Dark under-eye circles are a common concern, and while there’s no shortage of skincare advice and DIY hacks flooding the internet, sometimes the quickest and most effective solution lies in the right concealer. Beauty experts and makeup artists alike swear by high-quality under-eye concealers—not just to camouflage discoloration but also to nourish and brighten the delicate skin around the eyes over time. If you're looking to erase signs of fatigue or stress and give your eyes a well-rested glow, these expert-approved concealers deserve a spot in your makeup routine.
Brands like Nars, Makeup by Mario, Haus Labs, and more have developed concealers that not only deliver flawless coverage but also offer skincare benefits through powerhouse ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, and glycerin. According to board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Margarita Lolis, “Look for concealers with hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help draw moisture to the skin. This creates a plumper, more rejuvenated appearance.” She adds that brightening ingredients such as vitamin C and niacinamide can help reduce pigmentation and calm inflammation, addressing the root of discoloration while enhancing your makeup look.
Nicole Faulkner, a senior makeup artist and director of artistry at e.l.f. Beauty, emphasizes the importance of using a medium-buildable, hydrating concealer. “These types of concealers offer versatility,” Faulkner explains. “You can wear them lightly for a no-makeup makeup look or layer them up without the fear of caking for a full-glam finish.” One key tip? Avoid choosing shades that are too light, as this can actually make dark circles more prominent. Instead, opt for the right undertone to effectively neutralize any shadowy hues under the eyes.
Ready to revamp your beauty bag? Here are some of the best concealers for dark circles, personally recommended by top makeup artists and dermatologists:
Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer: A cult classic for a reason, this concealer delivers a radiant, skin-like finish with medium-to-full coverage that lasts all day. It blends seamlessly, making it perfect for everyday wear or layered glam.
Makeup by Mario SurrealSkin Awakening Concealer: Designed to provide natural radiance and hydration, this formula from celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic is infused with skincare benefits that awaken tired-looking eyes and smooth fine lines.
Haus Labs by Lady Gaga Triclone Skin Tech Hydrating + De-Puffing Concealer: Powered by Lady Gaga’s clean beauty brand, this concealer offers hydration and de-puffing effects thanks to ingredients like caffeine and peptides. It’s ideal for reducing morning puffiness and fatigue.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Camo Concealer: One of the best drugstore options on the market, this budget-friendly concealer is a staple in many professional makeup kits. “It offers flexible, buildable coverage and a satin finish that mimics skin,” says Faulkner. “It plays well with both powder and liquid products, making it a true multitasker.”
Valentino Beauty Very Valentino Concealer: This luxurious concealer uses caffeine to target one of the underlying causes of dark circles—poor blood flow beneath the eyes. Its lightweight formula conceals and revives the under-eye area, offering a radiant, smooth finish.
Natasha Denona Hy-Glam Brightening & Hydrating Medium to Full Coverage Serum Concealer: Slightly on the pricier side, this concealer is a favorite of Faulkner’s for its 19-hour wear time and buttery, easy-to-blend formula. “It provides full coverage while feeling incredibly light on the skin,” she notes. “It blends like a dream and works well even without setting powder.”
No matter your budget or skin type, there's a perfect concealer out there for you. Whether you're chasing a fresh-faced, dewy look or gearing up for full glam, the key is finding a product that covers, hydrates, and supports long-term skin health. Give your under-eyes the care they deserve with these top concealers—and say goodbye to tired-looking mornings for good.