The Best Concealers to Use After Blepharoplasty

Lower blepharoplasty, the buzzy procedure for under-eye bags, has all but taken over the aesthetics world. It’s become a go-to for celebrities as a top procedure to rejuvenate the under-eye area. While it can work to diminish darkness caused by excess tissue, you may still be plagued by dark circles. In that case, concealer is your best option. But selecting the right formula is key. The skin under the eye is delicate and needs to be handled with care. When you’re ready to apply makeup, the coverage shouldn’t be the only factor to consider. “It’s crucial to be careful around your eyes always, but especially after you’ve had surgery,” says celebrity makeup artist Emily Gray. When it comes to choosing a concealer to use after lower blepharoplasty, it’s best to have the facts. Ahead, two surgeons, along with Gray, share what to look for post-procedure and the best concealers to invest in.

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How long should you wait after a blepharoplasty before applying concealer?

Procedures vary for each person, making the healing time just as fluid. “In general, we allow eye makeup to be worn at about one week or when the sutures are removed, but you should always contact your individual surgeon as there may be situations that would require you to abstain from wearing makeup sooner,” says Woodbury, NY oculoplastic surgeon David Schlessinger, MD. In the case of a transconjunctival, no skin incision, blepharoplasty, facial plastic surgeon Jill L. Hessler, MD says that it’s safe to wear make-up to two to three days after the procedure.

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Dr.Schlessinger notes that applying makeup to the surrounding areas of the procedure is also ok. “It’s common to have some bruising on the cheeks or around the eyes where crow’s feet may develop. While they’re not operated on, you may want to apply concealer for even coverage,” he says. However, if your procedure included laser treatments, the experts say it’s best to wait until the skin has fully healed. “Applying makeup to an area that is actively healing or along the suture line may predispose the area to infections,” says Dr. Schlessinger.

What kind of concealers work best?

Formulation and consistency are important when it comes to selecting a good concealer, especially for mature skin. Skin-care-infused formulas are beloved for providing coverage and anti-aging benefits, but they’re not ideal after a blepharoplasty. According to Dr. Hessler, products containing active ingredients such as retinol can cause water loss, making the area look dry, as well as irritate the skin. Applying the product should also be handled with care. Gentle movements always work best when applying concealer, but Gray suggests opting for a beauty sponge over a brush. “Not only do they come in different sizes, but they’re perfect for blending out the under-eye area without tugging on it,” she says. If you must use a brush, she recommends swapping out a dense-bristle style for a small eye brush. “These apply the product much more gently,” she adds.

Concealers to try post-blepharoplasty

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A skin-nurturing formula can be a better option over a concealer with actives or brightening ingredients. This vegan formula includes prickly pear to boost hydration and a unique resin that supports skin elasticity.

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Dr.Schlessinger notes that mineral makeup is a great option post-surgery. This 3-in-1 product tackles puffiness while providing adequate coverage and protection against the sun’s damaging rays. The cooling applicator only adds to its benefits, making the application process more manageable. Choose from four shades to either match your complexion or neutralize dark areas under the eye.

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This concealer is sensitive skin-friendly and provides maximum coverage in a single swipe. “It’s lightweight and oil-free, so you don’t have to worry about creases,” says Gray. Plus, it can be used to brighten dark circles or conceal blemishes and scars.

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If you are prone to bruising, Dr. Hessler recommends using a color-correcting concealer to camouflage discoloration. This pencil takes the guesswork out of coverage with a range of peach, orange and pink hues that cancel out deep purple tones. The formula is also super creamy and won’t tug on the skin when applying.

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This tinted formula is packed with antioxidants and peptides. Together, they help protect delicate skin and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. The formula is also 100 percent mineral, making it ideal for the sensitive area.

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While this isn’t a concealer, it comes highly recommended by Dr.Schlessinger as a product that can double as a concealer. The formula is lightweight and hydrating, which is ideal for the under-eye area. It also has a radiant finish that can give the area a more youthful look after a procedure.