This review pits two popular ELF concealers against each other: the 16-Hour Camo Concealer and the Hydrating Satin Finish Concealer. Both were tested in the shade Fair Beige, and this comparison delves into their application, wear time, and overall performance to determine which reigns supreme. We’ll examine key differences in coverage, texture, and finish, exploring how each concealer interacts with different skin types and concerns, particularly focusing on the experience around the delicate under-eye area.The battle focuses on finding the ultimate concealer for everyday wear versus special occasions. Does the 16-hour Camo's promised full coverage and longevity outweigh its potential drying effects? Or does the Hydrating Satin Finish's comfortable application and natural finish provide a superior option for daily use? This in-depth comparison will help you decide which ELF concealer best suits your needs and preferences, offering a clear verdict based on real-world testing and observations.
Pros And Cons
- Full coverage
- Long-lasting (does not budge easily)
- Good for photos or videos
- Drying/dehydrating
- Can look too pale/grey on some skin tones
- Requires waterproof makeup remover to remove completely
- Applicator may be too large for under-eye application
- Better shade match for some skin tones
- Works better on dehydrated skin
- Flawless application with a sponge
- More forgiving application
- Less coverage than 16-hour Camo Concealer
- Can look peachy on some skin tones
Read more: Top 5 Full Coverage Concealers You Need to Try
Shade Matching and First Impressions
Both concealers were purchased in the shade Fair Beige, a shade that proved a bit too light for my current skin tone. The 16-hour Camo concealer, boasting full coverage, appeared initially more opaque and slightly pink-toned in the swatch. The Hydrating Camo concealer, conversely, presented a more peachy undertone.
The packaging is fairly standard for drugstore concealers, with a similar design. While the applicator size of both was slightly larger than my preference, making application to my under-eye area a bit more challenging than desired.
Application and Texture
I applied both concealers using a damp sponge, initially favoring the sponge for seamless blending. However, I found that using my fingers afterwards provided a more refined finish and better coverage. The 16-hour Camo concealer, designed for full coverage, required less product for a desirable result compared to its hydrating counterpart.
The Hydrating Camo concealer, on the other hand, felt more comfortable upon application and better suited to my dehydrated under-eye area. Its application with a sponge was exceptionally easy and forgiving.
Wear Test and Longevity
Throughout the wear test, I noticed the 16-hour Camo concealer, while initially providing excellent coverage, exhibited a tendency to appear slightly drying and emphasize the fine lines under my eyes. The hydrating version, however, maintained a more natural look and felt less dehydrating throughout the day.
The 16-hour Camo concealer proved incredibly long-lasting and difficult to remove, requiring a waterproof makeup remover to fully cleanse. The Hydrating Camo concealer, although less tenacious, still offered decent wear time.
Final Verdict and Recommendations
The ELF 16-hour Camo concealer is indeed a champion in terms of coverage and longevity, and its impressive staying power makes it ideal for special events or photoshoots. However, its tendency to emphasize fine lines and dry patches makes it less suitable for everyday use, especially for those with drier under-eyes.
The ELF Hydrating Camo concealer emerged as my personal winner. Its more natural, less drying finish and effortless application made it a more comfortable and versatile option for daily use. While the coverage isn't quite as intense, it's still more than sufficient for everyday wear and provides a better overall complexion.