The 10 Best Makeup Products for Covering Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that affects many people. Whether caused by acne scars, sun damage, or hormonal changes, those dark spots and uneven patches can make achieving a flawless complexion feel impossible. But the right makeup can work wonders, offering seamless coverage while enhancing your natural beauty.
The best makeup products for covering hyperpigmentation should do more than just camouflage. They should contain high-quality, skin-loving ingredients that help even out your complexion while providing hydration and long-lasting wear. From full-coverage foundations to targeted concealers and color correctors, we’ve rounded up ten top-rated products that work effectively to minimize the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
1. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation
If you’re looking for a foundation that stays put all day while providing superior coverage, Estée Lauder’s Double Wear is a cult favorite. This foundation offers a buildable, matte finish that conceals even the most stubborn dark spots without feeling heavy or cakey.
Why we love it:
Medium to full coverage that effectively conceals dark spots and discoloration
Long-lasting, up to 24-hour wear
Oil-free and sweat-resistant, making it ideal for all skin types
Available in over 50 shades to match a wide range of skin tones
2. LA Girl Pro Conceal HD Orange Corrector
For those with deep, stubborn dark spots, a color corrector is a game-changer. Orange and peach correctors neutralize the blue and purple undertones of hyperpigmentation, making it easier to cover with foundation and concealer.
Why we love it:
Lightweight, creamy formula blends effortlessly into the skin
High pigment concentration effectively cancels out discoloration
Affordable and widely available
Works well under foundation and concealer for maximum coverage
3. Tarte Shape Tape Concealer
A full-coverage concealer is essential for targeting specific areas of hyperpigmentation. Tarte Shape Tape is a go-to option for many makeup lovers due to its intense pigment and smooth finish.
Why we love it:
Super full-coverage formula that hides even the darkest spots
Crease-proof and long-lasting
Infused with hydrating ingredients like shea butter and mango seed butter
Matte finish prevents excess shine
4. Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
Once you’ve applied foundation and concealer, setting your makeup is crucial to prevent creasing and fading. Laura Mercier’s setting powder is a must-have for keeping makeup in place while maintaining a natural look.
Why we love it:
Finely milled formula ensures a smooth, airbrushed finish
Controls shine without looking cakey
Prevents makeup from settling into fine lines and dark spots
Available in different shades to match various skin tones
5. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Powder Foundation
For those who prefer powder foundations or want extra coverage over liquid foundation, Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Powder Foundation is a fantastic choice. This weightless yet high-pigment formula provides a flawless finish without feeling heavy.
Why we love it:
Buildable coverage that effectively conceals dark spots
Soft matte finish that doesn’t look dry or cakey
Long-wear formula with sweat and humidity resistance
Available in 50 shades to match all skin tones
6. Dermablend Cover Creme Full Coverage Foundation
If you need a foundation that provides maximum coverage without feeling heavy, Dermablend’s Cover Creme is a game-changer. This dermatologist-tested formula is specially designed to cover severe discoloration, including hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, and birthmarks.
Why we love it:
Full coverage with a natural finish
Highly pigmented formula that lasts up to 16 hours
Infused with SPF 30 for sun protection
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
7. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
A cult-favorite concealer, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer offers excellent medium-to-full coverage while maintaining a hydrating, radiant finish. It’s perfect for covering hyperpigmentation without looking dry or cakey.
Why we love it:
Buildable, crease-resistant formula
Hydrating ingredients like grape seed extract and vitamin E
Available in a wide range of shades
Long-wearing and lightweight
8. Bobbi Brown Skin Corrector Stick
A good color corrector is essential for neutralizing hyperpigmentation, and the Bobbi Brown Skin Corrector Stick does just that. Available in peach and bisque tones, this creamy stick brightens dark areas before applying foundation and concealer.
Why we love it:
Targets dark circles and discoloration effectively
Lightweight, creamy texture that blends effortlessly
Infused with skin-nourishing ingredients
Long-lasting, sweat-resistant formula
9. IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream with SPF 50+
If you prefer a lighter alternative to full-coverage foundations, IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream is an excellent option. It provides buildable coverage while offering skincare benefits like hydration, anti-aging properties, and sun protection.
Why we love it:
Medium-to-full coverage that looks natural
Contains SPF 50+ to protect against further sun damage
Infused with collagen, peptides, and hyaluronic acid
Great for all skin types, especially dry or mature skin
10. Maybelline Super Stay Full Coverage Powder Foundation
For those who prefer powder foundation but still want full coverage, Maybelline’s Super Stay Powder Foundation is a budget-friendly choice that delivers.
Why we love it:
Full coverage in a lightweight powder formula
Long-lasting, up to 16-hour wear
Controls shine while providing a matte finish
Affordable and widely available
Tips for Covering Hyperpigmentation with Makeup
Prime Your Skin: A good primer smooths the skin’s texture and helps makeup adhere better. Look for hydrating or blurring primers if you have dry or textured skin.
Layer Thinly: Instead of applying thick layers of product, build coverage gradually to avoid cakiness.
Use a Setting Spray: A setting spray locks in makeup and prevents it from melting off throughout the day.
Choose the Right Shade: A concealer or foundation that’s too light or too dark can make hyperpigmentation more noticeable. Stick to shades that match your undertone for the most natural look.
Incorporate Skincare: Using brightening ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide in your skincare routine can help fade hyperpigmentation over time, reducing the need for heavy coverage.
What is the best type of makeup for covering hyperpigmentation?
The best makeup products for covering hyperpigmentation are full-coverage foundations, concealers, and color correctors. Look for highly pigmented formulas that provide long-lasting coverage without looking cakey. Some top options include Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation, Dermablend Cover Creme, and Tarte Shape Tape Concealer.
Do I need a color corrector, and how do I use one?
Yes, a color corrector can help neutralize the discoloration before applying foundation and concealer. For hyperpigmentation:
Use a peach or orange corrector for deep brown or blue-toned dark spots.
Apply a thin layer to the affected areas and blend well.
Follow up with foundation and concealer for seamless coverage.
What ingredients should I look for in makeup if I have hyperpigmentation?
Choose products with skin-benefiting ingredients like:
Vitamin C – Helps brighten and fade dark spots over time.
Niacinamide – Reduces the appearance of discoloration and evens skin tone.
Hyaluronic Acid – Provides hydration, preventing makeup from looking dry or cakey.
SPF – Protects against further darkening caused by sun exposure.
Should I use liquid or powder foundation for hyperpigmentation?
Both can work, but liquid foundations generally offer better coverage for hyperpigmentation. If you prefer a powder foundation, opt for one with buildable coverage like Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Powder Foundation.
How can I remove makeup without irritating hyperpigmentation?
Use a gentle, non-stripping makeup remover, such as:
Micellar water for light makeup.
Oil-based cleansers for heavy coverage.
Hydrating cleansers to maintain skin barrier health. Follow up with a skincare routine that includes brightening and hydrating ingredients to improve hyperpigmentation over time.