There are days when concealer has one job and then there are days when it’s expected to survive a humid commute, an outdoor lunch, three meetings, an ill-advised workout and perhaps a small emotional crisis somewhere between 6pm and dinner. On those days, regular concealer can start to feel wildly underqualified.
Waterproof concealers put up more of a fight. Many rely on film-forming ingredients such as trimethylsiloxysilicate and polymers, often paired with silicones or quick-setting emollients that help pigment adhere to the skin instead of migrating at the first sign of sweat. Thankfully, the newer generation is not uniformly thick and chalky. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, caffeine and botanical extracts are increasingly being worked into long-wear formulas so your under-eyes do not have to look embalmed in the name of longevity.
A thin layer allowed to set will generally fare better than piling on product and hoping for the best. Use a close skin match for blemishes and pigmentation, go slightly brighter only where you actually want lift and remember that a damp sponge will sheer out coverage while fingers or a dense brush keep more pigment in place.
Below, 5 waterproof concealers for makeup that needs to stay composed, irrespective of whether you are:
Too Faced Born This Way Illuminating Concealer
Despite its serious staying power, this is the softer side of waterproof concealer. The serum-light formula offers up to 24-hour wear and contains hyaluronic acid, coconut water, aloe, daikon seed extract and squalane, giving it a more luminous, hydrated finish than the matte formulas usually associated with all-day makeup.
Why we love it: A good option for under-eyes that need both staying power and moisture, particularly when a flat matte finish tends to emphasise dryness.
Dolce&Gabbana Everlast Concealer
