So I’ve been using the Maybelline New York Fit Me Liquid Concealer in Caramel for a while now, and I NEED to share my thoughts! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly concealer that actually works, this might be your answer… but there are definitely some things you should know before buying.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Right out of the box, the Fit Me concealer comes in a simple, no-fuss tube with a doe-foot applicator. It’s definitely smaller than what you might expect for the price (several reviewers mentioned running out quickly), but that’s pretty standard for drugstore concealers. The applicator is on the smaller side, which some people find annoying, but I actually think it helps with precision when covering specific spots.
The formula looks lightweight right away – not thick or cakey like some concealers that practically scream “HEY EVERYONE, I’M WEARING MAKEUP!” This is definitely made for that natural, barely-there look.
COLOR MATCH: A TRICKY SITUATION
Let’s talk about the Caramel shade specifically. Finding the right shade online is ALWAYS a gamble (seriously, why is it so hard?!), and based on the reviews, this is definitely the case with the Fit Me concealer too.
For people with warmer, golden undertones, Caramel seems to work well, but several reviewers mentioned it pulling a bit orange. One reviewer who usually uses the Golden Caramel foundation found this concealer too orange and dark for their preference. Something to keep in mind!
I’ve noticed that with concealers, you typically want to go a shade lighter than your foundation for brightening under the eyes, but with this one, you might want to stick closer to your actual skin tone since it tends to run a bit darker. Several reviewers with deeper skin tones were pleasantly surprised by how well it matched when they went with a lighter shade than they thought they needed.
APPLICATION & TEXTURE
The consistency is on the thinner side, which is both good and bad. It’s super easy to blend and feels lightweight on the skin (NO heavy, cakey feeling!), but it does sheer out pretty quickly when you apply it with a makeup sponge.
I’ve found that the best method is to apply it directly from the doe-foot, let it sit for about 30 seconds to build a bit of coverage, and then gently tap it in with your finger. Using a damp beauty sponge works too, but expect the coverage to sheer out significantly.
Some reviewers mentioned it feeling a bit dry during application. I’ve noticed this too, especially if my under-eye area isn’t properly moisturized beforehand. A good eye cream underneath is definitely your friend with this product!
COVERAGE & PERFORMANCE
For a drugstore concealer, the coverage is actually pretty impressive! It’s not going to completely erase severe dark circles or very dark hyperpigmentation in one layer, but it builds reasonably well without looking cakey.
The formula is oil-free, which is GREAT for oily skin types or if you tend to get that annoying creasing under your eyes. It does have a natural finish – not too matte and not too dewy – which makes it blend seamlessly with most foundations.
Wear time is decent but not exceptional. On most days, I get about 6-7 hours before noticing fading, which is on par with most drugstore options. Setting it with powder definitely helps extend the wear time.
One standout feature from the reviews is how well it works for mature skin to cover age spots and pigmentation without settling into fine lines. Several older reviewers specifically mentioned loving how natural it looked on their skin while still providing coverage.
THE GOOD STUFF
- SUPER affordable compared to high-end options
- Natural-looking finish that doesn’t scream “I’m wearing concealer!”
- Lightweight feel that doesn’t drag or pull at the delicate under-eye area
- Oil-free formula (perfect for those prone to breakouts)
- Blends easily with fingers or a sponge
- Works well for both under-eyes and covering blemishes/spots
- Good option for makeup beginners due to its forgiving formula
THE NOT-SO-GOOD STUFF
- Shade range can be tricky to navigate (especially online)
- Some reviewers reported receiving product that was already opened (yikes!)
- Small amount of product that runs out quickly with regular use
- Can feel a bit dry if your skin isn’t well moisturized
- Coverage is medium at best – not ideal for very dark circles
- The thinner consistency means it sheers out quickly with a sponge
- Some reviewers noted sensitivity issues (always patch test!)
WHO SHOULD BUY THIS?
This concealer is PERFECT for you if:
- You want a natural, everyday concealer that won’t break the bank
- You prefer lightweight formulas over thick, heavy ones
- You’re a makeup beginner looking for something foolproof
- You have relatively minor discoloration or blemishes to cover
- You have normal to oily skin
Maybe skip this one if:
- You need serious, heavy-duty coverage
- You have very dry under-eyes (it might emphasize texture)
- You’re sensitive to drugstore makeup formulations
- You need a concealer that lasts 12+ hours without touching up
MY DAILY ROUTINE WITH IT
I’ve found this works best when I use it as part of a minimal makeup routine. I start with a good moisturizer, apply a thin layer of foundation (sometimes I even skip foundation and just use this concealer for spot coverage!), then dot this under my eyes, around my nose, and on any blemishes.
The key is waiting about 30 seconds before blending – this helps it set slightly and provides better coverage. I tap it in gently with my ring finger and set lightly with a small amount of translucent powder.
For days when I need more coverage, I’ll actually use a color corrector underneath (peach tones work well with the Caramel shade), then apply this on top. The combination gives me that “I got 8 hours of sleep” look even when I definitely did NOT.
IS IT WORTH THE HYPE?
For the price? ABSOLUTELY. This little tube packs a decent punch for under $10, which is pretty rare in the makeup world. It’s not going to replace your high-end concealer for special occasions, but for everyday wear, it’s honestly hard to beat.
The Fit Me line in general seems to be Maybelline’s sweet spot – their foundation from the same line is equally loved for similar reasons (natural finish, good color range, affordable price).
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Maybelline Fit Me Liquid Concealer in Caramel is one of those products that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for decent makeup. It’s not perfect – the small size, potential shade matching issues, and medium coverage are definite drawbacks – but the natural finish, comfortable wear, and affordable price make it a solid choice for everyday use.
If you’re on the fence, I’d say it’s worth trying, especially if you catch it on sale! Just make sure to check that the product is sealed when you receive it, as several reviewers mentioned packaging issues.
In the vast sea of concealers out there, this one manages to stand out not because it’s revolutionary, but because it gets the basics right at a price point almost anyone can afford. And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need – a reliable product that does its job without fuss or drama.
Have you tried the Maybelline Fit Me concealer? I’d love to hear your experience, especially if you’ve used the Caramel shade specifically!
Buy on Amazon: Here
