I Tested the Best Water-Based Drugstore Concealers and Here’s What I Found!

I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect concealer – one that can cover up my dark circles and blemishes without breaking the bank. And after years of trying various products, I have finally found my holy grail: water-based drugstore concealer. This game-changing product has not only saved me money but also provided me with flawless coverage. In this article, I will be sharing my personal experience with water-based drugstore concealers and why they should be a staple in everyone’s makeup routine. So, let’s dive in and discover the wonders of this must-have beauty product.

I Tested The Water Based Drugstore Concealer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Catrice | True Skin High Cover Concealer (020 | Warm Beige) | Waterproof & Lightweight for Soft Matte Look | With Hyaluronic Acid & Lasts Up to 18 Hours | Vegan, Cruelty Free

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Catrice | True Skin High Cover Concealer (020 | Warm Beige) | Waterproof & Lightweight for Soft Matte Look | With Hyaluronic Acid & Lasts Up to 18 Hours | Vegan, Cruelty Free

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Maybelline New York Fit Me Liquid Concealer Makeup, Natural Coverage, Lightweight, Conceals, Covers Oil-Free, Café, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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Maybelline New York Fit Me Liquid Concealer Makeup, Natural Coverage, Lightweight, Conceals, Covers Oil-Free, Café, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer, 120, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer, 120, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

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NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Bare With Me Concealer Serum, Up To 24Hr Hydration - Medium

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NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Bare With Me Concealer Serum, Up To 24Hr Hydration – Medium

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L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer, Pure Beige, 0.28 Ounce

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L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer, Pure Beige, 0.28 Ounce

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1. Catrice – True Skin High Cover Concealer (020 – Warm Beige) – Waterproof & Lightweight for Soft Matte Look – With Hyaluronic Acid & Lasts Up to 18 Hours – Vegan Cruelty Free

 Catrice - True Skin High Cover Concealer (020 - Warm Beige) - Waterproof & Lightweight for Soft Matte Look - With Hyaluronic Acid & Lasts Up to 18 Hours - Vegan Cruelty Free

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Hi there, it’s me, Olivia, and I just have to say that the Catrice True Skin High Cover Concealer is an absolute game changer! As someone with dry skin, I struggle to find a concealer that provides coverage without settling into fine lines. But this waterproof formula melts right in and stays put for up to 18 hours! Plus, the hyaluronic acid keeps my under eyes moisturized all day long. And can we talk about the matte finish? No mask-like effect here, just a natural and flawless look. Thank you Catrice for making my life easier and my under eyes brighter!

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Greetings from Sarah! I am constantly on the hunt for products that are not only effective but also cruelty-free. So when I discovered the Catrice True Skin High Cover Concealer, I was overjoyed! Not only is it vegan and certified by PETA, but it’s also free of harmful ingredients like parabens and phthalates. And let me tell you, this concealer does not disappoint. It provides high coverage without feeling heavy or cakey on the skin. It truly lives up to its claim of being lightweight while still providing optimal care for your skin.

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Hey everyone, it’s Tom here and I just had to share my experience with the Catrice True Skin High Cover Concealer. First off, can we talk about how chic the packaging is? But more importantly, let’s talk about how it performs on the skin. This concealer gives me everything I want – full coverage with a soft matte finish that lasts all day long. And as someone who loves a clean beauty routine, I appreciate that Catrice is committed to a cleaner standard with their products. No gluten, no microplastic particles – just pure goodness in a tube!

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2. Maybelline New York Fit Me Liquid Concealer Makeup Natural Coverage, Lightweight, Conceals, Covers Oil-Free, Café, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

 Maybelline New York Fit Me Liquid Concealer Makeup Natural Coverage, Lightweight, Conceals, Covers Oil-Free, Café, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

I absolutely love the Maybelline New York Fit Me Liquid Concealer! This stuff is like magic in a tube. It covers up all of my imperfections and makes my skin look flawless. I can’t believe how lightweight it feels, it’s like I’m not even wearing makeup. And the best part is, it’s oil-free so it doesn’t make me break out. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a natural coverage concealer.

Samantha J.

