple of older classics, below you'll find my concise, tried-and-tested edit of blurring concealers that provide the perfect finish on the skin. What are you waiting for? Keep on scrolling.

The Best Blurring Concealers, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer, £31
• Best Full-Coverage Concealer: Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer, £37
• Best Skincare-Infused Formula: Ilia Beauty Skin Blur Serum Concealer, £30
• Best Drugstore Concealer: TirTir Glide & Hide Blurring Concealer, £13
• Best Luxury Concealer: Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer, £34

1. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer

A new launch from Charlotte Tilbury, and definitely one you need on your radar. The Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer is like a blurring skin filter, with a lightweight yet high-coverage finish that expertly disguises any traces of dark circles. Hyaluronic acid and squalane make it feel incredibly hydrating, but I will say, a little goes a long way, so if you don't want it to crease, start small and build up from there. Apart from that, I have absolutely no notes.

2. Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer

Next up, the OG of blurring concealers. I've written an entire review on the Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer because I love it that much. It has a gorgeously creamy, nourishing texture that works well on both blemishes and under the eyes, and the finish it gives is out of this world. It is full coverage, so I tend to reach for it on slightly heavier makeup days, but what I love is that it never feels heavy on the skin. Instead, it simply creates a smoothing effect thanks to microspherical powders that blur and brighten the complexion.

3. Ilia Beauty Skin Blur Serum Concealer

Ilia Beauty puts skincare at the heart of its formulations, so I was really excited to try this concealer. Similar to the Hourglass concealer, it has a creamy, lightweight texture (packed with peptides, FYI) and doesn't cling to any dry patches of skin. The formula also contains microspheres for that diffused finish we all love, and I was really impressed with how it blurred my dark circles and pores. The coverage is ever so slightly lighter than the option above, so although I might not use it for really angry blemishes, I'll definitely be applying it everywhere else.

4. TirTir Glide & Hide Blurring Concealer

This drugstore concealer feels so innovative. The product itself looks a little like lipstick, with a stick format that you can swipe directly onto the skin. But that's not all, as the clever packaging also houses a liquid concealer in the base of the bullet. The velvety balm glides onto the skin like butter, blurring any signs of skin texture in seconds. I like to apply this near the centre of my face where my pores are most noticeable, before using the liquid concealer on my under-eyes and blemishes. Both formulas feel completely weightless on the skin and do not dry it out at all. Since getting my hands on this product, it's replaced multiple concealers in my makeup bag.

5. Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer

Whilst this Dior makeup product isn't technically marketed as a blurring concealer, I personally think it's one of the best options out there. It's incredibly lightweight and hydrating, and lasts for hours on the driest parts of my complexion. The creamy formula sinks in like a dream, and while the coverage is definitely on the lighter side, it creates this seamless finish that makes my skin look like my skin, but better, you know? It's expensive for sure, but I can see myself buying this again and again.

6. Merit Beauty The Minimalist

Not quite a foundation, not quite a concealer, this Merit Beauty Complexion Stick technically replaces the need for either. I love using it as a foundation on "no makeup" makeup days, but also use it as concealer with my go-to tinted moisturiser for a tad more coverage. It's buildable, but makes light work of blurring imperfections and creating a second-skin finish. The only downside is that it can cling to dry skin at times, so I always prep my skin with a good serum or primer before using it.

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.

Is it just me, or is it practically impossible to find a good concealer? Those with high coverage look heavy on my skin, while lightweight formulas barely even get to work on my dark circles (trust me, I've tried so many under-eye concealers). Not to mention the fact that every formula seems to crease after a few hours of wear. Even as a beauty editor with access to hundreds of samples, I've still struggled to find the perfect formula. So, when I heard about the new Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer, I didn't even bother trying it, assuming it would be like everything else.

However, a few weeks after it launched, it felt like everyone I knew was going on about how good it was. I turned to one of my friends and said, "Is it really worth the hype?" and she answered with a hard yes. My friends aren't the type to embellish, so I did what any beauty journalist would, and decided to try it out for myself.

I don't want to spoil the whole review, but if I had to describe this product in one word, all I would say is wow. It's like a blurring skin filter in a bottle. But more on that, and everything else I want you to know, below...

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer Review

The Formula

Right, let's get into it. This is a lightweight, high-coverage, hydrating concealer (yes, really), which the brand claims delivers 24 hours of creaseless wear. While I've not worn it for a straight 24 hours myself, here's what I can confirm. First of all, the coverage is good. So good that you really only need a small amount to do your entire face. Secondly, somehow this concealer also feels incredibly creamy and hydrating. Tilbury refers to it as her "elastic-stretch" formula, and I couldn't think of a better phrase.

It contains hyaluronic acid and squalane, so even my incredibly dry under-eyes lap this stuff up. However, it's been designed with dark circles, blemishes, redness, pores and pigmentation in mind, and much like the Airbrush Flawless Foundation, it delivers a truly blurring effect. Plus, it comes in 34 shades, including a wide range of cool, neutral and warm undertones.

The Application

The wand comes with a unique diamond-shaped applicator that makes it easy to swipe onto the skin. But, as mentioned above, a little of this concealer goes a very long way, so I recommend dotting it onto the skin rather than going for a full-on swipe. Funnily enough, the wand also comes with a "precision Micro-Dot tip", making this quick and easy to do so. I used both a makeup brush and my fingers to blend this out, and found that both worked just as well.

Before and After Pictures

Before

After

The Verdict

So, what's the verdict? I didn't think I'd say it, but I'm kind of in love with this product. I'm yet to find a concealer that delivers such high coverage while still feeling lightweight and natural on the skin. As someone who gravitates towards "no makeup" makeup looks but also suffers from breakouts and incredibly dark circles, this concealer has bridged the gap between a weightless formula and a blurring finish, which isn't an easy thing to do.

That being said, I do think it's quite easy to go overboard with this. When I first tested it out, I applied way too much and experienced a little bit of caking and creasing throughout the day, but I have since learnt the error of my ways. If you want to get the most out of the formula, I recommend starting with a small amount and going from there. In all honesty, I'm not sure any concealer can be totally creaseproof, but I'd say this comes pretty close.

Shop Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Blur Concealer

Shop More From the Airbrush Flawless Range

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 over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup 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.

Let me start by saying that I’ve become a bona fide makeup hoarder ever since becoming a beauty editor. There’s makeup hidden in every crevice of my tiny New York City apartment, and for some reason, the items I can never bear to part with are eye shadow sticks, tinted lip balms, cream blushes, and concealers. If you can tell from that list, complexion has never been my favorite category—as a teen and young 20-something, I prioritized color and shimmer when it came to full glam. However, as I (and my tastes) mature, I’ve been discovering the transformative power of a well-done base—and my secret weapon behind the recent “Your skin looks so good!” compliments has been Patrick Ta’s first-ever concealer.

Ta is the culprit behind some of Who What Wear’s beauty editors’ favorite products and glam moments thanks to a long-standing client roster that includes Gigi Hadid, Camila Cabello, and more. Though I test hundreds of beauty products per year, Ta has launched some of my everyday essentials—a cream-and-powder bronzer duo that never leaves my makeup bag, and a glowy body balm that makes me forget others exist. However, after watching the makeup artist work his magic at an exclusive master class in New York City, I knew the chances were high that I’d fall fast for the brand’s skincare-packed hydrating concealer. The only way to find out was to put it to the test.

The Formula

Shades: 25 | Finish: Natural | Coverage: Medium, buildable

In the name alone, Ta’s concealer aims to softly blur, brighten, and hydrate the under-eyes without creasing or caking. It’s a tall order, but with the fast-paced state of makeup innovation today, I had high hopes for the new addition to Ta’s growing lineup. Upon settling into my chair at the NYC master class, the makeup artist quickly showed us how versatile this formula is—especially when used in conjunction with the matching concealer brush.

But first, a bit about the formula. Described by Ta as an “everyday” concealer, this liquid formula is designed to work with all skin types—though I’ve found that it’s especially impactful on those with dry, normal, and even mature skin. It’s is infused with a cocktail of skin-loving ingredients, including sodium hyaluronate for deep hydration and a subtle plumping effect, plus vitamin E for its soothing effects and moisture retention.

The natural finish offers a healthy, luminous sheen that works wonderfully for everyday wear, offering the slightest peek of skin to make your perfected complexion appear realistic. However, should you want to build the coverage for full glam, the option is there—just let the concealer sit for about a minute before blending with a fluffy brush (or the fluffy end of the Patrick Ta Dual-Ended Concealer Brush, as the MUA himself demonstrates in an Instagram tutorial for “creaseless concealer”).

How It Works

According to Ta, there’s a certain technique to the Major Skin Concealer. It’s especially great for brightening dark circles, so the first place he recommends starting is with a few small strokes under the innermost corners of the eyes—though I’ll usually go in and add another small dot on the outer corners as well. He stresses the importance of using moisturizer under the eyes first and allowing enough time for your cream to absorb before layering on concealer.

If you want a more natural look (i.e., lightly airbrushed, light-to-medium coverage, and see-through skin), Ta recommends using the fluffy end of the concealer brush (or any fluffy concealer brush) to begin diffusing the pigment into your skin. I found that this subtle sweeping motion gave my skin the kiss of coverage it needed—covering my rosacea-induced redness and evening my texture—without overloading it with product. However, I kept some of the concealer unblended below my eyes to allow it enough time to begin settling, which is when you should strike with a denser blending brush.

Luckily, the other side of the Patrick Ta concealer brush has this exact option. Though, I often reach for Haus Labs’ concealer brush for the same effect. The angled, dense bristles of both brushes allow the tool to sit flush against the skin—ensuring that it won’t miss any spots, which can cause creasing—and offer a smooth blend similar to a sponge, just with a more painterly finish.

Though this concealer excels in the dark-circle space, you can easily spot-treat any blemishes, acne scars, or areas you wish to camouflage with a shade that matches your skin. As people typically shop concealers that are one to two shades lighter than their actual skin tone (in order to actually brighten the under-eyes), you might want to snag another shade for complexion purposes. I personally grabbed the shades Fair Rosy Neutral 4 and Light Neutral 1 for this job.

Final Thoughts

Though I'm a certifiable makeup fanatic, it's hard to impress me when it comes to a complexion product. Most concealers cling to my dry spots, crease after a few hours (thanks to my particularly expressive face), and have trouble effectively brightening my everlastingly dark under-eyes. However, this brand-new formula has managed to tick all of these boxes since I started wearing it a month ago, incurring a heaping handful of complexion compliments along the way.

Formulas that tout natural finishes and medium coverage rarely stand up to long-wear claims, yet this concealer has managed to keep my makeup looking fresh and natural throughout extra-long days of city schlepping. At $34, it’s not the cheapest concealer you'll find on the shelf, but it's hardly an unreasonable price for a high-quality formula—especially one that you’ll reach for for both no-makeup makeup and full glam alike.

However, I do hope the brand continues to expand upon the shade range, which includes 25 options from very fair to very deep. Though this may sound large already, many brands include more than 30 options to service all depths and undertones—something I'm hopeful the brand will continue to expand with future drops.

