People Are Sleeping Less in Quarantine—Here Are Our Favorite Concealers to Pretend We Are

This season of life has come with a lot of surprise challenges. Who knew I’d stay up all night listening to Megan Thee Stallion for days on end? Or that I’d learn the problem with my finances all this time was me going out to eat every other day? But the most surprising of all is that even though I spend the most time at home as ever, I get significantly less sleep. And I know I’m not the only one! The Sleep Foundation explained that everything from raised anxiety to changes to daily life to extra screen time can cause our sleep to decrease in length and quality

So we know we’re not sleeping, and while there are a few healthy, natural ways to get that under control, you know my style: I’ll show you how to Band-Aid the problem for a little bit. What better way to hide all the sins of yesterday than concealer!? Until you can get those glorious few hours of sleep, these will save you for any shopping trip, meeting, or virtual happy hour you have planned—and they’ll do it without looking cakey, dry, or heavy on your face. Here are our favorites (and a reader-favorite!)

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Best for dry skin:

UOMA BEAUTY

Stay Woke Luminous Brightening Concealer

If concealers typically make you feel parched under the eyes after a few hours, you need a creamy formula that keeps its moisture all day long, and Uoma’s Stay Woke concealer does just that. It’s hydrating right from the start and blends seamlessly into your skin or any foundation you might have underneath it. The creaminess doesn’t take away from the coverage though, so you’ll be sure to cover up those dark circles in a cinch.

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Best for oily skin:

TARTE

Shape Tape Concealer

As someone with dry under eyes, I never found love with this concealer, but I can see how it would be an absolute dream for oily skin (and also, it’s one of the top-selling concealers in the world, so maybe it’s me!). When I’ve used it on the parts of my complexion that get oily, it stays put all day long and doesn’t move, which is exactly what you want in a concealer. It boasts full-coverage, all-day wear that causes minimal creasing.

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Best for high-coverage:

JUVIA’S PLACE

I Am Magic Concealer

Of all the concealers on this list, this ranks as the highest coverage. If you’re rocking deep, dark circles, this will be your saving grace. However, the high-coverage doesn’t result in cakey or dry under eyes either. Instead, you’ll notice a smooth canvas that barely needs set with a powder. Coming in at 24 shades, you’re bound to find one that works best with your skin tone.

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Reader and editor-favorite:

NARS

Radiant Creamy Concealer

This concealer is basically makeup royalty. It’s in the makeup bag of most celebrities, beauty editors, and normal people alike. Our editor Cassie once said it best in our annual empties: “It’s super natural looking while still giving the perfect amount of coverage, and never creases or looks dry (even on my crazy-dry skin). I’ve been loving putting a little of this under my eyes and on blemishes when I work from home to put a little put-together and awake. I love that I can wear it on its own without it ever looking like I’m obviously wearing concealer. This was an obvious re-purchase for me—I’ll never be without it.”

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Best at the drugstore:

MILANI

Conceal + Perfect Longwear Concealer

This isn’t the first time I’ve raved about this concealer. It’s my favorite concealer I’ve ever found at the drugstore, and I think it’s ideal for all skin types. It has a natural matte finish, but don’t let that deter you dewy girls: it still looks gorgeous and natural when paired with your favorite dewy moisturizers, foundations, and highlighters. I love this all over my face to spot conceal as well because the coverage is amazing and it blends out to look just like my skin. At under $10, go ahead and buy your summer and winter shade.

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Best splurge:

ARMANI BEAUTY

Power Fabric Concealer

I know this one is a little on the pricey side, but I couldn’t leave it out because it’s basically the only concealer I’ve worn the past five months. It is everything you want in a concealer: light, natural, hydrating, creaseless, and blendable. The price might put an ache in your neck for a second, but you only have to use a little bit so the concealer goes a long way. I also use it as a foundation sometimes, and that is absolutely *chef’s kiss*. I feel a little fancy and extra confident every time I use it, and that’s worth double the price to me!

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Most long-wearing:

FENTY BEAUTY

Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer

Fenty Beauty has to make its way into basically any roundup because the products are truly made for everyone. I could have given this “Best Shade Range” or “Best for Special Occasions” or “Best for All Skin Types,” but the magic of this concealer lies in its staying power. Dab it on the under eyes and without setting it, it lasts hours upon hours. If you set it (ideally with the Fenty powder, which I can vouch for, and it’s one of the best!), it’s over for your under eyes. Dark circles who? Never met her. This concealer has all the properties of those above, but how long it lasts without creasing or separating is what makes it stand out. If you have a hard time with concealers rubbing off on you, try this.

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WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO CONCEALER? ( let us know in the comments)

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SOS! My Makeup Is Pilling — How Can I Fix It?

Do you ever find that your foundation balls up on your skin after you apply your favorite sunscreen or face cream? Similar to when your knitwear has seen better days and small balls of fabric sit on the material, this is called pilling — and it’s the fastest way to ruin your skin-care and makeup in one fell swoop.

