On a recent photoshoot, I observed the makeup artist use no fewer than four different concealers to perfect the model’s skin without masking its natural glow. A pink corrector to neutralise grey circles, then a skin-toned formula patted over the top; a thick paste to dot on to blemishes and around the nose, with a creamier version spread like honey over patches of discolouration.
It looked perfect, of course, but had as much in common with everyday makeup as a powdered wig. This made me think about which do-it-all concealer I’d buy if I lost my makeup bag and had no time to faff; a versatile formula that adeptly navigates the whole face, providing enough coverage in one area and never overdoing it in another. One that can be whacked on during a bumpy car journey and blended away in seconds.
My immediate thought was Nars’ Radiant Creamy Concealer (£24), and I stand by it. Dense, creamy and hydrating, it comes in an admirably inclusive 16 shades, and with a wand applicator for convenience. It is no surprise to discover it’s America’s most popular posh concealer.
A great vegan option (I’m still cross with Nars for entering the Chinese market, where animal testing is obligatory) is BareMinerals’ BareSkin Complete Coverage Serum Concealer (£23). This has the same applicator but is runnier, so blending takes longer – but the results are similarly excellent. With moist, long-lasting coverage and a diverse if small shade lineup, it’s a cracking product that gets bafflingly little attention.
A newer find is Chanel’s fantastic wand concealer, Le Correcteur (£28). I adore this thick, comfy formula, which has better staying power than most. It pats in seamlessly and gives superb coverage: ideal for uneven skin and especially knackered under-eyes. Though I wear the lightest shade (10), so if you’re any paler than me, you’ll find it too dark. By far the best in the budget category is Bourjois’ Radiance Reveal Concealer (£7.99). As is woefully typical of chemist brands, the shade range is tiny (L’Oréal’s True Match Concealer, at £7.99, is the exception, but it doesn’t give me enough coverage). However, the Bourjois formula is very good, camouflaging everything while adding brightness.
