How to use concealer
Looking to learn more about concealers? Here is everything you need to know!
How to apply concealer
Start by figuring out which foundation you’re using.
If you’re using a liquid foundation or cream foundation, apply that first before going over any problem areas with concealer. If you’re using a powder foundation, set the concealer down first before applying powder. If you’re not using foundation, apply concealer and then set it in place with a translucent powder.
Regardless of which concealer you’re using or where it’s being applied, you should always set your concealer with powder to keep it intact and prevent it from creasing during the day. This is particularly essential for oilier skin types.
Brushes and blending sponges are perfect for applying liquid concealers evenly. A small concealer brush with fine bristles is perfect for covering pimples and spots. Blending sponges are great for smooth application of concealer to a large surface area. Just be sure to dab the sponge rather than rubbing or dragging the skin as that will just move the product around.
Cream concealers tend to be a little tougher, hence why some makeup artists recommend just using your trusty finger. The natural oils of your finger help to warm the product for a better, smoother application. Just make sure they’re clean!
Another tip to note is to use an eye cream before concealing dark circles. The under-eye area is quite sensitive. Eye cream makes for a smoother application and will prevent the area from caking.
Do you put on concealer before or after foundation?
If you are using liquid or cream foundation, apply this first before putting on concealer.
If you’re using a powder foundation, then use your concealer first before applying your foundation.
If you aren’t using foundation, apply your concealer and then set it in place with a translucent powder.
How to choose your concealer type and shade
Choosing your concealer type and shade depends on your skin type and specific concerns.
If you have dry skin, a cream or stick concealer will be best for you. You can always try a liquid concealer, but remember that a liquid concealer with a matte finish will accentuate dryness.
The same goes for those with oily skin and enlarged pores, where a stick or cream concealer will clog and emphasise the pores. They also can add an oily shine, which is not ideal if you have oily skin.
Liquid concealers are best for normal, combination, oily, sensitive and breakout-prone skin.
Stick concealers are best for normal, dry and sensitive skin.
Cream concealers are best for normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin.
When selecting a shade of concealer, find a shade that matches your foundation closely. For the undereye area, try to select a shade that is one to two shades lighter than your skin tone. This is to avoid drawing attention to the area with a visible circle.
You can also use a colour concealer to correct blemishes. Some examples of how to use colour correcting concealers are:
Green concealer: This concealer is used to neutralise redness on any skin tone.
Yellow concealer: This concealer is used to cancel out purple and blue tones and corrects mild redness.
Purple concealer: This concealer is used to neutralise dull yellow undertones on light to medium skin.
Pink concealer: This concealer is used to brighten dull and discoloured skin.
Orange concealer: This concealer is used to cancel dark circles and brown spots on medium to dark skin.
Blue concealer: This concealer is used to neutralise hyperpigmentation and discolouration in light.
What is green concealer used for?
Green concealers are the perfect tool for camouflaging any redness on the skin. They work by neutralising the redness with green as an opposing colour. This is great for covering breakouts, acne scars and rosacea. These concealers also work to reduce any redness around the nose and mouth, so it’s truly the perfect concealer for your whole face. Even better, it works for any skin tone, so if you are suffering from redness, then a green concealer is your best friend.
