A good concealer can do more than just cover up flaws; it can completely change the way your skin looks. Makeup artists love illuminating concealers because they brighten, lift, and smooth out the skin without making it look heavy or covered up. The right formula can make skin look healthier, fresher, and more awake almost right away. It can also soften dark circles, diffuse shadows, and add a finish that reflects light. Choosing the correct product and applying it properly is what truly sets the result apart.
Emily Clarkson, a famous makeup artist, says that the way you use a product is just as important as the product itself. She says that placement and texture are very important because using too much or the wrong type can make areas you want to hide stand out. Because of this, she suggests not using illuminating formulas on spots or raised scars, where more light could make the texture stand out more.
What you need to know about illuminating concealers
Illuminating concealers are made to make skin look brighter instead of completely covering it up. These formulas usually have light-diffusing pigments that soften shadows and give the skin a soft glow, unlike heavier matte options. They work especially well as concealers under the eyes or around the nose, where dark spots can make the skin look dull. Clarkson says that the goal is not to completely hide the blemishes, but to make them look smoother and fresher by reflecting light.
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How to Pick the Best Illuminating Concealer
When picking an illuminating concealer, the texture is very important. Creamy, hydrating formulas work best, especially under the eyes, because they don’t settle into fine lines as easily. Clarkson says that the best way to look good is to use a brightening concealer with a nourishing eye cream. To keep the glow, coverage should stay sheer to medium. Thicker formulas are better for covering up blemishes.
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Undertone is also very important. Soft pink or peach tones can help brighten up dark areas, but finishes that are too shimmery may look fake. A subtle light reflection is better than a visible sparkle for a more polished glow.
How to Get the Best Results with Illuminating Concealer
Clarkson says to use your ring finger on the area under your eyes, but only after warming the product on the back of your hand so you don’t use too much. A light touch is important in this area because it is sensitive and can get fine lines. She also says that you should put on concealer after foundation and cream products to avoid using too much.
Mixing concealer with a pea-sized amount of moisturizer can help sheer out coverage while keeping a soft, skin-like glow for a very natural look.
The Best Illuminating Concealers to Try Best Overall: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat Illuminating Pen, £32
Best for Natural Makeup: Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Tint + Brighten, £26. Best for Everyday Wear: Sculpted by Aimee Brighten Up Concealer, £16. Best for Mature Skin: Sisley Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen, £54. Best Shade Range: Fenty Beauty Bright Fix Eye Brightener, £22.
This concealer has been a favorite for a long time because its light-reflecting pigments brighten without covering up the skin. It has a weightless feel and a natural finish that makes it perfect for the area under the eyes and around the nose, giving you a rested, glowing look.
Brighten and tint your under-eye area with Milk Makeup Sunshine.
This cooling under-eye tint is great for people who want to look glowy rather than covered up. It feels good on tired skin and hydrates it. The rollerball applicator gives you a soft wash of brightness that blends in easily.
Aimee Brighten Up Concealer shaped it
This formula is easy to blend and leaves a finish that looks like skin. It was made to enhance, not hide. It gives the area under the eyes a little lift without making it feel heavy, and it works well with both foundation and powder.
Stylo Lumière Highlighter Pen from Sisley
This high-end mix of concealer and highlighter gives you a glow that looks like it’s coming from inside. Clarkson says it’s good for older skin because it softly blurs shadows without settling into fine lines.
Bright Fix Eye Brightener from Fenty Beauty
This formula has a wide range of shades and color-correcting undertones that help get rid of dark circles under the eyes. It feels light and lifts the area under the eyes, and it works especially well when layered under concealer for darker shadows.
The silky texture makes it easy to put on and keeps it comfortable all day. It’s a real skincare-makeup hybrid. It has sheer coverage that can be built up, and it leaves a natural, hydrated finish that works well on dry or sensitive under-eyes.
