8 Best Concealer Sticks for Buildable Coverage

The clock struck six and I saw FashionBeauty Shopping Editor Kiana Murden swiped an unfamiliar red tube across her face; then blended it with her fingers, which seemed to cover dark spots and brighten dark circles. She eventually told me she was going to have dinner. This is weird because I know Kiana is usually well prepared in her beauty wardrobe. “I ran in too late,” she said quickly, quickly checking a small mirror to make sure everything was mixed together. Her skin looked fine, so I asked what the mystery stick was. Her answer: TirTir Glide & Hide Blurring Concealer, which is creamy on one end and silky lipstick on the other. Kiana says she likes it on the pastel side—and as she explains, it’s her perfect shade that blends in just a few taps.

Time is secret. Because earlier that day, I learned that Milk Makeup’s next debut is a ready-to-use concealer in a vibrant blue stick (from the same line as its viral tint). True to its name, the Hydro Grip Hydrating Gel Stick Concealer launching this week is designed for 12 hours of wear, smoothing, evening, and brightening without stripping.

Concealer sticks seem to be making a comeback in 2026; however, professional makeup artist Lauren D’Amelio Ventre says they’ve never left their professional makeup bags in the first place. “What’s really changing is consumer trends, not the performance of concealer sticks,” she says Fashion. “Liquids have become popular because they feel lighter and easier, but sticks offer precision, longevity and reliability that liquids often can’t achieve.” The advantages of powdered sticks, she continues, are their efficiency and longevity – often offering better longevity than liquids and creams. Professional makeup artist Catrina Breitweiser agrees: “For everyday makeup, they’re a smart, multi-tasking staple that delivers reliable results.”