The 15 Best Drugstore Concealers of 2024

Great things *do* come with small price tags.

Collage of drugstore concealers from covergirl, nyx, and maybelline
(Image credit: Future)

Don't you love that feeling when your concealer melts and slips into every crease and crevice of your face by noon? (Oh, and do you also hate ice cream, puppies, and fun?) What we're trying to say is that bad concealer is a plague upon our hard-wrought makeup looks. That's why a really good concealer is crucial. Concealer is my favorite makeup product, like, ever. A swipe of concealer under your eyes will wake up your face like a warm cup of coffee does your body in the morning. And patting a concealer atop acne will make you forget it's even there—it's like magic.

This doesn't mean that vital concealer formulas have to be pricy. On the contrary! Some of our Marie Claire editors' favorite concealers happen to be found one aisle over from the paper towels at our local drugstore. So if you're into that whole long-lasting, dark circle-combatting, acne-covering thing, you'll be pleased to know that we've rounded up the absolute best drugstore concealers that actually stay put from the moment you blend them on. Even better, these winners all come in at under $15 (most probably cost less than your order at Starbucks). With insight from pro makeup artist Grace Balsamo on exactly what to look for, you'll be set to find your new favorite drugstore concealer in no time. 

What to Look For in Drugstore Concealer

  • Texture

Head to the makeup aisle at your nearest CVS and you'll quickly discover your options for drugstore concealer range far and wide. So, the first step to figuring out your concealer match made in heaven is figuring out the texture that's right for your skin type and needs. For example, if hiding dark spots is your priority, opt for a creamy pot concealer, as these tend to work well underneath makeup and are highly pigmented. Meanwhile, if you have dry skin, look for a concealer with a hydrating formula to best suit your skin. Additionally, Balsamo explains, "Hydrating formulas tend to be more blendable which can provide a more natural and diffused finish." A thin, hydrating formula will also work well on mature skin types as these are less likely to settle into fine lines and creases. All in all, it's most important to consider your skin type before landing on a concealer. 

  • Finish

The way a concealer dries down, a.k.a. its finish, is another factor to consider while on your concealer hunt and it all boils down to personal preference. Are you looking for a concealer that will give you that "skin-but-better" look? Opt for a lightweight concealer with a hydrating formula because, as Balsamo explained, these provide a natural finish. Or maybe your skin leans on the oily side—in this case, might we suggest a concealer with a matte finish? A concealer with a matte finish is going to keep oily skin at bay, but be warned: it may not suit those with combo or dry skin well. "They tend to be really drying and crack/cake on the skin which is never flattering," advises Balsamo. So when you're landing on a drugstore concealer, make sure to pay attention to how it dries down as this could make or break your makeup look.

The Best Drugstore Concealers

Meet the Expert

Grace Balsamo  headshot
Grace Balsamo

Grace is a professional Los Angeles makeup artist with an affinity for all things beauty. Grace pursued her passion for beauty and graduated from the Cinema Makeup School where she was certified in high fashion makeup. Trained in beauty, commercial, print, high fashion, bridal, and lifestyle, Grace has over six years of experience in the industry. Her makeup expertise ranges from red carpet events such as the Oscar's and Emmy's to music videos and weddings. 

With experience in model making and miniature building in the film/TV industry, Grace also works and studies under Oscar-winning artists such as Alec Gillis and Ian Hunter. Grace Carries her excellent attention to detail and artistic eye into the beauty world. 

Taylore  Glynn

Taylore Glynn is the Beauty and Health Editor at Marie Claire, covering skincare, makeup, fragrance, wellness, and more. If you need her, she’s probably roasting a chicken, flying solo at the movies, or drinking a bad Negroni at JFK.