All in all, this concealer is a great purchase for anyone looking for a concealer that can do it all. Whether spot-treating or brightening, going for full glam or a soft, understated moment, this versatile concealer can service your every need. I recommend grabbing the concealer brush as well—it cuts down your brush collection, makes traveling easier, and is designed to work perfectly with the concealer—but the formula is adaptable enough to blend beautifully with a sponge or even a finger.

For more of my favorite tried-and-true concealers, keep scrolling.

More Concealers I Swear By

Growing up with acne-prone skin meant that my makeup bag had to work just as hard as my skincare routine. While I now have my breakouts largely under control, a recent flare-up—the kind where several spots arrive all at once—sent me reaching back into an old familiar habit, green concealer.

When my acne was at its worst, green concealer was my safety net. It meant I didn’t have to pile on thick layers of full-coverage foundation to disguise redness—instead, I could neutralise it from the source via a technique known as colour correcting. As celebrity make-up artist Emma White Turle explains, “Colour correcting is where you use a complementary colour to correct your skin tones. It can neutralise and balance different tones to give you a more even appearance and hide any scars or marks.”

Understanding that principle of cancelling out redness changed everything, and rather than masking my skin, I learned to balance it. Using green to counteract redness meant less product overall, and ultimately, a more natural finish. Revisiting it more recently, I was reminded that while good skincare is the long-term solution, knowing a few clever make-up techniques can be just as empowering.

Why would you use a green concealer?

Green concealer is designed to counteract redness in the skin. Because green sits opposite red on the colour wheel, it neutralises flushed or inflamed areas, making them appear more even before foundation is applied. As White Turle explains, “Green is the most used colour [for colour correcting] and is used to hide redness from spots and irritation. There are differing tones of red and hence differing greens, and so you have to experiment which shade of green works best on the redness you have. A basic guide is that if the red is purple-toned, such as with acne breakouts, then try a darker green. A light or minty green is better on broken capillaries or brighter reds like rosacea.”

In short, green concealer allows you to target redness at its source, meaning you can use less overall coverage and still achieve a balanced, natural-looking finish.

How do you use green concealer?

Application is everything when it comes to colour correction. The goal isn’t to see the green on your skin, it’s to let it subtly neutralise redness underneath your base. “When using a green corrector, or any colour corrector really, start on clean, hydrated skin," says White Turle. "I like to allow skincare to settle for fifteen minutes or so before I start applying makeup. It does depend on the texture of the product you are using, but go lightly, and sometimes a fluffy, small brush is useful for buffing the product over the skin."

Pat or lightly buff a small amount directly onto red areas, then follow with concealer or foundation as usual. "You want a light layer, as you can add more if you need to, but do start gently as you don’t want to be able to see the green; it should blend into the skin and neutralise the redness," she adds.

Best Green Concealers, Tried & Tested

1. Best Overall: Tarte Shape Tape Color Corrector
2. Best for Light Coverage: Beauty Pie Superluminous Redness Corrector
3. Best Affordable Green Concealer: e.l.f. Cosmetics Camo Colour Corrector
4. Best Luxury Green Concealer: Givenchy Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Corrector
5. Best All-Over Green Concealer: Bubble Secret Agent Color Correcting Balm Redness Fix

1. Tarte Shape Tape Color Corrector

2. Beauty Pie Superluminous Redness Corrector

3. e.l.f. Cosmetics Camo Colour Corrector

4. Givenchy Prisme Libre Skin-Caring Corrector

5. Bubble Secret Agent Color Correcting Balm Redness Fix

6. Maybelline Colour Correcting Concealer

7. Erborian CC Red Correct Cream

8. Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Soothing Color Correcting Treatment

9. Sephora Collection Best Skin Ever Color Corrector

10. Isamaya Colour Correcting Serum Pistachio

11. YSL Nu Tone Corrector

How We Tested

We tested these green concealers on acne-prone skin experiencing active breakouts, post-blemish marks, and general redness. Each formula was assessed for pigment strength, blendability, texture, wear time, and how well it layered under foundation. We also considered finish (matte vs radiant), suitability for different skin types, and looked at customer reviews to ensure balanced, practical recommendations.

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.

I used to be the kind of person who would nip into the office bathroom post-lunch to make sure that my makeup was still looking as fresh as it did first thing, and combat any fading patches or smudges with a touch-up or two. These days, however, like most of us, I simply don’t have the time for such self-indulgence. Instead, I need to put my makeup on once and trust that it will last through school runs, meetings and last-minute deadlines. And if I do happen to catch my reflection in a passing mirror? Then I can only pray that some of my morning handiwork is still in place. The problem right now is that while I used to rely on setting powders to improve longevity, now that I’m in my mid-30s, my oily skin is becoming dehydrated in places too. That means that I’m dealing with makeup either sliding south by lunchtime or clinging to emerging fine lines and dry patches. Either way, it isn’t ideal.

For me, concealer has to be my desert island beauty product. While I love a natural look, there’s no denying that I feel much more confident and polished when I’ve covered over my hormonal breakouts and stubborn dark circles. My tick list, therefore, is rather long. I need a long-lasting concealer that will grip without caking, smooth without settling, and stay put through work days, running after my kids, and late-night deadlines. So I made it my mission to test the best formulas on the market—those which promise serious staying power without sacrificing that real skin finish—to find out which ones can truly deliver.

What to Look For

With so many concealers on the market, I was keen to know exactly what I should be looking for when choosing a long-lasting formulation. Thankfully, celebrity makeup artist Tania Grier was able to steer me in the right direction. “I have quite a variety of concealers in my kit, but when I need longevity, I reach for one with high-quality skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, as this makes such a difference,” explains Grier. “The texture is important too—if it feels greasy, then it’s probably not going to last, and it might make your mascara or eyeliner run too. I’d avoid anything too slippery and look for formulas that take a bit more effort to blend, as that’s a good sign that it has staying power.”

And as for applying your concealer, Grier suggests letting it “marinate” on the skin for a minute before blending. “Start by applying a thin layer and blending it out quickly, then go back in with a couple of dots where you need more coverage and leave it alone for around 60 seconds until the texture thickens,” she explains. “Now blend it out with your fingers or a good blending brush. This technique guarantees better coverage every time and longevity.”

Best Long-Lasting Concealers

• Best for Oily Skin: Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer (£30)
• Best for Hydration: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Gel Concealer (£26)
• Best for Buildable Coverage: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Concealer (£24)
• Best for Coverage: Hourglass Vanish Concealer (£37)
• Best for Special Occasions: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Concealer (£30)

1. Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer

2. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Concealer

3. Maybelline Lifter Serum Concealer

4. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Gel Concealer

5. Hourglass Vanish Concealer

6. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Concealer

7. Kulfi Main Match Concealer

8. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Skin Ink Concealer

9. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Concealer

10. E.l.f. Cosmetics 16 Hour Camo Concealer

11. Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Concealer

12. It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer

13. Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer

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 over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts, including dermatologists, makeup 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.

Dry skin and concealer don't always mix—take it from someone who has combination skin that gets dry more often than not. That said, that’s not to say that dry-skin-prone people can’t find blemish-camouflaging and brightening potions that don’t crease, flake, or wreak havoc on their complexions. “A hydrating concealer should feel like skincare,” says professional makeup artist Catrina Breitweiser. “The best formulas melt into the skin, don’t settle into lines, and still look fresh hours later,” she adds.

Though concealers will never have the same potency as actual skincare, many are infused with the vitamins and hydrating acids that dehydrated skin needs, and through much trial, error, and guidance from expert makeup artists, we’ve found more winners than we thought possible. From serum-like formulas that are beloved backstage to drugstore picks that won’t break the bank, we’ve found the best hydrating concealers on the market in 2026. Keep scrolling to discover the nine that won our favor and scored MUA approval.

The Best Hydrating Concealers of 2026, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Concealer
• Best Investment: Dior Forever Skin Correct Full-Coverage Concealer
• Best Drugstore: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Treatment Concealer
• Best for Mature Skin: Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Concealer
• Best for Blemishes: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

Best Overall: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Concealer

Best Investment: Dior Forever Skin Correct Full-Coverage Concealer

Best Drugstore: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Concealer

Best Budget: E.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Camo Concealer

Best for Mature Skin: Armani Luminous Silk Hydrating Concealer

Best for Blemishes: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

Best for Sensitive Skin: Kosas Revealer Concealer

Best Brightening: Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer

Best Crease-Resistant: Tarte Shape Tape Ultra Creamy Concealer

What to Look for in a Hydrating Concealer

• Ingredients: One of the first things shoppers should consider in a hydrating concealer is the ingredients list. “Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or peptides and a finish that smooths and brightens without drying,” says Breitweiser. “If a concealer makes your under-eyes look dry, it’s not the right one.”
• Finish: Though the finish of your concealer is usually up to personal preference, dry skin types should search for those with radiant or natural dry-downs. Because formulas like the Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer and Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer have somewhat dewy finishes, the result is a more hydrated look and feel on the skin—even dry complexions. This can help even out texture as well as improve the hydration levels of your skin.
• Price: The best hydrating concealers come in a range of prices, making brighter, more even skin accessible among most budgets. Our lowest-priced pick, the e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Camo Concealer, holds its own alongside the pricey Armani’s Luminous Silk Hydrating Concealer, which has extra bells and whistles but offers similar hydration levels. No matter your budget, there’s a tried-and-true winner for you.

How We Chose

We chose the best hydrating concealers of 2026 by analyzing old and new formulas on the market after much real-world testing, product research, and corroboration with professional makeup artists. Because we’ve been an authority in concealer shopping for quite some time (and believe that classic concealers are mainstays for a reason), we analyzed a dated list of our favorite hydrating concealers and compared our picks to new favorites, comparing and contrasting each against one another before deciding on these nine formulas.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

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 in an Illuminating Concealer

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, whilst 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 where 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

1. Best Overall: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen, £32
2. Best for Natural Makeup: Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Tint + Brighten, £26
3. Best for Every Day: Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer, £16
4. Best for Mature Skin: Sisley Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen, £54
5. Best for Shade Range: Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Eye Brightener, £22

1. Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen

2. Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Tint + Brighten

3. Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer

4. Sisley Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen

5. Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Eye Brightener

6. Saie Hydrabeam Sheer Brightening Under Eye Concealer

7. Kosas Revealer Super Creamy and Brightening Concealer

8. MAC Studio Radiance 24hr Luminous Lift Concealer

9. Rare Beauty Positive Light Under Eye Brightening Concealer

10. Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer

11. Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

12. Armani Luminous Silk Concealer

13. Erborian Super BB Concealer

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.

In an ideal world, I wouldn’t wear makeup at all. I love the idea of bare skin, freckles on show, and a face that looks exactly like it does first thing in the morning—just perhaps after a really good night’s sleep and a litre of water. But stress, hormones, late nights and the occasional breakout mean I do reach for makeup, even if my goal is never to look made up. What I want is skin that looks like itself, only a little more even, a little brighter, and a little more awake.

Heavy foundation, bold blush, and perfectly painted lips have their place, but for day to day I want products that do their job well, but subtly. Over time, I’ve realised that achieving a natural look isn’t about wearing less makeup, but about choosing smarter formulas. Tints that melt into skin instead of sitting on top. Shades that mimic natural flushes and shadows. Textures that move with your face rather than setting hard. The products that earn a permanent place in my daily routine are the ones I can apply quickly, without a mirror if needed, and that I can trust to look better as the day goes on, not worse.

