15 Best Waterproof Concealers of 2024, According To A Makeup Expert
Camouflage dark circles, conceal pimples, and hide spots with these waterproof concealers.
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special event categories.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Experience: 2 yearsSrijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.
Read full bio of Srijita De
Experience: 3 yearsSrijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury
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If you thought makeup products could not get more upgraded, think again. Concealers have now joined the bandwagon of waterproof products. The best waterproof concealers can be used for hiding all sorts of imperfections. They can camouflage dark circles, conceal the sudden appearance of a pimple, and also hide spots or marks that are marring your complexion. The best thing about them is that they can be used for multiple purposes like a base product for eyes or simply as a quick replacement for foundation. To help you out on your makeup journey, we have listed the 15 best waterproof concealers below. Check them out!
In This Article
The 15 Best Waterproof Concealers of 2024 (Reviews)
1. Best Waterproof: Tarte SMOOTH OPERATORTM Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer
Trust America’s #1 concealer brand, Tarte, to bring to you a sweat-proof waterproof concealer that blends seamlessly to conceal imperfections on your face. This creamy formula is enriched with Amazonian clay and vitamins A and E that help nourish your skin while lending you an oil-free matte finish, making it an ideal choice for those with acne-prone skin. Designed to minimize dark circles, blemishes, redness, and other skin discolorations, this easy-to-use, twist-up waterproof stick concealer offers full coverage that lasts for 12 hours straight. Check out this video that details a tester’s experience with the product if you require more details.
Pros
- Provides natural-looking full coverage
- Long-wearing formula
- Non-greasy
- Free from parabens and phthalates
- Hypoallergenic
- Enriched with skin-soothing and balancing properties
Cons
- Tends to crease under the eyes
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 883 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
2. Best Matte Finish: Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Undereye Concealer
Look no further than the celebrity-endorsed Lancôme Waterproof Concealer to hide dark circles that will make you look like you had a good night’s sleep. It dries out to a soft, matte finish and gives your skin a flawless appearance. It also helps even skin tone by blending into the skin and providing natural coverage without creasing or fading. What’s more? It also is an anti-aging product that helps minimize fine lines around the delicate skin of the eyes and delivers a crease-free finish. It is oil-free and is the best waterproof eye concealer for those who. You can also check this YouTube video to learn more about a reviewer’s experience of using the product.
Pros
- This formula covers dark circles
- Evens skin tone for a natural-looking finish
- Crease-free and fade-resistant
- Easy to blend
- Long-wear
- Available in various shades
- Anti-aging properties
Cons
- Thin watery consistency
- Expensive
3. Best Affordable: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer
One single stroke of this classic drugstore waterproof flawless finish concealer is enough to provide a seamless matte finish that lasts all day. The extra-large, doe-foot applicator ensures smooth application and offers maximum coverage. This waterproof formula is used to mask under-eye circles, acne scars, and skin discoloration on the face, as well as minimize the appearance of bruises, stretch marks, and veins on the body. It offers full coverage, is buildable and non-greasy, and is available in 25 shades, so there is something for every skin tone. If you want to know more about the results, take a look at this video on YouTube that details a makeup reviewer’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Transfer and flake-resistant
- Can be used to conceal, highlight, and contour
- Creamy, non-greasy texture
- Does not flake
- Stays put for 24 hours
- Available in 25 shades
- Extra-large applicator brush provides maximum coverage
Cons
- Strong fragrance may irritate sensitive eyes
- May not be suitable for mature skin
Pro TipTo conceal your dark circles, draw inverted triangles with this concealer under your eyes and blend the product for an even look.
Tarte SMOOTH OPERATORTM Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer | Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Undereye Concealer | L'Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Acne ProneColor | - | AllColor |
| Color | - | 220 Clair | - |
| Dimensions | - | 1.25 x 1.02 x 4.27 inches | 0.79 x 0.79 x 4.31 inches |
| Weight | - | 0.48 Ounces | 0.71 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 883 | 606 | 15,619 |
| Price | $28.0 | $26.2 | $8.97 |
4. Best For Dark Circles: It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Waterproof Concealer
A cult-favorite, award-winning formula, this long-lasting waterproof concealer is formulated with anti-aging peptides, vitamins, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid, and is clinically proven to make your skin look younger. This anti-aging waterproof product minimizes the appearance of wrinkles and covers skin imperfections such as dark circles, redness, hyperpigmentation, age spots, and discoloration. Reviewers on online forums have noted that the product is highly pigmented, delivers long-lasting coverage, and sits well on the skin without creasing or cracking.
