Makeup
Tattoo Cover Up Makeup

The Best Makeup for a Tattoo Cover Up

By Hannah Liddle - 7 years ago | Updated 2 weeks ago

woman with tattoos applying makeup for vlog

We love tattoos at Cosmetify - but we’re aware that there are times you may want to cover up. Whether it’s for an important job interview or a meet-up with family who highly disapprove, a quick fix concealer solution is all you need to hide any ink that may be adorning your body and save you from that dreaded lecture from your granny.

We’ve rounded up the very best makeup products that’ll keep your tattoos, both big and small, a secret, should you so wish. We’ve even included a primer and setting spray to make sure they stayed covered for as long as you need.

Best Colour Correcting Primer for Tattoo Cover Up

Stila One Step Correct

£26.00 £28.00 (8% off)

Another great priming option is this colour correcting formula from Stila. Not only does it help you makeup last longer, but it also tackles specific concerns when concealing tattoos. For example, the orange shade helps minimise pigmentation, while the green helps neutralise any redness – perfect for bold, brightly coloured tattoos.

Best Makeup Brush for Blending Tattoo Cover Up on the Body

SOSU by SJ Dripping Gold Kabuki Brush

£14.88 £19.95 (26% off)

This SOSU by SJ brush is ideal for covering larger tattoos on the body. It works with cream, liquid and powder products. Simply apply your foundation to the area you want to cover and use the brush to buff the product into the skin. The easy-to-grip handle means it’s a stress-free process that takes no time at all.

Best Makeup Sponge for Seamless, Streak-Free Tattoo Coverage

beautyblender Original

£13.12 £22.37 (42% off)

For covering large areas, the beautyblender makeup sponge is another great option. Bounce and blend colour correctors and foundations across the skin until you achieve a natural-looking finish. It provides a streak-free look which means even, all-over coverage.

Best Colour Correcting Powder for Neutralising Tattoo Pigment

GUERLAIN Meteorites Compact Colour Correcting Blotting & Lighting Powder

£35.86 £51.00 (30% off)

For more comprehensive colour correcting get your hands on the GUERLAIN Colour Correcting Compact. Carefully apply the powders accordingly to neutralise the colours of your tattoo. This will keep your skin tone looking even and balanced when the makeup is applied.

Best Customisable Cream Palette for Full Coverage Tattoo Concealment

Made By Mitchell Curve Case

£22.33 £30.00 (26% off)

If you want to create a unique shade to suit your skin tone, try the Made By Mitchell Curve Case. This face palette provides full coverage and a long-lasting finish that is ideal for covering tattoos for a special event or a photoshoot. Simply mix and match shades and blend together for a natural-looking result.

Best Long-Lasting Full Coverage Foundation for Hiding Tattoos

Stila Stay All Day Foundation & Concealer

£17.59 £19.99 (13% off)

Next up is the actual makeup! Not only do you want full coverage, but you want staying power. No use covering tattoos if they smudge or melt off throughout the day. Choose this iconic Stila Stay All Day Foundation & Concealer for a formula that just won't budge. This luxury product beats the heats and humidity, staying in place for up to 24 hours.

Best Body Makeup for Covering Large Tattoos

Bellamianta Flawless Filter Body Makeup

£17.13 £22.95 (26% off)

Designed specifically for your body, this thick and full-coverage fluid foundation is excellent at covering big, bold tattoos. It’s also incredibly hydrating so you won’t have to worry about it drying out your ink. And, with a true match colour, it leaves a skin-like finish.

Best High-Pigment Concealer for Small or Detailed Tattoo Cover Up

Maybelline Superstay Full Coverage Under Eye Concealer

£4.54 £7.95 (43% off)

This high-coverage concealer hides any ink and keeps your skin looking fresh and dewy. It’s non-drying and crease-proof and the wand applicator lets you get to all those hard-to-reach areas.

Best Setting Spray to Lock in Tattoo Cover-Up Makeup

Maybelline Lasting Fix Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray

£10.99 £12.86 (15% off)

And last, but by no means least, finish up with a setting spray. It ensures your foundations go the distance, while also refreshing your skin when the makeup starts to look a little tired.

Check out this tutorial for a step by step guide on how to conceal your tattoos:

FAQ About Tattoo Cover Up Makeup

How do you cover a tattoo with makeup step by step?

1. Start with clean, well-moisturised skin.
2. Apply a smoothing primer to create an even base.
3. If needed, apply a colour corrector (peach or orange tones help neutralise blue or black ink).
4. Layer a full-coverage foundation or concealer over the area using a damp sponge or dense brush.
5. Build coverage gradually in thin layers rather than applying one thick coat.
6. Set with powder and finish with a setting spray for longevity.
7. Allow each layer to dry slightly before applying the next to prevent patchiness.

Do you need colour corrector to cover a tattoo?

Not always, but it can make a significant difference — especially for darker or brightly coloured tattoos. Blue and black inks often show through foundation alone, so applying a peach or orange corrector first helps neutralise undertones and improves coverage.

What is the best makeup to cover a tattoo for a wedding or job interview?

For important occasions, choose long-wear or waterproof foundations and concealers designed to resist transfer. Matte or semi-matte finishes typically last longer and photograph more evenly. Always lock everything in with powder and setting spray to reduce movement.

Can you cover a tattoo without it looking cakey?

Yes — thin, buildable layers are essential. Blend carefully into surrounding skin using a damp sponge or buffing brush, and avoid overloading the area with product. Proper skin prep helps prevent texture from becoming visible.

Will tattoo cover-up makeup transfer onto clothes?

Some transfer can occur, particularly with friction. Setting powder followed by setting spray helps reduce movement. Allow the makeup to dry fully before dressing, and choose transfer-resistant formulas for the best results.

As these makeup products are great for covering up tattoos, you know they’ll be just as good at covering up any scars, marks, blemishes or dark spots. In fact, we have a whole article dedicated to the very best concealers for every skin type, as well as the best full coverage foundation for a perfect complexion.