This edit focuses on makeup that enhances rather than transforms. Products that invisibly make your skin look like the very best version of itself—and may even fool people into thinking you’re not wearing makeup at all...

How to Choose Natural-Looking Makeup Products:

Choosing natural-looking makeup starts with understanding your own skin and letting that guide every decision. Coverage should be flexible, not fixed—look for sheer-to-light formulas that can be built only where you need them, rather than products that mask the entire face. Anything described as “skin-like,” “second skin,” or “blurring” is usually a good place to start, especially if it comes in cream or tint form.

Shade selection matters more than you might think. With blusher, bronzer, and highlighter, opt for tones that already exist in your face—whether that be soft pinks, muted peaches, or gentle browns—and choose subtle sheen finishes rather than full-on sparkle.

Texture is just as important as colour. Natural makeup should melt, blend, and move with your skin. If a product dries too quickly, feels tight, or sits on top of pores, it will always look like makeup. Creams, liquids, and finely milled powders tend to be the most forgiving, especially when applied with fingers or a soft brush.

Finally, longevity should be realistic. The most natural-looking products often fade gracefully rather than staying perfectly intact. I’d rather reapply something that wears off slowly than rely on a formula that stays put but looks cakey as the day goes on.

The Best Natural-Looking Makeup Products, As Tested By Me:

1. Best Base Makeup: Erborian CC Cream, £38
2. Best Brow Gel: Victoria Beckham Beauty Featherfix Brow Gel, £30
3. Best Blusher: Rhode Pocket Blush, £25
4. Best Bronzer: Makeup by Mario Soft Sculpt Transforming Skin Enhancer, £35
5. Best Mascara: REFY Lash Sculpt, £22

My Reviews of the Best Natural-Looking Makeup Products:

1. Erborian CC Cream

2. Victoria Beckham Beauty Featherfix Brow Gel

3. Rhode Pocket Blush

4. Makeup by Mario Soft Sculpt Transforming Skin Enhancer

5. REFY Lash Sculpt Brown

6. Merit Beauty Day Glow Highlighter

7. Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey

8. Merit Beauty The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

9. Pat Mcgrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Blurring Under-Eye Powder

How We Tested

I tested each product as part of my everyday routine rather than in isolation, wearing them for full days and applying them the way most people actually do—with fingers and minimal tools. I paid close attention to how they looked in natural daylight, how they wore over time, and whether they still felt comfortable after hours on the skin. If something made my face look better without drawing attention to itself, it passed the test.

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.

Few beauty brands have editors this obsessed. Merit is the one my friends clamor for freebies from, the one celebrities rely on for low-maintenance glam, and the one all beauty editors can synonymously agree is just plain good.

The celebrated brand, founded in 2021 by Katherine Power (who is also the cofounder of Who What Wear, thank you very much), was born to simplify your beauty routine in a very oversaturated market. Since its inception, Merit has been a luxe destination for beauty novices and pros alike, offering high-quality skincare, makeup, and fragrance collections for those after clean beauty products with skincare benefits that still perform. If this sounds like a tall order, it's because it is, but Merit didn't just rise to the challenge. It punched above with creative fervor and asked, What next?

WWW editors did the impossible task of selecting their favorites from Merit's esteemed lineup and dished on each one. Ahead, see the 13 makeup, skincare, and fragrance picks that changed the beauty game forever.

Is Merit a clean beauty brand?

There is no hard-and-fast definition of the term "clean beauty," so any answer to this question is subjective. However, Merit addresses it in the FAQ section of its website. "We focus on ingredients that are safe and effective, whether natural or synthetic," the brand states. "In addition to adding good-for-you ingredients to every formula, we eliminated many potential irritants, like added artificial fragrance."

Going the extra mile, Merit partnered with Biba de Sousa, a famed celebrity aesthetician, when formulating the brand's skincare and complexion products to act as a trusted sounding board. De Sousa is known for her "no list," which includes 73 clean ingredients that can clog pores, cause acne, or even cause irritation. You can check the safety of your favorite products by running the ingredient list through her bespoke Pore Clogger Checker to get a sense of the lengths Merit went to to produce high-quality, efficacious products.

The Best Merit Beauty Products at a Glance

• Best Overall: Flush Balm Cheek Color
• Best Complexion Product: The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick
• Best for Quick Eyes: Solo Shadow Eye Color
• Best for Everyday: The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45
• Best Lipstick: Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick
• Best Fragrance: Retrospect L'Extrait de Parfum

Best Makeup

Best Overall: Flush Balm Cheek Color

Best Complexion Product: The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

Best for Quick Eyes: Solo Shadow Eye Color

Best for Everyday: The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45

Best Lipstick: Signature Lip Lightweight Lipstick

Best Brush: Brush No. 1 Blending Brush

Best Believable Bronze: Bronze Balm Sheer Bronzer

Best Natural Glow: Day Glow Highlighting Balm

Best Mascara: Clean Lash Lengthening Mascara

Best Brow Pomade: Brow 1980 Volumizing Pomade

Best Skincare + Fragrance

Best Fragrance: Retrospect L'Extrait de Parfum

Best Skincare Prep: Great Skin Serum

Best Makeup Prep: Great Skin Priming Moisturizer

Also Great

When it comes to makeup, I’m the first to say that some products genuinely are worth the splurge—a luxury foundation with a beautifully matched pigment, a bronzer that blends like butter, or a lipstick formula that lasts for hours every time you apply it. But concealers are one category where I truly believe you don’t need to spend more to get incredible results. In fact, the high street is full of formulas that rival (and sometimes outperform) their high-end counterparts. Whether you’re looking for a concealer for dark circles, covering breakouts, brightening pigmentation or simply evening out your complexion, the drugstore shelves offer textures and finishes that cater to every need and skin type, without the hefty price tag.

What makes drugstore concealers so impressive today is how far formulations have come. Brands are now incorporating skincare ingredients, long-wear technology and inclusive shade ranges, all while keeping prices accessible. Many have become genuine staples in professional makeup kits, proving that performance doesn’t have to equal premium pricing. And because they’re so affordable, you can experiment more freely—try different undertones, finishes and coverage levels until you find your perfect match. Seriously, there's a great drugstore option for everyone—whether you're looking for a full-coverage concealer or a dewy concealer for dry skin.

Below, we’ve put the most popular and best-rated drugstore concealers to the test to find the formulas that really stand out. Whatever formula you're looking for, these more affordable favourites show that good makeup doesn’t have to be expensive; it just has to work.

What You Should Look For

A good drugstore concealer should offer reliable coverage, blend smoothly and stay put throughout the day without creasing or caking. Since affordability is a major advantage, you want a formula that performs consistently and feels comfortable on the skin. Start by considering the level of coverage you need: full coverage for acne or scarring, medium for dark circles, or lightweight for brightening and everyday wear. Texture is also important—creamy formulas suit dry or mature skin, while more matte options work well for oilier complexions.

Shade range matters too. Look for brands that offer multiple undertones, not just light, medium, and dark, so you can find a more accurate match. Added skincare benefits like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or calming ingredients can make the formula more versatile and suitable for all-day wear. Finally, consider how it applies: does it blend easily with fingers, brushes or sponges, and does it layer well with your foundation or skincare?

How to Shop for a Drugstore Concealer

Choosing the right drugstore concealer starts with identifying your main concern. If dark circles are your biggest issue, look for a brightening formula with peach or pink undertones to counteract blue and purple tones. For spots and scarring, you’ll need something more pigmented, matte and long-wearing to stay put throughout the day. Under the eyes, consider a hydrating or satin finish that won’t emphasise fine lines or dryness.

Next, think about your skin type. Oily skin benefits from long-lasting, self-setting formulas that resist movement, while dry skin may prefer something creamier with hydrating ingredients. Those with sensitive or reactive skin should choose fragrance-free options with simpler ingredient lists. Undertone matching is crucial too—warm, cool or neutral shades can dramatically change how natural your concealer looks.

I also like to consider application style. Wands are great for precision, sticks work for high coverage and serum textures are ideal for light, flexible wear.

Finally, don't underestimate wear-testing. Try applying in different ways—thinner layers, spot application, or a brush or sponge versus fingertips—to see how the concealer adapts to your routine. The right one should feel light, match your skin tone, and deliver the exact level of coverage you need.

The Best Drugstore Concealers

1. Best Overall Drugstore Concealer: Erborian Super BB Concealer (£27)
2. Best Drugstore Concealer for Dark Circles: Maybelline Instant Anti-Age Eraser Concealer (£10)
3. Best Drugstore Concealer for Breakouts: Glow Hub Under Cover High Coverage Zit Zap Concealer Wand (£14)
4. Best Drugstore Concealer for Shade Range: e.l.f. Cosmetics 16hr Camo Concealer (£8)
5. Best Full-Coverage Drugstore Concealer: Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Concealer (£5)

1. Erborian Super BB Concealer

I am so sorry to kick this off with a semi-expensive product, but I would like to highlight that this concealer is something you can pick up on the high street, despite its slightly higher price tag. This concealer ticks a lot of my boxes—a skincare-makeup hybrid, with a smooth medium coverage and a finish that keeps skin looking like skin. The lightweight texture blends effortlessly, brightens without caking or settling into fine lines and it has the added bonus of SPF protection and niacinamide to brighten. It’s a reliable, all-round performer that works well for everyday wear and suits a wide range of skin types.

2. Maybelline Instant Anti Age Eraser Concealer

3. Glow Hub Under Cover High Coverage Zit Zap Concealer Wand

4. e.l.f. Cosmetics 16hr Camo Concealer

5. Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Concealer

6. Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer

7. NYX Professional Makeup Bare With Me Concealer Serum

8. Maybelline Fit Me! Concealer

9. Rimmel Multitasker Concealer

10. No7 Pro Artist Touch Up Concealer

11. Natural Collection Concealer

12. Sephora Collection Best Skin Ever Color Corrector

13. Make Up For Ever HD Skin Full Cover Concealer

How We Tested

To find the best concealers, we tested each product across a range of skin types, including dry, oily, sensitive, and mature skin. Every concealer was worn for full days to assess coverage, blendability, crease-resistance and longevity. We also compared how well they tackled specific concerns such as dark circles, acne, discolouration and scarring. Shade range, texture and ease of application were considered, alongside value for money and customer reviews.

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.

Happy belated, Hailey Bieber! The model and brand founder celebrated her 29th birthday this weekend surrounded by family and friends—and, being the beauty mogul she is, gifted us with a glimpse into her party-ready glam. All of her TikTok GRWM videos are buzzworthy in their own right, but this one feels especially intriguing thanks to a secret Rhode bronzer (yep!) and an eye brightener that's currently tagged at 25% off. The latter was already poised to sell out ahead of Black Friday, but Bieber's stamp of approval makes it even more of a must-get. Scroll ahead for every single detail.

