Waking up to stubborn under-eye dark circles can be a real bummer, making you look tired even when you’re well-rested. We’ve all been there! The good news is, with the right products, you can effectively minimize their appearance and achieve a brighter, more refreshed look. Finding the best makeup for under eye dark circles isn’t just about covering them up; it’s about finding formulas that blend seamlessly, last all day, and often even offer skincare benefits.
From creamy concealers to innovative color correctors and brightening gels, the market is packed with options. But which ones truly deliver? We’ve rounded up seven fantastic products that stand out for their ability to combat those pesky shadows, helping you look and feel more awake. Let’s dive into our top picks for the best makeup for under eye dark circles!
How to Choose the Right Under-Eye Makeup
Before we jump into the reviews, here’s a quick guide to picking your perfect match:
* Color Corrector: If your dark circles have a distinct blue or purple hue, a peach, orange, or pink color corrector will neutralize them before you apply concealer.
* Concealer Shade: Choose a concealer that’s one shade lighter than your foundation to brighten the area. If you’re skipping color corrector, pick one with a peachy undertone.
* Formula: Look for hydrating, non-creasing formulas, especially if you have fine lines. Anti-aging ingredients are a bonus!
* Coverage: Decide if you need light, medium, or full coverage based on the intensity of your dark circles.
Our Top Picks for the Best Makeup for Under Eye Dark Circles
1. Catrice Under Eye Brightener (Light Pink)
Say “bye-bye” to tired eyes with this incredible under-eye brightener from Catrice! This little pot of magic features a light pink, nourishing texture specifically designed to give you an instantly alert look. It’s perfect for tackling those bluish undertones that often accompany dark circles, thanks to its clever color-adapting formula. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, it not only conceals but also cares for your delicate under-eye skin, leaving you with a natural, radiant glow. It’s an absolute gem if you’re looking for the best makeup for under eye dark circles that also nourishes.
Key Features:
– Light pink tint visibly balances bluish tones.
– Enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for nourishment.
– Medium coverage for a natural, fresh look.
– Vegan & Cruelty-Free.
– Formulated without Gluten, Parabens, Fragrance, Phthalates & microplastic particles.
Pros:
– Effectively color corrects bluish dark circles.
– Hydrating and nourishing formula.
– Blends easily for a natural finish.
– Affordable and accessible.
– Clean beauty claims (vegan, cruelty-free).
Cons:
– Medium coverage might not be sufficient for very deep dark circles.
– Requires a separate concealer for full coverage if desired.
User Impressions:
Customers rave about how this brightener makes them look instantly awake. Many appreciate its lightweight feel and how well it neutralizes blue tones without caking. It’s often praised as a great base before concealer or for light makeup days.
2. Catrice Under Eye Brightener (Warm Tone)
You might have seen this viral sensation on TikTok, and for good reason! This version of the Catrice Under Eye Brightener offers a warm-toned formula that’s a true game-changer for canceling out bluish dark circles and instantly brightening your under-eye area. Just like its pink counterpart, it’s packed with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, ensuring your skin stays nourished and radiant. It’s definitely one of the best makeup for under eye dark circles if you want a warm hue to counteract cool tones, especially for warmer skin tones.
Key Features:
– TikTok viral for instant brightening.
– Warm color corrects bluish tones effectively.
– Enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter.
– Medium coverage for a radiant finish.
– Vegan & Cruelty-Free.
Pros:
– Excellent for neutralizing blue/purple dark circles.
– Hydrating and non-drying formula.
– Achieves a natural, refreshed look.
– Affordable and popular.
Cons:
– Medium coverage may require layering for maximum coverage.
– Warm tone might not suit all complexions as well as the pink.
User Impressions:
This brightener gets a lot of love for its instant “wake-up” effect. Users find it surprisingly effective for its price point and appreciate how easily it blends into the skin, making a noticeable difference in their overall complexion.
3. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer
Maybelline’s Instant Age Rewind Concealer holds the title of America’s #1 Concealer for a reason! This anti-aging powerhouse doesn’t just erase the look of dark circles; it also corrects redness, brightens dull skin, and can even be used for contouring and highlighting. Infused with Haloxyl, it helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and gives you a radiant, well-rested look. It’s a perennial favorite and a strong contender for the title of best makeup for under eye dark circles for its performance and accessibility.
Key Features:
– Anti-aging formula infused with Haloxyl.