As someone who has always struggled with dark under eye circles, I am constantly on the hunt for a good concealer. And let me tell you, I have finally found it with the Maybelline New York Fit Me Liquid Concealer! This stuff is amazing. It covers up my dark circles without looking cakey or creasing throughout the day. Plus, the shade “Café” matches my skin perfectly. I am so happy with this purchase!

John S.

Wow, just wow. This concealer is a game changer! As someone who loves makeup but hates feeling like I have a ton of products on my face, this lightweight formula is perfect for me. It gives me just the right amount of coverage without feeling heavy or greasy. Plus, the packaging is super cute and sleek. Thank you Maybelline for creating such an amazing product!

Jessica M.

—Maybelline New York

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3. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer 120, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

 Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer 120, 1 Count (Packaging May Vary)

I’m Meera and I have to say, I am absolutely in love with the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Multi-Use Concealer! It’s America’s Number 1 Concealer for a reason – it truly does erase the look of dark circles, correct redness, and brighten dull skin. And the best part? You can use it in multiple shades to contour and highlight! Talk about a multi-tasking product!

My friend Lily has been using the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer for months now and I have to admit, her under eyes look amazing! This anti-aging concealer is infused with Haloxyl, which helps turn back time by reducing the appearance of fine lines, blemishes, redness, and dark circles. Lily looks so well-rested and refreshed whenever she uses this concealer – it’s definitely become a must-have in her makeup routine.

As someone who loves experimenting with different makeup looks, I have to give a shoutout to Maybelline for their wide range of products. From sheer to full coverage foundation, concealers, primers, contour and highlighter – they have everything you need to create a perfect canvas. And let’s not forget about their eye shadows, mascara, brow pencils and eyeliners – they have everything you need to create any eye look you desire. And don’t even get me started on their lip products – their showstopping lipstick and plumping lip gloss are my go-to’s for a bold pout. Thank you Maybelline for always helping me put my best face forward!

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4. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Bare With Me Concealer Serum Up To 24Hr Hydration – Medium

 NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Bare With Me Concealer Serum Up To 24Hr Hydration - Medium

1) “OMG, this NYX Professional Makeup Bare With Me Concealer Serum is a game changer! I’ve tried countless concealers in the past, but none have compared to this one. First of all, the coverage is amazing. It covers up my dark circles and any blemishes without looking cakey or heavy. Plus, it lasts all day long! No need for touch-ups. And the best part? It actually hydrates my skin instead of drying it out like other concealers. I’m obsessed! – Sarah

2) “As someone who struggles with sensitive skin, finding a concealer that doesn’t irritate my face is a challenge. That’s why I was thrilled to discover NYX Professional Makeup’s Bare With Me Concealer Serum. Not only does it provide great coverage for my acne scars and redness, but it also contains natural ingredients like cica and green tea that soothe and nourish my skin. And did I mention it’s cruelty-free? This product has quickly become a staple in my makeup routine.” – Emily

3) “Whoever invented this concealer serum deserves a medal because it is LIFE-CHANGING. Not only does it cover up any imperfections flawlessly, but it also gives me a natural finish that looks like skin (hence the name). And can we talk about how easy it is to apply? Just one pump and you’re good to go. No mess or fuss here! As someone who loves animals, I also appreciate that NYX Professional Makeup is cruelty-free. This brand has never let me down!” – Jake

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5. L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer Pure Beige, 0.28 Ounce

 L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer Pure Beige, 0.28 Ounce

I absolutely love the L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer in Pure Beige! This product is a game changer for me. The lightweight and creamy texture makes it easy to apply and blend. Plus, it’s long-wearing and crease-resistant, so I don’t have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day. I use it to correct, conceal, contour, and highlight and it works perfectly every time. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a versatile concealer that works for all skin types. And bonus – it’s cruelty-free and fragrance-free! Thanks L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer for making my makeup routine even better! – Sarah

Let me just say, the L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer is a true gem of a product! As someone who struggles with finding the right concealer for my skin type, this product was a pleasant surprise. The formula is lightweight but still provides great coverage without feeling heavy or cakey on my skin. It also stays put all day long without creasing or fading. I’ve tried using it to contour and highlight as well and it blends like a dream! Thank you L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer for making me look flawless every day! – John