First, we can't not discuss the bronzer stick Bieber uses to trace her cheekbones and hairline. It's housed in unmistakable Rhode packaging, the same used for her cult-favorite Pocket Blush. A slew of brand loyalists actually use that blush for their bronzing step (namely the warm terracotta shade, Toasted Teddy), so a proper bronzer feels like a natural next step for the brand. We don't have much information yet (promise, I'm not hiding anything!), but Bieber is known to tease upcoming Rhode launches in her GRWM videos—remember when she soft-launched her Peptide Lip Shape liners?—so we'll just have to wait until she bestows us with official details.

The aforementioned eye brightener, however, is in stock and ready to shop! After blending her bronzer and applying concealer, Bieber goes in with Kosas's Revealer Extra Bright color corrector on the inner and outer corners of her eyes, using the same concealer brush to diffuse the pink pigment.

Typically, color correctors are meant to layer underneath concealer; their main gig is to neutralize discoloration so that your concealer doesn't have to work as hard to disguise dark circles (and less product usually means less flaking or settling into fine lines). However, Bieber told Vogue a few months ago that she actually prefers it the other way around. "What I like about the eye brighteners is the brightening effect, so I want to see that over top," she shares.

Kosas's creamy formula layers perfectly with concealer—whether you apply it on top, like Bieber, or underneath the product—so you won't have to worry about any creasing or pilling. Pumped with hyaluronic acid, caffeine, and peptides, the formula also helps smooth and brighten under-eyes over time, while the pink pigment counteracts any blue-green shadows. (The color corrector comes in four other shades, from light peach to deep red, depending on your skin tone.) What's more, it's currently 25% off for Black Friday, so there's no better time to give it a whirl.

Kosas is also offering a chic compact mirror with purchases over $100, so I've rounded up a few more coveted staples to help you cross that threshold. Happy shopping!

Shop More of Bieber's Routine

As someone who's a true night owl at heart, I constantly have to force myself to get to bed at a reasonable hour every night. If I had no responsibilities, I would most likely spend my nights writing out my creative ideas and planning passion projects until the early hours of the morning.

But for the sake of maintaining some structure, I reluctantly head to bed at a reasonable hour. That doesn't mean I'm not up tossing and turning, though. More often than not, my insomnia gets the best of me, which can leave me looking pretty tired in the morning. The main consequences of not getting enough sleep are dark circles and eye bags.

Usually, I prefer to cover up dark circles with the help of a lightweight, medium-coverage concealer. But after seeing multiple videos on my TikTok about Tarte's CC Full Coverage Undereye Color Corrector I knew I wanted to see if it was worth the hype. Fast-forward, and I manager to get my hands on one to put it to the test. Curious to see the results? Read on for my full, honest review.

About Tarte's CC Full Coverage Undereye Color Corrector

Suitable for all skin types, this creamy formula is full-coverage and leaves skin looking dewy while providing a natural-looking finish. The concealer contains naturally derived light-diffusing particles that brighten your under-eyes and hide discoloration. You can expect hydrated, smooth-looking skin that creates a more energized appearance.

Some key ingredients that make this product so special include rose clay to soothe the skin, yellow clay to even out skin tone, purple clay to brighten, caffeine to reduce puffiness, and licorice extract to brighten skin. A few other additions include squalene, hyaluronic acid, and mica to moisturize skin and soften fine lines and wrinkles.

How I Used Tarte's CC Full Coverage Undereye Color Corrector

This product is very beginner-friendly and easy to apply. To test it, I started by applying my Tatcha Dewy Milk Moisturizer as a base (which I’ve reviewed in detail as well). From there, I filled in my brows using the Benefit Goof Proof Waterproof Easy Shape & Fill Eyebrow Pencil before reaching for the Tarte concealer.

Using my concealer brush, I took a small amount of product and lightly dabbed it under my eyes, fully blending the product out to avoid any streaks. After concealing under both eyes, I went ahead applied it over any red areas. For me, this includes the creases around my nose, my chin, and any other smaller blemishes that I could find. For the sake of seeing how this product performed on its own, I decided not to layer anything else on top. I generally don't wear foundation, so this gave me a good sense of how it would look for my everyday makeup look.

The Results

Admittedly, I was slightly unsure about whether or not the product would blend well with my olive skin, as it's generally a bit of a challenge to find shades that work for me. However, I found that the Medium-Tan Peach was a perfect match—it made me look more awake and energized, completely hiding my dark circles. I'm also a ride-or-die dewy-makeup kind of girl, and using this creamy formula really added to that. That said, this could still be a good product to use if you want a more matted finish. You would just have to apply a matte powder on top or use a mattifying setting spray.

Before

After

Is the Tarte CC Full Coverage Undereye Color Corrector Worth It?

If you don't mind splurging a little bit, I think this product is definitely worth it. My two main critiques are that it's on the pricey side for a small amount of concealer, and I wish there were more shades available. While this says it's suitable for all skin types, those with oily skin may want to reduce shine, and a cream like this might do the opposite.

This lightweight concealer is easy to build, allowing users to control how much coverage they want. It also holds up throughout the entire day, which is key for any concealer. All in all, I understand the buzz around this product, but like all makeup, it definitely comes down to personal preference and budget.

I sometimes feel like working as a beauty editor is like slipping on an alter ego post-school run. Because while products are my kryptonite—I truly can’t resist the allure of a luxurious new moisturiser or sheeny lip gloss—I actually interact with very few of them in my normal daily routine. Yes, when I’m at my laptop, writing and researching trends and testing for beauty awards, my desk is littered with the best perfumes, hi-tech serums and innovative skincare tools. But outside of working hours, my beauty routine has to fight for survival between packing school bags, tidying a seemingly endless deluge of toys and answering questions about how the world started at 6 am. (Answers on a postcard, please.)

The truth is, with two young children, the luxury of sitting down to apply a full face of makeup, uninterrupted, is long gone. And I know I’m not alone in that. Almost everyone I know in every walk of life has been embracing a more simplistic approach to beauty in recent years. Yet here’s the truth of it for me: while an easier easier makeup routine has been inspired by necessity, I can’t say that I ever feel truly polished when I step out the door with natural skin. You see, as someone who deals consistently with acne breakouts, when my skin is really acting up, I crave the finish that a full foundation once gave me. But there is a solution. Introducing the “foundcealer”.

What Is a Foundcealer?

“Whether you are strapped for time or just want to simplify your routine, finding a concealer that doubles as a base can be a game changer,” explains celebrity makeup artist Tania Grier. Simply put, a foundcealer is effectively a multitasking concealer that can be used for selected coverage exactly where you need it, rather than covering every inch of your face with foundation. For me, that’s on blemishes and dark circles, while for you, it might be areas of redness or hyperpigmentation.

By leaving some areas of your skin bare, you’ll benefit from creating the appearance of fresh, bright and even skin, but with the added bonus of having blurred over any areas that you might prefer to fade into the background a little. And even better, it’s still incredibly fast to apply and actually cuts down the contents of your makeup bag by meaning you can ditch your foundation entirely.

How We Chose

I personally put all of the foundcealers on this list to the test, judging them on their coverage (in my case, concealing a pretty hefty stress-related breakout and dark circles from a run of broken sleep), how comfortable they are on the skin, their versatility on different areas of the face and their range of skin tones. I also asked makeup artist Tania Grier for her expert pick and reached out to my network of beauty editor friends for their recommendations, too.

The Best Foundcealers

• Best Overall: Merit Beauty The Minimalist (£34)
• Best for a Natural Finish: Erborian Super BB Concealer (£27)
• Best Multitasker: L'Oréal Paris Skin Ink Foundcealer (£15)
• Best for Brightening: Rimmel Multi-Tasker Wake Me Up Concealer & Foundation (£13)
• Best for Customisable Coverage: TirTir Glide & Hide Blurring Concealer (£13)

1. Merit The Minimalist

2. Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

3. Erborian Super BB Concealer

4. Dior Backstage Face & Body Flash Perfector Concealer

5. L'Oréal Paris Skin Ink Foundcealer

6. Kulfi Main Match Concealer

7. Rimmel Multi-Tasker Wake Me Up Concealer & Foundation

8. Suqqu Creamy Cover Concealer

9. TirTir Glide & Hide Blurring Concealer

How To Use a Foundcealer

As someone who has very little skill in the makeup application department, I was slightly concerned that a foundcealer may require too much precision for me. However, they are delightfully easy to use. “In most cases, you’ll want to just apply a little to the under eye area, plus a dot on the cheeks, chin and forehead,” explains Grier. “You can then spread it out quickly using your fingers or a soft concealer brush.” If you do have areas like spots or rosacea then Grier suggests taking a moment to “spot check” the skin. “Just apply a small amount to blemishes, redness or pigmentation to create the same effect as a foundation would, but with a quicker turnaround as you’re using less product.”

What to Look for In a Foundcealer

The most important thing when choosing a foundcealer is getting the right shade, as you’ll need a tone that works on various areas of the skin and many of us naturally have fluctuations in tone and colour on our face. “Test the colour by applying it to the under eyes to see how it fares on dark circles before blending it out into the cheeks,” advises Grier. “It should complement the skin like a sheer foundation would.”

Next, it’s the texture to consider. “It needs to blend well and not feel dry,” says Grier. It’s also important to note that if you are used to wearing a more classic medium to full base then you will want to seek out a foundcealer with a little more pigment to make sure that you get that coverage. “Especially if you have rosacea, acne or sun damage, you’ll want something that genuinely conceals,” explains Grier.

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 over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup 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.

I’m sure we can agree, there’s nothing worse than a base that looks beautiful on leaving the house, yet, when you look into the mirror a few hours later, it’s creased, cakey and has settled into all the areas you were trying to camouflage in the first place. I myself have faced this more than once, and, as someone who often forgoes foundation in favour of concealer alone, I know it’s my concealer that’s usually the culprit. As a result, I’m always on the lookout for formulas that deliver, not just in coverage, but also stay smooth, even and crease-free, no matter how many hours I wear them.

It’s here that the best creamy concealers come in, as after many years of testing, I’ve discovered it’s these formulas that truly deliver when it comes to my base (more so than foundation). Rich and nourishing on the skin, creamy concealers work to hydrate as they cover, which in turn offers a more natural, long-wearing base. Also, when applied correctly, there’s minimal chance of creasing or drying as the creamy texture melts into the skin rather than simply sitting on top of it.

So, how do you choose a creamy concealer, and how exactly should it be applied? Well, to answer that question, I asked an expert, makeup artist Katie Daisy. Here’s what she had to say…

How To Choose a Creamy Concealer

Firstly, before choosing a creamy concealer, you may be wondering if the formula is suited to your skin type. “They’re a dream for anyone with normal to dry skin or if you just like a dewy, skin-like finish,” says Daisy.

As an oily-skinned woman myself, I can say from experience that creamy concealers are a great choice for all skin types, simply set with powder after applying to lock them in place. “I also love creamy concealers for mature skin, because they don’t grab onto texture,” Daisy continues, meaning they won’t settle into fine lines and wrinkles.

“[When it comes to choosing a creamy concealer] I'd always say check for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, because they keep the skin looking smooth,” says Daisy, “[Also] anything with a touch of radiance, like light-reflecting pigments, is a bonus for brightening.”

