When you don’t want your skin tone to darken, you put on sunscreen, right?
When you want to reduce skin discoloration caused by conditions like hyperpigmentation and melasma, you incorporate exfoliators such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and retinol into your daily skincare routine. Even Vitamin C, hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and niacinamide are very effective ingredients for fading dark spots, age spots, and even sun damage.
So what do you do if you wish to camouflage these marks, scars, blemishes, and an uneven skin tone? You choose the best foundations & concealers for hyperpigmentation. Makeup that falls in this particular category diminishes dark spots and balances out your skin tone. In fact, some of them even contain discoloration-reducing ingredients.
So here are foundations and concealers for building coverage and enjoying other skin benefits too.
Best Foundations & Concealers for Hyperpigmentation: Top 20 Recommendations
NYX Cosmetics Concealer Wand
The very first pick on the list is a cruelty-free, PETA-certified concealer. And it’s the best concealer for hyperpigmentation because it covers skin discoloration, dark circles, and blemishes very smoothly. Even if your skin tone is light and skin type sensitive!
The choice of shades is generously abundant. And all of them include coverage that’s color-correcting. So you can expect natural, medium-level coverage. No matter what you pick based on your skin type and skin tone!
The reason why this is the top recommendation is that the concealer works on not only blemishes but also skin conditions like rosacea. It has the ability to conceal skin redness, which says a lot about how effective NYX cosmetics really are.
On top of that, buying the concealer doesn’t require you to spend too much money either. It’s a fantastic affordable option for those dealing with hyperpigmentation.
NYX Professional Makeup Liquid Foundation
Now here’s a mineral-enriched, non-comedogenic liquid foundation by NYX Professional. On Amazon, there are 28 different shades you can choose from depending on your skin tone and type. Each color is neutral-toned so you can blend it in smoothly for a natural look.
To be honest, finding the best drugstore foundation for hyperpigmentation is not an easy task. But, lucky for you, here’s one that is very likely to match with your skin perfectly. The coverage this liquid foundation offers is medium. So the matte effect doesn’t stand out but feels more natural instead, which is a good thing if you desire a beautiful, smooth finish.
The best part about it is that the coverage looks natural and the liquid foundation blends into the skin nicely even if your skin type is dry. It doesn’t accentuate wrinkles or fine lines either.
In all, this NYX Professional foundation is a complete coverage formula that lasts throughout the day without looking cakey.
Covergirl Outlast All-Day Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation
The thing that’s unique here is very obvious. It’s a 3-in-1 foundation, meaning it’s got a liquid foundation, sunscreen with SPF 20, and matte coverage. The foundation makes your skin look smooth. The sunscreen is what protects it against the harmful UV rays of the sun. And the natural matte coverage keeps your skin from looking cracked or heavy.
Every makeup item manufactured by Covergirl stays on the skin for your longest day. So you can expect your face to look naturally radiant throughout the day. The professional-quality cosmetics they provide are all advanced formulas perfect for effective skin treatment. And this 3-in-1 foundation is no exception, particularly for covering hyperpigmentation.
The pump of the bottle dispenses the perfect amount to minimize waste. And just because the foundation is packed with sunscreen doesn’t mean it’s going to make your skin look oily. On the contrary, your skin ends up looking shine-free.
The medium-high coverage is quite commendable, even for skin conditions like rosacea. It has a very smooth and creamy finish to hide all the skin reaction caused by hyperpigmentation or melasma.
bareMinerals bareSkin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation
Yet another 3-in-1 foundation, but the brand doesn’t advertise it as one. This product is a skincare brightening serum, color-correcting mineral-rich foundation, and SPF-20 sunscreen. Now you know why the bareMinerals bareSkin foundation is such an effective and popular choice for treating and concealing hyperpigmentation.
The fluid texture is ultra-thin for seamless coverage and a natural-looking finish. Your skin type can be sensitive or dry and still not feel irritated during and after application. In fact, the foundation has an incredibly hydrating effect on the skin.
At first, you might not appreciate the watery texture of the product. But in no time you’ll begin to like the consistency. Only a tiny amount is required for you to make your face look naturally clear and your skin tone evenly lighter.
