By Lynette Page | Beauty writer and professional makeup artist
After almost 30 years in the beauty industry, I’ve learnt that the little details in makeup application often matter more than the biggest promises on the packaging. Here's how I'd approach this question.
Why does concealer crease under the eyes?
Concealer moves because the skin under your eyes moves. You smile, laugh, squint and blink all day, and the product has to move with you. Fine lines are normal. What makes them look more obvious is often the amount of product sitting in them, particularly when someone keeps adding coverage to fix the problem. My first rule is simple: stop piling it on. Concealer isn't filler, and it shouldn't be treated like one.
Too much concealer is rarely the answer
I see people drawing great big triangles of concealer under their eyes when what they actually want to cover is a small shadow near the inner corner. If that's you, try placing a tiny amount only where the discolouration is strongest. Use a small clean brush and gently blend the edges. Stand back and look at the result before adding any more. You should still be able to see your skin.
How to prep the under-eye area
If the skin is dry, even beautiful concealer can cling to texture. Use a suitable lightweight eye moisturiser if you need one, and let it absorb before reaching for makeup. Don't apply a thick eye cream and concealer immediately afterwards and then wonder why everything moves. Preparation matters, but there is such a thing as too much preparation. The aim is comfortable, settled skin rather than a slippery surface.
Should you use a brush, sponge or fingers?
For precision, I like a small, soft brush. It lets you decide exactly where concealer goes, so you don't accidentally coat every fine line in product. A damp sponge can soften edges, but avoid repeatedly pressing more concealer into the same area. Clean tools matter too. There is no prize for using every brush in your bag.
Do you need setting powder under the eyes?
A tiny amount of finely milled powder can help on some faces, but powders can also emphasise dryness when applied too heavily. If you're going to powder, concentrate it where concealer tends to move and use much less than you think. If your under-eye skin is dry, you may prefer to skip powder entirely. I would never automatically bake the whole area just because it's popular online.
The five-minute under-eye technique
First, prepare the skin and allow moisturiser to settle. Next, apply a very small amount of concealer to the deepest shadow, normally towards the inner corner. Blend with a soft brush, feathering outwards rather than dragging the product down your cheek. Pause, look straight ahead in natural light, then add another tiny amount only if you genuinely need it. If the finish is already lovely, leave it alone.
What if your concealer still creases?
Check whether your skincare and concealer are compatible, whether you've applied too much and whether your shade is too light. A very pale concealer can make natural texture seem more obvious. You can gently tap out product that gathers later in the day instead of adding another thick layer. Some settling in expression lines is perfectly normal. The goal is flattering makeup, not a digitally smoothed face.
Frequently asked questions
Why does concealer crease even with powder?
Powder cannot stop your face moving, and too much can make the problem more obvious.
Should I put concealer all the way under my eye?
Only if you need coverage there. Target the shadow rather than applying a blanket layer.
Does mature skin need a special concealer?
Not automatically. The formula, your skin condition and the amount you apply matter more than the birthday on your passport.
My final word: Beautiful makeup starts with knowing what suits your own skin, using clean tools and resisting the temptation to apply more product than you need.
About the author: Lynette Page is a UK beauty writer and professional makeup artist with almost 30 years of beauty industry experience.
For more on foundation application, read my guide to the best foundation for oily skin.
Related makeup advice
why foundation looks cakey and why concealer creases under your eyes.
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