Pilling is one of the most frustrating things that can happen when applying your skincare and makeup, due to the fact it takes extra time to blend, correct, and can waste more of your expensive beauty products.

Makeup pilling is no fun, especially after you just applied a full face of makeup and your foundation starts sliding off in tiny pieces. Pilling occurs when two makeup or skin-care ingredients don’t mesh well together on your skin, and although there are ways to avoid this (more on that below), we wanted to know if there’s any way to salvage your full beat in this scenario. Ahead, we spoke with NYC-based makeup artist Mary Irwin to find out how.

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What Causes Pilling

When your skincare or makeup pills, it looks like flakes or globs of product on your skin.

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Pilling happens when products haven’t absorbed into the skin, whether due to:

🤍 the type of ingredient

🤍 the amount applied

🤍 the other products you’re using

🤍 the condition of your skin

🤍 The tools you are using to apply your skincare and makeup

With so many of us experimenting with multi-step skincare routines, the pilling struggle is all too real!

Here are some best tips if you’re dealing with this issue.

Can You Fix Makeup Pilling?

Irwin gets straight to the point: “Unfortunately, aside from taking a damp makeup sponge and trying to blend it in, there’s not much you can do besides take it off.” If your foundation begins to pill, wet a sponge (the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender is our fave) and tap it over the areas where it pilled off. Once you’ve blended it out, set it with a loose powder like the Maybelline New York Lasting Fix Banana Setting Powder and don’t touch it. “Don’t add anything cream or liquid over it after the fact.”

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WE know and understand that you don’t want to remove the makeup that you spent hours perfecting so for that to not happen, the first thing you want to make sure you’re doing is exfoliate on a regular basis.

To be clear, the little balls that form are composed of product, not dead skin. But it’s still important to maintain a good exfoliation routine, because it will help your products to absorb more effectively, rather than remaining on top of a surface layer of dead skin. 

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How to Avoid Pilling

Irwin recommends paying attention to the ingredients you’re placing on your skin to avoid pilling all together. “Use products that have a similar formula — silicone with silicone, water with water, etc.” When applying cream makeup products (which have the most tendency to pill), she recommends starting with thin layers and building them up slowly. “Also avoid layering cream over powder, because this can result in pilling too.”

The more you touch your skin, the more you disturb the products and encourage them to pill. It goes without saying that rubbing your face is a a big no-no, as this will only cause surface residue to bunch and roll up. Use light, patting motions to apply your products, and resist the urge to touch your face any more than absolutely necessary.

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Just give yourself plenty of time in between layers and after the final layer. That will ensure you’ve absorbed most of the beneficial ingredients.

Here are 3 more videos that can be helpful when it comes to pilling:

Have you experienced product pilling?
What has helped you to prevent it?

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Tried Glossier’s Best Sellers. Here’s What I Think.

Did they defy my expectations? Let’s find out.

After months of eyeing Glossier’s line-up of products, I decided to do a haul in hopes that their best sellers were as good as they appeared to be. Known for their minimalist approach to beauty, makeup, and skincare, the Emily Weiss-founded cosmetics company has long since been a favorite of minimalists and maximalists alike. For beauty lovers who gravitate towards “no-makeup” makeup looks, Glossier holds the keys to the kingdom, while makeup afficianados who are more about that beat-face life have their favorite tried and true beauty finds from the brand (Boy Brow, we’re looking at you).

As far as my own personal adventure into Glossier Land, I decided to add their cleanser, serums, and moisturizers as well as a few of their top-selling makeup offerings. Keep reading for a quick rundown of my buys and why I cannot get enough of the magic Glossier is selling.

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Skincare First

As I have matured, skincare has become top priority. Products that make me glow like I am well-loved and stress-free will always be a fave of mine. Glossier gets this right with a full line of products that take my glow to next-level heights. I use a three-part system that leaves me so radiant, makeup isn’t a necessity.

Milky Jelly Cleanser, $9+

What it is: A gentle-yet-effective creamy gel face wash for all skin types

For starters, I wash my face with Glossier’s Milky Jelly Cleanser. The subtle rosy scent of this cleanser immediately makes me smile but, more than that, the creamy texture infuses my skin with moisture from the onset. With five skin conditioners included, it’s no wonder this product is so soothing and nourishing. It is one of few cleansers that doesn’t leave my skin feeling dry after it is rinsed away. “Rejuvenating” best describes this one.

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After rinsing away the Milk Jelly Cleanser, I move right along to the Super Duo. It consists of two top-rated serums infused with vitamins. This combo works together to hydrate and brighten skin. Super Bounce is just what the doctor ordered for soothing moisture that hydrates with hyaluronic acid and Vitamin b5. Although the name speaks for itself, I can confirm that Super Glow indeed brightens skin with its powerful combination of Vitamin C and magnesium.