And those worried about breakouts, know that this bareMinerals foundation is not the enemy of acne-prone or oily skin.
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
Yet another bareMinerals product, but this one’s a tinted hydrating gel cream. And what it does is deliver a refreshing feeling, skin replenishment, and powerful hydration. Plus, the SPF-30 protection is broad-spectrum to keep your skin safe against both the UVB and UVA rays of the sun. The sunscreen content, by the way, is mineral-based and non-chemical.
The hydrating effect comes from the combination of coconut-extracted ingredients and marine botanicals. They help in conditioning, nourishing, and replenishing dry, damaged skin. Then there are mineral electrolytes along with magnesium and calcium for energizing your skin. And potassium as well for promoting moisture balance.
The formula is also equipped with water-encapsulations for providing further hydration along with a mild cooling sensation. So all these benefits are certainly good news for you if you have hyperpigmentation issues.
And lastly, this Complexion Rescue Gel Cream is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-recommended. It’s also got zero parabens, fragrances, phthalates, and other such harmful chemicals. So you have every reason to love it.
Revlon PhotoReady Concealer
This is one hell of a creamy formula that glides on and into your skin seamlessly for hiding dark circles and camouflaging dark spots. Instant perfection is what you should expect and exactly what you get as well. That’s the beauty of the Revlon PhotoReady Concealer.
The concealer’s angled tip makes room for accurate application. But what’s remarkable here is the filter technology of the concealer that does an excellent job of capturing and transforming any light. The High-Definition technology blurs and softens flaws to make your skin look naturally flawless.
The coverage in the cards is medium and quite buildable. Revlon has made it a point to offer nothing but superior results. And these are felt by the skin in the form of the photochromatic pigments I spoke about earlier.
To be honest, the pigments are the only reason you should consider buying the concealer for. After all, this innovative technology blends, reflects and diffuses light for giving you the perfect airbrushed appearance.
L’Oreal Paris Makeup True Match Super-Blendable Liquid Foundation
Now here’s the best foundation to cover dark spots. It’s the L’Oreal Paris Makeup True Match Liquid Foundation. Medium-coverage, natural finish, and a super-blendable texture are some of the highlights of this show.
The foundation formula is oil-free and equipped with SPF. You can apply it using a foundation brush, makeup sponge, or just your fingers too. Begin at the center and then slowly blend toward your hairline and jaw. The thing has no oils and artificial fragrances for clogging your pores. Great news for the acne-prone skin type!
As for hyperpigmentation coverage, the foundation makes your skin tone look balanced out and smooth. Thanks to the exclusive Precise Match technology in here that stays true to coverage.
And there’s not just SPF-19 protection, the foundation is also packed with grapefruit and wheat germ extracts along with Vitamins C and A for skin nourishment. These types of ingredients help in fading hyperpigmentation. So the foundation covers dark spots while those natural ingredients contribute to getting rid of them.
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Total Cover Foundation
Would you believe me if I told you this foundation lasts for as long as 24 hours? Well, I think you should, given the huge number of positive reviews present on Amazon. That means full coverage for up to 24 hours, isn’t that amazing!
By full coverage, I mean the weightless foundation blends instantly for concealing blemishes, scars, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation. So your complexion looks flawless and even natural.
This foundation consists of a pigment-loaded formula. It has the ability to glide on quite easily. And to make your skin feel fresh throughout your busy, long day. Furthermore, L’Oreal offers 12 different colors to choose from. Each one is absolutely amazing.
If you have oily skin, you’re more likely to cherish this total cover foundation. Thanks to the slightly matte finish it leaves on your skin. Needless to say, wearability and coverage are the deciding factors in this case.
Revlon ColorStay Liquid Foundation
Revlon has done a wonderful job of providing those dealing with hyperpigmentation by manufacturing this comfortable, lightweight formula. That is perfect for normal and dry skin. This means if you have oily skin, please move on.
The liquid foundation is oil-free and packed with SPF 20. The natural-looking demi-matte effect of Revlon ColorStay stays put for as long as 24 hours. But what helps with hyperpigmentation here is the inclusion of hyaluronic acid. This particular ingredient is very effective when it comes to hydrating your skin.