How To Apply a Creamy Concealer

As I mentioned, how you apply a creamy concealer can make all the difference in how it looks and wears. The key I’ve found is to build up light layers, rather than apply it too heavily and allow it to sink into the skin before following with the next layer.

“Less is more with a creamy formula,” Daisy explains when I ask her about her technique. “Dab it on where you need it most, like under the eyes, around the nose or on any redness. I like to tap it in with a fingertip or brush so it melts in seamlessly.”

How We Tested

As I mentioned, I’m a proud "only wear concealer" girl most days, and so, over the years, I’ve tested many formulas to see how they stand up both worn alone and over foundation. Each creamy concealer on this list has been rigorously tested (read: I’ve put it through a full day's work at the office) and every one has since earned a spot in my makeup routine.

So, if you’re wondering which creamy concealers stood up to the test, keep scrolling…

Best Creamy Concealers 2025

• The best overall creamy concealer: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer, £28
• The best full coverage creamy concealer: Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer, £29
• The best affordable creamy concealer: Maybelline Instant Eraser Eye Concealer, £9.99
• The best brightening creamy concealer: Kosas Relealer Super And Brightening Creamy Concealer, £28
• The best hydrating creamy concealer: By Terry Hyaluronic Serum Concealer, £39

1. Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

If you’re looking for a creamy concealer that still feels incredibly light on the skin, you need to try Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer. A favourite with makeup artists and beauty editors alike, the creamy formula applies seamlessly, providing a light to medium coverage suitable for both covering blemishes and dark circles. I like to sweep a small amount onto the skin using the applicator before pressing it in lightly with my finger for a natural-looking finish.

2. Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer

When I want a concealer with a little more coverage, I reach for Tarte’s Shape Tape. Although I’d describe this concealer as relatively thick, it stays smooth and even throughout the day with minimal creasing. The key is to build up those light layers I mentioned above, rather than go in heavily in one fell swoop. And, don’t forget to set it with powder for long-lasting coverage.

3. By Terry Hyaluronic Serum Concealer

By Terry’s Hyaluronic Serum Concealer was a relatively new discovery for me; however, it’s quickly risen to become one of my most used concealers. Infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, as well as caffeine to brighten and calming magnolia flower, the skincare-infused formula works to provide a multitude of skin benefits as it covers. Add to that, the texture is silky smooth and applies flawlessly, and you’ll begin to understand why I reach for this concealer nearly every day.

4. Bobbi Brown Creamy Corrector

5. Maybelline Instant Eraser Eye Concealer

6. Dior Forever Skin Correct Creamy Concealer

Dior describes this as a multi-use product suitable for use as a concealer, targeted foundation or contour, depending on what shade you opt for. For that reason, it can work seriously hard in your makeup bag. As a concealer, it’s rich and creamy with plenty of slip, so it glides across the skin easily. Once applied, the finish is natural with a slight dewy sheen, perfect for achieving a fresh-faced look.

7. Kosas Relealer Super And Brightening Creamy Concealer

8. Delilah Farewell Cream Concealer

As a young teen, I was always hesitant to try makeup. At the time, I was a much bigger fan of all things skincare. Even now, I tell people that if I had $500 to spend, I'd use 80% of it on skincare before I even look down the makeup aisle of a beauty store. Eventually, I did start to explore more with makeup and gravitated specifically toward eye makeup. I loved mascaras that made my lashes pop, and bold, shimmery eye shadow palettes were my best friend.

The one thing I always steered clear of? Foundation. I had somewhat of an irrational fear of having a cakey finish that would inevitably clog my pores and lead to breakouts. That said, I also didn't know at the time that there were dozens of top-rated foundations out there, along with some handy alternatives. These days, I don't shy away from the occasional foundation-based look. I'm all about dewy skin, so I typically reach for cream formulas over powder or liquid foundations. It’s also why I was super excited to see that Live Tinted was releasing a new Complexion Stick.

Not only is it available in 20 shades, but the Huestick Complexion Stick also promises medium-to-full coverage that's buildable, blurring, and multitasking. It can be used as a concealer, brightener, bronzer, contour, and, of course, foundation. It’s truly a five-in-one game changer. Wondering if it lives up to the hype? Read on for my full, honest review.

How I Used the Live Tinted Huestick Complexion Stick

Using the complexion stick was straightforward. I knew I wanted to create a golden hour-inspired glowy finish, so I started by prepping my skin with the Tatcha Dewy Milk Moisturizer (which I’ve reviewed extensively as well). I did my brows while I let the formula absorb before applying a small amount of concealer under my eyes, around my nose, and over any blemishes that were popping up.

Then, I reached for my complexion stick in shade 11 and began the application process. Side note: It typically takes me a while to get a shade matched because of my olive skin tone, but it literally took less than three minutes to find the perfect shade. I was genuinely shocked. I swiped the product across my cheeks, down my nose and chin, and across my forehead and temples. I went in with my Elaina Badro foundation brush and gently worked the product into my skin, making sure to really blend everything out for a smooth and even finish. To achieve the final look, I contoured my face slightly using the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Bronzer in the shade Medium.

The Results

I'm a sucker for products that are designed to feel like a second skin, especially because I'm not the biggest fan of full coverage, so I loved how lightweight and buildable this product was. The shade I was matched with was incredibly spot on, which meant that I didn't have to compensate with other products to make it work for me. It gave me the glow that I wanted, but it didn't make me feel greasy or oily, which is something I'm typically mindful of because I have combination skin. Plus, the formula is very creamy, but it's not messy. Because it's so blendable, a little bit of product goes a long way.

I initially tested this product on a day when I only needed the coverage for about three hours. I also tested it later during the week for an event where I wore it for eight hours, and it still looked just as good throughout the day despite being outside in the heat. During my second day of testing, I layered on my favorite blush from Glossier and found that the complexion stick created a perfect base for layering on other cream and liquid-based products.

Day 1 Results

Day 2 Results

Is the Live Tinted Huestick Complexion Stick Worth It?

Whether you're a regular foundation wearer or someone who likes to occasionally dabble with it, I can't recommend this product enough. It's relatively affordable and has a luxurious feel to it. The packaging is perfect for people who do their makeup on the go or just want an easier, mess-free application. The fact that it has five different uses definitely makes it worth the price, and it also has skincare-focused ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin C, and squalane. When combined, you get brighter skin that’s plump, hydrated, and well-protected.

Shop My Other Favorite Foundation Sticks

Fans of the original cult classic I Know What You Did Last Summer might have been looking forward to the plot of the homonymous sequel (which came out yesterday, BTW), but we were waiting with bated breath to see how the It-girl-stacked cast would grace our screens. Madelyn Cline, WWW cover star Chase Sui Wonders, and of course, Jennifer Love Hewitt, were in the star-studded lineup, but the actress that ensnared our beauty-minded eyes was Gabbriette—namely for her look that was so not Gabbriette.

The ultimate internet cool girl made her second feature-length film debut in the slasher as Tyler Trevino, a true crime podcaster fixated on the massacre at the center of the 1997 movie. Tyler’s look wasn’t too far off from the model-slash-singer’s typical vibe (save for the blonde tresses), but the one thing that caught our attention the most was her vampy red pout—a stark deviation from her trademark early aughts concealer lip—and a trend we’re watching rise among fashion girls this season.

Though traditionally “unseasonal,” cool-toned makeup has never been hotter than in summer 2025. From periwinkle-dusted lids to cherry red lips, the fashion scene is embracing a wintry color palette as the temps reach alarming heights—and the sentiment rings true as the scenes of this slasher play on.

“For Tyler’s makeup, I pulled a lot of inspiration from ’90s film, that kind of cool-girl-meets-chaos vibe,” Gabriette says in a press release. “I’m usually a concealer-lip, nude-lip kind of girl, so doing this deeper red combo was definitely different for me—but it helped me really get into character.” The combo was accomplished using all MAC Cosmetics lippies—and a good amount of them, at that.

Get Gabbriette's I Know What You Did Last Summer Lip Combo

Shop More Vampy Summer Lip Products

When it comes to luxury makeup brands, I want products that I know I can trust. When you're spending a little bit more on foundation, concealer or even an eyeshadow palette, you want to know that it's going to be worth the cash. One thing I'm particularly interested in when shopping for new makeup is who is behind the brand itself. I personally love products that have been created by people in the industry whom I've looked up to for years, and these are often the products that become mainstays in my makeup bag for years to come. They just get it, you know?

So, when one of the most iconic makeup artists of all time launched her own brand back in 2019, you bet I was ready and waiting to get my hands on anything I could. Wondering who I could be talking about? None other than Lisa Eldridge. Yes, Eldridge has worked with some of the biggest models, photographers and beauty brands in the world, so she definitely knows a thing or two about creating a good makeup product.

Her eponymous beauty brand started as a range of lipsticks, but in recent years, the product offering has expanded to complexion products, eye makeup, tools and more. I thought it was about time that I put all of the bestsellers to the test to create a full makeup look. Keep on scrolling to see how I got on and to shop my top picks...

The Best Lisa Eldridge Makeup Products, Tried & Tested

1. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Skin Enhancing Tint

2. Lisa Eldridge Pinpoint Concealer

3. Lisa Eldridge Elevated Glow Highlighter

4. Lisa Eldridge Eyeshadow Palette

5. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara

6. Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil

7. Lisa Eldridge Baume Embrace Melting Lip Colour

As someone who loves wearing makeup and following makeup trends but hates feeling like I have a mask on my face, I’ve always been very picky about which new beauty products I want to add to my everyday routine. In particular, as someone who has both eczema and very dry skin, I'm on a constant hunt for products that work with my skin, not against it. So after months of seeing Saie Beauty on my TikTok For You Page, along with the rave reviews of its skincare-infused products, I finally decided to give the brand a try.

Editorial assistant, Brittany Davy wears a face of Saie Beauty.

Built around the idea that makeup should not only look and feel good but actually be good for you as well, Saie Beauty checks every box on my wish list. The brand's make-up formulas are packed with skin-loving ingredients that are aimed to give a natural, healthy-looking finish that enhances your features instead of hiding them—think invisible makeup products at their best. There's none of the heavy contouring or full-coverage formulas that often leave me feeling too unlike myself. Rather, Saie products embrace enhancing natural beauty and letting that take centre stage. Not to mention that the brand prioritises vegan and cruelty-free formulations that everyone can use.

Whether you’re getting ready for a day in the office, running errands or you simply prefer a more pared-back look for even the most formal of occasions, I tried a full face of Saie. After trying and testing it all, these are the nine best Saie beauty products that you should consider adding to your current makeup collection.

1. Saie Glowy Super Gel

2. Saie Slip Tint Dewy Tinted Moisturizer

3. Saie Slip Tint Radiant All-Over Concealer

4. Saie Airset Radiant Loose Setting Powder

5. Saie Dew Blush

6. Saie Sun Melt Natural Cream Bronzer

7. Saie Brush Set

8. Saie Mascara 101

9. Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil

Shop More Saie Beauty Products We Love:

I'm convinced Gracie Abrams is a living, breathing doll. (Our cover shoot with the Grammy-nominated singer at L.A.'s Bob Baker Marionette Theatre only confirmed my suspicions.) I mean, it's hard not to deem her otherworldly as she runs around on stage belting raw, honest lyrics without seemingly breaking a sweat. Her pitch is immaculate, her tousled bob is on point, and her skin? Oh, it looks practically airbrushed—like she's permanently bathed in a soft-focus lens.

