Best concealers of 2026 tested — Nars top overall, budget and skin-type winners

Sarah Matthews tested a wide range of concealers and named her top picks for camouflaging blemishes and dark circles. Her overall recommendation was Nars Radiant Creamy concealer; other winners included Collection Lasting Perfection as the budget pick, Charlotte Tilbury for dark circles, By Terry for dry skin and NYX Bare With Me as the lightweight option.

Matthews assessed 13 concealers using three core criteria: coverage, creasing and shade range. She checked available shade ranges before buying, used red Sharpie dots on her forearm to judge coverage, and carried out full-day wear tests to see how products settled into fine lines, how they blended and whether they became dry, patchy or irritating during the day.

The review highlights specific strengths and drawbacks: Nars was praised for a 30-shade range, buildable, long-wearing coverage and resistance to creasing but is not hydrating; Collection is very affordable with a matt finish but must be blended quickly; Charlotte Tilbury combines medium coverage with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C for brightening; By Terry packs multiple forms of hyaluronic acid for hydration but is expensive; NYX is a lightweight, pump-dispensed serum concealer with a slightly dewy finish.

The piece also notes other solid performers such as Mac Studio Fix (full coverage), Laura Mercier (soft matt finish) and Milani (mid-range performance).

Key Topics

Culture, Nars Radiant Creamy, Collection Lasting Perfection, Charlotte Tilbury, By Terry, Nyx