Personally, I love spot concealing instead of using foundation. I think it feels natural, looks more flattering on skin, and it’s less maintenance. Sure, flawless skin and heavy foundations are in at the moment – ahem, “Instagram makeup” is in – but there is something to be said for letting your natural skin peek through. It may not look traditionally perfect, but it’s real and I’m so here for it.
I’ve found that the best way to skip foundation is to spot conceal with a medium or full-coverage concealer. A full-coverage concealer will help to really cover up specific areas without needing to put product on your entire face.
Let’s dive into the world of full-coverage concealer!
Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer ($27)
This is the OG of full-coverage concealers. I dare you to watch a makeup video on YouTube without hearing mention of this concealer. It has a massive applicator that makes application feel really nice. It’s my go-to, but it can feel just a teensy bit dry on my skin in winter months, so I combine it with a heavy moisturizer especially under my eyes.
It comes in 30 shades, which is kind of a big deal.
Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Concealer ($29)
This has the same full-coverage properties as Shape Tape, but it’s more hydrating if that’s what your skin is craving most. This concealer doubles as a foundation that you can dot all over your face for flawless coverage. It’s super versatile, but be warned that a little goes a long way. It comes in 20 shades, and if you can find a good match then it’s a fantastic concealer.
Related: How To Build a Contour Kit for Dark Skin
Colourpop No Filter Concealer ($6)
First off, thank you Ulta Beauty for carrying this in store now, because buying a concealer shade online and actually having it match IRL is a slightly impossible feat. This concealer packs on awesome coverage, but feels extremely lightweight. For $6 I say buy a concealer shade, a highlight and a contour!
It’s cruelty-free, has a more matte finish and it comes in 30 different shades. Thank you, Colourpop, this one is a keeper.
L’Oreal Infallible Full Wear Waterproof Concealer ($13)
This is a new full-coverage addition to the drugstore, and it’s essential if you’re shopping on a college budget. With 25 shades, it has a decent range that packs on coverage, and it has a gorgeous applicator.
Fenty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer ($26)
Rihanna has done it again with this concealer! This line wins for shade range inclusivity, obviously because it comes in 50 shades. It has a matte, super lightweight finish that puts it at about medium-coverage.
Don’t let the medium-coverage deter you though, because it builds up extremely well and doesn’t get cakey.
Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Full Coverage Concealer ($7)
With 24 (soon to be 50) shades, this Makeup Revolution concealer is a hidden gem. It’s more of a medium-coverage, but it builds up nicely. For $7 this is so worth it, and I think you’ll fall in love with the formula.
Cover FX Power Play ($29)
With 30 shades in varying undertones and a natural finish, this concealer is perfect for your everyday makeup routine. It comes in neutral, golden, golden olive and pink undertones, so if you struggle with finding the right undertone, give this concealer a try.
Related: 6 Multipurpose Makeup Products That Will Cut Your Routine In Half
Elf Camo Concealer ($6)
Elf’s newest baby is a $6 full-coverage concealer that promises no creasing and 16 hours of wear. It’s a pretty big promise! But influencer, Jackie Aina just reviewed this concealer and it got her approval, and I trust that.
Huda Beauty Overachiever High Coverage Concealer ($30)
I know Huda for her flawless and glamorous mug, so it makes sense that her concealer can cover dark circles for days and then some. This concealer is very thick and very full-coverage. It comes in 20 shades with a decent variety, and has a cooling metal applicator tip made to depuff the eye area.
Flesh Beauty Thickstick ($18)
The Flesh Thick Sticks are fabulous little multi-use sticks that can work as foundation, concealer, highlight or contour. They come in 40 shades and offer tons of coverage with a dewy, luminous finish.
Nars Creamy Radiant Concealer ($30)
This concealer is a classic. It’s flawless, but it looks natural, and that’s why it’s loved by influencers, editors and beauty lovers alike! It’s more medium-coverage, but I can say it truly does the job. I’ve gone through about six tubes of it, so.