You use a different approach for each problem.
You may have wondered why your favorite concealer covers imperfections just fine, but always leaves visible creases under your eyes. Or why even the thickest concealer never seems to last past noon. Makeup artists Emily Clarkson and Lucy Hart share their tips for taking this makeup essential to the next level.
To get rid of dark circles
If you have dark circles under your eyes, concealer is the best way to brighten them and even out any discoloration. However, it is important to use the right formula because the skin under the eyes moves a lot, causing fine lines to form. According to Hart, light, creamy concealers that can be applied in thin layers are best for this part of the face. “Use light dabbing motions and always apply liquid concealer with a translucent powder to keep it in place,” she advises.
“Prepping the skin with a hydrating eye cream and then using a concealer with a serum-like texture is my favorite combination,” adds Clarkson. “Personally, I apply under-eye concealer with my ring finger and really warm the product on the back of my hand so you don’t apply too much.”
To cover pimples and blemishes
When it comes to hiding blemishes and blemishes, you need a completely different type of product and application than under the eyes. “For blemishes, I like to use a small flat brush to apply concealer so you’re really applying the product to that specific area,” explains Clarkson. She prefers a concealer with a slightly thicker texture to hide imperfections. “I then powder the product into place,” she adds. “You can repeat these steps as necessary to really make the product last all day. Light layers are the key to this technique!”
To reduce redness
Women often have redness, especially around the bottom of the nose. “This is very common and is always the first place where redness becomes visible,” explains Clarkson. “For overall redness, I like to mix my concealer with a small amount of moisturizer. This way you get even skin but it still looks natural.”
She recommends using a soft brush to apply. “I fill the brush with product and lightly glide around areas where redness is visible,” she explains. Hart recommends looking for formulas that are hydrating but have high coverage. “For a natural finish, avoid anything too thick and only conceal the areas where the redness is most noticeable. Then use a light base, such as a tinted moisturizer, for the rest of your face.”
