Many people believe that a heavy concealer is the only way to hide dark circles. In reality, you often just need a light-reflecting pigment to mimic the look of a well-rested face.
Finding the Best under Eye Highlighter is about light manipulation, not thick coverage. These products act like a subtle ring light for your face, brightening specific shadows rather than masking them. Read on to see which formats match your daily routine.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize formulas with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to prevent the product from settling into fine lines.
- Choose a pencil format if you prefer precise application for the inner corners of your eyes.
- Select a wand or liquid applicator if you intend to cover a larger surface area under the orbital bone.
- Check if your chosen shade has a cool or warm undertone to ensure it corrects rather than clashes with your skin.
- Opt for cream-to-powder finishes if you have oily skin and need the brightening effect to stay locked in place all day.
| Best K-Beauty Define |  |
The Saem Aegyo-Sal Under-Eye Pencil | Dual-ended design | Natural shadow effect | Long-lasting pigment | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Hydrating Dark Circle Eraser |  |
Catrice Under Eye Brightener | Deeply hydrating | Color correcting tint | Creamy buildable texture | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Skincare Infused Primer |  |
Palladio Under Eye Brightener | Contains caffeine | Smooths skin texture | Reduces puffiness appearance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Instant Wide-Eyed Effect |  |
Tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight | Waterline safe | Long-wear formula | Brightens tired eyes | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Silky Precision Shimmer |  |
Colorgram Under Eye Highlighter Stick | Smooth glide application | Portable stick format | Smudge-proof finish | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Coverage Radiance |  |
The Saem Cover Perfection Tip Concealer | High coverage | Radiant luminous finish | Long-lasting pigment | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Smooth Texture Corrector |  |
E.L.F. Putty Eye Brightener | Unique putty texture | Weightless feel | Smooths fine lines | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Versatile Cream Highlight |  |
NYX Jumbo Face Highlighter Stick | Creamy blendable texture | Multipurpose use | High shimmer impact | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Sculpting Light Reflector |  |
Judydoll Liquid Under Eye Brightener | Ultra-blendable liquid | Cool-toned brightening | Buildable intensity | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Dual Action Precision |  |
Kiko Milano Duo Highlighter Pencil | Two finishes in one | Travel-friendly design | Precise tip | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
The Saem Aegyo-Sal Under-Eye Pencil
If you want the popular Korean aegyo-sal look, this dual-ended tool is your go-to. It pairs a matte shadow brown for shading with a brightening beige to make the eyes appear wider and youthful.
The pencil glides on without tugging, which is vital for the delicate skin under your eyes. It stays put through long days, though you will need a sharpener to keep the tips precise for intricate work.
- Brand Name:The Saem
- Product Type:Eyeliner Highlighter Pencil
- Primary Benefit:Creates youthful eye volume
- Skin Finish:Natural matte
- Included Count:2 pencils
- Additional Feature:Includes contouring shadow shade
- Additional Feature:Precision tip for detail
- Additional Feature:Smudge-resistant formula
-
Catrice Under Eye Brightener
This light rose corrector acts like a morning coffee for your face. It uses hyaluronic acid and shea butter to smooth out tired skin while masking dark tones.
It is ideal if you have dry skin that usually flakes under traditional concealers. Because the formula is quite light, it works best as a base rather than a heavy-duty cover-up.
- Brand Name:Catrice
- Product Type:Color Corrector
- Primary Benefit:Brightening and hydration
- Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic Acid, Shea Butter
- Skin Finish:Dewy and radiant
- Additional Feature:Vegan and cruelty-free
- Additional Feature:Fragrance-free formula
- Additional Feature:Lightweight finish
-
Palladio Under Eye Brightener
Think of this as a treatment and makeup hybrid. It is packed with caffeine and peptides to help depuff the area while adding a soft, brightening tint.
The soft pink undertone helps neutralize blueish dark circles, making it a reliable choice for fair to medium tones. While it primes the skin well, it performs best when layered under a light foundation or concealer.
- Brand Name:Palladio
- Product Type:Brightener and Primer
- Primary Benefit:Reduces dark circles
- Key Ingredients:Caffeine, Peptides, Vitamin E
- Skin Finish:Soft luminous
- Additional Feature:Acts as a makeup primer
- Additional Feature:Easy to blend
- Additional Feature:Color correcting properties
-
Tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight
This pencil is a classic secret weapon for wide-awake eyes. The nude tone is designed to line your waterline, masking redness and making your eyes look larger instantly.
The creamy texture ensures it doesn't drag against the sensitive waterline. It stays vibrant for hours, though you should keep a sharpener nearby to maintain the pointed tip.
- Brand Name:Tarte
- Product Type:Highlighter Pencil
- Primary Benefit:Eye brightening
- Skin Finish:Natural satin
- Additional Feature:Vegan friendly
- Additional Feature:Cruelty-free
- Additional Feature:Works on brows too
-
Colorgram Under Eye Highlighter Stick
This highlighter stick provides a shimmering glow that is subtle enough for daily wear. Its silky texture allows for a single-swipe application that sits comfortably on the skin without creasing.
