After testing literally HUNDREDS of concealers over my 15+ years as a beauty expert, I’m always amazed when a drugstore product performs like a high-end one. The Maybelline Fit Me Liquid Concealer in Fair is honestly one of those gems that makes me question why anyone would spend $30+ on concealer when this $5 option exists!
First Impressions & Packaging
Let’s be real – the packaging isn’t anything fancy. It’s a simple, sleek tube with a doe-foot applicator that gets the job done. The minimalist design actually makes it travel-friendly and slim enough to toss in even the smallest makeup bag.
What I noticed immediately is how the tube makes the product look slightly darker than it actually is – something multiple users pointed out. This isn’t a huge deal, but worth mentioning if you’re shopping in-store.
One quirk about the shade range: strangely, shade 15 Fair is actually LIGHTER than shade 10! This confused many buyers, but now you know. If you’re extremely fair-skinned, 15 Fair with its pink undertones might be your best bet.
Texture & Application
The standout feature of this concealer is its texture – it strikes a PERFECT balance between too thick and too thin. It’s lightweight with a slightly serum-like consistency that one reviewer compared to the NYX serum concealer.
The formula feels almost watery compared to thicker concealers like Tarte Shape Tape or It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye, but don’t let that fool you – it still delivers impressive coverage.
Application is a BREEZE! The doe-foot applicator deposits just the right amount of product, and you have about 30 seconds to blend before it sets. I found tapping with fingertips works best, but a damp beauty sponge also gives a seamless finish. Just work quickly because it does dry down relatively fast.
Coverage & Finish
Let’s talk about what really matters – the coverage. Is it full coverage? Not quite. But it’s buildable medium coverage that looks INCREDIBLY natural.
What impressed me most was how it covers dark circles without looking cakey or settling into fine lines. Multiple reviewers in their 50s and 60s mentioned how it doesn’t enhance their wrinkles – a common problem with many concealers.
The finish is not matte, but not dewy either – it’s more of a natural skin-like finish that looks better as the day goes on. It’s lightweight and breathable, so you genuinely forget you’re wearing it.
For blemishes and redness, it works well with a precise brush, though some users with severe acne mentioned needing a second layer.
Staying Power
For a $5 concealer, the staying power is impressive! It lasts a solid 8+ hours without significant creasing if set with powder. Several reviewers mentioned it stays put through restaurant shifts and sweaty workdays.
It doesn’t oxidize throughout the day – a huge plus for those who’ve experienced the dreaded “orange under-eye” with other concealers.
The formula is oil-free but not drying, so it works for both dry and oily skin types. Those with very oily skin might need to blot or powder midday, but that’s expected with most concealers.
Shade Range Limitations
The biggest downside to this concealer is the limited shade range. With only 9 shades, it can’t possibly fit everyone. The fair shade works wonderfully for light skin tones, but there simply aren’t enough options for deeper skin tones.
The undertones lean neutral to slightly pink in the Fair shade, which works well for counteracting blue/purple under-eye circles.
Comparison to High-End Alternatives
Multiple reviewers compared this to NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer ($31), noting the Maybelline version is thinner but creases less. Others mentioned switching from Tarte and other premium brands and being pleasantly surprised.
As one 32-year-old reviewer with severe dark circles put it: “Several hundred dollars later, and I’m back to Fit Me as my daily concealer.”
Best For…
This concealer especially shines for:
- Natural, everyday makeup looks
- Mature skin that needs hydration
- Under-eye circles (though severe circles might need color corrector underneath)
- Quick, on-the-go application
It’s less ideal for:
- Full-coverage, Instagram-perfect makeup
- Very oily skin that needs long-wearing matte products
- Very deep skin tones (due to limited shade range)
How To Make It Work Even Better
Tips from hundreds of reviews:
- Set it immediately with translucent powder to prevent creasing
- For severe dark circles, use a peach/orange color corrector underneath
- Blend quickly after application before it sets
- Less is more – start with a small amount and build if needed
- For extra staying power, apply over a hydrating eye cream
Value For Money
The tube is small (0.23 fl oz), but a little goes a LONG way. Most reviewers mentioned the tube lasting 3-4 months with daily use, making this an incredible value.
Let’s be honest – makeup expires anyway, so having a smaller tube that you actually finish before it goes bad is actually preferable to a giant tube that gets gross before you use it all.
The Bottom Line
Maybelline Fit Me Concealer is a no-brainer purchase. For $5-6, you’re getting performance that rivals products 5-6 times the price. The lightweight formula, natural finish, and impressive staying power make it a staple in my professional kit and personal makeup bag.
Is it absolute perfection? No – the shade range needs expansion, and those seeking extreme full coverage might need something heavier. But for 90% of makeup wearers, this concealer checks all the boxes without emptying your wallet.
My advice? Buy two – one for your bathroom and one for your purse. At this price point, you’ll thank yourself later!
Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩
Pros:
- Incredible value for money
- Natural, skin-like finish
- Doesn’t crease or enhance fine lines
- Blends seamlessly
- Works on multiple areas (under eyes, blemishes, redness)
- Oil-free formula
- Doesn’t oxidize
Cons:
- Limited shade range
- Sets quickly, requiring fast blending
- Medium (not full) coverage
- Small tube (though long-lasting)
Would I repurchase? ABSOLUTELY, and I have – over and over again!
Buy on Amazon: Here
