If you’re anything like us, battling dark circles under the eyes can feel like a never-ending quest. Whether it’s late nights, genetics, or just daily stress, those pesky shadows can make us look tired even when we’re feeling fresh. The good news? You don’t have to live with them! Finding the best makeup for dark circles under the eyes can be a total game-changer, giving you that bright, alert look you’ve been dreaming of.
From color correctors that neutralize those blue and purple tones to full-coverage concealers that hide everything, the right product can work wonders. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? We’ve done the legwork for you! We’ve rounded up 7 fantastic products that are getting rave reviews for their ability to brighten, conceal, and rejuvenate your under-eye area. Get ready to say goodbye to tired eyes and hello to a radiant complexion!
Our Top Picks for the Best Makeup for Dark Circles Under the Eyes
Let’s dive into the products that can help you achieve a brighter, more even under-eye look.
1. Catrice | Under Eye Brightener (Light Pink)
This little gem from Catrice is your secret weapon for instantly banishing heavy eye baggage. With its light pink, nourishing texture, it’s specifically designed to brighten and neutralize bluish tones under your eyes. It’s not just makeup; it’s a skincare-infused brightener that makes you look instantly more awake and fresh-faced. Perfect for those ‘no makeup’ makeup days or as a base for your favorite concealer.
Key Features:
– Light pink, nourishing texture for instant brightening.
– Enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for hydration.
– Visibly balances bluish under-eye shadows and dark circles.
– Medium coverage for a natural, fresh look.
– Vegan & Cruelty-Free, free from common irritants.
Pros:
– Instantly brightens and corrects blue/purple undertones.
– Hydrating formula prevents creasing.
– Affordable and easily accessible.
– Can be used alone or layered under concealer.
– Gentle and skin-friendly ingredients.
Cons:
– Medium coverage might not be enough for very severe dark circles without a concealer on top.
– The pink tint requires blending for a natural finish.
User Impressions: Customers absolutely adore how this brightener instantly makes them look more awake. Many love its hydrating feel and how it preps the under-eye area, making subsequent concealer application smoother and more effective. It’s become a daily staple for a quick pick-me-up!
2. Catrice | Under Eye Brightener (Warm Color, TikTok Viral)
Another star from Catrice, this TikTok viral Under Eye Brightener comes in a warm color, making it perfect for neutralizing bluish tones and enhancing your skin’s natural warmth. It offers the same nourishing benefits as its pink counterpart, enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, but with a different color correction profile. If you’re looking for an instant glow and a viral sensation that delivers, this is it!
Key Features:
– TikTok viral formula for instant brightening and color correction.
– Warm color neutralizes bluish under-eye shadows and dark circles.
– Enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for a radiant glow.
– Medium coverage for a natural and fresh look.
– Vegan & Cruelty-Free, avoiding gluten, parabens, and more.
Pros:
– Effective color correction for bluish tones with a warm finish.
– Hydrating and nourishing for the delicate under-eye skin.
– Easy to blend for a seamless, natural look.
– Budget-friendly and widely praised on social media.
– Cruelty-free commitment from the brand.
Cons:
– Medium coverage may require additional concealer for intense dark circles.
– The warm tone may not suit all skin undertones as effectively as the pink.
User Impressions: This brightener is a social media darling for a reason! Users are consistently impressed by its ability to instantly wake up their eyes and neutralize shadows with a natural-looking warmth. Many find it makes their eyes look brighter and more rested, even on days when they haven’t had enough sleep.
3. Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel
While not a makeup product in the traditional sense, the Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel is an absolute must-have in your routine if you struggle with tired, puffy eyes and dark circles. This isn’t about instant concealment, but about treating the root causes. Packed with potent ingredients like Yerba Mate, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid, it works to energize, hydrate, and reduce puffiness, making your under-eye area look brighter and feel firmer over time. It’s the perfect canvas for your chosen best makeup for dark circles under the eyes.
Key Features:
– Formulated to rejuvenate and energize eyes for a fresh look.
– Reduces signs of tired eyes, puffiness, and dark circles with consistent use.
– Hydrates and plumps skin to minimize fine lines.
– Antioxidant-rich Yerba Mate protects and nourishes.
– Vegan, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free; gentle for all skin types.
Pros:
– Targets under-eye concerns at a skincare level, improving appearance over time.
– Reduces puffiness effectively thanks to caffeine.
– Hydrating and plumping, which helps smooth out fine lines.
– Lightweight and absorbs quickly, great for morning or night use.
– Clean beauty product, suitable for sensitive skin.
