How to Apply Concealer Flawlessly, According to Makeup Pros
Acne, age spots and hyperpigmentation and dark circles are normal part of life and having skin, and they're nothing to be ashamed of. But for when you're looking for even-toned, flawless coverage, the right concealer can feel like a magic wand that can cancel out discoloration and glide over uneven texture.
Concealers come in a myriad of consistencies, forms and finishes, from liquid to cream to stick and beyond. The key is to find the right formula and tone for whatever issue you're trying to hide. Here are all the makeup tips and tricks you need to know to make your concealer look flawless:
1. First, pick the right color concealer
Finding the right tone and the right color for the task at hand is crucial. Here's your cheat sheet:
- Peach shades cancel out blueish undereye circles and dark spots from sun or aging.
- Green tones hide red blemishes — follow up with a concealer that matches your skin tone exactly (or close to!).
- Yellow-toned concealers help to correct uneven skin tone from redness or hyperpigmentation.
2. Choose the right formula for the job
Not all forms of concealer are created equal. Pick from these options depending on what you're trying to achieve:
- Crayons, sticks, or pencils are ideal for "precise application like a blemish or age spot" or scar, says makeup artist Erica Whelan. They often offer heavy coverage and require minimal blending when applied precisely, and are best suited for dry or combination skin, since "these formulas tend to be a little creamier," says Joy Fennell, makeup artist and founder of The Joy in Beauty and All Black Everything Summit.
- Pots and creams are great for oily skin or tasks that require higher coverage. "Cream concealers are thicker, therefore, they can be used to cover more [like] hyperpigmentation and other problem areas," says Fennell. These also "tend to be the most versatile because you can always thin them down if need be with a little moisturizer," she adds. Apply with a brush for maximum coverage or use your fingers for a more natural finish.
- Liquids: Suitable for all skin types, but particularly great for dry skin, a "liquid formula adds a level of hydration without making the skin look even drier," says Fennell. From the tube, "apply directly to the skin and blend with your finger, sponge, or fluffy eye shadow brush," says Whelan.
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