The 3 Types of Concealer Every Make-Up Lover Needs

Word by Jennifer George

Some people might not be lipstick wearers, others have an aversion to coloured eyeshadow, and the jury’s still out on whether primer is a completely necessary step in a make-up routine. But one thing we can all agree on is that every make-up wearer uses concealer. In an age where we’re all looking after our skin so well, many might not be opting for a full face of foundation every day, but you’ll be hard pressed to find someone who doesn’t use a dot of concealer to brighten under the eyes, camouflage blemishes or even out their skin tone. Depending on what you’re using it for, choosing the right format – either liquid, cream (from a pot or as a stick) or a serum consistency – is key to achieving a more seamless, natural finish.

Liquid concealers are popular as they can act like foundations – used across the face where you want coverage, easily and with great results. A squidgy doe foot applicator is the usual choice for a liquid formula, like the one on the Esteé Lauder Double Wear formula, which allows you to dot on and spread the liquid easily before blending in with a brush or patting down with your fingers. Liquid concealers can be used for spot correction, but are great for larger areas too. The Bobbi Brown Skin Full Cover Concealer option, for example, “is designed to diminish the appearance of imperfections instantly,” says Hollie Burke, pro artist at the brand. “It’s quite full coverage and a little goes a long way. I like using this for helping to cover redness.” This format of concealer often gives a lovely, glowy finish, like Charlotte Tilbury’s Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer, but you can find matte options too, like Dior’s smooth, suede-like offering.

If you want to conceal more specific spots or areas, a cream concealer is essential in your make-up kit. They’re usually denser in consistency and easily buildable, so you can work it on with the stick, your fingers or a brush to hide blemishes or concerns. Rebecca Moore, NARS Senior Artist, recommends the brand’s infamous Soft Matte Complete Concealer for covering blemishes or challenging areas, “as the butter-like formula helps to smooth texture whilst feeling lightweight on the skin, plus it’s easy to layer for extra coverage.” Bobbi Brown’s Skin Concealer Stick “is designed to conceal imperfections in the most natural way,” says Burke, who suggests applying straight from the bullet and patting it in with your finger. Stick versions of creams are great for touch-ups on the go, such as Cle de Peau’s iconic version, which offers quick yet full coverage concealing that glides on seamlessly with a radiant finish. For a more matte option, try Tom Ford’s Traceless Soft Matte concealer.

Although these days all make-up products should be kind to your skin, there are some products that are specifically formulated as skincare-make-up hybrids, including serum concealers. These, like By Terry and Lancôme’s, are usually a little thinner in consistency than the traditional liquid concealer, but in return, are super hydrating, so great for dry or more mature skin types. Even though they’re not full coverage, many, like Westman Atelier’s, are buildable. Serum concealers are especially good for under-eye concealing, like Sisley’s, which is specifically formulated to de-puff and hydrate the delicate skin there while leaving a brightening veil of coverage.