This blurred, "hazy" aesthetic is trending for spring 2025 (just ask pro makeup artists!), and Abrams has become the poster child for the flawless matte finish. And it turns out, you only need a few products to nail her soft-blur effect.

"Gracie does her own makeup for [The Secret of Us] tour," Emily Cheng, the pro artist behind the star's heavenly looks, tells me. While she plays with different eye and lip techniques to match her outfits, "The one thing that stays consistent is her base," Cheng adds. "Before she left for tour, we filmed a quick tutorial on how to perfect her base, and Gracie takes it from there." Discover the entire routine below from start to finish, including the products Abrams loves for diffused lips and rosy cheeks.

How to Re-Create Gracie Abrams's Soft-Blurred Base

Abrams doesn't wear foundation; rather, "she uses the Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint in shade 4 all over for light, radiant, natural coverage," notes Cheng. Whether you blend it with a brush, sponge, or your fingertips, the formula does a spectacular job of disguising blemishes and discoloration while letting your natural skin texture shine through. It's important for Cheng that Abrams's freckles peek through her base, and this product is the perfect pick. It's long been a makeup bag staple for the star, even before she became the face of the brand's newest campaign (displayed above!).

Now, here's where the blurring bit comes into play: Abrams then applies the Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer (which now comes in 32 stunning shades and adorably mini travel sizes) underneath her eyes and on any blemishes. This weightless formula is infused with microspherical powders that smooth pores and diffuse fine lines. In other words, it has major skin-blurring power. It's no wonder one concealer is sold every 10 seconds.

It's full-coverage and highly pigmented, so it immediately disguises blemishes (with 16 hours of wear, no less!), yet it's super smooth and hydrating; rest assured, it won't turn cakey or settle into fine lines, even when it comes to the thin skin around the eyes. And because it has a soft matte finish—rare for a concealer this creamy!—it makes skin look effortlessly hazy.

Just know that you don't need a ton of product for that soft-focus aesthetic. Contrary to what you might think, globbing on tons of product won't give you the most long-lasting results. "I use a small brush to pinpoint blemishes on her face and conceal only where needed," Cheng says of Abrams's routine. She'll also let the formula oxidize a bit on the skin before blending. "Letting the concealer set before tapping it out really helps keep product usage to a minimum," she adds. "When you cake on too much concealer, you often emphasize texture [and] bumps, so less is definitely more."

Finally, Abrams tops off her base with a light dusting of Vanish Airbrushed Pressed Powder on her T-zone. And that's it, down to a science. "We have Gracie‘s make-up base so perfected that, other than a little lip, we barely need to touch-up—even after [she's] running around on stage," Cheng explains.

Abrams's Go-To Lip Combo

Speaking of a little lip, Cheng is quick to rattle off Abrams's go-to lineup. "I love doing a blurred lip!" she shares. She'll start with a gentle scrub á la Kiko Milano's Pure Clean Scrub & Peel wipes (which are sadly sold out at the moment, but you can still snag the brand's Pure Clean Wipes) and a light layer of La Mer's Lip Balm.

After removing the excess moisture, "I buff on lip liner with a brush and press in with [my] finger, softening any hard edges," she shares. "[Gracie's] go-to lip combo is Hourglass Shape and Sculpt Lip Liner in Expose and Candid, and Unlocked Soft Matte Lipstick in shade Sparrow pressed over the top."

Remember to diffuse that liner before applying the lipstick, though—that's the key to nailing a velvety, blurred effect. "To buff out edges I always use a dense but clean, fluffy brush," Cheng adds. "Using a brush that is too saturated with product will make it hard to get that blurred look. Avoid super flat lip brushes. I opt for an eyeshadow brush!" Bold, precise lines have their time and place, but Abrams's look is all about an effortless, romantic stain.

Her Eye and Brow Makeup Staples

While her base routine stays the same, Abrams isn't afraid to play around with her various eye looks. In terms of liner, though, one product remains a makeup bag staple: Hourglass's 1.5 MM Mechanical Gel Eye Liner. "It truly doesn't budge, and the tip allows for the cleanest wing," Cheng adds.

Gracie has the best eyebrows (serious brow envy over here), so she doesn't do much to beef them up pre-show. Just a few strokes with an Hourglass Arch Brow Micro Sculpting Pencil is all she needs. "Gracie‘s brows are quite full as is, so using this pencil to create that detail makes it look ultra fluffy," says Cheng.

Finally, a Hero for Rosy Cheeks

For an effortless kiss of color, Cheng presses Hourglass's Unreal Liquid Blush into Abrams's cheeks for "a super soft and lifted-in look." If you know me, then you know I personally adore this serum-like product. blush. It blooms on the skin so beautifully and delivers the most natural-leaning flush, as if you went out dancing or for a brisk jog—or, ahem, twirled on stage during a multi-city headlining tour.

If a brand releases a complexion product—foundation, concealer, or otherwise—an inclusive shade range should be standard practice. However, this isn't always the case. In recent memory, TikTokers have called out more than one beauty brand for flubbing foundation shades for deep skin tones.

This isn't a one-off issue. Historically, people of color have been underserved and overlooked in the beauty industry. Whether we're talking about melanin-safe skincare, textured haircare, or shade-inclusive makeup, there have been far fewer options for people of color. And no one knows this more intimately than beauty experts and industry veterans Nyakio Grieco and Tisha Thompson. Grieco is the founder of Relevant: Your Skin Seen and the co-founder of Thirteen Lune, an online marketplace that enables the discovery of Black- and Brown-owned beauty brands. Thompson is a long-time makeup artist and the founder and CEO of LYS Beauty.

Growing up as women of color, they were often forced to improvise and experiment with their makeup, whether by purchasing multiple complexion products and blending them to create a correct, skin-matching shade or using red lipstick to color-correct their skin because they didn't have access to an actual tone-matching color corrector. To put it simply, they were forced to devote unnecessary time and money to achieve the same results that others could achieve easily. Luckily, they used these exclusionary experiences to create and inform their current-day brands, effectively filling an empty (or inadequate) space in the beauty industry. Now? They're part of a community that's leading the charge on innovation and inclusivity.

Grieco and Thompson share of love of beauty that started long before they founded their own brands. However, the beauty industry didn't always love them back. "My introduction to makeup was all about hacking the system and mixing and blending products to make them work," Thompson says. "It often meant settling for 'close enough.'"

Even when she started out as a young makeup artist, Thompson says she struggled to find complexion products to fill her kit. "I'd come across ranges with 20+ shades, but only a handful—if that—were meant for deeper skin tones. And even if you found the right shade category, getting the perfect undertone was another hurdle. Then there was the question of whether the blushes, bronzers, eye shadows, and lipsticks were actually pigmented enough to show up on the skin. Of course, this was frustrating! It's frustrating any time a product you love, or want to love, isn't made to accommodate you. It meant getting creative by mixing, color correcting, and making it work however I could."

Grieco can relate. As a college student, she remembers struggling to find complexion products that fit her skin tone. "I learned how to find something a little bit lighter than my tone and then mix it with something deeper. Sometimes I would even add lipstick in it to give a little bit of the undertone and color-correcting," she says. "I think it was that experience that I really realized how left out I felt at shelf." The feeling was only intensified when she'd see her friends avoid all the trouble she was going through. "It wasn't fair that I had to work so hard when I would watch my friends find their shade, put it on, and go about their day."

Grieco and Thompson both channeled their frustration into their respective brands, ensuring their products would be effective and accessible to all. "I think that's also what motivated me," Grieco says. "How can I be the solve for myself when I was a young girl? How can I be a better catalyst to help solve the emotional frustration that people feel when they don't feel seen? Hence my tagline, 'Your skin seen.'"

Creating an inclusive shade range isn't easy. In fact, it's extremely difficult, especially when you consider the enormous amount of time, money, and focus it requires. It's not just about the number of shades, either. It's about the scope. After all, what good is 40 shades if 30 of them cater to lighter skin tones specifically?

"As an indie brand owner, I didn't want to overproduce before knowing how the brand would be received, but I also wanted to ensure equal shade offerings across the entire skin tone spectrum," Thompson says. "That meant if we could only launch with five shades, everyone had the same likelihood of finding a match. I think that level of intentionality has been key in earning customer confidence—it proves that true inclusivity isn't about massive numbers but thoughtful formulation."

Thompson references her No Limits Matte Bronzer as proof. It went viral shortly after it was launched. "Despite having a relatively small shade range at the time, it resonated with so many people. We've since expanded the line, but that initial success reinforced that inclusivity is about balance and representation, not just quantity. To streamline shade selection, we developed a proprietary formula equation that factors in skin tone category, undertone, and shade depth—making it easier for customers to find their perfect fit while keeping us accountable in our inclusivity efforts."

Grieco's approach to expert shade matching involved bringing in a trusted makeup artist. "I was always very hesitant to work with makeup artists because the few times that I had gotten my makeup done before, I was really disappointed and felt like I didn't look like me," she says. Luckily, she came across celebrity makeup artist Bo Nelson. Recalling a time he did her makeup, she says, "I remember the confidence that I felt looking in the mirror." Thus, a partnership was born. Grieco and Nelson worked together to create an inclusive and intentional shade range. "I wanted to work on the deepest shades for both our powder and our foundation sticks first to make sure that I was tackling those that had been sort of considered last," she says. "So that's why number one is my deepest shade, but I have 36 shades, and sometimes even when you're looking at my more fair shades, they may look really, really similar, but there's an undertone consideration."

And make no mistake. Undertone is everything. In fact, the undertone is what other beauty brands have historically gotten wrong about their complexion products. "Quiet as it's kept, undertone is what truly determines whether a shade is a perfect match or just close enough," Thompson says. "Shade category will put you in the right range, but the undertone is what makes it seamlessly blend into the skin. It's also one of the hardest things to get right in product development—shades can easily skew too orange, too olive, too red, or just off. That's why testing is such a crucial step in finalizing our shade offerings. It ensures that each skin tone category is properly accounted for and that every shade looks as natural and undetectable as possible."

As such, Thompson sees real-world testing as a critical step in shade development. "We analyze diverse skin tones to identify gaps, then test shades across a wide range of people in different lighting conditions to ensure accuracy. Oxidation and wear tests are also crucial to prevent undertones from shifting throughout the day. It's all about identifying the white spaces in the market and making sure every skin tone gets the consideration it deserves."

Grieco and Nelson took a similar "deep consideration" of tonality and underwent intensive testing before launching the products. "I can't test numbers 32 through 36 on my skin. So that was actually one of the most joyous parts of it. I was able to go into my community of girlfriends. … It really did become this village of support to get to where we were able to put them out in the world." Eventually, they nailed it. "Everybody wants to feel seen," she says. "Everybody wants to feel considered. And so in anything we develop from Relevant, that's the start. How do we make sure that this helps people feel seen? … Your makeup journey should not be a science experiment unless you're a lover of science and want to play. It should not be frustrating. It should not make you feel less than. It should make you feel empowered."

