Even though I'm a beauty editor, I didn't start using concealer until about a year ago. (Shocking, I know.) Honestly, I just never liked most formulas because I have sensitive, acne-prone skin that doesn't usually respond well to heavy makeup. Concealer, by nature, is a tad heavier than foundation, but I'm happy to report I've finally found a few formulas that work well for me. The most important thing to look for in a concealer for acne-prone skin is if the formula is noncomedogenic. I can't speak for everyone, but I also generally try to avoid formulas with oils known to clog pores like coconut—it just doesn't sit well with my skin.
I also know, however, that everyone has different goals when using concealer. Some like to use it to cover blemishes while others like to brighten up dark circles. This can be tricky when you have sensitive, acne-prone skin because you don't want to cause breakouts anywhere, but don't worry—you're in luck. I've found the best noncomedogenic concealers in every category, from the best drugstore option to the best shade range. Keep scrolling. There's something for everyone.
Best Overall: Tarte Shape Tape Full Coverage Concealer
I might be a little biased, but this concealer is absolutely worth the hype. It's one of the best noncomedogenic formulas that actually covers blemishes and doesn't cause new ones. Don't worry—I'm not just saying that. I actually have firsthand experience with it. I use this as part of my daily makeup routine, and it does mattify quite quickly, but the formula is so creamy and covers blemishes or dark circles so well.
Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Cream Concealer
This buildable, noncomedogenic formula is infused with peptides, antioxidants, and vitamin E to brighten your complexion and give you a boost of radiance. It also conceals acne and dark spots really well without clogging pores or leaving an oily finish.
Best High-End: Armani Luminous Silk Face and Under-Eye Concealer
I love Armani's Luminous Silk Foundation. It's one of the best foundations for acne-prone skin that I've ever used, and the concealer is no different. The formula is designed not to clog pores and is great for drier, acne-prone skin types, as it provides long-lasting hydration.
Best Shade Range: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Retouch Longwear Liquid Concealer
Fenty Beauty totally changed the game with its impressive 50-shade range. This full-coverage concealer offers that range along with extra hydration, a matte finish, and creaseproof wear—all while being noncomedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin.
Best for Dark Circles: Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer
I don't know about you, but I've definitely broken out around my eye area due to pore-clogging makeup. This Dior concealer offers a solution.
Best Matte Formula: E.l.f. Cosmetics 16HR Camo Concealer
If your skin is oily and acne prone, give E.l.f.'s classic formula a try. It's super budget-friendly and offers 16 hours of wear time, full coverage, and a noncomedogenic matte finish. It moisturizes and doesn't crease, but it also helps control shine.
Best Lightweight Formula: Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer
I used to have a bone to pick with most concealers because they felt too heavy and cakey, but this Rare Beauty formula is so lightweight it feels like air on the skin. It definitely needs to be built up a bit to be full coverage, but it does offer a lot of hydration and adds extra radiance to the skin.
Best Dewy Finish: Glossier Stretch Concealer
Glossier's Stretch Concealer leaves a dewy, glowy finish and blends so seamlessly that it looks and feels like a second skin. Elastic microwaxes in the formula move with your skin instead of caking on top of it, and as a bonus, it's completely noncomedogenic, so it's a great option for those who are acne prone.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Almay Clear Complexion Concealer
Trust me—I know how hard it is to find makeup that works for sensitive, breakout-prone skin. Almay's formula is designed to be hypoallergenic, so it minimizes the chance for a reaction. It also contains salicylic acid to help fight breakouts, prebiotics to promote better skin health, and aloe to keep skin soothed and hydrated throughout the day.
Best Waterproof: Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer
I know waterproof concealer isn't everyone's cup of tea, but if you do use and love it, try Make Up For Ever's matte-finish formula. It's highly pigmented and has waterproof technology to ensure oil control and long-wear coverage. Best of all, the formula is also oil-free and won't clog pores.
Best Vegan: Milk Makeup Flex Concealer
This vegan option from Milk is noncomedogenic and contains hyaluronic acid, caffeine, aloe vera, and arnica to visibly brighten, hydrate, and smooth the skin.
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
Meet Madecassoside—the Trending Ingredient That Soothes, Hydrates, and Protects Sensitive SkinIt's beauty's next big thing.
-
Probiotics for Acne Are Trending, But Do They Actually Work? Here's What an Expert SaysTL;DR: They definitely can.
-
Aestheticians on Instagram Can't Stop Raving About This Acne-Clearing Serum, so I Tried ItIt's perfect for sensitive skin.
-
I've Tried Everything, and These 5 Pore Strips Act Like a Magic Wand to Erase BlackheadsBuh-bye.
-
Lili Reinhart Knows You're Sick of Celeb Beauty Brands—Here's Why She Wants You to Trust HersEspecially if you have acne.
-
Derms Say Tretinoin Can Do More Harm Than Good If You Don't Know These 4 ThingsRead this before you use it.
-
Soft Services' New Buffing Bar Smells Like Every Editor's Favorite Fig PerfumeSo dreamy.
-
Derms Love This Do-It-All Ingredient to Minimize Redness, Dark Spots, and Large PoresIt even targets acne.
