11 Types of Concealer: Complete Guide for Every Skin Type

Confused about which type of concealer to buy? You’re not alone.

I’ve spent years testing every concealer formula on the market. From liquid to cream to stick, I know what works and what doesn’t.

This guide covers all 11 types of concealer you’ll find in stores. I’ll show you exactly which one solves your specific skin problems. No more wasting money on the wrong products.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• 11 main concealer types with detailed pros and cons
• How to choose the right formula for your skin
• Application techniques that actually work
• Product recommendations I trust

If you’re dealing with dark circles, blemishes, or just want flawless coverage – I’ll help you find your perfect match. Skip the trial and error. Get the right concealer the first time.

What Is Concealer & Why It’s a Makeup Must-Have

Concealer is a pigmented cosmetic product designed to hide imperfections and even out your skin tone. Think of it as your skin’s best friend.

Unlike foundation, which covers your entire face, concealer targets specific areas. It’s more concentrated. More powerful. More precise.

Here’s why concealer deserves a spot in your makeup bag:

• Covers dark circles instantly
• Hides blemishes without caking
• Brightens your under-eye area
• Evens out skin tone in problem spots
• Creates a flawless base for other makeup

But here’s the catch, using the wrong type can make problems worse. That’s why understanding different formulas matters.

The 11 Main Types of Concealer (With Pros, Cons & Best Uses)

1. Liquid Concealer

What it is: Fluid formula that blends seamlessly into skin.

Best for: Beginners, daily wear, natural-looking coverage

Pros:

• Easy to blend
• Buildable coverage
• Works on most skin types
• Doesn’t settle into fine lines

Cons:

• Can slide off oily skin
• May need setting powder
• Less coverage than cream formulas

When to use: Your go-to for everyday makeup looks. Perfect for covering minor blemishes and evening out skin tone.

2. Cream Concealer

What it is: Thick, rich formula with maximum coverage power.

Best for: Severe dark circles, scars, major blemishes

Pros:

• Full coverage that actually stays put
• Great for dry skin
• Covers almost anything
• Long-wearing formula

Cons:

• Can look cakey if over-applied
• Harder to blend than liquid
• May emphasize texture on mature skin

When to use: When you need serious coverage. Think wedding photos, special events, or covering tattoos.

3. Stick Concealer

What it is: Solid concealer in a twist-up tube, like lipstick.

Best for: Travel, touch-ups, oily skin

Pros:

• Portable and mess-free
• Buildable coverage
• Great for spot-concealing
• Won’t spill in your bag

Cons:

• Can be drying
• May tug at delicate under-eye skin
• Harder to blend large areas

When to use: Quick touch-ups throughout the day. Perfect for your purse or gym bag.

4. Pot Concealer

What it is: Thick concealer stored in a small jar or compact.

Best for: Professional makeup artists, heavy-duty coverage

Pros:

• Maximum coverage possible
• Long-lasting formula
• Great for stage makeup
• Covers severe discoloration

Cons:

• Requires brushes or tools
• Can look heavy for everyday wear
• May clog pores if not removed properly

When to use: When regular concealer isn’t enough. Perfect for covering birthmarks, scars, or severe acne.

5. Color Correcting Concealer

What it is: Tinted concealers that neutralize specific color issues.

Best for: Targeted color correction before regular concealer

Color guide:

• Green: Neutralizes redness
• Purple: Brightens dull skin
• Orange: Covers dark spots on deeper skin tones
• Yellow: Cancels purple bruises
• Pink: Adds warmth to pale skin

Pros:

• Addresses specific color problems
• Works under regular concealer
• A little goes a long way

Cons:

• Requires color theory knowledge
• Can look obvious if used wrong
• Usually needs regular concealer on top

When to use: Before applying your regular concealer. Think of it as step one in your covering routine.

6. Pencil Concealer

What it is: Concealer in a pencil form with a precise tip.

Best for: Small blemishes, brow cleanup, lip lining

Pros:

• Precise application
• Great for tiny spots
• Easy to control
• Perfect for detail work

Cons:

• Limited coverage area
• Can be drying
• May need sharpening
• Not suitable for large areas

When to use: Spot-treating individual blemishes or cleaning up makeup mistakes.

7. Serum Concealer

What it is: Lightweight, skincare-infused concealer with hydrating ingredients.

Best for: Dry skin, mature skin, natural makeup looks

Pros:

• Hydrating formula
• Won’t settle into fine lines
• Buildable coverage
• Contains beneficial ingredients

Cons:

• Lower coverage than other types
• Can be more expensive
• May not last as long
• Requires setting on oily skin

When to use: When you want light coverage with skincare benefits. Perfect for “no-makeup makeup” looks.

8. Mousse Concealer

What it is: Airy, whipped formula that feels weightless on skin.

Best for: Oily skin, hot weather, long wear

Pros:

• Lightweight feel
• Oil-free formulas available
• Blends easily
• Won’t feel heavy

Cons:

• Can dry out quickly
• May emphasize dry patches
• Limited shade ranges
• Requires quick application

When to use: When you want coverage without the weight. Great for summer or gym makeup.

9. Matte Concealer

What it is: Flat-finish concealer with zero shine.

