I’m Not Fond of Foundation—This Is the Glowy Concealer I Can’t Live Without

      I openly admit that I have a deep dislike for foundation. Honestly, I can't stand the sensation of anything on my face. I dislike how it transfers to my phone, dulls my features, constantly shifts around, and eliminates the small imperfections that make me who I am. That said, my stubborn dark circles, pigmentation spots, and acne scars mean I'm not ready to go completely without coverage. Throughout my career as a beauty editor, I've dedicated a significant amount of time to finding the ideal lightweight base, and I'm thrilled to say that, after 12 years, I've discovered it.

      While many appreciate the sheer and buildable qualities of skin tints and tinted moisturizers, I still find them too heavy for my complexion. Instead, I prefer using a creamy, blendable concealer solely on the areas of my face that require coverage, blending it out as needed. Locating the right concealer for this purpose has proven challenging. I need it to be lightweight yet buildable, hydrating yet long-lasting, and brightening without a shiny finish.

      The goal? A concealer that effectively hides the areas I want to conceal without being noticeable on the skin. Just when I thought my expectations for such a concealer would be unmanageable, Chanel introduced its Les Beiges Serum Concealer, and everything feels right again.

      **The Formula**

      **Chanel Les Beiges Serum Concealer**

      Key Ingredients: White camellia extract, hyaluronic acid

      Shades Available: 15

      **Pros:** Feels like skincare, lightweight but buildable coverage, brightening without shimmer, natural makeup result

      **Cons:** Won't cover more significant blemishes (but that's not my intention anyway)

      The beauty of this formula lies in its lightweight texture. It has a water-like lightness that feels fresh and extremely hydrating upon application. This is achieved with an impressive blend of ingredients, where 89% are skincare-based, including Chanel's signature white camellia hydro-extract that helps maintain moisture levels in the skin, along with hyaluronic acid for immediate hydration and plumpness. Available in 15 shades, the coverage is sheer yet buildable, featuring a fine (almost undetectable) pearlescent effect.

      **The Application**

      To be completely honest, the application process of this concealer isn't particularly remarkable—it's really the formula and results that make it exceptional. It comes with a standard doe-foot applicator made for swiping or dotting on the skin. The unique aspect is the cooling ceramic tip, designed to provide a cooling sensation under the eyes. While it certainly is refreshing and nice to use, I feel it's not entirely necessary, particularly since I like to use it on areas of my face beyond just under my eyes.

      For daily coverage, I apply some under my eyes, around my nose, and over my chin—my main problem areas concerning dark circles, redness, and post-acne scars. In terms of blending, I vary my techniques depending on how much time I have. For more precise coverage, I apply the formula just to the targeted areas and gently tap it in with my fingers. Most days, however, I use a light buffing brush to blend it gently across my skin. The hydration-focused formula means that this concealer applies differently than any other I’ve tried—it doesn’t sit on the skin and conceal what’s beneath. Instead, it partially absorbs and melds with the skin, resulting in a seamless blend, no creasing, and a true second-skin finish.

      **The Full Look**

      Chanel Les Beiges Serum Concealer has undoubtedly become my favorite product of the summer. I’ve worn it every single day since I first got it in May. In fact, I've maintained nearly the same makeup look throughout the summer. Here are the natural-looking, creamy makeup products that pair perfectly with Les Beiges Serum Concealer.

      **Tom Ford**

      Soleil Bronzing Powder

      **Chanel**

      Les Beiges Healthy Glow Blush

      **Victoria Beckham Beauty**

      Featherfix Brow Gel

      **Merit**

      Clean Volume Mascara