Pros
- Multi-tasking waterproof formula
- Infused with vitamins, antioxidants, and other anti-aging ingredients
- Excellent staying power
- Highly pigmented and offers full coverage
- Does not crease
- Available in varied shades
- Developed with the help of plastic surgeons
Cons
- Texture may be thick and difficult to blend
- Slightly expensive
Pro TipWarm a small amount of concealer with your fingers and tap it on your skin. Then, blend the product with the Heavenly Luxe™ Dual Airbrush Concealer Brush to achieve flawless skin.
5. Best Transfer-Proof: AMAZING COSMETICS Amazing Concealer
Amazing Concealer is quite popular among celebrity makeup artists, and for a good reason. This full-coverage, long-wearing waterproof formula instantly erases all skin imperfections, including dark circles, blemishes, redness, sun damage, brown spots, and uneven skin tone, all while providing a natural skin-like finish. Formulated with cucumber fruit extract and antioxidants, it helps soothe, de-puff, and soften skin. Packed with a high concentration of pigments, it is a transfer-proof and waterproof concealer that doesn’t crease. According to online reviews, a little goes a long way with this product, so a tiny amount is enough to achieve a flawless look! The product is ideal for ethically conscious consumers as the formula is not tested on animals.
Pros
- Long-wearing and water-resistant
- Enriched with cucumber extract and antioxidants
- Ultra-concentrated pigments
- Flawless, nearly invisible finish
- Easy-to-blend creamy texture
- Does not cake or crease
- Doubles as a highlighting and contouring product
- Available in a wide range of shades
Cons
- May not work well on wrinkly skin
- Slightly expensive
Pro TipMix this concealer with the Amazing Cosmetics Primer to prolong its wear time.
6. Best Lightweight: SACE LADY Full Cover Concealer Corrector
What’s not to love about this high-coverage waterproof concealer that offers seamless, crease-free finish and even coverage while lasting long? To begin with, it is used to cover and correct skin imperfections such as uneven skin tone, under-eye circles, redness from breakout, and blemishes and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Besides, it can also be used as a foundation, highlighter, contouring product, and an eyeshadow base. Suitable for acne-prone skin, this statement-making liquid concealer is lightweight and blends easily to give your skin a flawless-looking matte finish, all while also providing hydration.
Pros
- Full coverage for up to 16 hours
- Keeps skin hydrated
- All-in-one makeup formula
- Radiant and flawless-looking complexion
- Glides and blends smoothly
- Buildable formula
- Available in 8 shades
- Crease and smudge-proof
Cons
- May not work well on oily skin
- The tiny amount of cream may not last long
7. Best For Pores: bare Minerals BAREPRO 16-Hour Waterproof Full Coverage Concealer
Correct, conceal, and contour with bareMinerals BAREPRO waterproof concealer! This easy-to-use, super creamy, and hydrating waterproof concealer stick covers dark circles and blemishes and delivers full coverage that lasts for 16 hours. Also, this waterproof formula can be used as a contouring tool. It is enriched with bamboo stem extract and antioxidant-rich raspberry and blackcurrant seed oils and sea lavender, which helps minimize the look of pores and fine lines, hydrates, and nourishes the skin, and protects it from damage due to pollution. It glides on smoothly and gives your skin a natural-looking soft matte finish.