It’s a thin formula that blends very easily into the skin. And if you have fine lines, then you can expect the foundation to not settle into them either.
To be honest, it’s one of the very few full-coverage liquid foundations out there that don’t appear to have a paste-like, oily texture post-application. Just stay away from the product if you have acne-prone or oily skin.
Dermablend Smooth Liquid Camo Foundation
Let me begin the review by declaring that this Dermablend liquid foundation is allergy-tested. Along the same lines, it’s a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, safe-for-sensitive-skin kind of a product. In fact, all cosmetics manufactured by Dermablend are created keeping such safety standards in mind.
As for this smoothing foundation, the liquid form offers complete coverage all day long. And the coverage is transfer-resistant and smudge-resistant. The formulation also offers hydration throughout the day along with SPF-30 broad-spectrum protection.
But what makes the liquid foundation so effective is the high-performing pigments and super-blendable texture. Compare this to just about any classic foundation, and the coverage results are twice the amount for addressing skin issues like redness, hyperpigmentation, and an uneven, patchy skin tone.
The texture, at no given point in the day, feels masky or cakey. Instead, a healthy-looking, clear, and sun-protected complexion with medium coverage is what you get.
Dermablend Intense Powder High Coverage Foundation
The similarity between this and the previous 2 Dermablend products is the allergy-tested, non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fragrance-free quality. As for the differences, the biggest one is that this Dermablend creation comes in the form of a powder foundation. And also the fact that it provides high coverage, not medium coverage like the other 2.
The mattifying powder delivers flawless wear all day long. No matter your skin type! Meaning the powder foundation is ideal for oily and combination skin.
It has the ability to cover freckles, redness, hyperpigmentation, acne, birthmarks, and a patchy skin tone. The exclusive pigment technology included in here too is very useful and effective against unevenness and dark spots.
The super-blendable form of the powder never looks masky or chalky. You can apply it using a sponge or brush. And then expect 16 hours of medium to high coverage from hyperpigmentation.
Clinique Even Better Makeup SPF15
The question, how to correct hyperpigmentation with makeup, is very commonly asked on the web. And the most accurate answer to that question is the Clinique Even Better Makeup CN 40 Cream. This creamy foundation goes on very smoothly to even out your skin tone.
The brand Clinique makes sure your pores don’t get accentuated. And that the foundation covers all your acne scars and hyperpigmentation discoloration. Needless to say, it’s a thousand times better in comparison to just about any grocery store or regular foundation.
The coverage is incredibly easy to build. In fact, you don’t even feel the need to build this coverage since the application is quite effortless. The chances of noticing differences in your skin tone with regards to color-correction are very high.
As for the texture of the foundation, it does look a bit too dewy for oily skin. But that’s just how it looks. The thing blends into your skin to leave an oil-free semi-matte finish that also appears very natural.
Vichy Dermafinish Liquid Foundation with SPF 30
Every formula produced by Vichy contains safe ingredients along with mineral-infused volcanic water for delivering results no matter the age. Let me also bring to your attention that Vichy ranks among the most effective anti-aging brands all across Europe. So expect only greatness from the Vichy Dermafinish Liquid Foundation.
The SPF level here is 30. The texture here is smooth and blendable. Meaning the foundation goes on very smoothly and evenly. It has an almost weightless feel throughout the day. Your discolored and uneven skin tone ends up looking naturally concealed and even brighter and clearer.
High-coverage is what you get along with sun protection. There’s no mask-like effect, no artificial fragrances, no harsh ingredients to aggravate skin sensitivities, and no pore-clogging substances even. So it seems like your skin is in safe hands.
Smashbox Studio Skin Hydrating Foundation
The brand claims that this hydrating foundation stays put for 15 hours. Now is that really possible? Can a formula be this long-wearing? The answer to both questions is YES. At least in the case of Smashbox, expecting such results is quite possible.
The formulation is specifically developed for withstanding intense light conditions. And it keeps your skin shine-free and hydrated for long. As for blurring imperfections, the light-diffusion spheres the foundation is equipped with take care of that aspect very well.