– Multi-purpose: conceals, corrects, brightens, contours.
– Micro-corrector applicator for easy, precise application.
– Covers dark circles, fine lines, blemishes, and redness.
– Available in a wide range of shades.
Pros:
– Highly effective at concealing dark circles and other imperfections.
– Reduces the look of fine lines and signs of aging.
– Convenient sponge applicator.
– Affordable and widely available.
– Versatile for various makeup needs.
Cons:
– The sponge applicator can be difficult to clean and may absorb some product.
– Some users find the product runs out quickly.
User Impressions:
This concealer is a cult classic for a reason. Users consistently praise its ability to instantly brighten and cover dark circles without creasing. Many love the ease of application and its lightweight feel, making it a staple in their daily routine.
4. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer Travel (Light Shade)
When you need serious coverage that lasts, IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer is your go-to. This #1 best-selling anti-aging concealer delivers instant full coverage with a flawless finish for up to 24 hours. What makes it truly stand out is its creamy, water-resistant formula that won’t crease, crack, or settle into fine lines. Plus, it’s packed with skin-loving ingredients like ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, making it a skincare-infused makeup marvel. This travel-sized option in a light shade is perfect for those who want to try it out or take it on the go.
Key Features:
– #1 best-selling anti-aging, full-coverage concealer.
– 24-hour wear and water-resistant.
– Won’t crease, crack, or settle into fine lines.
– Skincare-infused with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E.
– Multitasks to brighten, conceal, and color correct various imperfections.
Pros:
– Exceptional full coverage for severe dark circles.
– Long-lasting and waterproof.
– Anti-aging benefits and skin-loving ingredients.
– Doesn’t crease or cake.
– Highly pigmented—a little goes a long way.
Cons:
– Can feel thick if too much is applied.
– Higher price point, especially for the travel size.
User Impressions:
Reviewers consistently call this their “holy grail” concealer for its unparalleled coverage and longevity. They appreciate how it covers everything from dark circles to blemishes without looking heavy, and many note the improvement in their under-eye skin over time due to its nourishing formula.
5. e.l.f. Camo Color Corrector (Green)
Master the art of color-correcting with e.l.f.’s Camo Color Corrector! If you’ve got specific discoloration like redness, dark spots, or prominent under-eye circles, this lightweight yet full-coverage formula is your secret weapon. Available in five shades to tackle various concerns, this hydrating color corrector layers flawlessly under your foundation and concealer without caking or creasing. It’s infused with hyaluronic acid and rose flower water, ensuring your skin stays hydrated while you achieve a perfect canvas. This is easily one of the best makeup for under eye dark circles when they have a strong blue/purple tint and need targeted neutralization.
Key Features:
– Lightweight, full-coverage color correction.
– Available in 5 shades to camouflage specific discolorations (e.g., green for redness, peach for dark circles).
– Layers flawlessly under foundation and concealer.
– Hydrating, satin finish.
– Infused with hyaluronic acid and rose flower water.
Pros:
– Effectively neutralizes specific discolorations.
– Very affordable.
– Hydrating formula prevents caking and creasing.
– Provides a smooth base for subsequent makeup.
Cons:
– Requires a separate concealer for full coverage after color correction.
– You might need to purchase different shades for different concerns.
User Impressions:
Users are blown away by the effectiveness and affordability of this color corrector. They love how it tackles dark circles and other discolorations, making their concealer perform even better. The hydrating formula gets a big thumbs-up for preventing dryness.
6. Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel
While not strictly a “makeup” product, the Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel is an absolute must-have if you’re serious about tackling under-eye dark circles and puffiness at the source. This potent, nutrient-packed eye gel works to rejuvenate and energize your eyes for a bright, fresh look. Antioxidant-rich Yerba Mate, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid come together to reduce signs of tiredness, plump the skin, and diminish the appearance of fine lines. It’s the perfect prep step to make any concealer for dark circles look even better, or for those days when you want to skip makeup altogether!
Key Features:
– Formulated to reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
– Contains antioxidant-rich Yerba Mate, caffeine, and acetyl tetrapeptide-5.
– Hyaluronic acid for plumping and hydration.
– Gentle enough for all skin types.
– Vegan, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free.
Pros:
– Addresses the root causes of tired-looking eyes.
– Reduces puffiness and hydrates the skin.
– Lightweight and fast-absorbing.
– Can be used morning or night.
