If you only have one item in your makeup bag, it should probably be a concealer palette. It's a total beauty must-have that does a lot, including concealing blemishes or pimples as well as dark circles to give the appearance of 8 hours of sleep. Face concealer is the unsung hero of the makeup world, swooping in to steal the spotlight. However, if you've only ever used your face concealer in one way, you're missing out on some brilliant other applications. With so many types and techniques, mastering the art of how to use concealer can make a big difference. Here are the basics of concealer use and some interesting tips for applying concealer that can transform your look in a snap.
Applying Concealer: Techniques for Every Concern
Once you apply your skin care products, do your base. The base includes prepping your skin with a makeup primer, followed by a full-coverage foundation before applying concealer. Once your skin is prepped and your concealer is in hand, it’s time to learn how to apply concealer.
1. Concealing Dark Circles
Dark circles are a common concern, and the key to concealing them is to use a concealer with a peach or orange undertone, as these shades neutralize the bluish-purple tones of under-eye circles.
- Step 1: Apply a small amount of concealer in a triangular shape under your eyes. The base should be along your lower lash line, with the point extending towards your cheek.
- Step 2: Use your ring finger or a makeup sponge to gently blend the concealer into your skin. Start from the inner corner of the eyes and work outward.
2. Covering Blemishes and Redness
Blemishes, acne scars, and redness can be tricky to cover, but with the right approach, you can achieve flawless results.
- Step 1: Dab a small amount of right shade from the concealer palette directly onto the blemish or red area.
- Step 2: Use a clean makeup brush or beauty blender to gently blend the edges of the color concealer into your skin, making sure not to remove too much product from the targeted area.
3. Brightening the Complexion
Concealer can help highlight and brighten specific areas of your face for a fresh and radiant look.
- Step 1: Apply liquid concealer to the high points of your face, such as the center of your forehead, down the bridge of your nose, on your chin, and under your eyes.
- Step 2: Blend the concealer into your skin using a damp makeup sponge or a face makeup brush, ensuring a seamless transition with the rest of your makeup.
Pro Tip: For an extra glow, you can mix a small amount of loose face highlighter with your concealer before applying.
Setting Your Concealer: The Secret to Long-Lasting Coverage
After applying face concealer, the next crucial step is setting it to ensure it stays put all day. This is especially important for those with oily skin or for areas like under the eyes, where concealer tends to crease.
- Step 1: Use a compact powder or translucent face powder and a fluffy brush to lightly dust powder over the areas where you’ve applied concealer.
- Step 2: If you have dry skin, prefer using a makeup setting spray to avoid a cakey look.
Pro Tip: Baking, a technique that involves applying a generous amount of setting powder and letting it sit for a few minutes before brushing it off, can provide extra longevity for your concealer.
10 Tips to Applying Conceal Like A Pro
1. Layer Your Face Concealer
Instead of applying a thick layer of high-coverage concealer in one go, try building it up in thin layers. Start with a small amount and blend it out, then add more if needed. This method ensures a more natural finish and prevents cakiness.
2. Use Different Concealers for Different Needs
Not all concealers are created equal. To avoid dryness, use a creamy concealer for dark circles under your eyes and a thicker, more pigmented, full-coverage concealer for blemishes. Having a few different types on hand can help you tackle various skin concerns more effectively.
3. Blend, Blend, Blend
The key to a seamless concealer application is blending. Use a damp sponge or a fluffy makeup brush to blend the edges of your face concealer into your HD foundation or BB cream. This will help create a smooth blended transition between the concealer and foundation.
4. Set with Powder
To prevent your face concealer from creasing or fading throughout the day, always set it with a translucent powder. Focus on areas where creasing is common, like under the eyes and around the nose.
5. Color Correcting is Key
For stubborn discoloration like dark circles or redness, consider using a color concealer. Peach or orange concealer neutralizes blue tones under the eyes, while green shade cancels out redness. Applying concealer in small amounts and blending it out gives you a flawless finish.
6. Don’t Forget the Inner Corners
When concealing under-eye circles, remember to apply concealer to the inner corners of your eyes. This area is often overlooked but can make a big difference in brightening your eyes and making you look more awake.
7. Warm Up Your Concealer
If your concealer is thick or tends to be a bit dry, try warming it up between your fingers before applying. The heat from your palms will make the product more pliable and easier to blend into your skin.
8. Use a Light Hand
When applying concealer, a light touch is crucial. Use your ring finger or a soft blending brush to gently pat the product into your skin. This technique helps to maintain coverage while blending, and it’s especially important for the delicate under-eye area.
9. Highlight with Concealer
Concealer use isn’t just for hiding imperfections. It can also be used to highlight and contour your face. Apply a lighter shade of face concealer to the high points of your face, like the bridge of your nose, the center of your forehead, and the tops of your cheekbones, to add dimension and brightness.
10. Keep It Fresh Throughout the Day
If your face concealer starts to fade or crease throughout the day, a quick touch-up can work wonders. Carry a mini concealer stick and a travel-sized makeup brush with you for on-the-go fixes. Lightly patting a bit of concealer over any areas that need a boost can refresh your look without starting from scratch.
Makeup has no rules, but concealer application requires some planning. It is just one piece of the makeup puzzle, and it should seamlessly blend with the rest of your makeup routine. Instead of slathering on the product and ending up with cakey under-eye circles, use tips for applying concealer precisely based on your skin concerns. Whether you’re covering dark circles or blemishes or just adding a touch of brightness to your face, Daily Life Forever52 face concealer is your secret weapon to look fresh and radiant. The radiant collection of shades helps you create a flawless base that shines bright.
