How do you use color correction in makeup?
Using color correction involves applying specific colored products to neutralize unwanted skin tones or discolorations before applying foundation and concealer. The goal is to create an even canvas for your base makeup, effectively hiding imperfections like redness, dark circles, or sallowness.
Color correction works based on the principles of the color wheel. Colors opposite each other on the wheel cancel each other out. For instance:
- Green neutralizes redness (like acne or rosacea).
- Peach or Orange corrects dark circles or spots on medium to deep skin tones.
- Yellow brightens sallowness or mild redness.
- Lavender or Purple counteracts yellow tones or sallowness.
Choosing the right color corrector is crucial for addressing your specific skin concerns.
Applying Color Corrector: A Step-by-Step Guide
Based on standard makeup practices and the provided reference, color correction is integrated into your base makeup routine.
Here's a common method, incorporating the steps mentioned in the reference regarding covering spots:
- Identify the Area: Determine the specific spot or area you want to neutralize (e.g., a red blemish, a dark under-eye circle).
- Apply Color Corrector: Gently dab or lightly brush the appropriate color corrector onto the target area. Use a small amount; you only need enough to neutralize the color, not cover it completely at this stage.
- Blend Lightly: Softly blend the edges of the color corrector so it seamlessly transitions into your skin, without rubbing it away from the target area.
- Apply Foundation: Apply your regular foundation over the color-corrected area and the rest of your face. Blend gently over the color correctors as you apply your foundation to help maintain their neutralizing effect and achieve a flawless makeup look, as mentioned in the reference.
- Apply Concealer: According to the reference, after your foundation is your concealer. Here is where you will truly cover the spot. Apply concealer directly onto the area you color-corrected and applied foundation over.
- Blend Concealer: Gently tap or pat the concealer to blend it, focusing the coverage on the spot.
- Set Your Complexion: The last step is to set your complexion with a setting powder to ensure it stays all day. Lightly dust powder over the concealed and color-corrected areas to lock everything in place.
Key Considerations for Application
- Less is More: Start with a tiny amount of product and build up if necessary. Applying too much color corrector can look unnatural or make your base makeup cakey.
- Targeted Application: Only apply color corrector exactly where the discoloration is needed.
- Gentle Blending: Patting or gentle tapping motions are often better than rubbing, especially over the color corrector, to avoid disturbing the product.
Following these steps helps to effectively cancel out unwanted tones, allowing your foundation and concealer to provide true coverage without needing excessive product.