– Excellent for priming the under-eye area for makeup.
Cons:
– Not an instant makeup cover-up; requires consistent use for results.
– May not eliminate very severe genetic dark circles entirely.
User Impressions:
Many users report feeling an immediate refreshing sensation and seeing a noticeable reduction in puffiness. They appreciate its non-sticky texture and how it helps their under-eye area look smoother and less tired over time, making it a fantastic addition to any regimen targeting under-eye dark circles.
7. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer (Medium Shade)
Rounding out our list is another fan-favorite from IT Cosmetics: the Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer, this time in a versatile medium shade. Just like its travel-sized counterpart, this full-size concealer is renowned for its anti-aging benefits and incredible staying power. It delivers 24 hours of waterproof, crease-proof, and crack-proof full coverage, making it a hero product for anyone with stubborn dark circles, discoloration, or fine lines. Infused with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, it truly treats your skin while providing flawless results. If you need a reliable, high-performance solution, this is easily one of the best makeup for under eye dark circles you can get your hands on.
Key Features:
– #1 best-selling anti-aging, full-coverage concealer.
– 24-hour wear and water-resistant.
– Doesn’t crease, crack, or settle into fine lines.
– Skincare-infused with ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E.
– Multitasks to brighten, conceal, and color correct.
Pros:
– Delivers exceptional, long-lasting full coverage.
– Anti-aging and hydrating ingredients improve skin texture.
– Waterproof formula is ideal for all-day wear.
– Highly pigmented, so a small amount is effective.
– Available in a wide range of shades to match different skin tones.
Cons:
– Can be on the thicker side; requires careful application.
– Higher price point.
User Impressions:
This concealer frequently earns five-star reviews for its impressive ability to completely camouflage dark circles and blemishes. Users love that it doesn’t settle into fine lines and appreciate its creamy texture, which feels comfortable on the skin while offering maximum coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What causes under-eye dark circles?
A1: Dark circles can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, lack of sleep, dehydration, thinning skin that shows blood vessels, sun exposure, allergies, and hyperpigmentation.
Q2: How do I choose the right shade of concealer for dark circles?
A2: For brightening, choose a concealer that is one shade lighter than your natural skin tone or foundation. If you’re using a color corrector, select a concealer that matches your skin tone to layer over it. Look for undertones; peach/orange shades correct blue/purple, while pink brightens.
Q3: What’s the difference between a color corrector and a concealer?
A3: A color corrector neutralizes specific undertones (like blue, purple, or green) using complementary colors on the color wheel. It’s applied before concealer. A concealer then covers the neutralized area and evens out skin tone. Many people use both for very prominent dark circles.
Q4: How do I apply under-eye makeup without it creasing?
A4: Prep is key! Hydrate the area with an eye cream or gel (like the Good Molecules one) first. Apply a small amount of product in thin layers, gently tapping it in with your ring finger or a damp sponge. Avoid over-applying. You can also lightly set it with a translucent, finely milled powder.
Q5: Can skincare products help with dark circles, or do I only need makeup?
A5: Skincare products, especially those with ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, and peptides, can significantly improve the appearance of dark circles over time by hydrating, plumping, and brightening the skin. While makeup offers instant coverage, a good skincare routine can address the underlying causes and enhance makeup’s effectiveness.
Q6: Is it possible to get rid of dark circles completely?
A6: It depends on the cause. If they’re due to lifestyle factors (lack of sleep, dehydration), improvements are possible. If they’re genetic or structural (thin skin, bone structure), while they can be significantly minimized with makeup and consistent skincare, complete eradication without professional treatments might not be achievable.
Q7: What ingredients should I look for in under-eye makeup or products?
A7: Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to plump the skin. Caffeine helps reduce puffiness and constrict blood vessels. Vitamin C and niacinamide can brighten pigmentation. Peptides and collagen support skin elasticity, and antioxidants protect against environmental damage.
Final Thoughts
Battling under-eye dark circles doesn’t have to be a losing fight. With the right tools in your beauty arsenal, you can achieve a refreshed, radiant look every single day. Whether you prefer a lightweight brightener, a full-coverage concealer, or a powerful color corrector, there’s a product out there for you.
We hope this guide to the best makeup for under eye dark circles helps you find your new favorite. Remember, a little goes a long way, and finding the perfect shade and formula can make all the difference. Go ahead, give one of these top picks a try, and say hello to brighter, more confident eyes!
