Our Best Concealer Stick

When it comes to perfecting your makeup look, concealer is undeniably a must. From brightening under your eyes to covering up blemishes, the right concealer can make all the difference. And while you may think that liquid concealer formulas reign supreme, a concealer stick could be worth considering, too. As it turns out, stick concealers are essentially the perfect blend of coverage and convenience—they’re easy to use, and they really do the trick. Sound like something you’re interested in? Keep reading to learn all about our best concealer stick, including how to incorporate it into your beauty routine.

WHAT IS STICK CONCEALER USED FOR?

Not sure why you would need to use a concealer stick in the first place? Well, stick concealer can be used for multiple beauty concerns. It can pretty much do it all—aka anything your regular concealer can do. That includes masking imperfections, hiding signs of aging, and even highlighting and contouring.

IS LIQUID OR STICK CONCEALER BETTER?

If you’re unsure whether you should stick (ha!) with a liquid concealer or make the switch to a stick, you may be wondering which one is better. The truth is, it really depends on what you’re looking for. Liquid concealers are great because they offer buildable coverage, which allows you to use as little product as possible. They tend to not quickly dry out, which lessens the need to worry about being left with cake-face or dry skin after applying.

On the other hand, stick concealers are generally thicker than liquid formulas, so they can do a fantastic job of covering up breakouts, acne scars, and dark circles. It also comes in handy while you’re out and about and need a quick touch-up, since it isn’t nearly as messy to blend out.

Speaking of being out, a stick concealer is a perfect travel companion. Because it has a solid formula, you can toss it in your carry-on, and it won’t fill up your one-quart plastic bag. (Check out our article, Can You Bring Makeup and Other Beauty Products on a Plane?, for more on the topic of travel and what you can and can’t bring for a flight.)

OUR BEST CONCEALER STICK

Now that you know a bit more about stick concealer, we think it’s time to upgrade your makeup bag with our best offering. The key to using stick concealer is to find a formula that provides great coverage and lasts all day long without the fear of a dry or greasy finish—neither of which will do. Our favorite concealer stick? The L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Crayon Concealer. This formula provides customizable coverage that will work for everything from tiny blemishes to larger imperfections, and it offers seamless blendability. Not to mention, this stick concealer will go the distance, lasting all day and not succumbing to a cakey appearance.

HOW TO USE STICK CONCEALER

It’s time to put our best stick concealer to work! Keep reading for a step-by-step makeup tutorial that will take you from morning to night with ease.

STEP #1: PRIME YOUR SKIN

One of the easiest ways for your makeup look to go the distance is to enlist the help of a makeup primer. Makeup primer works wonders for giving your skin a smooth canvas for seamless application. Kick things off with the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Glow Lock Makeup Primer.

STEP #2: APPLY YOUR FOUNDATION

Once your makeup primer is all dry, it’s time to create an even, healthy-looking complexion. Flawless makeup is the ultimate goal, and the L’Oréal Paris 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation, Lightweight will provide you with exactly that. Reach for a makeup blender, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender, and blend in dabbing motions until even.

STEP #3: TIME TO CONCEAL

Now it’s time for the star of the show, your concealer. Apply the concealer stick on your under-eye area and any other spots you’d like to conceal. Using a makeup sponge or makeup brush, blend the concealer out. You can keep building up the product, using a little at a time, until you reach your desired coverage.

STEP #4: ADD SOME DIMENSION

Who doesn’t love a sun-kissed glow? Grab the L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Bronze It Bronzer and apply it to the hollows of your cheeks and temples.

STEP #5: REACH FOR BLUSH

We love to enhance our features, and blush never disappoints! Pick up the L’Oréal Paris True Match Blush in your favorite shade to give your cheeks a super pretty flush of color.

STEP #6: TURN UP THE VOLUME

Take your lash game to new heights with a few coats of mascara. We like the L’Oréal Paris Bambi Eye Waterproof Mascara, Lasting Volume, which works to elongate and lift your lashes for a defined finish.

STEP #7: COLOR YOUR POUT

No look is complete without a gorgeous lip color. Give your lips a flirty and playful touch with the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Lip Crayon, Lasting Wear, Smudge Resistant in Tres Sweet, and swipe the color across your pout.

STEP #8: LOCK IT IN

Congratulations, you’re at the finish line. No one likes faded makeup, so seal your beauty look in place with the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray. Hold the spray eight to 10 inches away and mist over your face in an ‘X’ and ‘T’ motion.

Next: How and Where to Apply Concealer