I follow up with a moisturizer and then jump into Futuredew.

If I had to choose only one Glossier product to live by, Futuredew would be it. You know that dewy fresh face look you get directly after using a good moisturizer or finishing up a facial? Futuredew creates this look with all-day staying power, and I cannot get enough of it. This serum is made of oils and light-reflecting minerals that will leave you looking glorious.

The Super Pack, $65

What it is: Three daily, vitamin-packed serums that deliver hydration, more even tone, and clarity

I could stop here and be over the moon, but when I’m feeling really ambitious, I use the following makeup products for a “no-makeup” look:

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Makeup Second

Glossier describes its makeup line as “Products that give you options but never cover you up, turn you into someone else, or over-complicate your routine.” And I cannot find a single lie. On days where I want to look fresh and lightly done, I go with Glossier all the way.

Starting with Cloud Paint cheek color, I set the tone. It’s literally a gel-cream blush you can’t mess up. This buildable color blends naturally and is easy to use. No brushes required. Simply dab a bit on your cheeks and use your finger to tap it into your skin. The end results? A slightly flushed look that makes it look like you’re truly blushing a bit from the inside out. It’s that simple.

Cloud Paint, $18

What it is: A seamless, buildable gel-cream blush that’s fun and easy to wear

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Next, I like to follow up with Haloscope in “Moonshine”. This crystal-infused highlighter enhances the dewy effect with a barely-there look that is irresistible. It’s my second fave product. The moment I FaceTimed my person and he said, “You look so beautiful. Don’t put on makeup today,” I KNEW Haloscope would forever hold a special place in my heart.

Haloscope, $22

What it is: A crystal-infused highlighter with skin conditioning benefits

I add a hint of color to my lips by using Generation G Sheer Matte Lipstick for a casual “I didn’t try” look. Although a matte finish, it’s packed with moisture and is the cherry on top of my “Yassssss, fresh face” look.

Glossier Pulled Up

Before going all-in on the dopeness of Glossier, I was sure to visit @pullupforchange to see Glossier’s diversity numbers. I was pleased to see the company’s commitment to diversity as well as its recent release of a new grant for black-owned beauty businesses. I am happy to report that we can shop Glossier guilt-free. That’s good news we can use.

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6 Cream Makeup Products for Luminous Skin

I very recently discovered the beauty of cream makeup products, and now that I have, I’m completely obsessed. I find that cream formulas are way more forgiving in application. Whether I’m using a brush, a beauty sponge or my fingers, the creamy texture offers a subtle, luminous sheen that I live for, and it’s way more hydrating than powder. Due to my newfound unconditional love for cream formulas, I made a list of some of my favorite products that I know you’ll want to wear today, tomorrow and every day after once you try them. From foundation to eyeshadow, keep reading for six cream makeup products that will make you a cream convert and give you beautiful-looking skin.

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Maybelline New York Cheek Heat

For cheeks that are perfectly flushed and have a lovely glowing sheen to them, try the Maybelline New York Cheek Heat. This gel-to-cream formula is super lightweight and blendable, so whether you’re someone who loves a good blush moment or a person who prefers a softer flush, you can customize the finish to your liking.

Uoma Beauty Double Take Contour Stick

best-cream-makeup

This dual-ended stick makes contouring and highlighting a breeze. The contouring side creates a smooth definition with a soft matte finish that doesn’t budge, while the highlighting end offers a luminous, lit-from-within glow. Not to mention, the creamy formula melts onto your skin and hydrates your complexion, thanks to the formula infused with lychee fruit extract. 

Maybelline New York Color Strike Cream-to-Powder Eyeshadow Makeup Pen

When it comes to cream eyeshadow, it’s important to find a formula that doesn’t crease. Luckily, this cream-to-powder eyeshadow pen is crease-resistant, fade-resistant and smudge-resistant. Available in six matte and four metallic shades, the cushion tip glides across the lid for precise application and deposits a rich, pigmented layer of color that last for up to 12 hours. 

IMAN Cosmetics Luxury Highlighter 

Whether you want to shine bright like a diamond or are looking for that I’m-not-wearing-any-makeup-I’m-just-naturally-radiant glow, this luxury highlighter is perfect for you. Available in three shades to suit women of all skin tones, this multi-use highlighting stick illuminates the skin and can be used on the face, eyes and lips.

Juvia’s Place Shade Sticks

Cream foundation is great if you’re someone who loves fuller coverage. We like this one from Juvia’s Place because it’s formulated to feel like skin for a more comfortable wear. The formula is also infused with shea butter to offer a radiant finish and oil-controlling ingredients to help reduce unwanted shine.

NYX Professional Makeup Soft Matte Lip Cream

This cult-favorite lippie should be a staple in every makeup kit due to its affordable price and velvety smooth formula that dries matte and lasts all day. Available in 22 shades, you’ll want to buy one for every occasion.

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