How to Color Correct Dark Circles Like a Professional Makeup Artist

If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and noticed discoloration under your eyes, you’ve probably considered color correcting. Concealer is usually the go-to, but when it comes to true discoloration, it often needs backup. “On its own, concealer won’t do the trick—eventually the darkness will creep through even if you have a light shade on top,” says celebrity makeup artist Carly Giglio. That’s where color correcting comes in.  

Color correcting is one of the most effective ways to disguise dark circles. Under-eye darkness can stem from several factors, including genetics, stress, and lack of sleep—but whatever the cause, finding the right hue to counteract those deeper pigments is key.

Fortunately, color correcting isn’t as difficult as you may think. With the right shade and a little technique, brightening your under-eyes can be surprisingly simple. Ahead, Giglio and celebrity makeup artist Emily Gray share how to master color correcting—and the products they recommend to do it like a pro.

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How to Know if You Need to Color Correct

Darkness under the eyes can show up in different ways—sometimes as a shadow from your bone structure, other times as actual pigmentation. Either way, color correcting can help. “More often than not, if you have darker under eyes, some color correction is necessary,” says Giglio.

According to the pros, uneven tone under the eyes is completely normal. “Sometimes it’s just the natural shadow created from the shape of our under eyes,” explains Giglio. Gray adds that a perfectly even tone is rare, which makes color correcting beneficial for almost everyone.

Figuring out what kind of discoloration you’re dealing with is a great place to start. “Under-eye darkness caused by natural shadows needs a different style of correcting than deep circles with blue and purple undertones,” says Giglio.

What Formulas Work Best for Color Correcting

Color correctors blur the line between skin care and makeup, so it’s best to consider both sides when you shop. “The formula should suit your skin type and provide coverage. For example, if you’re dry, opt for something with a little more hydration and slip,” says Giglio. The right consistency ensures the delicate skin under the eyes stays smooth, hydrated and fresh-looking.

Color choice matters just as much. When shopping, you’re not looking for a match—you’re looking for balance. A quick glance at a color wheel can guide you: opposite shades cancel each other out. “Orange or peach correctors are best for purplish or blue tones,” says Gray. Green-tinted correctors help neutralize redness, while deeper green discoloration can be counteracted with pink or red-based correctors.

How to Color Correct Dark Circles

Proper skin prep makes all the difference. When correcting dark circles, start with an eye cream. “Opting for a formula with brightening properties adds a subtle glow that helps counteract darkness,” says Giglio. Once your under-eyes are moisturized, identify where you need correction.

“If working under the eye, a liquid or cream formula is best for blending easily into the skin,” says Gray. To apply, start with a brush, then use the pad of your finger to sheer out the product. “This helps melt the product into the skin and also removes any excess product,” adds Giglio.

A little goes a long way. For the under-eyes, follow with light layers of concealer to build coverage, then set the area with a pressed or loose powder. If you have very dark circles, use a brightening powder or something with subtle luminosity that reflects light, says Giglio.

Color Correctors to Try for Your Under-Eyes

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“This corrector offers light coverage and has a creamy texture that lies on the skin nicely,” says Giglio. The stick format also makes application easy.

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This drugstore concealer offers a wide variety of shades for color correction, including peach, orange and banana. “You get a ton of product for a great price, they blend well and stay put,” says Giglio.

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This tiny pot is packed with powerful correcting pigments. A little goes a long way. The formula is a bit thicker than others, but it melts into the skin easily and has built-in coverage.

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Hyperpigmentation can occur all over the face, and this stick makes it easy to tackle. From the pointed tip to the soft texture, it applies to the skin beautifully and has a soft matte finish ideal for layering under concealer or foundation.

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This concealer offers buildable coverage and an impressive shade range for brightening discoloration. The formula is also light enough to layer over a color corrector without looking cakey.

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For maximum coverage, opt for this iconic concealer. “The formula is ideal for those with normal to oily skin,” says Giglio. It’s also creamy enough to blend and doesn’t need much powder to set.

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“You can never go wrong with the classic Laura Mercier translucent powder to set your makeup,” says Gray. This option offers the same quality in terms of wear time and has brightening abilities thanks to the rose-tinted hue.