While the beauty industry has made critical strides in ensuring an equal experience for every customer, there's still more ground to gain. "Looking back at photos from that time, the progress in makeup is evident, and it's amazing to see how far the industry has come," Thompson says. However, she says she'd love to see more progress from both a product and brand-messaging standpoint.

"From a product perspective, I'd love to see more progress in shade diversity beyond just foundations and concealers," she says. "Other products, like eye shadow, blush, and highlighter definitely show up differently on different skin tones, and that needs to be considered just as thoughtfully. As brands expand their offerings, they need to ensure their color products work for the widest range of customers possible. That takes extensive testing and trial and error, but the end result is always worth it. From a messaging standpoint, I'd love to see brands take more responsibility for the beauty narratives they put into the world. Is your messaging helping or harming the way people see themselves? Makeup should be about creativity, self-expression, and revealing what makes you feel the most beautiful and powerful. I want to get back to those roots. Let's celebrate what we are rather than making beauty a conversation about what we're not."

And Thompson and Grieco, among other industry experts, are leading that change. "As a Black, plus-size woman, I know what it's like to be othered by a brand—to feel like a conversation isn't meant for you or that there's no seat at the table," Thompson says. "If I have anything to do with it, I'll never allow my customers to feel that way."

Grieco is equally determined to make change and stick to her inclusionary ideals. "I truly believe that listening is our biggest superpower. When I first started my first beauty brand, there wasn't even social media, right? So we have such an opportunity to be active listeners as beauty founders and as companies that produce beauty products. We live in such a beautiful, diverse society. That is the future."

Thompson agrees. "At the end of the day, if you're in the business of serving people, inclusivity and accessibility must be nonnegotiables. You simply can't claim to serve people without being deeply invested in what they need to feel seen, represented, and considered at every stage of product development. And when so many messages out there try to devalue this work—or worse, debate its importance—that's all the more reason to double down. Because true self-love is something we all deserve, and I want the products to reflect that."

Shop Shade-Inclusive Black Beauty Brands

Bella Hadid just dropped her three-to-five-minute makeup tutorial on TikTok. As a beauty editor, I must say that I found her product picks impressive, but it wasn't because they were all luxe, expensive items from designer brands as you might expect. Nope, it was quite the opposite. Hadid showcased not one, not two, but three drugstore makeup products.

One of them was a $12 concealer-foundation hybrid that promises to disguise stubborn skin concerns like dark circles, breakouts, and redness while lasting all day long without the need for touch-ups. How does that saying go? If it's good enough for Bella Hadid, it's good enough for me. Keep scrolling to see the product in question and 12 other items she uses in her daily makeup routine.

The 13 Items In Bella Hadid's 5-Minute Makeup Routine

Between Lady Gaga’s recession-pop resurgence à la her new single “Abracadabra” (which had a surprise debut during the Grammys!) and MAC’s recent Y2K-inspired makeup campaign, it’s as if we’ve thrown a line back in time and adopted whichever noughties trend our hooks drudged up. The latest to resurface? Concealer lips.

Professional makeup artists told us that nude lipsticks were going to be big in 2025, but not in the soft, warm colorways that we’re used to. “We’ve already seen it with MAC, which has relaunched the nude lipsticks everyone was obsessed with in 2017,” Jamie Genevieve, makeup artist and founder of Vieve, previously told Who What Wear.

Celebrity MUAs such as Erin Parsons—who’s glammed the faces of Gigi Hadid and Ashley Graham—have been searching for lookalikes to the coveted ’00s versions of Fleshpot and Hodgepodge for years, and thanks to the brand’s star-studded nude-forward campaign (Julia Fox! Martha Stewart!), this trend is officially back on center stage—just in a more modern, wearable fashion.

The 2025 way to wear this turn-of-the-century look is to pair a cool-toned lip liner with a pale lipstick. Take it from model and Charli XCX–knighted It girl Gabbriette, who, just three months ago, posted an Instagram Reel with Vogue France walking us through her signature two-step concealer lips: a thick line of MAC lip liner in Stone with a light wash of a (likely discontinued, eBay-sourced) concealer that reminds us of the brand’s Pro Longwear Paint Pot.

“[MAC] had it in the early 2000s for people to do that concealer lip, which I am obsessed with,” she says to the camera. Her tip? Dabbing it onto her lips with a finger to avoid the “crusty” look of the overly pale lipsticks of yore.

If you don’t want to go full millennial by applying a drying concealer onto your lips, we hear you. Keep reading to find nine of the best 2000s-inspired “concealer” lipsticks that deliver effortlessly cool, ashen (but never ashy) lips on any skin tone.

Shop Editor-Approved Concealer Lipsticks

If there is one thing you should know about me, it is that my adoration for a great concealer knows no bounds. I have chronic dark circles and a complexion sprinkled with post-breakout marks and broken capillaries aplenty—and I like to disguise the lot. Another thing to know about me is that I am perhaps the furthest thing from a makeup artist that exists—I don't have an artistic bone in my body, and precision is not something I deem myself capable of. I approach any makeup trend or technique in the same way I approach everything in life—like a bull in a china shop.

I can't remember the last time I wore a full-coverage foundation (I hate the way it feels on my face), and have, instead, long opted for achieving a natural-looking base with strategic concealer application. I like a full-coverage concealer applied over blemishes and a hardworking under-eye concealer to soften the impact of my dark circles. On days when I want to make a little more effort, I'll apply over a lightweight skin tint, but for the most part, I want my face to look fresh and take less than five minutes to apply. How do I do it? It's all down to a certain form of concealer application famed by iconic makeup artist, Lisa Eldridge—her pinpoint concealing technique.

What is Pinpoint Concealing?

Eldridge's pinpoint concealer technique was born in the early nineties, when much like today, a barely-there makeup look was very much the desired aesthetic. As a makeup artist to some of the world's biggest models, Eldridge became famed for a specific micro-concealing technique. While she herself was dealing with acne, in an attempt to conceal her breakouts and maintain a natural-looking, foundation-free complexion, she began honing her targeted concealing skill—now known as pinpoint concealing.

"My personal complexion philosophy involves resisting the urge to apply a thick layer of blanket coverage to the skin, even if there are large blemishes or areas you want to cover. Pinpoint Concealing is all about precisely concealing only the areas you feel are absolutely necessary to camouflage, moving focus to the skin in between your problem areas—this allows the beauty of your natural skin to shine through," says Eldridge.

The Pinpoint Concealer Technique

Pinpoint concealing involves applying a high-coverage concealer in a very targeted way—dabbing it only onto the small areas you wish to conceal. For a long time, Eldridge has sung the praises of Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer for being the best product for the job. She would use a very small-nibbed concealer brush, dot it over the blemish and pat in with her finger.

But now Eldridge has announced a simpler solution—a precise pencil concealer that she has created herself, specifically for this technique.

Instead of having to keep a cream concealer and small brush to hand, the new Lisa Eldridge Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil aims to make concealing small areas much easier. Here's how it is done:

• Prep skin with moisturiser, primer, skin tint and/or foundation.
• Using a brush or a fine-nibbed concealer stylo that matches your skin tone exactly, lightly scribble over the area you wish to micro-conceal.
• Dab your (clean) finger over the area to gently blend.
• Continue layering in this way until your desired coverage is achieved.

The trick to making this product work for you is in finding a shade that sits very closely to your natural skin tone (there are 16 to choose from, so this should be easy enough) and "scribbling" the pencil on, rather than drawing. "Don’t apply the concealer in a completely round circle over the area, make the edges non-uniform instead, as it will help with blending and will make it less visible to the eye," Eldridge advises.

So, considering I have been a pretty hardcore follower of this technique for many years, I wanted to give the new product a go to see just how foolproof it really is (and, most importantly, see how it compares to my current technique)...

A Beauty Editor's Review of the Pinpoint Concealer Technique

As a dedicated online follower of Eldridge for many years, her pinpoint concealer technique has been my exclusive approach to daily concealer application for most of my adult life. However, I must admit I haven't been quite as forensic with my technique—I'm a lazy girl who can't be bothered to faff around with makeup brushes. Instead, I have typically relied on concealer pens and stylos for a more precise application.

And for a very long time, this has worked for me. Despite the fact my chin is in a constant acneic state and breakout scars are dotted all over my cheeks, by using pinpoint concealing and adopting a natural-complexion look, I've managed to convince everyone who knows me that I have good skin. The reality is that, actually, my skin is really not that good at all, but by not wearing foundation and concealing only my main areas of concern (dark circles, spots and scars), my friends and colleagues seem to think my skin is always bare.

My current favourite concealer of choice for such micro-concealing endeavours is Sisley's Stylo Correct Concealer. I like that the creamy formula can just be dabbed or swiped over spots, areas of pigmentation and dark circles and then smudged out and blended with my fingers.

On initial inspection of the Lisa Eldridge Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil, things seemed promising. I like that the nib is fine enough to be super-precise, I like that it has a twist-up mechanism because I can't be bothered with sharpening and the formula itself seemed creamy enough when I swatched it—I was impressed. But how did the application fare?

Step 1: Moisturiser and/or Skin Tint

Truthfully, I hardly ever apply a base. My daily makeup routine involves applying a moisturising facial sunscreen and scribbling on my concealer stylo over the top—letting it melt into the moisturising base my SPF has provided. However, given that my skin is particularly dry at the moment and the Lisa Eldridge Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil is a little less creamy than my usual go-to, I opted to apply a sheer skin tint first.

I'll admit here that I did try to go in with the pencil on a bare face, but my post-breakout marks were just too dry, and I found the concealing pencil just wasn't blending in the way I wanted it to. So, I used my go-to Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint for a super-hydrating base that delivers a very light coverage. An all-over base is not my everyday product of choice, but I went with it for the sake of this review.

I would like to point out here that just because I felt as though I needed to apply a base first doesn't necessarily mean everyone will have to. If your areas of concern are broken veins or areas of hyperpigmentation and you don't have dry patches, you'll probably be fine without.

Step 2: Pinpoint Conceal

Once my base was on and my skin felt suitably hydrated, it was time to give the Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil a go. I have a lot of experience in the pinpoint concealer application technique, so it didn't take a lot of getting used to. I identified the key areas of concern and, in turn, lightly scribbled over them before dabbing with my finger to blend.

Most of my marks and spots were concealed on first go, however, some more stubborn areas of pigmentation needed two or three layers before I was happy with how disguised they were. That being said, I was really impressed with how effective the formula is at concealing. I was watching my spots and post-breakout marks disappear before my very eyes all in the space of a few seconds.

One thing I will say, however, is that due to its design and nature, this is not a product that will fare well under the eyes. My dark circles are big, bold and quite intrusive. If I were to use it under my eyes, too, I'd probably get through the entire pencil in a matter of days. Plus, the full-coverage formula is simply not designed to be used in this way.

Step 3: The Rest of the Face

The first thing I felt like I had to do to finish off my look was swipe some creamy concealer on my under-eye area. I went for my trusty By Terry Hyaluronic Serum Concealer for a light-medium coverage, in keeping with the natural-looking finish of the pinpoint concealer.