Cons:
– Not an instant cosmetic fix; requires consistent use for noticeable results.
– Still needs a concealer or brightener for immediate dark circle coverage.
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about how this eye gel genuinely makes a difference in reducing puffiness and the overall appearance of dark circles with consistent use. They love its lightweight texture, how quickly it absorbs, and how it primes the under-eye area for makeup application, helping everything look smoother.
4. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer Travel (Light)
If you’re on the hunt for serious coverage that lasts, the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer is often hailed as a ‘holy grail’ product, and this travel size in a Light shade is perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. This anti-aging, full-coverage powerhouse is designed to tackle dark circles, discoloration, fine lines, and blemishes with just a tiny dot. It’s waterproof and infused with skin-loving ingredients, ensuring your under-eye area looks smooth and youthful for up to 24 hours without creasing.
Key Features:
– #1 best-selling, anti-aging concealer for full coverage.
– Delivers flawless finish for up to 24 hours without creasing or cracking.
– Water-resistant formula nourishes skin.
– Skincare-infused with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E.
– Multitasks to brighten, conceal, and correct various skin concerns.
Pros:
– Unbeatable full coverage for severe dark circles and imperfections.
– Long-lasting wear, even through humidity or activity.
– Skincare benefits help improve skin over time.
– Does not settle into fine lines or wrinkles, giving a smoother look.
– A tiny amount goes a very long way, making it cost-effective.
Cons:
– Can be very thick; requires careful, light application to avoid cakiness.
– Higher price point, though a travel size offers good value.
– Finding the perfect shade can be tricky online.
User Impressions: This concealer consistently receives glowing reviews for its incredible coverage and staying power. Users with persistent dark circles swear by its ability to completely transform their under-eye area, making them look refreshed and flawless all day long. The anti-aging ingredients are a big bonus!
5. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer (Medium)
For those with medium skin tones who need heavy-duty coverage, the full-size IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer in Medium is a cult favorite. Like its lighter and travel-sized counterparts, this award-winning formula is renowned for its ability to deliver instant, full coverage that lasts all day without creasing. It’s more than just a concealer; it’s a skin-perfecting tool that brightens, corrects, and hydrates, making it one of the best makeup for dark circles under the eyes for a flawless finish.
Key Features:
– Full-size, #1 best-selling anti-aging concealer.
– Medium shade for effective color correction and concealment on medium skin tones.
– Provides up to 24 hours of full coverage without creasing or cracking.
– Water-resistant and packed with anti-aging skincare ingredients.
– Multipurpose formula for dark circles, blemishes, fine lines, and more.
Pros:
– Exceptional full coverage for all types of discoloration.
– Long-wearing and water-resistant for reliable performance.
– Infused with beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides.
– Smooth, creamy texture that blends well when warmed.
– Ideal for medium skin tones needing significant coverage.
Cons:
– The thick consistency requires a very small amount for application.
– Can feel heavy if too much product is used.
User Impressions: This shade is a go-to for many with medium complexions, who report that it perfectly hides even the most stubborn dark circles and imperfections. They love that it doesn’t dry out the under-eye area and actually improves the look of their skin over time, making it a powerful addition to any makeup bag.
6. Palladio Under Eye Brightener
Palladio’s Under Eye Brightener is a fantastic blend of skincare and makeup, designed to brighten and awaken your under-eye area. Available in three versatile shades (Soft Pink, Medium Nude, Golden Tan), it helps diminish the look of under-eye bags and dark circles. Infused with caffeine, peptides, and vitamin E, it not only conceals but also works to detoxify and nourish the delicate skin, leaving you looking refreshed and well-rested throughout the day.
Key Features:
– Hybrid skincare and makeup brightener.
– Formulated with caffeine to reduce puffiness and dark circles.
– Available in 3 shades (Soft Pink, Medium Nude, Golden Tan) for customized brightening.
– Botanical and vitamin-infused (caffeine, peptides, vitamin E).
– Medium coverage for a refreshed, natural look.
– 100% Paraben and Cruelty-free (Leaping Bunny certified).
Pros:
– Actively works to reduce puffiness and dark circles with skincare ingredients.
– Offers shade variety to match different skin tones and correction needs.
– Provides a natural, well-rested look.
– Clean beauty product, free from parabens and animal testing.
– Easy to apply and blend with fingers or a brush.
Cons:
– Medium coverage might necessitate an additional concealer for very prominent dark circles.
– Might require trying multiple shades to find the perfect match.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate that this brightener does double duty as both a makeup product and a skincare treatment. They love how it instantly makes them look more awake and rested, especially noting the reduction in puffiness thanks to the caffeine. The clean beauty aspect is a significant draw for many.
7. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer (Light)
Rounding out our list, the full-size IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer in Light is perfect for those with fair to light skin tones seeking ultimate coverage for their dark circles. This award-winning, anti-aging formula provides a powerful punch against discoloration, fine lines, and blemishes. Its creamy, water-resistant texture is infused with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, ensuring a smooth, flawless, and youthful appearance that lasts for up to 24 hours without creasing. It’s truly a top contender for the best makeup for dark circles under the eyes.
Key Features:
– Full-size, #1 best-selling anti-aging concealer in a light shade.
– Delivers instant full coverage and a flawless finish for up to 24 hours.
– Won’t crease, crack, or settle into fine lines.
– Water-resistant and packed with skin-loving ingredients.
– Brightens and conceals dark circles, discoloration, and various imperfections.
Pros:
– Provides an unmatched level of full coverage for stubborn dark circles.
– Long-lasting and durable, even in challenging conditions.
– Infused with powerful anti-aging skincare benefits.
– Leaves a smooth, youthful-looking under-eye area.
– Ideal for light skin tones needing comprehensive coverage.
Cons:
– Requires careful application due to its high pigment and thick texture.
– A higher price point, though the product is very concentrated.
User Impressions: This light shade is a consistent favorite among those with fairer skin, who find it perfectly brightens and conceals their dark circles without looking heavy or unnatural. They frequently praise its staying power and the fact that it doesn’t settle into fine lines, keeping their under-eye area looking smooth and fresh all day.
Frequently Asked Questions about Makeup for Dark Circles
We know you might have more questions about tackling those pesky dark circles. Here are some common queries answered!
Q1: What’s the difference between a brightener and a concealer for dark circles?
A1: A brightener (often pink, peach, or warm-toned) is primarily a color corrector. It neutralizes the blue, purple, or greenish tones of dark circles. It usually has lighter coverage and is meant to be applied before your regular concealer to prep the area. A concealer, on the other hand, provides more opaque coverage to hide imperfections, even out skin tone, and is typically applied after a brightener (or alone if dark circles are mild).
Q2: How do I choose the right shade of concealer for my dark circles?
A2: For dark circles, you generally want a concealer that is one to two shades lighter than your foundation to help brighten the area. If you’re using a color corrector first, choose a peach or orange tone for blue/purple circles on medium to dark skin tones, or a pink/salmon tone for fair to light skin. Then, layer a concealer matching your skin tone on top.
Q3: Can makeup really get rid of dark circles, or just hide them?
A3: Makeup primarily hides or brightens the appearance of dark circles. While some makeup products, like the Good Molecules eye gel reviewed above, contain skincare ingredients that can reduce the appearance of dark circles over time, they won’t permanently “get rid of” them. For long-term solutions, addressing lifestyle factors (sleep, hydration, diet) and using dedicated eye creams are crucial.
Q4: How should I apply under-eye makeup to avoid creasing?
A4: Less is more! Start with a tiny amount of product. Apply in thin layers, gently patting with your ring finger or a damp beauty sponge. Avoid rubbing. You can also set your under-eye area with a very light dusting of translucent setting powder, applied with a fluffy brush, to prevent creasing and extend wear.
Q5: Are there any skincare ingredients I should look for in under-eye makeup?
A5: Absolutely! Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter. Antioxidants like Vitamin E and C can protect the delicate skin. Peptides can help with firmness, and caffeine is excellent for reducing puffiness. Products with these ingredients can offer both cosmetic benefits and long-term skin health improvements.
Q6: What’s the best way to remove under-eye makeup without irritating the skin?
A6: Always use a gentle eye makeup remover or a cleansing balm/oil. Soak a cotton pad with the remover, press it gently onto your closed eyelid and lashes for a few seconds to let the product dissolve, then gently wipe downwards. Avoid harsh rubbing, which can irritate the delicate skin and contribute to fine lines.
Q7: Can I use regular foundation as an under-eye concealer?
A7: While you can in a pinch, regular foundation isn’t usually formulated for the specific needs of the under-eye area. It might not offer enough coverage, or it could be too heavy, leading to creasing or a cakey look. Dedicated under-eye concealers and brighteners are specifically designed with lighter textures, higher pigment, and often hydrating/anti-aging properties suitable for this delicate skin.
Finding the best makeup for dark circles under the eyes doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right products and a little know-how, you can achieve a brighter, more confident look every single day. Experiment with these highly-rated options and find your new go-to!