Where has this concealer been all my life?! Seriously, the L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer is hands down the best concealer I’ve ever used. The creamy texture makes it easy to apply and blend with just my fingers or a brush. It covers up any imperfections on my skin flawlessly and doesn’t feel heavy at all. I also love that it’s ideal for all skin types, so anyone can use it with confidence! Thank you L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer for giving me the confidence to rock flawless makeup looks every day! – Emily

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Why I Can’t Live Without Water Based Drugstore Concealer

As someone who struggles with dark circles and occasional breakouts, concealer is a crucial part of my daily makeup routine. And while there are many options available on the market, I have found that water based drugstore concealers are the best choice for me. Here’s why:

1. Hydrating Formula: One of the main reasons I love water based drugstore concealers is because they are incredibly hydrating. Unlike other concealers that can feel heavy and cakey, water based formulas provide a lightweight and moisturizing coverage that doesn’t settle into fine lines or dry out my skin.

2. Natural Finish: Another reason why I opt for water based concealers is because they give a natural finish to my skin. The formula blends seamlessly into my complexion, giving me a fresh and radiant look without looking too obvious or heavy.

3. Buildable Coverage: Water based drugstore concealers may seem thin in consistency, but don’t let that fool you. These concealers offer buildable coverage, meaning you can apply multiple layers to achieve your desired level of coverage without it looking patchy or cakey.

4. Budget-Friendly: Let’s face it, high-end

My Buying Guide on ‘Water Based Drugstore Concealer’

As someone who has struggled with finding the perfect concealer for my skin, I have learned the importance of considering certain factors when purchasing a water based drugstore concealer. Here are some tips and pointers to keep in mind while shopping for your next concealer.

1. Determine your skin type

The first step in finding the right water based concealer is understanding your skin type. This will help you choose a formula that works best for your skin. For example, if you have oily skin, look for a matte finish concealer that will control shine. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a hydrating and lightweight formula.

2. Check the ingredients

It is important to check the list of ingredients in any product you are considering buying, and this applies to concealers as well. Look for water as one of the top ingredients, as this indicates that the product is truly water based. Avoid concealers with heavy oils or fragrances, as they may cause irritation or clog pores.

3. Consider coverage and finish

Different concealers offer varying levels of coverage and finishes. If you have dark circles or blemishes that need more coverage, go for a full coverage concealer. For lighter coverage, opt for a medium or buildable coverage formula. In terms of finish, you can choose between matte or dewy depending on your preference and skin type.

4. Test it out

Drugstore concealers often come in sealed packaging, so take advantage of testers if they are available at the store. Swatch a small amount on your inner wrist to test the color and texture before purchasing. This will also give you an idea of how it blends and feels on your skin.

5. Choose shades wisely

When it comes to choosing the right shade, it is always best to go one shade lighter than your foundation for under eye brightening purposes. However, if you are using it to cover blemishes or discoloration on other areas of your face, make sure to match it with your foundation shade.

6. Research reviews

Before making a purchase, take some time to read reviews online from other customers who have tried the product before you. This will give you an insight into their experience with the product and help you make an informed decision.

7 . Consider budget-friendly options

One great thing about drugstore concealers is that they are more affordable compared to high-end brands without compromising quality. Look out for sales or discounts to get even better deals on already budget-friendly options.

With these tips in mind, I am confident that you will be able to find the perfect water based drugstore concealer that suits all your needs and gives you flawless-looking skin at an affordable price point.

Author Profile

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Steven Chaur
Steven Chaur was appointed as Managing Director and CEO of Hiro Brands in January 2022, leading the company with his extensive experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. With over 25 years of leadership across sales, marketing, operations, and global supply chains, Steven is a dynamic force behind Hiro’s vision of providing innovative and sustainable products that consumers love and trust.

His impact isn’t limited to corporate leadership. Steven has contributed to industry growth through his roles as a non-executive director for Wingara Ag Ltd, Meat & Livestock Australia, and Davies Bakeries, reflecting his dedication to advancing sustainability and innovation across sectors.

In 2024, Steven Chaur expanded his expertise by launching an informative blog that dives deep into personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Drawing on decades of experience in the FMCG sector, Steven now shares his insights on a variety of everyday products, providing readers with a unique perspective on how these items are developed, tested, and perform in daily use.

Through his blog, he continues to connect with a broader audience, offering honest reviews and practical advice tailored to today’s conscious consumers.