Tired of looking tired? We’ve all been there. Those pesky dark circles under our eyes can make us appear worn out, even when we’re feeling fresh. But here’s some good news: finding the right concealer can make a world of difference! If you’re on the hunt for the best under eye concealer for dark circles UK, you’ve landed in the right spot. We’ve scoured the market to bring you a curated list of top-notch products designed to brighten, conceal, and rejuvenate your delicate under-eye area.
Say goodbye to heavy eye baggage and hello to a brighter, more confident you! Whether you’re dealing with genetic dark circles, lack of sleep, or just want to add a little extra pop to your look, a great under-eye concealer is your secret weapon. Let’s dive into our top picks that are making waves across the UK.
Why Do We Get Dark Circles Anyway?
Before we jump into the products, it’s helpful to understand why dark circles appear. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, lack of sleep, dehydration, thinning skin that shows blood vessels more prominently, sun exposure, and even allergies. No matter the reason, the goal is often the same: to brighten and even out that delicate skin.
Key Considerations When Choosing an Under Eye Concealer
When picking out the best under eye concealer for dark circles UK, keep these factors in mind:
- Colour Correcting: If your dark circles have a bluish or purplish tint, a peach or orange-toned colour corrector underneath your concealer can work wonders. For more brown-toned circles, a yellow or pink corrector might be better.
- Coverage Level: Do you need light, medium, or full coverage? This depends on how prominent your dark circles are.
- Texture: Creamy formulas are great for dry under-eyes, while a slightly thicker consistency might offer more coverage for deeper discolouration. Avoid anything too thick or cakey, as it can settle into fine lines.
- Ingredients: Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and vitamin E to nourish the delicate skin. Anti-aging ingredients like peptides can also be a bonus.
- Longevity: You want a concealer that stays put all day without creasing or fading.
- Shade Match: It’s often recommended to choose a concealer that’s one or two shades lighter than your foundation to help brighten the area.
Our Top Picks: The 7 Best Under Eye Concealers for Dark Circles UK
Here are our favourites that promise to tackle those dark circles head-on!
Catrice | Under Eye Brightener | Conceal & Brighten Dark Circles (Light Pink)
This Catrice Under Eye Brightener is your secret weapon for instantly awake eyes. Its light pink, nourishing texture is specifically formulated for the under-eye area, working to visibly balance out bluish tones. Infused with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, it not only conceals but also cares for your skin, leaving you with a natural and radiant glow. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a brightening effect without heavy coverage, and it’s totally vegan and cruelty-free!
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Key Features:
- Light pink shade instantly brightens and balances bluish under-eye tones.
- Enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for nourishment.
- Medium coverage for a natural, fresh look.
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula.
- Can be applied with fingers, sponge, or brush.
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Pros:
- Excellent for colour correcting blue/purple dark circles.
- Hydrating and nourishing thanks to skin-loving ingredients.
- Achieves a natural, radiant finish.
- Affordable and accessible.
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.
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Cons:
- Medium coverage might not be enough for very dark circles.
- May require setting powder to prevent creasing for some users.
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User Impressions: Customers love how this brightener genuinely banishes tired-looking eyes, giving an immediate lift. They appreciate its light texture that doesn’t cake and the added skincare benefits. Many find it works wonderfully as a first step before applying their regular concealer.
- See it on Amazon here
Catrice | Under Eye Brightener | Conceal & Brighten Dark Circles (Warm Colour)
Another gem from Catrice, this “Tik Tok viral” Under Eye Brightener, comes in a warm colour to tackle those dark shadows with a different approach. Like its pink counterpart, it’s packed with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, ensuring your under-eye area stays hydrated and glows. This warm-toned formula specifically targets and cancels out bluish tones, giving you a naturally radiant and fresh appearance. It’s perfect for achieving that sought-after awakened look with a medium coverage that blends seamlessly.
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Key Features:
- Warm colour corrects bluish under-eye shadows and dark circles.
- Enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for skin nourishment.
- Medium coverage for a natural, fresh look.
- Vegan and cruelty-free formula.
- TikTok viral for its effective brightening.
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Pros:
- Warm tone effectively cancels out blue/purple dark circles.
- Hydrating and comfortable on the skin.
- Delivers a natural, brightened finish.
- Great value for money.
- Easy to blend and build coverage.
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Cons:
- Might not suit all skin tones if a cool-toned corrector is preferred.
- Medium coverage may require layering for intense discolouration.
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User Impressions: This brightener is a TikTok sensation for a reason! Users rave about its ability to instantly wake up their eyes and minimise the appearance of dark circles without looking heavy. Many highlight its caring formula and smooth application.
