Since becoming a beauty editor, I have to say I’ve turned into quite the drugstorebeauty aficionado. After trying countless expensive products, it dawned on me that you really can achieve the same effect without spending a fortune—shocking, I know. This seems particularly true when it comes to makeup items like concealer. I know some of you may think you need that pricier option to brighten or cover up dark circles, but let me fully put that to rest by reminding you what’s possible.
The below drugstore formulas are so good at making me look rejuvenated and well-rested that I honestly couldn’t go without sharing them. Whether you need something extra hydrating or that lasts all day and night, I have a pick for you that’s under $10. Keep scrolling below for the best drugstore concealers that provide next-level refreshment to the under-eye area.
Okay, this Maybelline formula has a lot of hype surrounding it for a reason. It truly is one of the best drugstore concealers for dark circles out there. My under-eye area always appears smoother, brighter, and airbrushed when I reach for this find. Sometimes, I genuinely can’t believe it’s only $6—aka, you won’t regret snagging it.
Look, I’m a die-hard E.l.f. girl. The brand really does deliver high-quality products at a super-affordable price point. I use the Hydrating Camo Concealer in a slightly lighter shade than my foundation to really brighten up my under eye area and camouflage those dark circles.
When you’re going to be out and about for a while and need to bring in the big guns, Covergirl’s Outlast Extreme Wear Concealer will be your best bet. It’s transfer-, crease-, and waterproof. It even lasts up to 24 hours.
Revlon’s PhotoReady formula is packed with antioxidants that help protect your skin from free radical damage and help create a radiant finish around the eyes.
L.A. Girl’s Pro Concealer is definitely a bit of a thicker formula, but it’s a winner for warming up the eyes. It’s also one of the better drugstore options for use in photos as well.
I love that this Nyx concealer is a wizard at covering dark circles and can act as a contour if necessary. Granted, you’ll probably need to buy a darker shade if you want to use it as a contour, but it’s nice to know you can if you need a quick, budget-friendly option.
If your skin is on the drier side, L’Oréal’s Age Perfect Radiant Concealer can help you out with that. It contains glycerin and other hydrating ingredients to keep the delicate skin around your eye area from drying out and looking cracked.
I really stan this Neutrogena formula because it’s so lightweight and breathable. Heavier formulas just make my skin feel dry and look a bit older, which kind of defeats the purpose, no? It’s also noncomedogenic, which anyone with acne-prone skin will appreciate.
Maybelline’s Fit Me Concealer is another lighter-weight option that gives the eyes a youthful, well-rested appearance. It also blends incredibly smoothly and creates a natural finish.
If you’re a bit oilier around the under-eye area, Rimmel’s Stay Matte Concealer just might be the formula for you. It provides full coverage and 24-hour shine control without being too thick or uncomfortable for all-day wear.
This concealer is a buildable medium- to full-coverage option that has a few skin-nourishing ingredients like mango-seed butter, licorice-root extract, and shea butter as a bonus.
After hearing directly from America Ferrera how great Covergirl’s Clean Fresh line is, I had to try it for myself. I’m happy to report the Clean Fresh Hydrating Concealer is actually a winner. It contains coconut milk and aloe extract that really help create a dewy, glowy finish—especially for the under-eye area.
