Applying concealer effectively involves targeting specific areas like under eyes and blemishes with the right techniques and tools.
To apply concealer, focus on areas needing coverage, use precise application techniques, and blend thoroughly for a natural finish.
Applying concealer is a key step in any makeup routine, helping to brighten, cover dark circles, and camouflage imperfections. Here are some essential tips for applying concealer like a pro.
Tip 1: Prepare Your Skin
Before applying concealer, ensure your skin is clean and moisturized. Well-hydrated skin helps concealer glide on smoothly and prevents it from looking patchy or settling into fine lines. A primer can also create a smooth base, especially under the eyes or over textured skin.
Tip 2: Choose the Right Concealer
- Color Matching: Select a concealer that matches your foundation shade for covering blemishes. For brightening under the eyes, a shade one or two levels lighter than your foundation is often recommended.
- Formula: Choose a formula based on your needs and skin type.
- Liquid concealers are versatile, good for under eyes and blemishes.
- Cream concealers offer higher coverage and are great for discoloration.
- Stick concealers provide targeted, full coverage, suitable for blemishes or intense dark circles.
Tip 3: Targeted Application Techniques
Apply concealer only where needed, rather than sweeping it all over.
- Under Eyes: Apply concealer in a triangular shape under the eye (base under the eye, point down towards the cheek) or just along the dark areas. This helps brighten the entire area and creates a lifted effect.
- Blemishes: Apply a small amount of concealer directly onto the spot.
Editor's Tip for Blemishes:
Editor's tip: Use a clean concealer brush to apply the product over any blemishes. This is better than applying the product directly onto any acne spots, as the bacteria from your breakouts can end up on the concealer wand.
Using a brush ensures hygienic application and allows for more precise placement, covering the blemish without using excess product.
- Redness Around Nose/Mouth: Apply a small amount to the sides of the nose or chin if needed.
Tip 4: Blend Gently
Blending is crucial for a seamless look.
- Tools: Use a damp makeup sponge, a concealer brush, or your ring finger to gently pat and blend the product into the skin. Avoid rubbing, which can remove the coverage.
- Technique: Lightly tap or bounce the tool/finger on the edges of the applied concealer, blending it into the surrounding foundation or skin.
Tip 5: Set Your Concealer
To prevent creasing, especially under the eyes, and to prolong wear time, set your concealer with a small amount of translucent or skin-toned setting powder. Use a fluffy brush or a damp sponge to lightly press the powder onto the concealed areas.
Quick Concealer Application Tips
Here is a summary of key tips:
| Area | Technique | Tool Recommendation | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under Eyes | Apply in triangle or along dark areas, then pat | Damp sponge, ring finger, soft brush | Brightens, conceals dark circles, looks lifted |
| Blemishes | Apply directly to spot | Clean concealer brush (recommended by editor) | Hygenic, precise coverage |
| Blending | Pat/bounce edges | Damp sponge, ring finger, brush | Seamless finish, prevents patchiness |
| Setting | Lightly press powder over concealed area | Small fluffy brush, damp sponge | Prevents creasing, increases longevity |
By following these tips, you can achieve flawless-looking skin with well-applied concealer.
