These concealers will help you fake eight hours of sleep

The job of a good concealer relies on its ability to stay invisible, but the importance of it in your makeup routine can never be underestimated. Given the hectic pace of our everyday lives, clocking in the recommended eight hours of sleep every single night can seem like a pipe dream, which is where the magic wand of a full coverage concealer comes to the rescue. However, the quest for the perfect one comes with a discerning list of criteria, including a long-lasting formula that doesn’t parch your skin, or slide off in the humidity outdoors.

To help you narrow down the search list, we enlisted the help of the go-to makeup artist for most Bollywood celebrities, Puneet B Saini. Having worked her magic on everyone from Alia Bhatt to Anushka Sharma, her top advice for neutralising blemishes and spots is to follow the ‘less is more’ mantra. “Applying too much product can do the absolute opposite, and instead call attention to the area with a cake-y patch. Build on the process of concealment with light layers, and seal it in place with a good setting powder to ensure that it doesn’t budge during the day,” she recommends.

To address any bluish or purplish tints under the eyes, she recommends following the basic principles of colour correction. “It is important to bear in mind that only one colour may not always do the job. You may need to use a peach or orange colour corrector underneath to negate any discolouration before applying the concealer. Apply with a gentle hand and remember not to go too close to the lower lash line, to avoid making your eyes appear unnaturally small,” says the Mumbai-based makeup artist.

Ready to begin the hunt? From luminous compositions that glide on silkily to fluid formulas that dry matte, here are all the concealers that need to make it to your shortlist.

Our favourite concealers to add to your makeup repertoire

M.A.C Studio Finish Concealer

With golden and peach undertones for colour correction, this long-lasting staple has earned a spot on the celebrity makeup artist’s permanent kit. “This formula comes with a high amount of pigments served in a creamy texture, making it an ideal option for those looking for full coverage,” Saini recommends.

BECCA Ultimate Coverage Longwear Concealer

Living up to the moniker, this formula packs in some serious longevity under the hood, negating the need for frequent touch-ups through the day. Opt for one shade lighter than your usual skin tone and set it to work on the under eye area by gently patting on until dry, or dotting with the wand applicator for spot fixes.

Maybelline New York Fit Me! Concealer

If you’re looking to cover up the souvenirs from an untimely pimple, this oil-free formula treads lightly around irritated skin. Apply in a dotted pattern over the requisite areas to cover blemishes and redness, while still allowing your skin to breathe.

Dior Fix It 2-in-1 Prime & Conceal

This 2-in-1 concealer employs a full coverage formula to smooth over pores, while the soft-focus powder at the core does the job of an all-purpose skin perfecter. Together, this duo pulls an encore in your makeup routine by first concealing any wrinkles, and later working as an effective lip primer.

Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer

If the thought of a concealer has you visualising your skin trapped under a thick coat of paint, allow this soft matte formula to lay your worries to rest. Built for all-day wear, this concealer employs hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to fortify your skin’s line of defence on the daily.

L’Oréal Paris True Match Concealer

The lightweight, buildable composition of this fluid formula allows for light layering when dealing with raised bumps and zits. To maximise its benefits, delicately pat the product on the required area. and coat with a light dusting of translucent powder to seal it in place.

NYX Professional Makeup Gotcha Covered Concealer Pencil

Without leaving behind telltale dry patches, this stick formula makes for a nifty spot fix when on-the-go. Use it directly on bare skin or layer over foundation by pencilling over blemishes and skin discolouration.

Also read:

How to choose a concealer for darker skin tones

7 ways to stop your concealer from creasing in the heat

9 makeup setting products that actually have great skincare benefits