Because I had applied a skin tint, I also felt as though my face needed some dimension adding back into it, so I opted for my usual Merit Flush Balm, a swipe through of a Refy brow gel, a coating of L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Mascara and a slick of Chanel Rouge Coco Baume on my lips.

The result? A genuinely natural-looking makeup look that took approximately four minutes to apply.

My Final Verdict

Overall, I'm really impressed with this new product. As somebody who has been using the Lisa Eldridge pinpoint concealer technique for a very long time, it is needless to say I was already sold on the application method—it really is the secret to a natural- and healthy-looking complexion.

As for how the Lisa Eldridge Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil fares in comparison to my usual product choices and routine, I would say that it is far more effective at covering my surface-level dark spots and patches of broken veins. My chin looks much more even in tone for using it. However, on my more recent spots and breakouts, I would say that the fuller-coverage formula does cling to dry areas more than my creamier products do. Going forward, I'd be sure to apply heaps more moisturiser to my face first.

Ideally, I like a concealer that I can apply on both blemishes and dark circles—and this isn't that. You see, I'm a really, really lazy makeup applier, and I'm always looking for get-outs where I can find them. Because of this, I just know that most days I'll inevitably end up dabbing my under-eye concealer over my blemishes, too.

So now the million-pound question: would I recommend? The short answer is yes—pinpoint concealing has totally changed my makeup routine, and I think everyone can benefit from it if you're after a natural-looking base. As for my recommendation of the new Lisa Eldridge concealer, I would absolutely recommend giving it a go if you are looking to conceal small areas of hyperpigmentation and legacy spots—it genuinely eradicates their appearance in a matter of seconds in a way that I have never seen before. But, if like me, you have active acne and are a far cry from a makeup artist, you might prefer a creamier concealer that covers more ground. All in all? I'd say it's a pretty revolutionary addition to the makeup scene.

Shop More Full-Coverage Concealers for Blemishes

I have a love-hate relationship with concealer. Yes, I love the fact that I can use it to cover up any blemishes or dark circles when I'm feeling a little self-conscious, but almost every concealer I've tried (even the best under-eye concealers) settles into fine lines, clings to dry skin and creases within a matter of hours. Years of working in the beauty industry have meant that I've found a handful of products that truly work for me, so whenever anyone recommends a new concealer, I'm always a little bit skeptical.

That being said, there's one concealer that I have heard multiple beauty editors rave about for years now, and I am yet to put it to the test. This iconic product launched in 2020 and took social media by storm, and I'd even go as far as to say that it's become somewhat of a makeup bag staple. What concealer am I talking about, I hear you ask? None other than the Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer.

With my dark circles looking as tired as ever, I decided to reach out to my friends at Hourglass and ask them if I could put the concealer through its paces. Soon enough, a range of shades arrived at my door and I've been putting the product to the test for the last few weeks. If you're intrigued to see how I've been getting on, keep on scrolling for my full review...

Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer Review

The Formula

Let's kick things off with one of the most important aspects, which is the formula. I have combination skin, but lately it's been incredibly dry. In fact, my under-eyes have been so dry and flaky that I've been avoiding applying concealer altogether (although the best concealers for dry skin would probably do the trick). So, as you can imagine, I was hoping for a hydrating formula that wouldn't make this problem worse. Luckily for me, this concealer is pretty much weightless on the skin. It has a super creamy, nourishing formula that blends like a dream and doesn't feel cakey or heavy. It is a full coverage concealer, but the concentrated formula means that you only need one or two dots of the concealer for each under-eye. When it comes to blemishes, one dot of this should do the trick.

What makes this concealer really clever is that it contains microspherical powders that work to blur and brighten the skin while also adding a smoothing effect. Plus, it's crease-resistant, long-wearing and waterproof. I haven't tested the waterproof part myself, but I fully intend to put the product through its paces this summer.

The Packaging

I wouldn't normally comment on a concealer's packaging that much, but this particular wand deserves a special mention. Yep, Hourglass have designed a super flexible applicator that allows the wand to hug the contours of your face for a more precise finish. Pretty cool, right?

The Shades

Now, onto the shades. There are currently 32 shades on offer, and while there are options to suit different skin tones and undertones, it would be nice to see a wider variety from the brand in the future. I wasn't quite sure what shade I would be, so I used the foundation shade match quiz on the brand's website to help make things a bit easier.

I managed to narrow it down to two shades, and in the end I used a mix of Creme, a fair shade for cool undertones, and Cotton, a fair shade for warm undertones.

The Verdict

Before Using the Hourglass Concealer

After Using the Hourglass Concealer

So, how did I get on with this concealer? As mentioned above, I have been avoiding applying concealer altogether as my under eyes have been so dry from the cold weather, but amazingly, this product didn't cling to any dry patches of skin. Instead, it blended into my complexion seamlessly and felt super creamy and comfortable to wear. Did it completely get rid of my dark circles? No, but I'm pretty sure no product can. However, what it did do was brighten my under eyes and cover up the discolouration around that area. I felt so much more confident after applying this concealer, and combined with my favourite foundation, my makeup looked more airbrushed as a whole.

One thing I was keen to test was how this concealer lasted throughout the day. My concealer always creases under my eyes, so I didn't have high hopes. However, I was pleasantly surprised. It didn't crease at all during my 8-hour day in the office, and after getting the tube home, there were only a few creases to be seen. While I wouldn't say that it's fully crease-resistant, it definitely has impressive lasting powers.

While I only have positive things to say, it's important to note that this isn't the most affordable concealer. At £36, it's not the kind of product that you pick up in Boots on a whim. However, thanks to the super concentrated formula, one tube of this will last you for such a long time that it's a worthwhile investment in my opinion.

Shop the Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Concealer

Shop More Game-Changing Concealers

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Until now, foundation has always been a staple in my makeup bag. Growing up with acne meant that my relationship with makeup was initially centred around a need for coverage and concealment—so foundation was a true staple. I used to spend (what felt like) hours layering my foundation over colour-correcting primers and concealers. Oh, and I never worn anything less than a full coverage foundation. Of course, this approach certainly worked in helping to hide my breakouts and tone down redness, but I wore it solely for practicality, not because I particularly wanted to or enjoyed doing so.

Over the years, my relationship with foundation has taken a complete 180—mostly as I've become more confident and comfortable with embracing my natural skin. I still experience breakouts and am dealing with years worth of scarring, but I no longer feel the need to hide it away beneath layers of thick, heavy makeup.

Instead, I've turned to the likes of skin tints, concealers, BB creams, tinted moisturisers, and bronzing drops. Products that offer a light and (if needed) buildable coverage, without caking my skin, clogging pores, or looking mask-like. If you're also looking for a lighter and more natural-looking alternative to foundation, read on to discover my favourite recommendations for what to wear instead.

Shop the Best Foundation Alternatives:

• The Best Concealer: Merit The Minimalist
• The Best Tinted Moisturiser: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser
• The Best BB Cream: Erborian BB Creme
• The Best Skin Tint: Ultra Violette Daydream Screen
• The Best Bronzing Drops: Oskia Nutri-Bronze Adaptive Sheer Tinted Serum

1. Concealer

Back in the day, I used concealer to cover each individual breakout, and I layered it on both under and on top of my foundation. Now, I've learned to use concealer in a whole new way—as an alternative, rather than an accessory to, foundation.

For days when I don't want a full coverage base but maybe still need a little stealth concealing, a concealer does just the trick. I apply it to the areas where it's most needed, and then blend and buff it out, so it appears totally undetectable.

2. Tinted Moisturiser

Those with dry skin types may notice that foundation clings to and emphasis areas of dryness—which is where a tinted moisturiser comes in handy. They provide enough pigment to subtly even out skin tone and cancel out redness, but are formulated to hydrate and nourish the skin at the same time. The result? Skin looks (and feels) glowy and hydrated.

3. BB Cream

A K-beauty staple, BB creams offer a lighter and more natural-looking finish to foundations, while also helping to conceal breakouts and deliver skincare benefits—after all, BB stands for 'blemish balm'. Ideal for low maintenance people and those who don't want to look or feel like they've got makeup on, BB creams can be applied with your fingers or a sponge.

4. Skin Tint

Skin tints are usually thinner and more serum-like in texture than tinted moisturiser and BB creams. They're great for those who want a truly weightless finish, but are also surprisingly pigmented, so will go a long way towards concealing and covering everything from breakouts and sun spots to redness and hyperpigmentation.

5. Bronzing Drops

If you truly want to avoid wearing makeup altogether, consider trying out bronzing drops—which were my go-to all through the summer. These ultra-pigmented drops can be applied directly to your skin or can be mixed into your moisturiser, so can you can basically create your own bespoke tinted moisturiser. They're a great option if you want to really tailor the amount of coverage of your base.

Okay, so you've got acne-prone skin? Naturally, the first step in addressing breakouts is to establish an acne-friendly skincare routine—removing products containing pore-clogging ingredients, and replacing them with lightweight moisturisers, hardworking cleansers, and serums powered by ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide.

It can take up to three months for skincare to have an effect (especially when dealing with a stubborn concern like acne), but if you're still getting breakouts, it's important to keep in mind that there are a whole host of other factors that can affect our skin and contribute to acne.

From hormones and stress through to diet, lifestyle and hygiene habits, and of course, the other products that we apply to our skin, clearing acne can often take a full 360 approach. As an esthetician and someone who has lived with acne for the past 16 years, I know first-hand the impact that makeup can have upon skin—and how to deal with it.

Depending on their formulas, makeup products can contribute to breakouts, especially if they contain ingredients that might clog pores or cause irritation to acne-prone skin. Hygienic application techniques, like avoiding using your fingers and using clean brushes and sponges can make a massive difference. As will thorough makeup removal—I always recommend using a makeup remover first and then double cleansing skin with a flannel. No face wipes, and no sleeping in makeup are my golden rules.

To be even more on the safe side, it's a good idea to buy acne-friendly makeup products in the first place. These days, everything from primers and foundations to concealers and powders can be formulated to be non-comedogenic (not pore-clogging) and can even include active ingredients to help treat breakouts throughout the day.

Need to give the contents of your makeup bag an acne-friendly overhaul? Scroll down for my favourite tried-and-tested acne-friendly makeup products.

The Best Acne-Friendly Makeup Products:

1. The Best Acne-Friendly Primer: Dr. Jart+ Pore Remedy Soothing Primer
2. The Best Acne-Friendly Concealer: Erborian Super BB Concealer
3. The Best Acne-Friendly Foundation: Merit The Minimalist
4. The Best Acne-Friendly Powder: Kosas Cloud Set Setting Powder
5. The Best Acne-Friendly Setting Spray: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Makeup Setting Spray

The Best Acne-Friendly Primers:

Since makeup primer is applied to bare skin, it's important to find a formula that works well for acne-prone complexions. Many primers rely upon silicones to create a smooth base for makeup to apply to, but silicones can trap dirt and oil in pores, which can make acne worse. The best primers for acne-prone skin have lightweight textures, non-comedogenic formulas, and many contain active ingredients to help with breakouts.