Understanding the difference between three under eye makeup staples can help you create a smoother, brighter and more natural looking finish.

If your under eye area never seems to look quite the way you want it to, your makeup routine may not be the problem. You may simply be using the wrong product for the concern you want to address.

Concealer, color corrector and under eye brightener are often grouped together because they can all improve the appearance of the eye area. However, they perform different jobs. One provides coverage, another helps balance discoloration and the third adds light and radiance.

Makeup artists say understanding those differences can make applying makeup easier and help prevent layering too much product around the eyes.

What does concealer do?

Concealer is the most coverage focused option of the three. It is designed to camouflage areas that need additional coverage, including discoloration, redness and blemishes.

Because concealer generally contains more pigment than foundation, it can provide targeted coverage without requiring a heavier layer of makeup across the entire face.

For the under eye area, the right concealer can help soften the appearance of dark circles while creating a more even complexion. Concealers are available in liquid and cream formulas, with finishes ranging from matte to luminous.

When selecting one, consider how much coverage you actually need. A highly pigmented formula may be useful when you want noticeable coverage, while a lighter formula can be preferable if you want the skin to retain a more natural appearance.

The application method also matters. Fingers, brushes and makeup sponges can all work, depending on the formula and the finish you prefer.

What is a color corrector?

Color corrector works differently from concealer. Instead of simply covering discoloration, it uses color theory to help visually balance unwanted tones before additional makeup is applied.

Different shades are intended to address different colors. Peach and apricot tones can help balance blue or purple looking areas, while green can help counter the appearance of redness. Lavender tones can help brighten skin that appears dull or yellowish.

The key is to use color corrector sparingly. Applying too much can make the area look overly colorful or cause the makeup layered on top to appear heavy.

After the corrector has been applied and blended, concealer can be used to bring the area closer to the surrounding skin tone.

What does an under eye brightener do?

An under eye brightener is less about coverage and more about creating the appearance of radiance.

These products typically contain light reflecting or illuminating properties that can make the eye area appear fresher and more awake. They can be especially useful when your primary concern is dullness rather than pronounced discoloration.

A brightener can also be helpful when you want a lighter makeup look. Instead of covering the entire under eye area with a full coverage concealer, you can use a small amount of brightening product to add light where you want it most.

Unlike color corrector, a brightener does not primarily neutralize discoloration. Its purpose is to add luminosity.

Can you use all three products?

You can, but you do not necessarily need all three every time you apply makeup.

If you have significant discoloration, using a color corrector followed by concealer may provide enough coverage. If your under eye area mostly looks dull, a brightener may be all you need.

For those who want to combine all three, makeup artists recommend beginning with an under-eye brightener, followed by color corrector and then concealer.

Before applying makeup, prepare the delicate skin beneath your eyes with a lightweight eye cream or moisturizer. Allow it to absorb before moving on to makeup.

Apply each product with a light touch. Rather than dragging the skin, gently tap the product into place with a fingertip or use a soft brush with controlled movements.

Allowing each layer a little time to settle can also help reduce the chance of the products becoming uneven or heavy.

How to choose the right combination

The best product depends on what you want to change.

For coverage, reach for concealer. For visible discoloration, consider a color corrector before concealer. For dullness and a more radiant finish, an under eye brightener may be the better choice.

You can also adjust your routine depending on the occasion. A full makeup look may call for several carefully applied layers, while an everyday routine may require only one product.

The goal is not to use the most products. It is to use the products that address your specific needs while keeping the under eye area looking comfortable and natural.