So what kind of coverage for hyperpigmentation, dark spots, etc. are you looking at here? It’s medium to complete coverage. On top of that, the foundation is transfer-resistant, humidity-resistant, sweat-resistant, and water-resistant.
It’s an oil-free product, thus perfect for controlling oil. At the time of application, just apply the foundation starting from the center in order to make your complexion look naturally even. And once you do that, expect it to last for 15-hours long, even if you sweat.
Revlon PhotoReady Airbrush Effect Makeup
It’s not uncommon to want an airbrushed, poreless look. Particularly if you have skin issues like hyperpigmentation, melasma, acne scars, discoloration, dark spots, and the like. So if that’s what you desire, you should seriously consider buying this Revlon broad-spectrum SPF-equipped foundation.
There’s light-filtering technology added to the formula. And it takes the form of soft pigments to deliver a natural-looking radiant glow plus luminous finish. These pigments also erase the visibility of skin discoloration and hyperpigmentation.
The full-coverage goes undetectable and the sun protection prevents any further skin damage. The brand offers a wide variety of luminous colors to choose from depending on your skin type and tone.
As for application, the pump dispenser removes the perfect amount to avoid waste. And the foundation blends beautifully. With this kind of coverage, chances are you won’t even require a concealer.
Estee Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup
Every list of the best foundations & concealers for hyperpigmentation is incomplete without the Double Wear Maximum Cover Camouflage Makeup by Estee Lauder. This is a liquid-based cream formula that makes your skin look naturally clear and also feel very soothing.
Maximum coverage is indeed a part of the experience. And what’s also included is the fact that the foundation provides a physical barrier of protection against pollution and sun. With a satin, healthy-looking, and luminous finish!
You can use it on your dark circles and dark spots that have always been a pain to conceal. And the best part about it is that a small quantity goes a long way. Plus, it’s waterproof.
Many Amazon consumer reviews state that this might just be the ultimate solution to the question, what is the best makeup for someone with brown age spots? Brown or red spots, the Estee Lauder full coverage is fantastic.
Mirabella Skin Tint Crème Full Coverage Liquid Mineral Foundation
There’s absolutely no negating the capacity of this mineral-based foundation to not only conceal but also treat your skin condition. It’s the best foundation for melasma, hyperpigmentation, and redness.
The gentle, oil-free formula is packed with anti-inflammatory benefits. So it minimizes irritation and redness caused by even hormonal fluctuations, breakouts, rosacea, and other such issues.
This lightweight foundation formula contains hyaluronic acid, which delivers hydration all day long. To keep the foundation in place and prevent any skin sensitivities from taking form. At the same time, it doesn’t let the foundation cake or crease.
You can glide it on quite effortlessly. It leaves a very natural-looking satiny finish. All this without the use of any synthetic fragrances, parabens, talc, dye, etc. And this reminds me to also mention that the liquid mineral foundation is good for sensitive skin too.
So just select your shade from the 14 different colors Mirabella offers, and be ready for your skin to look cleared up and enjoy powerful sun protection.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Maximum Coverage Concealer
Now here’s the best concealer for brown spots on face. This Maximum Coverage Concealer by e.l.f. allows you to discover an even-toned, blemish-free complexion. It hides away all your acne, dark circles, and skin discoloration for a naturally gorgeous appearance.
If you’re worried the concealer won’t blend evenly because you have too many dark spots, then leave such concerns behind. This beauty product gets into the skin easily and evenly. Just one application and you get to witness stunning all-day coverage.
And the most enticing aspect is that the product is cruelty-free, vegan, and PETA-certified. This means you have every reason possible to add this to your daily beauty regimen.
Dermacol Make-Up Cover Waterproof Hypoallergenic Foundation
It’s quite evident what the unique selling point is in this case. Actually, there are 2. One is that the foundation is waterproof, unlike the majority of the foundations and concealers I’ve reviewed in the article. And the second unparalleled aspect is the hypoallergenic nature of this Dermacol foundation.
