While it might be tempting to slather concealer all over your face, thinking it will erase every imperfection, that’s actually a common misconception. Concealer is a powerful tool, but less is often more. Using too much can lead to a cakey appearance and draw unwanted attention to the very areas you’re trying to perfect. Instead of masking your entire face, strategic placement is key to achieving a flawless and natural look. Let’s dive into exactly Where To Apply Concealer for the best results.
Concealer or Foundation: Understanding the Difference
Many wonder if concealer can replace foundation. The answer is yes, but with a caveat. You can use concealer in place of foundation for targeted coverage, especially when you aim for a minimal makeup look or want to let your natural skin shine through. However, it’s crucial to use it sparingly. Think of concealer as your targeted treatment for specific areas needing extra attention, rather than an all-over base.
For those considering this approach, choosing the right product is essential. Opt for a non-comedogenic concealer to prevent clogged pores. A great option is the L’Oréal Paris True Match Radiant Serum Concealer, known for its hydrating hyaluronic acid formula, offering coverage without feeling heavy.
Foundation First, Concealer Second? Or the Other Way Around?
The age-old makeup debate: foundation before or after concealer? While makeup is all about personal preference and experimentation, there’s a generally recommended order for achieving a smooth, crease-free finish. For a more natural and seamless makeup application, applying foundation before concealer is often the preferred method. Foundation creates an even canvas, reducing overall redness and minor imperfections. This means you’ll need less concealer to achieve your desired level of coverage.
Applying foundation first allows you to see exactly where you still need extra coverage. This prevents you from over-applying concealer, which can lead to a heavy or unnatural look. The only exception to this rule is when you are color-correcting specific blemishes, like under-eye circles or redness. In these cases, apply your color corrector or concealer to neutralize discoloration before applying foundation.
Strategic Concealer Placement for a Natural Makeup Look
The secret to a natural “no-makeup makeup” look lies in enhancing your features subtly. This often starts with a hydrating skincare routine to create a healthy base. Concealer then steps in to address specific concerns like under-eye circles or dark spots, helping you achieve an even skin tone while still looking like yourself.
When targeting dark under-eye circles, a peach-toned color corrector can be your best friend. Peach shades effectively neutralize the bluish tones of dark circles because they sit opposite each other on the color wheel. As for where to apply concealer under the eyes for dark circles, start by applying a peach color-correcting concealer in a semi-circular shape directly under the inner corner of your eye, following the natural curve. Extend this into a slight tail towards your cheekbone to create a lifted effect, drawing attention upwards and outwards. Blend gently with a makeup sponge or your fingertips, allowing the warmth of your skin to melt the product in. Follow with a concealer that matches your skin tone, layering it over the color corrector for brightness and seamless blending. Again, the L’Oréal Paris True Match Radiant Serum Concealer is an excellent choice, providing hydration, reducing puffiness, and effectively covering dark circles.
Concealer as an Eyeshadow Primer: A Dual-Purpose Product
Eyeshadow primer is designed to create a smooth, even base for eyeshadow, preventing creasing and enhancing color payoff. If you’re out of eyeshadow primer, or looking for a multi-tasking product, concealer can be a fantastic substitute. For oily lids, opt for a matte concealer formula to prevent eyeshadow from sliding and creasing.
To use concealer as an eyeshadow primer, apply a tiny amount of eye-safe concealer to each eyelid. Gently blend it out to create a thin, even layer from lash line to brow bone. Set the concealer with a white eyeshadow or translucent setting powder to further prevent creasing. This simple beauty hack is especially useful in warm weather or during long days when you need your eyeshadow to last.
Sculpting with Concealer: Contouring for Defined Features
Concealer isn’t just for concealing; it’s also a powerful tool for sculpting and defining your facial features. You can create the illusion of sculpted cheekbones and a more defined face by using concealer for contouring. Choose a concealer that is one to two shades darker than your natural skin tone to create shadows and depth.
For contouring, use a full-coverage concealer like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer Waterproof, Full Coverage in your chosen darker shade. Apply thin stripes of the darker concealer to the areas you want to contour: along the sides of your nose, under your cheekbones (following the hollows beneath your cheekbones), on your temples, and along your jawline. Blend these lines thoroughly with a makeup sponge or brush to soften the edges and create a natural shadow. This technique will leave you with a more sculpted and defined facial structure.
By understanding where to apply concealer for different purposes – concealing imperfections, highlighting under eyes, priming lids, and contouring – you can unlock the full potential of this versatile makeup product and achieve a range of stunning looks.