Pros
- Long-lasting for up to 16 hours
- Sweat, humidity, and transfer-resistant
- Crease and smudge-proof
- Designed with MINERAL LOCK™ Long Wear Technology
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Protects from pollution
- Perfect for daily wear
- Available in 15 highly pigmented shades
Cons
- Some people may not like the thick and sticky consistency of the product
8. Best For Tattoos: MAKE UP FOR EVER Full Cover Waterproof Concealer
This one by MAKE UP FOR EVER is one of the best creamy waterproof concealers in the market that offers exceptional results. It is designed to mask tattoos and birthmarks and skin concerns such as acne, scars, hyperpigmentation, burns, and also correct skin discoloration. Packed with highly concentrated pigments, this formula delivers a matte finish and can be used to conceal imperfections on the face and body. It is completely oil-free, provides full coverage, and its waterproof technology ensures a long-lasting result. However, conduct a patch test before committing to the product for regular use, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Pros
- Long-lasting waterproof formula
- Offers full coverage on face and body
- Highly pigmented
- Oil-free creamy texture
- Suitable for all skin types
- A little goes a long way
- Ideal for swimming and other water-based activities
Cons
- Expensive
9. Best For Wrinkles: MOIRA Mega Waterproof Concealer
The MOIRA Mega Waterproof Concealer is a sheer finish blemish concealer crafted for normal to combination skin. It offers full coverage and easily covers dark circles, wrinkles, spots, and blemishes. It is easy to apply and is perfect for both novices and professionals. Its creamy, waterproof formula offers enhanced beauty while keeping your skin hydrated and staying very long even without touch-ups.
Pros
- Full coverage
- Sheer finish
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- None
10. Best For Daily Wear: Maybelline New York Super Stay Full Coverage Concealer
This under-eye waterproof and fade-resistant concealer by the celebrity-endorsed brand Maybelline has made it easier to hide your dark circles. It features a precise paddle applicator that provides maximum coverage in a single swipe and creates a long-lasting effect that lasts for 24 hours straight. This full-coverage formula is lightweight and glides effortlessly to give a smooth, matte finish to your skin. This is a good waterproof concealer stick that is smudge-proof and transfer-resistant. It is also available in 12 shades, making it easier to find the exact shade that matches your skin undertone. Reviewers on online forums have noted that it is perfect for daily wear as the lightweight texture stays put on the skin throughout the day.
Pros
- Conceals dark circles and brightens eyes
- Lasts for up to 24 hours
- Matte finish
- Full-coverage concealer
- Comes in 12 shades
- Smudge and transfer-resistant
Cons
- May not be suitable for dry under eye skin
11. Best Oil-Free: Catrice Liquid Camouflage Waterproof Concealer
Catrice Liquid Camouflage Waterproof Concealer can do it all! It offers better coverage and blends well into the skin to instantly mask dark circles, redness, blemishes, and other imperfections. It features a precise practical flock applicator for easy and smooth application, while this intensely pigmented formula ensures high coverage with just a tiny amount of liquid. Available in 3 shades – light natural, porcelain, and light beige, this lightweight waterproof concealer delivers an even and emollient coverage and provides a natural finish.
Pros
- High-coverage formula
- Blendable liquid texture
- Lasts for 12 hours
- Highly pigmented
- Easy to apply
- Small amount gives maximum coverage
- Lends a natural, radiant look
Cons
- Limited range of shades
- The fragrance may be too strong for some
12. Best For Skin Discoloration: NYX Professional Makeup Gotcha Covered Waterproof Concealer
Give your skin some much needed hydration with Gotcha Covered Waterproof Concealer that is infused with the goodness of coconut oil. This is a moisturizing formula that leaves your skin with a dewy finish and a healthy-looking glow. This waterproof formula is specially formulated to cover skin discoloration and a variety of imperfections, without creasing or caking. It is full coverage, highly blendable, long-lasting, offers radiant finish, and is available in a wide range of shades.
Pros
- Full coverage and long-lasting
- Easy to blend
- Enriched with coconut oil
- Available in 10 shades
- Moisturizes skin
- Gives skin a luminous finish
Cons
- Tends to be a little oily or greasy
13. Best For Scars: Dior Diorskin Forever Undercover
Dior Diorskin Forever Undercover will not only effectively mask imperfections, scars, and blemishes but will also help improve your skin over time by reducing the signs of aging. One coat of this natural-looking waterproof concealer provides a perfect camouflaging effect without creasing, cracking, or settling into fine lines. This hydrating formula evens out the skin tone while lending a soft, matte finish that lasts long. Best of all, it is waterproof and provides full coverage for younger-looking skin.
