The best self-setting concealers are the secret to crease-proof under-eye coverage. In how it differs from your average concealer, the name offers a hint. “Traditional concealers usually stay creamy, which means they require powder to prevent creasing,” Lauren D’Amelio Ventre tells Vogue. “On the other hand, self-setting textures use breathable film-formers and lightweight ingredients that evaporate after blending, leaving behind a smooth, crease-resistant finish.” By not having to layer concealer and setting powder together, you’re left with a lighter feel on skin and less chance of slippage or creasing—so dark circles and crow’s feet won’t be making any surprise reappearances.
Vogue’s Favorite Self-Setting Concealers
From hot climates and special events to mature skin that’s prone to caking or oily skin that tends to break down makeup by day’s end, there are more occasions than you might expect which warrant this two-in-one formula. “Self-setting concealers save time in a makeup routine by eliminating the need for powder, drying down quickly, and reducing creasing,” fellow pro makeup artist Brielle Pollara tells. “They give a natural, long-lasting finish, which is perfect for under eyes or areas prone to movement.”
There is, however, a certain knack to applying a self-setting concealer. For starters, prep is essential—those with dry skin will want to use a hydrating eye cream to keep the formula from clinging to rough patches. “The key is intention and speed,” says D’Amelio Ventre, who prefers to use a self-setting concealer after foundation and before blush. It’s best to take a less-is-more approach: a small dab on the inner and outer corners of the eye rather than coating the entire under-eye area. Pollara agrees, offering a few more tips: “Apply a small amount with a brush or fingertip and blend quickly before it sets,” she says. “Work in thin layers for buildable coverage without disturbing the formula.” Ahead, the self-setting concealers beloved by Vogue editors and makeup artists alike. Read on to discover our favorites.
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Best Overall: Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Brightening Concealer
- Why We Love It: Gucci Westman has mastered the self-setting game with the launch of her Vital Skincare concealer, which beautifully blurs the look of pores and wrinkles via soft-focus pigments. “I am always concerned about pores and I know that [texture] is more of a concern for mature skin,” she previously told Vogue. So, she created something with skin-care-first properties so that “skin still feels alive without feeling like it’s being masked.” D’Amelio Ventre also cosigns the formula, because it keeps skin looking natural, while still boasting medium coverage. “This formula is a dream on clients with normal to dry skin, especially those who are nervous about looking heavy or cakey in photos. It melts in seamlessly and gives a healthy look that translates well in daylight and flash photography,” she says. Its also great for no-makeup-makeup look thanks to its blurred yet natural-looking finish.
- Key Ingredients: Mini hyaluronic acid, peptides, Vital Wakeup Complex (gentian root, coffee leaf extract, and licorice root)
- Finish: Blurred
- Coverage: Medium
- Shades: 16
- Size: 0.20 oz / 6 mL