Concealing dark circles can be difficult because of their stubborn persistence in spilling the nitty gritty details of our lives—from the occasional sleepless night to the ongoing battle with allergies. While eye creams and serums can help reduce their appearance over time, the best colour correctors for dark circles brighten and conceal problem areas instantly. “Colour correcting is a long-established makeup technique used to conceal and neutralise skin discolouration,” says Lauren Wolborsky, a New York-based makeup artist and aesthetician. “You can use colour correctors to diminish different types of hyperpigmentation, redness, and sallowness.”
In our search for the best colour correctors, InStyle editors tested popular options such as palettes that allow you to blend multiple colours, pots with illuminating cream and powder potions, and sharp, pointed crayons that remove deep creases. After testing products and consulting with trusted makeup artists, we determined that these are the best colour correctors for dark circles.
Why We Love It: This cream corrector is popular for a reason. The moisturising ingredients, particularly vitamin E and kaolin clay, keep the under-eye area smooth and hydrated, while also being waterproof, sweatproof, and humidity-resistant. Translation: It stays put throughout the day. With 12 shades to choose from, you should be able to find one that suits your skin tone. Regardless of the shade you choose, each has a pink or peachy base that is ideal for cancelling out the bluish-purple tone of dark under-eye circles.
Who It’s For: The product applies in light, thin layers without smudging or creasing, making it ideal for stubborn dark circles associated with mature or textured skin.
It’s worth noting that, while it doesn’t come with an applicator, we can easily blend it out with our fingers in seconds.
Allison, tester (not pictured): “This corrector conceals dark circles well without emphasising fine lines or wrinkles.”
Why we love it: This skin-care-forward colour corrector stood out in our tests due to its lightweight feel and highly blendable texture. The formula contains a variety of great ingredients that promote brightness from within, including niacinamide, cloudberry, and vitamin E. It’s so simple to apply and build up, so you have complete control over the product. Plus, you’ll forget you’re wearing makeup. Our tester Michelle was looking for a product that would reduce her dark circles without making them cakey or dry, and this one delivered.
Who It’s For: If you don’t want to spend 30 minutes blending out a colour corrector, give this a try.
It’s worth noting that this formula has a watery texture, so blend quickly to avoid dripping.
Michelle, a tester with combination skin, said, “It’s something I can wear every day without feeling like I’m wearing a lot of makeup.”
Why We Love It: Los Angeles. Girl Pro concealers have long been regarded as a beginner and budget-friendly option, and the color-correcting shades are equally impressive. Our tester Mollie used the viral green hue to counteract the redness around her eyes, nose, and mouth, and the brush applicator makes it simple to apply. Mollie had the best results when she mixed the product in the tube before applying. Following this method, the formula is fairly thick and pigmented, so a small amount goes a long way. She was pleased with the results of applying her foundation—all of the redness was gone, and she had smooth, even skin.
Who It’s For: If you’re on a tight budget for a colour corrector, this one is super cheap and available at a variety of stores, including your local beauty supply or pharmacy.
It’s worth noting that the tube format can cause the product to separate and become watery.
Mollie, a tester with fair, freckly, combination skin: “This completely neutralised the areas that I used it on and did exactly what it was supposed to do. It didn’t look cakey or unnatural at all.
