Color correcting is an important part of any makeup routine. It helps cover up imperfections, even out skin tone, and make your overall complexion look flawless. With so many color correcting products on the market, it can be tough to know which brands really work best.
In this article, we’ll break down the top color correcting brands based on performance, shade range, and value. We’ll look at both drugstore and high-end options so you can find the best fit for your budget and needs.
Best Drugstore Color Correctors
Drugstore color correctors offer great quality and results at an affordable price point. Here are some of the top drugstore brands for color correcting:
L’Oreal
L’Oreal is a drugstore staple with an extensive range of color correcting products. Their True Match Color Correcting Kit is a best-seller that includes a green primer to correct redness, a peach concealer for under eye circles, and a yellow concealer to brighten dullness. At under $15, it provides everything you need for flawless color correction.
Maybelline
Maybelline is known for their iconic concealers, and their color correcting lineup doesn’t disappoint. The SuperStay Better Skin Concealer + Corrector comes in a range of color correcting shades like green and peach. This creamy, full-coverage formula blurs imperfections for up to 16 hours.
NYX
NYX offers a wide array of color correctors to suit different needs. The HD Photogenic Concealer Wand is one of their best, with yellow, green, and lavender shades to counteract discoloration. The wand applicator makes it easy to apply just the right amount of product.
Physicians Formula
Physicians Formula takes a clinical approach to their makeup, and their color correction products are extremely effective. The Corrector + Primer Serum is a 2-in-1 color correcting serum that uses light technology to neutralize discoloration. At under $15, it’s a steal.
Best High-End Color Correctors
If you’re willing to splurge for premium quality, high-end color correctors deliver professional-level coverage and results. Here are some top luxury brands to consider:
Bobbi Brown
Bobbi Brown is a leader when it comes to color correction. Their Corrector Sticks are cult favorites, with shades like Light Peach and Dark Peach to camouflage undereye circles. While pricey at $27, the highly-pigmented formula provides crease-free correction that lasts.
MAC
MAC makes some of the most popular color correcting palettes for makeup pros. The Studio Conceal and Correct Palette features six shades to color correct and conceal: two peach tones for undereye circles, a green for redness, a yellow for dullness, a lilac to brighten, and a skin-toned concealer. At $35, it has all your bases covered.
Smashbox
Smashbox is a staple brand among makeup artists, and their color correcting products are unmatched. The Color Correcting Stick provides targeted correction in peach, green, and lavender. The creamy, blendable formula makes it easy to pinpoint problem areas and neutralize discoloration.
Becca
Known for their luminous formulas, Becca’s color correctors give you a lit-from-within glow. The Under Eye Brightening Corrector has a universal champagne hue to instantly brighten. With its lightweight, barely-there feel, it smooths the undereye area while reflecting light.
How to Choose the Best Color Corrector for Your Skin Tone
When shopping for color correctors, be sure to consider your skin’s undertones. Here’s a quick guide:
Warm Undertones
Those with warm golden, peach, or yellow undertones should use peach/orange correctors to counteract dark circles and spots. Peach neutralizes blue/purple tones.
Cool Undertones
People with cool pink or red undertones benefit from green correctors that counteract redness and ruddiness. The green hue neutralizes redness for a more even complexion.
Neutral Undertones
For neutral undertones, purple/lavender correctors help brighten dull, sallow skin. Lavender pigments help color correct yellow discoloration.
You can also use color wheel opposites no matter your undertone. Green counters redness, purple brightens yellow tones, and peach neutralizes blue/purple circles.
How to Apply Color Correctors for a Flawless Finish
Here are some tips for seamlessly applying color correctors before foundation and concealer:
- Use a small amount and blend thoroughly so the color doesn’t show through.
- Apply only on areas that need correcting, like the undereye area, spots, or red zones.
- Let it set before going in with concealer so the layers don’t slip.
- For maximum coverage, go over color corrector with a skin-toned concealer.
- Set with powder to lock in the coverage and prevent creasing.
How to Make Color Correctors Last
Follow these tips to get long-lasting results from your color correcting makeup:
- Exfoliate first to remove flaky skin so product applies smoothly.
- Use a primer before color correcting to help it adhere.
- Opt for creamy, emollient formulas that won’t cake up or crease.
- Press the product into skin instead of rubbing to maintain coverage.
- Spray makeup setting spray after applying to make it stay put.
- Touch up throughout the day if needed to keep color corrected areas fresh.
Conclusion
Color correcting is a game-changer for concealing imperfections and achieving flawless-looking skin. L’Oreal, Maybelline, NYX, and Physicians Formula offer stellar drugstore options. For luxury quality, turn to Bobbi Brown, MAC, Smashbox, and Becca. Make sure to choose shades that complement your skin’s undertones. Apply strategically just on areas that need correcting. With the right color correctors for your needs, you’ll attain perfectly even, radiant skin in a snap.