How to Use Concealer

Concealer is a game-changer in any makeup kit. It’s perfect for brightening up dark under-eye circles, hiding blemishes, and achieving that flawless look we all want. Applying it correctly can really transform your makeup routine, so here’s a straightforward guide to help you master the art of concealer for a smooth and natural finish.

Step 1: Pick the Right Shade and Formula

The first step is to find a shade that suits your skin tone and specific needs:

• For Under-Eye Circles: Choose a concealer that’s 1-2 shades lighter than your foundation. This will help brighten the area without looking too stark.
• For Blemishes: Match your concealer as closely as possible to your foundation shade to ensure it blends nicely.
• For Redness or Discoloration: Consider color-correcting concealers—green helps neutralize redness, while peach or orange can mask dark spots.

Also, select a formula that matches your skin type:

• Creamy concealers work well for dry or mature skin.
• Liquid concealers are great for combination to oily skin.
• Stick or pencil concealers are perfect for targeted spot concealing.

Step 2: Prep Your Skin

Before you dive into applying concealer, it’s essential to prep your skin:

• Cleanse and Moisturize: Start with a clean, hydrated base so the concealer glides on smoothly and lasts longer.
• Prime the Area (Optional): If you have oily skin or want extra staying power, consider applying a primer to your under-eye area or any blemishes before using concealer.

Step 3: Apply Foundation First

Applying foundation first can help reduce how much concealer you need. This allows you to use less product while still achieving great coverage and evening out your skin tone.

Step 4: Apply Concealer Strategically

• For Under-Eyes:
  Draw an upside-down triangle under your eye, with the base against your lower lash line and the point extending down toward your cheek. This shape brightens your under-eye area while avoiding harsh lines. Blend it out using a damp sponge or brush, gently patting to create a seamless look—avoid dragging the concealer, as it can irritate the delicate skin there.
• For Blemishes:
  Dot the concealer directly onto any spots using a small brush or your fingertip. Pat around the edges to blend it in without wiping away the coverage.
• For Redness or Discoloration:
  If you’re using a color-correcting concealer, apply a thin layer and blend it out well. Then, lightly cover it with a regular concealer that matches your skin tone.

Step 5: Set with Powder

To prevent creasing and help your concealer last longer:

• Lightly Dust with Translucent Powder: Use a small, fluffy brush to apply a little translucent powder over the areas you concealed, especially under your eyes.
• Bake (Optional): For extra staying power, apply a thicker layer of powder under your eyes, let it sit for a few minutes, then brush off the excess.

Pro Tips for Flawless Concealer Application

• Blend in Layers: If you need more coverage, start with a thin layer, blend, and then add more if necessary instead of piling it on all at once.
• Use Less Product on Fine Lines: A light touch is best; too much concealer can settle into fine lines.
• Finish with Hydrating Spray: A hydrating setting spray can help everything meld together nicely and give you a more natural finish.

Recommended Products

1. Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

• Type: Liquid
• Coverage: Full
• Why You’ll Love It: This one’s a cult favorite! It offers amazing coverage for dark circles and blemishes while still feeling light on your skin. Plus, it has a matte finish that lasts all day.

2. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

• Type: Cream
• Coverage: Buildable
• Why You’ll Love It: Known for its smooth, creamy texture, this concealer blends beautifully without feeling heavy. It’s perfect for covering imperfections, whether it’s under your eyes or on spots.

3. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer

• Type: Liquid
• Coverage: Medium
• Why You’ll Love It: A great budget-friendly pick! This concealer brightens up your under-eye area and comes with a handy applicator. It’s hydrating and super easy to blend.

4. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer

• Type: Cream
• Coverage: Full
• Why You’ll Love It: This one works wonders for dark circles. It’s rich and moisturizing, so it covers well while improving the look of your skin.

5. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer

• Type: Liquid
• Coverage: Medium to Full
• Why You’ll Love It: With an impressive shade range, this concealer is smooth and blendable. It gives great coverage while feeling lightweight, making it a fan favorite.

6. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in “Joy”

• Type: Liquid (dual-use)
• Coverage: Highly pigmented
• Why You’ll Love It: While it’s mainly a blush, this product can also be used as a light concealer for a fresh pop of color and a cohesive look.

7. e.l.f. 16HR Camo Concealer

• Type: Liquid
• Coverage: Full
• Why You’ll Love It: This is a fantastic budget option that doesn’t skimp on coverage. It offers a matte finish and lasts a long time, making it a solid choice.

8. Glossier Stretch Concealer

• Type: Cream
• Coverage: Light to Medium
• Why You’ll Love It: Perfect for everyday wear, this concealer gives a natural finish and is easy to build up if you need a little more coverage. It’s also hydrating!

9. L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer

• Type: Liquid
• Coverage: Medium to Full
• Why You’ll Love It: A favorite at the drugstore, this concealer works for both highlighting and concealing. It’s lightweight and comes in a bunch of shades, including color correctors.

10. Bobbi Brown Instant Full Cover Concealer

• Type: Liquid
• Coverage: Full
• Why You’ll Love It: This one provides fantastic coverage while remaining lightweight. It’s also waterproof, making it perfect for those long days.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Use Concealer

1. What’s the purpose of concealer?

Concealer is a makeup staple that helps cover things like blemishes, dark circles, and uneven skin tone. It can also be used to highlight areas of your face for added dimension.

2. How do I pick the right shade of concealer?

• For Dark Circles: Choose a shade that’s 1-2 shades lighter than your foundation.
• For Blemishes: Find a concealer that closely matches your foundation shade to keep it seamless.
• For Redness or Discoloration: Look for color-correcting shades—green works for redness, while peach or orange can tackle dark spots.

3. What type of concealer should I use based on my skin type?

• Creamy Concealers: Great for dry or mature skin since they provide extra hydration.
• Liquid Concealers: Perfect for combination to oily skin because they feel lightweight.
• Stick or Pencil Concealers: Best for targeted spot coverage.

4. Should I apply foundation or concealer first?

It’s usually best to start with foundation. This way, you can even out your skin tone and use less concealer, giving you a more natural look.

5. What’s the best technique for applying concealer?

1. For Under-Eyes: Draw an upside-down triangle under your eye and gently blend it with a damp sponge or brush.
2. For Blemishes: Dab concealer directly onto the blemish and pat around the edges to blend it in.
3. For Redness: Use a thin layer of color corrector, blend it out, and then apply a matching concealer on top.

6. How do I keep my concealer looking fresh all day?

• Set with Powder: After applying, lightly dust some translucent powder over the concealed areas to help prevent creasing, especially under your eyes.
• Baking (Optional): For extra staying power, apply a thicker layer of powder under your eyes and let it sit for a few minutes before brushing off the excess.

7. What mistakes should I avoid when using concealers?

• Using too much product, especially under the eyes, can make it look cakey.
• Forgetting to moisturize or prime, which helps create a smooth base for the concealer.
• Not setting it with powder, which can lead to creasing or fading.

8. Can I use it for highlighting and contouring?

Absolutely! Use a lighter shade on the high points of your face, like the bridge of your nose and cheekbones, to highlight. A darker shade can be applied under your cheekbones and along your jawline for contouring.

9. What’s the best way to remove concealer?

Use a gentle makeup remover or cleansing oil to break down the concealer without irritating your skin. Always follow up with your regular cleansing routine to keep your skin healthy.

10. How can I fix concealers that’s settled into fine lines?

If your concealer settles into fine lines, try using a lighter hand next time. A hydrating setting spray after your makeup can help everything blend more seamlessly.

Conclusion

By mastering these steps, you’ll be able to use concealer to enhance your natural beauty, whether you want to cover up imperfections or achieve an even, radiant skin tone. Have fun trying out these techniques to discover the look that suits you best!