As a makeup artist, I try out tons of products. I use them on myself, my clients and at photo shoots to test out the quality and look of anything new. If you take a peek into my kit you will see many different brands, some you may be familiar with, some you may not.
There are certain products and brands for me that are staples, or what some people call a "holy grail" product. But for me, those are mainly my foundations. Outside of that, I'm open to new things as long as they are high quality, work well with other products, and look amazing on camera.
When it comes to concealers, I am quite picky. Mediocrity simply will not do . . . And I can honestly say that as of the last 2 years, my top concealers have stayed the same so I thought I would share!
One of my faves is MAC Cosmetics' Pro Longwear Concealer. This is a must-have for the majority of my bridal work and for oily skin. MAC Cosmetics describes it as, "A lightweight fluid concealer, that provides medium to full coverage with a comfortable, natural matte finish. Gives a smoother, flawless looking finish on skin. Helps to conceal flaws, dark spots, skin-discoloration and under-eye circles."
MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Concealer
I agree completely with the description and appreciate that you can customize coverage with this product. I will say however, if you have very dark under-eye circles, you may need to color-correct before using this concealer. The bottle does have a pump, however it pumps out too much product at once, so be careful . . . It can get kinda messy. But it comes in 16 different shades, and 1 bottle goes a long way, well worth the purchase.
Another great option is by NARS. Their Radiant Creamy Concealer is so fabulous! I love it for dry and normal skin. I also use it often when I'm creating a "no makeup" makeup look. NARS says, "Coveted by artists for its luxurious texture and luminous finish, Radiant Creamy Concealer evens skin with lightweight medium to high buildable coverage. Enriched with hydrating, multi-action skincare benefits and light diffusing technology, it creates a softer, smoother complexion, while instantly obscuring imperfections and diminishing fine lines and signs of fatigue."
NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
What amazes the most about this concealer is that the consistency is so super creamy, yet it has great staying power! I believe there are a total of 10 shades to choose from and NARS always has the most amazing and sleek packaging.
Cover FX Cream Foundation is a "concealer" product I often recommend to my clients. I realize it isn't labeled a concealer, but I love it because it's a product you can use as both foundation and concealer. The consistency is creamy, without the greasiness. As a makeup artist, I love using it as a concealer on areas that may need a bit more coverage. According to Cover FX, "An antioxidant rich, 2-in-1 concealer and foundation offering broad spectrum SPF 30 protection with medium to full, buildable coverage."
Cover FX Cream Foundation
If you use this as a foundation, I recommend using a Beauty Blender or a Real Techniques Makeup Sponge for application. If you are using wanting to use it as a concealer, try using a smaller makeup brush to apply it, then tap to blend. I know that it comes with a sponge for application, but if you use that and each time it goes right back in the compact, it is accumulating bacteria . . . Which is a no-no for your skin.
Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer is another product you can use as foundation and concealer. It may be a bit pricier, but it is well worth the investment. I love to use it for just about anything . . . Photo shoots, special event clients, brides, everyday concealer . . . You name it, it works. The Kevyn Aucoin website says, "A versatile skin-enhancer used to achieve a youthful, dewy complexion. Use as a concealer, highlighter, or over-all foundation . . . Great for all skin types."
I think this product is perfect for highlight, foundation, and as a concealer when you need just a bit more coverage for certain spots. It is used regularly on the red carpet and one that I keep personally at all times. I typically apply this using a damp makeup sponge or a stippling brush (like the MAC #188 brush). It all depends on what I'm using the product for and whether I want a thing natural layer or full coverage.
Last, but not least, is Make Up For Ever's Full Cover Concealer. Can we say PERFECTION! This product is not only in my kit, but the kit of many makeup professionals . . . Including those that do TV/film, fashion, editorial EVERYTHING! Make Up For Ever says, "An ultra long-lasting, oil-free, waterproof, concealer that provides full coverage with a matte finish." This product provides such amazing coverage, I can sometimes use it to cover tattoos or extreme pigmentation.
Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer
The color range is pretty good, but of course as an artist I typically mic a couple shades to find the perfect one. Ever though it is made to be full coverage, it can certainly be thinned out. It's a concealer every makeup lover should have. And if you are someone who likes a "no makeup" makeup look, you must have this product.
If you don't see your favorite concealer on this list, comment below and let me know what your favorite is! I feel like I have tried everything, but someone may surprise me, LOL. I look forward to seeing your suggestions.
Would anyone be interested in a video on this list?! Let me know!
Stay Beautiful! . . . Inside and out.