Nothing is more demoralizing than perfect under-eye coverage at 8 AM only to discover creasing, cakey patches by lunch. Fortunately, with a few simple adjustments to your routine and the right products, you can say goodbye to those stubborn lines forever. Let’s dive into ten strategies to keep your concealer looking fresh.
- 1. Quench, Don’t Drench, with the Right Eye Cream
- 2. Prime Your Way to a Crease-Free Canvas
- 3. Choose a Buildable, Lightweight Concealer
- 4. Apply in Layers
- 5. Master the “Press-and-Set” Method
- 6. Lightly Bake
- 7. Refresh Midday with a Setting Spray
- 8. Choose Your Tools Wisely
- 9. Treat Your Fine Lines Gently
- 10. Keep It Fresh
- Final Thoughts
1. Quench, Don’t Drench, with the Right Eye Cream
The under-eye area is one of the driest, thinnest parts of your face. If you apply concealer on parched skin, it’s going to settle into every fine line. Instead, hydrate strategically: reach for a lightweight eye cream packed with hydrating heroes like hyaluronic acid or peptides.
Try:
- CeraVe Eye Repair Cream (~$15): A cult favorite that sinks in fast without any greasy residue.
- The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream (~$10): Brightens and de-puffs, leaving a smooth base for makeup.
Gently tap a pea-sized amount on your under-eye area, then wait 60 seconds before moving on.
2. Prime Your Way to a Crease-Free Canvas
An under-eye primer isn’t just for the pros. A thin layer of a blurring or gripping primer helps fill in tiny lines and gives concealer something to stick to.
Try:
- Smashbox Photo Finish Radiance Primer (~$36): Blurs texture and has a subtle glow.
- Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer (~$34): Contains coconut water and probiotic-based ingredients for added skin benefits.
Press the primer gently into the under-eye area with your ring finger (no rubbing!) and let it set for a minute. You’ll notice your concealer gliding on more evenly.
3. Choose a Buildable, Lightweight Concealer
Heavy, full-coverage concealers are great for special occasions, but daily wear calls for something more forgiving. A medium-coverage, buildable formula will blend seamlessly and avoid it looking like a mask.
Try:
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser (~$10): The sponge applicator deposits just the right amount, and the formula won’t settle into lines.
- Kosas Revealer Concealer (~$30): Infused with nourishing botanicals, it brightens without drying.
- IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye (~$28): Full-coverage, but lightweight enough for everyday use.
- NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer ($30): Sheer-to-medium coverage that stays put and brightens.
- Tarte Shape Tape ($27): Full-coverage magic that resists creasing, don’t use too much though!
Warm a dot of concealer on the back of your hand first. Then, tap lightly (don’t drag) under the eye, focusing more product where you need extra coverage.
4. Apply in Layers
Resist the urge to pile on product in one go. Instead, build coverage in thin layers.
- Dot concealer only where you need it.
- Use a damp sponge (we love the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, $8) to press the product into the skin.
- Wait 20–30 seconds for the product to dry down before adding another layer if needed.
This gradual approach prevents overloading and gives you control over exactly how much coverage you’re getting.
5. Master the “Press-and-Set” Method
Excess moisture or oil is a major culprit in creasing. After applying concealer, gently press a tissue over the area to remove any excess surface oil. Without adding more product, immediately press a micro-fine translucent powder into the skin with a small brush or damp sponge.
Try:
- Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder (~$39): The gold standard for under-eye setting.
- Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder (~$6): A budget-friendly classic.
This one-two punch of blotting plus powder eliminates slip and locks your concealer in place.
6. Lightly Bake
“Baking” your concealer under heavy piles of powder works for red-carpet glamour, but it can look cakey for everyday wear. Instead, go for a light bake: leave a thin layer of translucent powder under your eyes for just a minute, then dust off excess gently with a fluffy brush. You’ll get the setting power without the dryness. This step is completely optional though!
7. Refresh Midday with a Setting Spray
If you notice slight creasing as the day progresses, skip the extra concealer and reach for a hydrating setting spray.
Try:
- Urban Decay All Nighter (~$34): A long-time favorite for all-day hold.
- Milani Make It Last Setting Spray (~$10): Affordable, sweat-resistant, and easy to find.
Hold the bottle about 8–10 inches away and mist in an “X” and “T” pattern. This light spritz will meld powders and creams back into the skin, smoothing out minor lines instantly.
8. Choose Your Tools Wisely
Your hands, sponges, and brushes all play a role in how concealer sits. Use:
- A damp sponge for pressing product rather than brushing it on.
- A small, fluffy brush (like the Sigma E45) to apply powder precisely under the eyes.
- Your ring finger for primer and initial concealer application, its gentle pressure is perfect for delicate skin.
9. Treat Your Fine Lines Gently
If you have pronounced under-eye wrinkles, fill them in before concealer with a very thin layer of color-correcting primer or a tiny dab of silicone-based primer. This preps the grooves and reduces the amount of concealer needed to smooth over them.
10. Keep It Fresh
Avoid glossy under-eye products if you’re prone to creasing. Steer clear of liquid highlighters or illuminating primers directly under the eyes; they can soften your concealer’s grip. Instead, reserve highlighter for the cheekbones and inner corners of the eyes.
Final Thoughts
With these ten tips, you’ll conquer under-eye creasing once and for all. Less product, smart layering, and effective setting methods are the secret ingredients to a smooth, crease-free under-eye finish that lasts all day. No more creasing!
💬 Try one of our crease-proof concealer faves and let us know your go-to in the comments!
🎁 Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly believe in. Affiliate links help keep this blog free 💛