Pros
- Full-coverage formula
- Hides imperfections
- Offers a flawless matte finish
- Reduces signs of aging
- Does not crease or crack
Cons
- May not be effective in covering very dark under eye circles or spots
- Slightly expensive
14. Best Long-Wearing: Smashbox 24-Hour CC Spot Concealer
This waterproof liquid concealer is specially formulated to instantly correct and cover skin imperfections such as post-acne marks, sun spots, and dark spots, while visibly fading their appearance over time. It is a long-wearing, full-coverage formula that lasts all day long and dries out to a matte finish once applied. Formulated with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients, this product reduces redness and helps heal damaged or irritated skin faster.
Pros
- Natural-looking matte finish
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Lightweight liquid formula
- Fragrance and oil-free
- 24-hour full coverage
- Features Photoset Polymers
- Free of parabens, sulfate, and phthalates
- Available in a wide range of shades
Cons
- May not be suitable to be used around the eye area because of its drying quality
15. Best Sweat-Proof: PHOERA Liquid Concealer
Get absolute, even-toned skin with the PHOERA Liquid Concealer which has a unique whitening and moisturizing formula. This waterproof color-correcting concealer prevents dryness, and creasing, and gives you full coverage that can be easily blended for a natural finish. Its thin brush head makes spot application hassle-free. It is available in 8 different shades to match most skin tones. The best part is that this concealer can last really long owing to its waterproof and smudge-proof properties ensuring an all-day wear. It regulates oil secretions, covers pores, dark circles, wrinkles, and blemishes, and keeps your skin feeling fresh all day.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Full coverage
- Moisturizing formula
- Long-lasting finish
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
Everyone needs a concealer – from covering up blemishes to dark circles, this magical product can do it all! A waterproof concealer is a must in your makeup arsenal, however, you just cannot get any product off the shelf. Keep the following points in mind before making a purchase.
Things You Should Know Before Buying A Concealer
- Ingredients
Parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and other similar chemicals should be avoided at all costs. Whenever possible, go for all-natural ingredients that are suitable for your skin. Concealers that are dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested are always a safer option.
- Skin Type
Before purchasing a concealer, you should determine your skin type. Choose a product that has skin-balancing and soothing properties if your skin is easily irritated. Also, always opt for a hypoallergenic concealer. If you have dark circles, go for options that provide full coverage and are especially formulated to tackle this issue. In the case of acne-prone or overly-sensitive skin, you should only use products that are non-comedogenic.
For more mature skin types, go for concealers that provide anti-aging benefits. If you are getting fine lines and wrinkles, opt for concealers that can hide them effectively.
- Usage
If you are planning to wear the concealer all through the day, opt for a product that mentions ‘long-lasting’ on the packaging. Those with oily skin should go for liquid concealers that dry to a matte finish. Women with dry skin can go for creamy, moisturizing formulas. Always opt for a sweat-proof, transfer-resistant concealer if you stay in a humid place, sweat a lot, or touch your face often.
- Fragrance
Concealers are meant to be put on blemishes, so it is better to stay as chemical free as possible. Always choose fragrance-free products as you only require very little amounts and scent shouldn’t be your primary concern when getting this product.
In the next section, we have listed down a few points that might help you pick the right waterproof concealer.
A Useful Guide To Help You Choose The Best Waterproof Concealer
- Long-lasting formula:
Waterproof concealers are meant to last for long periods and should not smudge or crease due to sweat or water. While some concealers last for 12 hours, others last an entire day.
- Skin type:
Not all waterproof concealers are suitable for all skin types. If you have oily skin, it is best to opt for an oil-free liquid concealer with a matte or a dewy finish. For people with dry skin, a stick or a hydrating cream formula works well as they glide smoothly on the skin. That said, normal, sensitive, and combination skin types, can go for any concealer. But it’s always wise to try out the product first.
