How to Use Concealer to Cover Dark Spots
Quick answer: To cover dark spots with concealer, apply a thin layer of foundation first, then pat a tiny amount of a creamy, high-coverage concealer directly onto each spot. Blend only the edges, build a second thin layer if the spot still shows, and set lightly with powder. For age spots and pigmentation, our pick is Thin Lizzy Concealer Crème, which gives buildable coverage that doesn't cake.
Dark spots, sun spots and patches of pigmentation have a habit of peeking through foundation, no matter how carefully you apply it. The answer isn't more layers all over your face. It's the right concealer, in the right shade, placed exactly where you need it. Here's how to choose a concealer for dark spots and how to apply it so the result looks natural, even in daylight.
Why Dark Spots Need a Different Approach
Dark spots are usually small, clearly defined patches that are darker than the skin around them. Sheer foundations and light under-eye concealers aren't designed to cover that kind of concentrated colour, so the spot shows through. Spreading a heavy product over a wide area isn't the answer either, because it makes the whole face look flat and masked.
What works is concentrated coverage, placed precisely on the spot, with edges that melt into the surrounding skin. Think of it as spot-painting rather than covering.
How to Choose a Concealer for Dark Spots
- High, buildable coverage: one thin layer should do most of the work.
- A creamy texture: it should blend at the edges without caking or looking dry.
- An exact shade match: match the skin around the spot, not your under-eye area. Going lighter makes dark spots look grey or ashy.
- Long wear: a concealer that fades by mid-afternoon will leave spots peeking through again.
- Comfort on sensitive skin: you'll be wearing it every day, so choose a formula your skin is happy with.
Should Concealer Be Lighter or Darker Than Your Skin for Dark Spots?
Neither. For dark spots, your concealer should match your skin tone exactly. The "go one shade lighter" advice is for brightening under the eyes, and it backfires on pigmentation, leaving a pale halo around each spot. If you're between shades, the slightly warmer option usually looks more natural over brown spots.
Our Picks
Concealer Crème
Best for: sun spots, age spots, pigmentation, redness and blemishes.
Concealer Crème gives buildable coverage, so you can hide a little or a lot, from small spots to large birthmarks and even full-colour tattoos. The soft-touch formula glides on smoothly, blends seamlessly and doesn't cake or discolour on the skin. Made with beeswax, it's water, sweat and smudge resistant, so it stays put on warm, humid days.
- High, buildable coverage
- Water, sweat and smudge resistant
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Use the Colour Match chart to find your shade
Age Reverse Concealer
Best for: dark circles and lighter discolouration, especially on mature skin.
A creamy, full-coverage concealer designed to last all day without caking or creasing. The soft cushion-tip applicator pats product on without rubbing your foundation, which makes it handy for lighter spots and for brightening the under-eye area at the same time.
- Soft cushion-tip applicator
- Creamy and blendable
- Designed not to crease
- 8 shades
Step by Step: How to Cover Dark Spots
- Prep: moisturise and let it absorb for a minute, so the concealer doesn't cling to dry patches.
- Foundation first: a thin layer evens out most of your skin, so you need far less concealer.
- Dot on the spot: use a small, firm brush or your fingertip to place a tiny amount directly on the dark spot, not around it.
- Pat, don't rub: tap the centre in place, then blend only the edges into the surrounding skin.
- Build if needed: wait 30 seconds, then add a second thin layer only where the spot still shows.
- Set lightly: press a little translucent powder over the area with a puff or small brush so it lasts all day.
- Check in daylight: look in a mirror near a window before you head out, and soften any edges you can see.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using a shade lighter than your skin.
- Covering a large area when the spot is small.
- Rubbing, which moves both the concealer and your foundation.
- Building one thick layer instead of two thin ones.
- Skipping daily sun care. Wear a separate sunscreen every day, as sun exposure can make existing dark spots look darker.
Covering Dark Spots on Mature Skin
On mature skin, age spots often sit close to fine lines. Keep the concealer strictly on the spot, use the smallest amount that covers it, and press rather than swipe the powder on top. If the area looks dry, skip powder there and blot gently with a tissue instead.
Want to go further? Read our guides to the best cream to hide dark spots, choosing concealer for mature skin and makeup tricks for under-eye bags.
What Customers Say
"The best concealer I've ever used. Easy to apply and covers dark pigmentation on your skin. It doesn't become caky and lasts all day."
Jocelyn M., Thin Lizzy customer (Concealer Crème)
"Have been using it for a long time and find it works as a base with just a little powder over it. I am 78 and it covers my age spots beautifully."
Judy S., Thin Lizzy customer (Concealer Crème)
"it covers really well and great selection of colours"
Pauline A., verified customer (Concealer Crème)
Read all Concealer Crème reviews →
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I apply concealer before or after foundation for dark spots?
After. Foundation evens out most of your skin, so you only need a little concealer on the spots that still show.
What colour concealer covers dark spots?
One that matches the skin around the spot exactly. A lighter shade can make dark spots look grey.
How do I stop concealer looking cakey over dark spots?
Moisturise first, use a tiny amount, pat rather than rub, build in thin layers and press only a light veil of powder on top.
Can I use the same concealer for dark spots and under my eyes?
You can, but many women prefer two. A richer formula covers spots best, while a lighter, creamier one is more comfortable on thin under-eye skin.
How do I choose my concealer shade online?
Use our Colour Match chart to find your shade. If it's not quite right, our Colour Swap Guarantee has you covered.
Can I buy Thin Lizzy concealer in stores?
Yes. Thin Lizzy is available at Farmers, Life Pharmacy, Chemist Warehouse and Unichem stores across New Zealand. The range can vary by store, so the easiest way to get the full range, bundles and online deals is to shop online. See our FAQ page for stockist details.
Looking for a deal? Many of our best sellers are available in bundle offers from time to time. See our current Bundle Offers →
Final Thoughts
Covering dark spots is about precision, not quantity. Foundation first, a tiny amount of high-coverage concealer exactly on the spot, soft edges and a light set, and your skin will look even and natural all day.
