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Creased concealer can ruin even the most flawless makeup look, especially under the eyes, where fine lines and movement are common. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, excess product, or simply the wrong technique, creasing doesn’t have to be inevitable.
Article Contains
- Hydrate Before You Conceal
- Use the Right Primer—Or None At All
- Less Is Always More
- Choose the Right Concealer Formula
- Warm It Up Before Application
- Use a Damp Sponge for Seamless Blending
- Set Strategically with the Right Powder
- Try the “Bake and Dust” Method (With Caution)
- Refresh with a Setting Spray
- Touch Up the Right Way
1. Hydrate Before You Conceal
Hydration is your first defense against creasing.
Dry under-eyes can exaggerate fine lines and cause makeup to cling unevenly. Start with a lightweight eye cream or hydrating serum designed specifically for the under-eye area. Let it sit for 2–5 minutes before applying makeup.
Expert Pick: Try the CeraVe Eye Repair Cream or The Ordinary Caffeine Solution to hydrate and reduce puffiness.
2. Use the Right Primer—Or None At All
Some skin types need it, some don’t.
If you have oily under-eyes or wear concealer for long hours, a small dab of eye-safe primer can help prevent creasing. However, for drier skin types, a good eye cream may be enough. Avoid using pore-filling face primers under your eyes—they can dry out or cake up the area.
Pro Tip: If using primer, choose a hydrating, silicone-free formula and apply a minimal amount.
3. Less Is Always More
Too much product = too many problems.
One of the biggest culprits behind creasing is overapplying concealer. You don’t need to pile it on to get coverage. Instead, use a thin layer and blend it out thoroughly.
Try This: Apply 2–3 small dots of concealer in the inner and outer corners only, then use a damp sponge or clean fingertip to tap it in.
4. Choose the Right Concealer Formula
Not all concealers are created equal.
Opt for lightweight, buildable formulas with a natural or satin finish. Thick, matte, or high-coverage concealers tend to settle into fine lines quickly, especially on mature or dry skin.
Top Picks:
- NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer (hydrating with medium coverage) (Buy Here)
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind (drugstore favorite for smooth finish) (Buy Here)
5. Warm It Up Before Application
Your body heat makes blending easier.
Warming concealer slightly on the back of your hand before applying helps it spread more evenly and meld better with your skin. This reduces the risk of patchiness and product buildup.
Bonus Tip: Blend immediately after applying—don’t let it sit and dry before working it in.
6. Use a Damp Sponge for Seamless Blending
It’s all in the technique.
Fingers can work, but nothing beats a damp beauty sponge when it comes to blending concealer without creasing. The sponge helps absorb excess product and presses the concealer into the skin for a skin-like finish.
Technique: Bounce the sponge gently under your eyes. Don’t drag or swipe—it can disturb your base.
7. Set Strategically with the Right Powder
Set it and forget it—literally.
Setting your under-eye concealer is crucial, but over-powdering can age the skin and worsen creasing. Use a finely milled, lightweight setting powder and apply it with a small fluffy brush or sponge—just where it’s needed.
Best Setting Powders
- Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder (Lightweight) (Buy Here)
- Huda Beauty Easy Bake Powder (Blurring & long-lasting) (Buy Here)
8. Try the “Bake and Dust” Method (With Caution)
Great for long wear—if done right.
Baking can help lock in your concealer, but it’s not for everyone. If your under-eyes are oily and you’re attending a long event or filming, lightly bake for 1–2 minutes, then dust off the excess powder. Avoid if your skin is dry or mature.
9. Refresh with a Setting Spray
Lock it in without drying it out.
After all your blending and setting, a light mist of hydrating setting spray can help melt the layers together and prevent powder from looking dry or cakey.
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10. Touch Up the Right Way
Don’t reapply—revive.
If creasing does happen throughout the day, resist the urge to reapply more concealer. Instead, use a clean fingertip or sponge to lightly tap and smooth out the area. A small dab of eye cream or setting spray on your finger can refresh the area without adding more product.
Final Thoughts: Concealer That Stays Put All Day
Concealer creasing isn’t just about what you use—it’s how you use it. With the right prep, product, and application, you can achieve smooth, long-lasting under-eyes without the dreaded creases. Keep it light, blend it well, and always set strategically.
