Finding concealers for oily skin can often feel like chasing a myth. Creased under-eyes, faded coverage and excess oil are all too familiar. The trick, however, isn’t just in picking the concealer but in how you prep, apply and pair it. With expert insight from celebrity makeup artist Tanvi Chemburkar, this guide breaks down how to make your concealer stay matte, seamless and exactly where you want it.

What kind of concealer actually works for oily skin?

Dewy and creamy formulas are a big no, says Chemburkar. “Any product that’s too creamy or stick-based tends to draw out more oil and ends up looking greasy. Instead, go for concealers that are matte or soft-matte in finish.” Look for keywords like oil-free, non-comedogenic or contains silicone—they keep excess oil and clogged pores out of the equation. Chemburkar recommends lightweight but buildable formulas, so you can increase coverage without layering on too much.

Can the wrong concealer make things worse?

The wrong concealers for oily skin can also lead to breakouts and congestion. “If a formula is too thick, greasy or pore-clogging, it mixes with the sebum your skin naturally produces,” says Chemburkar. “This clogs pores and causes breakouts, and suddenly you’re covering more pimples than you started with.” Your concealer should cover imperfections, not cause them.

Spot conceal or layer?

For oily skin, less is always more. Chemburkar swears by spot-concealing instead of spreading product across the entire face. “Just apply a dot where you need it. Multiple layers will only crease, slip and look cakey as the day goes on.”

Brush vs sponge

Brushes win this round. “Brushes place the product precisely without adding extra warmth or moisture like your fingers,” explains Chemburkar. “Sponges absorb a lot of product and can sometimes hold too much moisture, which makes the product slide. A dry brush gives you better control and longer-lasting results.” So swap the sponge for a fluffy concealer brush and enjoy a smoother, oil-controlled finish.

Common concealer myths

More concealer equals more coverage: Too much product only leads to creasing and cakiness. Work in thin layers and spot-conceal instead.

Always go lighter than your foundation: True only for brightening the under-eyes. For blemishes or redness, choose a shade that matches your skin tone or is slightly warmer.

Concealer hides texture: It covers discolouration, not bumps. No product can smooth your texture entirely.