Best for: Oily skin, photography, professional looks

Pros:

• Controls oil all day
• Photograph beautifully
• Won’t slide off
• Professional finish

Cons:

• Can look flat on dry skin
• May emphasize texture
• Less forgiving than dewy formulas
• Requires moisturized skin

When to use: Important events, photos, or when you need your makeup to last 12+ hours.

10. Luminizing/Highlighting Concealer

What it is: Concealer with light-reflecting particles that add glow.

Best for: Under-eye brightening, mature skin, evening wear

Pros:

• Brightens instantly
• Makes you look well-rested
• Adds subtle glow
• Great for special occasions

Cons:

• Can emphasize fine lines
• May look too shiny for daytime
• Not suitable for oily skin
• Can appear obvious in photos

When to use: Date nights, special events, or when you want to look extra radiant.

11. Powder Concealer

What it is: Pressed powder formula that covers and sets in one step.

Best for: Oily skin, touch-ups, quick application

Pros:

• Sets itself – no extra powder needed
• Great for oily skin
• Buildable coverage
• Perfect for touch-ups

Cons:

• Can look cakey if over-applied
• May emphasize dry patches
• Limited blending time
• Not suitable for very dry skin

When to use: Quick morning routines or afternoon touch-ups over your regular concealer.

Comparison Chart: All 11 Types at a Glance

How to Choose the Right Concealer for Your Skin & Goals

Step 1: Identify Your Main Concern

What bothers you most?

• Dark circles → Liquid or luminizing
• Blemishes → Stick or cream
• Redness → Color correcting
• Dryness → Serum or cream
• Oiliness → Matte or powder

Step 2: Consider Your Skin Type

• Dry skin: Avoid powder and matte formulas
• Oily skin: Skip creamy, dewy options
• Sensitive skin: Choose fragrance-free, gentle formulas
• Mature skin: Look for hydrating, light-reflecting options

Step 3: Think About Your Lifestyle

• Busy mornings: Stick or liquid
• Long days: Matte or cream
• Travel often: Stick or compact formulas
• Gym regular: Lightweight, sweat-proof options

Step 4: Match Your Coverage Needs

• Light coverage: Serum, liquid, or luminizing
• Medium coverage: Stick, mousse, or matte
• Full coverage: Cream, pot, or professional formulas

Application Techniques & Pro Tips

For Liquid Concealer:

1. Dot directly on problem areas
2. Blend outward with fingers or sponge
3. Build gradually for more coverage
4. Set with translucent powder

For Cream Concealer:

1. Warm product on back of hand first
2. Pat onto skin with brush or sponge
3. Blend edges carefully
4. Set immediately to prevent creasing

For Under-Eye Concealer:

1. Apply in an upside-down triangle shape
2. Blend upward and outward
3. Set with powder
4. Brighten with luminizing concealer if needed

Pro Tips That Actually Work:

• Prime first: Use eye cream or primer before concealer
• Color correct: Address discoloration before covering
• Less is more: Build coverage gradually
• Set strategically: Powder only where you need it
• Test in natural light: Always check your blend

Editor-Approved Concealers: Top Picks for Each Type

Liquid Concealers:

• Tarte Shape Tape: Full coverage that actually blends
• Glossier Stretch: Natural finish for everyday
• Too Faced Born This Way: Hydrating without being heavy

Cream Concealers:

• Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer: Professional-level coverage
• Urban Decay All Nighter: Long-wearing formula
• Bobbi Brown Corrector: Perfect for under-eyes

Stick Concealers:

• Fenty Beauty Match Stix: Incredible shade range
• Milk Makeup Flex: Buildable and travel-friendly
• Maybelline Instant Age Rewind: Drugstore favorite

Color Correcting:

• Smashbox Color Correcting Stick: Easy to use
• NYX Color Correcting Palette: Budget-friendly option
• Becca Backlight Color Correcting Crème: Luminous finish

Final Thoughts

The best concealer isn’t the most expensive one. It’s the one that works with your skin type, lifestyle, and needs.

Start with a good liquid concealer for daily wear. This covers most basic concerns without breaking the bank. Then add specialty types as you discover what works for your specific problems.

You don’t need every type of concealer. Focus on two or three formulas that handle your main concerns. A liquid for everyday use, plus maybe a cream for heavy coverage or a stick for touch-ups.

Practice makes perfect. The more you use different types, the better you’ll understand what works for your unique skin. Don’t get discouraged if the first one isn’t perfect. Finding your holy grail concealer takes time, but it’s worth the effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between liquid and cream concealer?

Liquid concealer is thinner and easier to blend, perfect for everyday wear. Cream concealer is thicker with more coverage power, best for hiding serious imperfections.

Can I use concealer without foundation?

Yes, you can use concealer as spot treatment on clean, moisturized skin. Just blend the edges well so it doesn’t look obvious against your natural skin tone.

How do I stop my concealer from creasing under my eyes?

Use a tiny amount of eye cream first, then apply concealer in thin layers. Always set with translucent powder to lock everything in place.

Should I buy concealer one shade lighter than my skin?

Only for under-eye brightening – use a shade one level lighter there. For covering blemishes and spots, match your exact skin tone perfectly.

How often should I replace my concealer?

Replace liquid concealers every 12-18 months and cream formulas every 2 years. If it smells off, changes texture, or irritates your skin, toss it immediately