The formula contains around 50% pigments. These act as weapons against skin conditions like hyperpigmentation. And they do so by providing coverage in the form of a thin, natural-looking layer. You can rely on a foundation like this to conceal your under-eye circles, blemishes, and dark/age spots.
The SPF-30, as well as the rest of the foundation, doesn’t include any preservatives. So you can rest assured knowing that your skin is being pampered most safely and naturally.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Teint Color Correcting Concealer Pen
It’s time to make way for a highly dermatologist-recommended color-correcting concealer. It’s by La Roche-Posay and it’s a very safe-to-use skincare product. The formula visibly covers all your skin discoloration and spots like hyperpigmentation, redness, blemishes, acne scars, uneven skin tone, etc.
The texture is very creamy, thus blendable. The brand offers 3 very practical shades. The yellow one brightens and highlights dark circles. The light beige covers marks and spots on fair-skinned women. These include dark spots and redness. And the dark beige shade works best for a darker skin tone.
It’s formulated using special pigments that correct all signs of hyperpigmentation. There’s glycerin in here too for moisturizing your skin. Along with spring water for soothing benefits.
The concealer can be used just about anywhere on the face without causing any pore-clogging action. And that’s great news if your skin type is oily or acne-prone.
Different Types of Foundations for Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots
It’s only logical to assume that every foundation is different. Some of them cover dark spots better than the others. In that case, it can get very confusing trying to pick a foundation that offers complete coverage from the ones that don’t do much.
In light of the matter, just keep in mind that more frequent, darker spots demand heavier coverage. So here are the different kinds of foundations to conceal hyperpigmentation and dark spots the most effectively and naturally.
Sheer Powder Foundation
This is a compact equipped with flat powder. Sheer powder foundation is an ideal choice for those who don’t require too much coverage. Since the level of coverage sheer powder delivers is light, the foundation is good for concealing just a few spots and scars.
Mineral Powder Foundation
Mineral-based powder foundation does seem like a healthy option. But the foundation doesn’t cover stubborn dark spots. The powder is finely milled and packed with ground minerals considered to be great for the skin.
This type of foundation offers medium to complete coverage. When hyperpigmentation is a bit severe, you can apply a powder foundation and then layer it with a liquid foundation. When applied properly, this can make your skin look naturally clear. Otherwise, it ends up looking cakey.
Liquid Foundation
This comes in a bottle or tube. It’s the classic type of foundation for decent coverage.
The thing about liquid foundations is that they’re available in a broad variety of finishes. These include full coverage, light coverage, and everything in between. Speaking of which, medium coverage has a water-based formula while complete coverage is mostly oil-based.
Crème to Powder Foundation
You can apply this particular foundation using a damp or dry sponge. The texture is thick and creamy, so it blends into your skin very smoothly with a sponge. And once that happens, expect the makeup to dry to powder and give you complete coverage.
Mousse Foundation
Now here’s a more recent yet very effective type of foundation. Mousse foundation feels very light on the skin. And it even moisturizes your skin.
As for coverage, mousse makeup provides medium to light coverage.
Choosing the Best Foundation Depending On Your Skin Type
Whenever it comes to picking the best foundation, the first thing that comes to mind is your particular skin type. Now you should know that tinted moisturizers don’t offer generous coverage like foundations. However, you ought to pick a heavy foundation only if your skin benefits from it.
Oily or acne-prone skin type does well with oil-free foundations. These also seem like the perfect choice when the weather conditions are humid and hot.
Here’s what you might want to take into account when choosing a foundation:
Matching the Shade to your Complexion
One of the most effective tricks for selecting the right foundation is matching it to the skin on your chest. This is even more useful if you already protect your neck and face with sunscreen.
You can even test the color on your hands. Leave the foundation for a few seconds to notice how it gets absorbed and blends into your skin.
And feel free to combine different colors. The chances are you might require a different foundation for winter and another one for the summer season. And in between the two seasons, how about mixing them?
How to Apply Foundation/Concealer to Hide Hyperpigmentation
Once the right foundation has been chosen, it’s time to cover up all those dark spots and melasma. And here’s how to do that like a pro:
Before applying anything on your face, make sure to wash it. Start with a fresh, clean, and dry face. This keeps the makeup on for a longer time.