- See it on Amazon here
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer
Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Eraser is America’s number one concealer for a reason, and it’s a firm favourite in the UK too! This anti-aging treatment concealer is infused with Haloxyl to not only erase the look of dark circles but also tackle fine lines and brighten dull skin. The unique sponge applicator makes it super easy to apply, offering a radiant, well-rested look in moments. It’s a true multi-tasker, perfect for concealing blemishes, redness, and even for contouring and highlighting.
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Key Features:
- Infused with Haloxyl for anti-aging benefits.
- Unique sponge applicator for easy and smooth application.
- Erases dark circles, fine lines, and brightens dull skin.
- Can be used to correct redness, contour, and highlight.
- Available in multiple shades to suit various skin tones.
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Pros:
- Effective at concealing dark circles and fine lines.
- Brightens the under-eye area noticeably.
- Convenient and hygienic sponge applicator.
- Good range of shades available.
- Affordable and widely available.
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Cons:
- Sponge applicator can hold onto product, making it harder to clean.
- Some users find it can crease if not set with powder.
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User Impressions: This cult-favourite concealer is praised for its instant brightening effect and how well it camouflages dark circles and imperfections. Reviewers love the ease of application and its lightweight feel, making it a staple in their daily makeup routine.
- See it on Amazon here
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer Travel (Light)
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye is a holy grail for many, and this travel-sized version in a light shade is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. This #1 best-selling, anti-aging concealer provides instant full coverage for up to 24 hours without creasing, cracking, or settling into fine lines. It’s packed with skin-loving ingredients like ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, ensuring your skin is nourished while you conceal. It’s also water-resistant, offering lasting, beautiful results that brighten and hide imperfections.
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Key Features:
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1 best-selling, anti-aging full coverage concealer.
- Delivers up to 24 hours of wear without creasing or cracking.
- Formulated with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E.
- Water-resistant formula for lasting results.
- Travel size is perfect for portability.
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Pros:
- Exceptional full coverage for severe dark circles.
- Anti-aging benefits from skincare-infused ingredients.
- Long-lasting and water-resistant.
- Doesn’t crease or settle into fine lines.
- A little goes a very long way, making it cost-effective despite the size.
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Cons:
- Higher price point compared to drugstore options.
- Requires a small amount and careful blending to avoid heaviness.
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User Impressions: Customers swear by this concealer for its incredible coverage and long-lasting power. They appreciate that it doesn’t look cakey or settle into wrinkles, giving a smooth, youthful finish. The travel size is a big hit for convenience.
- See it on Amazon here
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer (Medium)
For those needing a broader shade match, the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer in Medium offers the same powerhouse performance as its lighter, travel-sized counterpart. This award-winning eye and face concealer delivers instant full coverage that lasts up to 24 hours. Its creamy, water-resistant formula is a multitasker, brightening and concealing dark circles, fine lines, blemishes, and even pores, all while nourishing your skin with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. Just a pinhead-size amount is all you need for a flawless, natural finish.
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Key Features:
- Award-winning, #1 best-selling full coverage concealer.
- 24-hour wear that resists creasing, cracking, and settling.
- Enriched with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E.
- Water-resistant, moisturising formula.
- Ideal for concealing dark circles, blemishes, and redness.
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Pros:
- Provides high-pigment, full coverage with minimal product.
- Nourishes skin with powerful anti-aging ingredients.
- Long-wearing and reliable, even in humid conditions.
- Versatile for both under-eye and facial spot concealing.
- Natural finish that looks like skin.
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Cons:
- Premium price tag.
- Can feel thick if too much product is applied.
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User Impressions: Users with medium skin tones laud this concealer for its perfect shade match and incredible ability to hide even the most stubborn dark circles. They frequently mention its smooth application, durability, and the way it leaves their under-eye area looking bright and youthful.
- See it on Amazon here
LZXLUKGIR Under Eye Concealer Full Coverage
If full coverage is your priority, the LZXLUKGIR Under Eye Concealer is designed to impress. This creamy, high-quality formula offers excellent concealing power for dark circles, eye bags, and fine lines, promising a natural yet exquisite eye makeup effect. It boasts strong ductility, blending seamlessly with your skin for a smooth, delicate texture. Plus, its professional long-lasting and waterproof formula ensures your makeup stays fresh and clean all day, even in challenging environments. It comes complete with a professional brush and soft sponge for flawless application.
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Key Features:
- Full coverage for dark circles, eye bags, and fine lines.
- Creamy texture with strong ductility for seamless blending.
- Professional long-lasting and waterproof formula.
- Suitable for all skin types, vegan, and cruelty-free.
- Comes with a professional concealer brush and soft sponge.
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Pros:
- Exceptional full coverage for significant discolouration.
- Highly blendable and creates a smooth skin texture.
- Excellent longevity and waterproof properties.
- Includes applicator tools for convenience.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
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Cons:
- Brand may be less known, potentially leading to hesitation for some.
- Cream in a pot might be less hygienic for some users.
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User Impressions: Customers are pleasantly surprised by the full coverage this concealer offers, stating it truly hides their dark circles and imperfections. They appreciate the creamy texture that doesn’t drag and the included tools for precise application, especially praising its staying power.
- See it on Amazon here
SHEGLAM 12HR Full Coverage Concealer Matte Finish Concealer
The SHEGLAM 12HR Full Coverage Concealer is a multi-functional hero, designed to conceal dark circles, create a lifted effect, and brighten your under-eyes, all with a sophisticated soft matte finish. It’s formulated with skin-loving ingredients, including Portulaca Oleracea, known for deeply hydrating the skin, and provides antioxidant protection. This cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny Approved concealer promises 12 hours of complexion perfection, keeping you looking fresh and flawless throughout the day.
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Key Features:
- Multi-functional: conceals, brightens, and lifts.
- Full coverage with a soft matte finish.
- Hydrating ingredients, including Portulaca Oleracea.
- Provides antioxidant protection.
- 12 hours of long-lasting wear.
- Cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny Approved.
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Pros:
- Achieves a beautiful soft matte finish without looking flat.
- Provides excellent full coverage for dark circles.
- Hydrates and protects the delicate under-eye area.
- Long-wearing, staying put for up to 12 hours.
- Ethically produced (cruelty-free).
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Cons:
- Matte finish might not be preferred by those with very dry under-eyes.
- Limited information on available shades in the features.
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User Impressions: Users love this concealer for its impressive full coverage and the modern soft matte finish that doesn’t settle into lines. They often highlight its comfortable wear and how well it brightens their under-eye area while feeling hydrating, making it a fantastic everyday option.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the best way to apply under eye concealer for dark circles?
A1: Start with moisturised skin. Apply a small amount of concealer in an inverted triangle shape under your eye. Gently pat and blend with your ring finger (which provides the least pressure), a damp beauty sponge, or a soft brush. Build up coverage in thin layers rather than applying a thick layer at once to avoid creasing.
Q2: Should I use a colour corrector before my concealer?
A2: Yes, if your dark circles have a distinct colour (e.g., blue, purple, or brown), a colour corrector can neutralise the shade before your regular concealer goes on top. For blue/purple tones, a peach or orange corrector works well. For brownish circles, opt for a yellow or pink hue.
Q3: How do I choose the right shade of concealer for my dark circles?
A3: For brightening, choose a concealer one to two shades lighter than your foundation. If you’re only looking to cover and match your skin tone, pick a shade that’s an exact match. Always swatch on your jawline or inner wrist to find a good match, and check it in natural light.
Q4: How can I prevent my under eye concealer from creasing?
A4: Less is more! Apply thin layers and ensure your under-eye area is well-hydrated. After blending, lightly set the area with a tiny amount of translucent setting powder using a fluffy brush. Avoid excessive powder, as it can make the area look dry.
Q5: Is it okay to use my regular face concealer under my eyes?
A5: While you can, it’s often better to use a dedicated under-eye concealer. Face concealers can sometimes be too thick, too dry, or not formulated to handle the delicate skin under the eyes, potentially leading to creasing or a cakey appearance. Under-eye specific formulas are usually more hydrating and flexible.
Q6: What hydrating ingredients should I look for in an under eye concealer?
A6: Key hydrating ingredients include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, squalane, and various botanical oils. These help keep the delicate skin moisturised, making the concealer look smoother and preventing it from settling into fine lines.
Q7: Can men use under eye concealer for dark circles?
A7: Absolutely! Concealer is for everyone. Men can benefit just as much from using an under-eye concealer to brighten their look and reduce the appearance of dark circles. The goal is often a natural, undetectable finish, so choosing the right shade and blending well are key.
Conclusion
Finding the best under eye concealer for dark circles UK might feel like a quest, but with these fantastic options, you’re well on your way to brighter, more refreshed-looking eyes. From colour-correcting wonders to full-coverage heroes, there’s a perfect match out there for everyone. Remember to consider your specific needs, skin type, and desired finish, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little. Here’s to banishing those dark circles and rocking a confident, radiant glow!
