Concealer is the unsung hero of red carpets and morning meetings alike—a true backstage essential for celebrities, makeup artists, and real-life radiance. But which formulas are *actually* used by stars and beauty pros? We reviewed industry data, interviews, and direct pro recs to bring you the most thoroughly vetted, cake-free, never-dry, never-oily picks—plus how to apply them for next-level skin.

1. Haus Labs by Lady Gaga Triclone Skin Tech Concealer

Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Concealer

$32 · 31 shades · Natural Matte

Chosen by beauty editors as the “Best Overall Concealer” (Byrdie Awards 2024), this formula is a hit with pros for its all-day, crease-free wear—no matter your skin type. Key fans: Makeup artists & Lady Gaga herself.
Best for: All skin types, including dry/mature. Finish: Natural matte, flexible coverage.

BUY NOW

• Apply with fingers or a damp sponge. Pat, don’t swipe, for max seamlessness.
• Layer for dark circles—never cakes, even with build-up.
• Set only where needed with powder (try under eyes and around nose).

2. Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

$32 · 35 shades · Full Matte or Ultra Creamy

The world’s top-selling concealer for a reason—endorsed by Bebe Rexha, Madelaine Petsch, and Riverdale’s best glam. “Shape Tape” has viral status for full, brightening, non-creasing coverage.
Best for: Oily to dry skin, and available in ultra-hydrating (Ultra Creamy) and luminous (Radiant) versions.
Finish: High-coverage, soft matte, or creamy radiant.

BUY NOW

• Dot, wait 10–15 seconds, then blend for best coverage with no demarcation.
• Set under-eyes lightly to avoid creasing if you’re prone.
• Avoid over-layering—this formula is rich, so a little goes far.

3. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

$32 · 30 shades · Radiant Finish

Used by Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and pro makeup artists for red-carpet “real skin” looks. Beloved for its brightening, flexible texture.
Best for: Normal to dry skin, those who want a luminous, never-flat finish.
Finish: Creamy, radiant, blurring.

BUY NOW

• Blend with finger warmth for luminosity; use a brush for spot-concealing blemishes.
• Brightens dark circles in seconds—editor and celebrity favorite for this reason.
• Set with a touch of translucent powder only where needed for crease-proofing.

4. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser

$11 · 18 shades · Luminous Medium

This affordable legend is worn by Miley Cyrus (Met Gala) and Reba McEntire (Super Bowl!). Its blend of coverage and comfort wins raves across ages.
Best for: Dry or mature skin, or anyone seeking non-cakey, bright under-eyes.
Finish: Hydrating, slight luminosity.

BUY NOW

• Sponge tip dispenses just the right amount; dab and tap out gently.
• Never feels dry—great for under-eye lines or midday touch-ups.
• Won’t cake, even if reapplied throughout the day.

5. Clé de Peau Beauté Brightening Concealer (SPF 27)

Clé de Peau Beauté Brightening Concealer (SPF 27)

$75 · 12 shades · Luminous Luxury

Jennifer Aniston calls it her “must-have.” Makeup artists praise its gliding, crease-proof, light-diffusing finish. Pricey, but the most luxurious you’ll find.
Best for: Mature or dry skin, those wanting brightening and SPF.
Finish: Luminous, smoothing, imperceptible.

BUY NOW

• Warm gently with fingertip before dabbing under the eye—melts for seamlessness.
• Build in thin layers for unbeatable dark circle coverage without thickness.
• Has built-in sun protection for day-to-night wear.

Quick Comparison: Concealer Chart

Celebrity & Pro Tips for Cake-Free Concealer

• Hydrate first: Always start with an eye serum or light moisturizer. Pati Dubroff (Margot Robbie’s MUA) swears this prevents creasing.
• Less is more: Use thin layers and blend only where needed—more concealer doesn’t mean better coverage.
• Use peach correctors before concealer if you have blue/purple circles (pro hack from Mario Dedivanovic, Kim Kardashian’s MUA).
• Powder sparingly: Too much powder = instant cake. Use a light, brightening powder under eyes only if absolutely needed.
• Finger warmth: For thick/creamy formulas, tap with finger to melt seamlessly into skin.