- Purpose:
Most waterproof concealer products can be used to hide dark circles, blemishes, acne, and many other imperfections. But there are a few concealers that are used only to cover dark circles, some of them also help conceal tattoos, port stains, stretch marks, and scars on the body. Choose a formula depending on your skin’s concern.
- Additional features:
While a good concealer is meant to hide skin imperfections and improve discoloration, it can also be used for other purposes. Concealers are perfect to be used as highlighting and contouring products too. Some of them also work as a foundation or a base for lipstick or eye shadow.
Cha Cha, a certified makeup artist, says, “When using concealer under the eyes, be sure to use eye cream first to keep the skin hydrated and to help prevent creasing.”
How To Apply Waterproof Concealer
Once you have found the right waterproof concealer, the next step is to learn how to use it.
- For optimal results, always apply concealer before the foundation or moisturizer.
- The concealer that you choose should be a shade or two lighter than your foundation unless you are using it under your eyes.
- Now dab the concealer on areas that you want to cover.
- Blend it well using your fingertips, brush, or a beauty blender.
- If you haven’t applied the foundation yet, this is the right time to do so.
- Lastly, finish by setting the concealer and the foundation with a pressed powder.
How To Remove Waterproof Concealer
If your concealer is waterproof, it can’t be removed by using splashing water on your face. What you need is a makeup cleanser that is specifically designed to react with the ingredients in a waterproof product. Soak a natural cotton pad in the micellar water solution and wipe off the makeup. Repeat the step until your face is clean and free of makeup.
Infographic: Key Ingredients To Look For In A Waterproof Concealer
A good-quality waterproof concealer hides dark circles, masks discolored spots, and minimizes the appearance of skin imperfections. However, choosing one product among so many options can be confusing. Check out the infographic below to understand the key ingredients you must look for while choosing an ideal concealer.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Hiding your dark spots, blemishes, acne scars, and other skin flaws is much easier and more durable with the best waterproof concealers mentioned above. They are made with potent ingredients like Amazonian clay, retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides, etc., that help in moisturizing the skin and nourishing it so that it becomes naturally healthy and spotless gradually. The products have several additional features non-comedogenic, crease-proof, cruelty-free, etc., to cater to the needs of different lifestyles. If you have oily skin and you sweat a lot, then the Tarte SMOOTH OPERATORTM Amazonian Clay Waterproof Concealer will be perfect for you, while the Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Undereye Concealer has a crease-proof formula. You can also apply the Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Waterproof Concealer for a full coverage effect. Most of the formulae are also long-lasting and highly pigmented. Go through the reviews thoroughly to choose the best concealers for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is waterproof makeup bad for your skin?
Excess of anything is bad, and this holds even for waterproof makeup. If used regularly as part of your makeup routine, it could clog your pores and may also cause skin damage. Apply waterproof makeup sparingly or as and when necessary.
Is waterproof concealer oil-free?
Yes, there are oil-free waterproof concealers. But not all of them are made with an oil-free formulation.
Which is the best waterproof concealer for your skin?
All the products mentioned above are some of the best waterproof concealers that are there. But we recommend 2 products from the list. First is Tarte Waterproof Concealer because of its oil-free creamy formula that lasts for 12 hours and also nourishes the skin. The second one from the list is L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer due to its buildable formula and 24-hour long-lasting quality. However, do go through the list and select what works best for you.
Can you swim with waterproof concealer on?
Yes. You can swim without worrying about your waterproof concealer fading away. You can wear waterproof concealers while performing all water-based activities.
Is waterproof concealer full coverage?
Yes. A waterproof concealer offers full coverage, is buildable, and is used to hide acne scars, under-eye circles, and skin discoloration on the face, and minimize the appearance of veins, stretch marks, and bruises on the body.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Srijita De, is a makeup fanatic and loves experimenting with various beauty products. Her passion for providing well-researched articles made her analyze reviews on several online forums to narrow down this list of the best waterproof concealers. The products listed in the article can hide blemishes, dark circles, and discoloration and also nourish the skin.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Read full bio of Srijita De
Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury
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