The stick format is incredibly convenient for quick touch-ups on the move. Use it for highlighting the inner corners or adding a soft glow to the under-eye area.
- Brand Name:Colorgram
- Product Type:Highlighter Stick
- Primary Benefit:Daily radiance
- Skin Finish:Luminous shimmer
- Additional Feature:Long-lasting wear
- Additional Feature:Easy for beginners
- Additional Feature:Versatile for face contouring
-
The Saem Cover Perfection Tip Concealer
If you need serious coverage that also brightens, this liquid concealer is a staple. It has a high-pigment formula that effectively masks discoloration while leaving a luminous finish.
It is a favorite for those who want a defined, sculpted look without a cakey feel. Since it is very potent, a tiny amount goes a long way.
- Brand Name:The Saem
- Product Type:Liquid Concealer
- Primary Benefit:Full coverage brightening
- Skin Finish:Radiant glow
- Additional Feature:Precise doe-foot applicator
- Additional Feature:Blends out quickly
- Additional Feature:Buildable coverage
-
E.L.F. Putty Eye Brightener
This putty-based brightener acts like a soft-focus filter for your under-eyes. The unique texture melts upon contact, smoothing out fine lines and prepping the surface for concealer.
It works exceptionally well for those who struggle with settling products. It provides a sheer, brightening wash of color that feels weightless on the skin.
- Brand Name:E.L.F.
- Product Type:Putty Corrector
- Primary Benefit:Brightening and priming
- Skin Finish:Natural satin
- Additional Feature:Vegan and cruelty-free
- Additional Feature:Reduces circle visibility
- Additional Feature:Easy to apply with fingers
-
NYX Jumbo Face Highlighter Stick
This stick is a multitasking powerhouse for your entire face. The Vanilla Ice Cream shade provides a bright, reflective highlight that works perfectly in the inner corners or under the brow bone.
The formula is blendable and creamy, making it easy to soften the edges with your fingertips. It adds a pop of light to the complexion whenever you need a quick refresh.
- Brand Name:NYX
- Product Type:Highlighter Stick
- Primary Benefit:Face highlighting
- Skin Finish:Radiant shimmer
- Additional Feature:Twist-up packaging
- Additional Feature:Intense color payoff
- Additional Feature:Easy to apply on-the-go
-
Judydoll Liquid Under Eye Brightener
This liquid formula is designed for precision, featuring a cool undertone that works wonders for brightening and lifting. It is ideal for creating a natural, contoured effect under the eyes.
The texture is ultra-blendable, allowing you to feather it out for a natural look. It is a smart choice if you want to combine brightening and face shaping in one step.
- Brand Name:Judydoll
- Product Type:Liquid Brightener
- Primary Benefit:Contouring and highlighting
- Skin Finish:Natural skin-like
- Additional Feature:Easy to use applicator
- Additional Feature:Precise sculpting
- Additional Feature:Lightweight liquid formula
-
Kiko Milano Duo Highlighter Pencil
Having two shades in one pencil is like having a complete toolkit in your bag. One end offers a matte finish for brightening, while the other provides a shimmer for highlighting the high points.
This is excellent for travel or minimizing your makeup bag. The pencils are firm enough for crisp lines but soft enough to blend smoothly on the skin.
- Brand Name:Kiko Milano
- Product Type:Dual-end Pencil
- Primary Benefit:Highlight and define
- Skin Finish:Matte and shimmer
- Additional Feature:Dual-ended utility
- Additional Feature:Versatile application
- Additional Feature:Long-lasting wear
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a highlighter if I have dark circles?
You certainly can, but you must pair it with a color corrector first. Use a peach or orange corrector to neutralize the blue tones of your dark circles. Once the base is even, apply your highlighter to bring light back to the area.
Is it okay to apply highlighter over concealer?
Yes, applying it over concealer is standard practice. Layering ensures you get the coverage you need from the concealer before adding the brightening effect of the highlighter. Apply the highlighter in a V-shape to lift the face.
Will a highlighter make my fine lines more visible?
It depends entirely on the shimmer quality. Avoid products with chunky glitter, which settles into lines and acts like a spotlight on imperfections. Instead, opt for products with a soft, satin sheen that reflects light away from wrinkles.
How much product should I use under my eyes?
Use a very small amount to start. A dot of liquid or a light swipe of cream is usually enough for both eyes. You can always add more layers, but removing excess product often ruins the rest of your makeup.
Does the highlighter need to match my skin tone exactly?
Not exactly, but it must be in the same color family. You want the highlighter to look like a natural radiance rather than a stripe of paint. If the product looks too dark or too light, it will create a distracting halo effect around your eyes.
