When used correctly, concealer can brighten a tired face; it can cover up blemishes and can totally conceal under-eye circles. Once concealer application is mastered, many women decide to only use concealer and powder, completely skipping the foundation (I am not one of these women, I need my foundation).
Here are some tips to getting the perfect concealer application:
·
Choose the right concealer. Concealer is most commonly used
to cover up two skin care woes: under-eye circles and blemishes. It can also be used to camouflage scars,
birthmarks, and other issues that cause uneven skin tone. Many different types
of concealers are available, and you’ll generally want to use different types
to combat different issues. You might find that a pinkish tone in a slightly
heavier formula works best for my dark under-eye circles, whereas a lighter tinted
and medicated formula will treat blemishes. Beauty counters and stores like
Sephora allow you to test different shades and formulas. If you tend to get more bronzed in the summer, you might need to
go a shade darker.
·
Prepare your
canvas. To
avoid blemishes and have concealer go on smoothly, start by washing and drying
your face well before putting on a light layer of oil-free moisturizer.
Concealer won’t blend well on dry skin, so hydrating is important.
·
Blend well. The key to applying concealer, beyond selecting the right
shade and formula for the job, is blending well. You want your skin to look
flawless and natural, not “covered up.” Covering under-eye circles is tricky;
gradually build up sheer layers of concealer for a more natural look. A few
dots of concealer gently tapped (never rubbed) into the area and blended
outward works well. When covering scars or blemishes, use a Q-tip to blend
concealer in a circular motion, because using your finger can transfer oil to
your face and further aggravate problem skin.
·
Above brow and nose. Apply concealer in a T shape above your brow (I
do above about half of each brow), and down between your eyebrows over the top
half of your nose. A good rule to follow is two finger widths from the
middle of your face on each side of your nose, and two finger widths starting
from your eye brows down your nose. You use the same technique as for
under the eyes, practice makes perfect so practice. Other areas to
remember are the little creases of your nose along the outer edge of your
nostrils and the cheek crease from your nose to the corners of your mouth.
·
Set the look. If you’re going to apply foundation, now is the time to
blend it into your concealer; however, if you’re skipping this step, you’ll
still want to set your concealer with loose powder; use a big fluffy brush.
This step ensures that your concealer stays put, and it provides a nice matte
finish.
Hope you find this helpful!
Thank you for reading!