After cleansing your face, moisturize the skin. This is even more important if your skin type is dry. Otherwise, your skin ends up looking unnatural or cakey. Let the moisturizer absorb into your skin for a few minutes.
Don’t skip sunscreen either. If the foundation you’ve picked doesn’t contain SPF, then apply your personal daily sunscreen. And even if it does, applying some more doesn’t cause any harm.
Now it’s time to spot the areas where maximum coverage is required. Once you do that, dab the concealer over those spots. Make sure to use the makeup sparingly but also ensure to cover all of the brown spots completely.
Then apply foundation using a sponge, brush, or your fingers.
Blend the concealer and foundation into the skin. And do this in natural sunlight as it’s the most foolproof way of covering all visible lines. Then let the makeup rest for a few minutes before you examine your spots once again.
Are your dark spots, discoloration, redness, or blemishes still visible? If yes, feel free to apply some more concealer for additional coverage.
And in the end, blend out all edges carefully once more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Color Correction in the Form of Foundation and Concealer Work?
The most recent natural beauty solution for dealing with all kinds of skin conditions presents itself in the form of color correction. To put it simply, what color correction does is use primary-shaded makeup for concealing and neutralizing skin discoloration on the face.
The process is picked up from the famous color wheel. There are a few colors that, when combined with some others, neutralize one another. And this is what gives your skin tone the single monotone shade.
Formulas in the form of foundations and concealers for color correction are available in the shades of purple, pink, yellow, peach, and green.
What Type of Skin Conditions Can You Use Color Corrector Foundations and Concealers For?
The primary culprits here are hyperpigmentation, melasma, discoloration, dark circles, and dark spots. The most common areas affected by hyperpigmentation are as follows:
Upper lip tends to darken because of hormonal changes.
Below the eyes is an area very susceptible to visible blood vessels and darker tissue.
On the forehead or cheeks; this can be hereditary sometimes.
You can also conceal temporary skin discoloration with the help of spot treatment until the condition heals. This includes spot-treating sunburns and acne scars.
One very effective preventative remedy is using sunscreen. Even reparative nighttime serums protect your skin from sun spots, acne scarring, and environmental damage.
What Color Concealer Covers Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots?
As you already know, hyperpigmentation refers to different kinds of skin discoloration on the face. This discoloration consists of dark or red acne scars, rosacea, melasma, sun damage, uneven skin tone, and birthmarks.
Most signs and symptoms of hyperpigmentation get easily concealed using proper makeup. But you should avoid caking your face with heavy foundation. Instead, pick the right shade of foundation and/or concealer, and that’s about it.
When using both, apply the concealer and blend it with the foundation to create a smooth, even look. You can do the same to cover up any hyperpigmentation on the body too. And while doing so, think of preventative methods like applying sunscreen at all times. You don’t want any further discoloration or skin damage caused by the harmful rays of the sun now, do you?
So what is the best shade of concealer to camouflage dark spots and hyperpigmentation? It’s the opposite shade of the color you’re covering up. The shade you’re looking to dial down on the face, choose a concealer with the opposite color. After all, that’s the whole concept of color correction.
Many women buy the entire color corrector palette, which provides many different concealer shades. But you can buy these individually too.
Orange or peach conceals dark spots the most naturally.
Salmon is for dark circles under your eyes.
Green concealers work best for redness.
Purple covers up sallow skin.
As for hiding away dark spots, concealers 1-2 shades darker in comparison to your complexion are the most effective. And for concealing dark circles, pick a shade lighter.
The End
Fighting discoloration and dullness also involves protecting your skin against the harmful rays of the sun. So even though you’re applying foundation and concealer, don’t skip sunscreen. When you combine a foundation packed with complexion-correcting ingredients and sunscreen, you can expect camouflage and prevent your skin from any further damage.
Also, there’s nothing wrong with applying a full coverage foundation if you wish to disguise discoloration and hyperpigmentation. As long as the product is safe and good to use, your skin is in great hands.
See also:
