Concealer can either be your best friend in achieving that flawless look or a quick way to accentuate unwanted fine lines and wrinkles if not applied properly. Understanding the nuances of concealer application is crucial, and who better to learn from than skilled makeup artists who excel in this craft?
1. **Choosing the Wrong Shade**: One of the most common pitfalls is selecting a concealer that is too light for your skin tone. This mistake can create an unnatural look and accentuate the very lines you’re trying to conceal. A makeup artist explains, “While the common belief is to go for lighter shades, a concealer that is too light can highlight rather than hide.” Opting for just one shade lighter than your skin tone is often the perfect balance.
According to beauty experts from No7, to effectively conceal imperfections, it’s essential that your concealer matches your skin tone perfectly to avoid drawing attention to any problem areas. However, for those pesky dark circles, opting for a slightly lighter shade can brighten the under-eye area beautifully.
2. **Over-Application**: Slathering on too much concealer is a quick way to make your makeup look cakey and unblended. According to the TikTok makeup artist @onqmakeup, “Applying way too much concealer makes it hard to blend and results in a dry, cakey appearance.” Less is more when it comes to concealer application, especially for mature skin that tends to display more pronounced lines.
In her demonstration, @onqmakeup shows how applying concealer to the hand first and then buffing it under the eyes can help control the amount applied, resulting in a more natural look. This technique allows for a strategic application that avoids the pitfalls of overuse.
Read more about: Transform Your Look: Avoid These Common Makeup Mistakes That Can Age You
3. **Ignoring Skin Preparation**: An often overlooked step is preparing the skin properly before concealer application. Without a well-prepped canvas, even the best concealer can become a disaster. Scott Barnes, a renowned makeup artist to celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, shares an ingenious tip: using a lip balm under the eyes before applying concealer can create a smoother surface and prevent creasing.
The lip balm not only moisturizes but also sets the concealer, keeping it from settling into fine lines. This technique is especially useful for long days when makeup needs to stay fresh and intact.
Product on Amazon: Paula’s Choice BOOST Hyaluronic Acid + Peptide Lip Booster, Hydrating Treatment for Lip Volume, Loss of Firmness & Fine Lines, with Squalane, Fragrance-free & Paraben-free, 0.33 Fluid Ounces
Price: $33.00
Rating: 4.0 with 926 ratings
Brand: Paula’s Choice, known for its quality skincare products that deliver real results.
Read more about: Timeless Beauty: Avoid These Makeup Mistakes That Instantly Age Women Over 50
4. **Using Heavy, Matte Formulas**: Many assume that heavy, matte concealers provide better coverage for wrinkles, but they can actually make the skin appear older. Makeup artist Alphie Sadsad advises, “Sheer and moisturizing textures work best when camouflaging wrinkles,” as opposed to heavy formulas that can settle into lines.
Instead of full-coverage products, opt for light-coverage concealers like Revlon Illuminance Serum Concealer. This approach ensures that the product sits on the skin without enhancing texture issues. If additional coverage is needed, a color corrector can be applied first to target specific areas of discoloration.
Avoid these common concealer errors, and you’ll find your makeup looking more fresh and youthful without unintentionally emphasizing lines and wrinkles. With the right shade, amount, skin preparation, and formula, concealer can indeed become a magical tool in your makeup kit.
Product on Amazon: Revlon Illuminance Tinted Serum, Triple Hyaluronic Acid, Evens Out Skin Tone Over Time and Hydrates All Day, SPF 15, 317 Tan Sand, 0.94 fl oz.
Price: $12.61
Rating: 4.1 with 385 ratings
Brand: Revlon, a trusted name in beauty that combines skincare and makeup for exceptional results.
Read more about: 10 Aging Makeup Mistakes That Instantly Add Years To Your Look
5. **Inadequate Blending**: Blending can transform your makeup from amateur to professional. Yet, it’s a step that’s often rushed or overlooked. Makeup artist Laura Kay emphasizes that ‘proper blending is crucial to achieve a natural look. With the right techniques, your concealer should seem to seamlessly merge with your skin, making it virtually invisible. This doesn’t mean you need to spend hours in front of the mirror; rather, using the right tools and techniques can make all the difference.
To achieve optimal blending, start by dabbing your concealer on your hand. Using a damp makeup sponge or brush, gently tap the product into your skin rather than dragging it across. This technique helps to ensure that the product remains where it’s needed most while blending the edges for a seamless finish. Remember, a well-blended concealer not only hides imperfections but also enhances your natural beauty, leaving your skin looking flawless and fresh.
6. **Neglecting the Right Tools**: The tools you use can be as important as the makeup itself. Brushes, sponges, and fingers each have their place in makeup application, but knowing when and how to use them can elevate your makeup game. Makeup experts like Spellos recommend investing in quality tools that suit your skin type and the products you use. Brushes give an airbrushed finish, while sponges are perfect for pressing product into the skin,’ she says.
If you’re looking for precision, brushes are ideal, especially when dealing with the delicate under-eye area. For a more natural look, a makeup sponge can effectively mimic the texture of skin, offering a flawless blend. Whatever tool you choose, ensure it’s clean and in good condition. Dirty brushes can harbor bacteria, leading to breakouts and skin irritation, which is the last thing you want when aiming for a smooth complexion.
Read more about: 10 Aging Makeup Mistakes That Instantly Add Years To Your Look
7. **Skipping Setting Powder**: Many overlook the importance of setting their concealer, which can lead to creasing and fading throughout the day. According to makeup veterans, setting powders are crucial for locking in your makeup and blurring fine lines. ‘A translucent powder can do wonders to keep your concealer in place,’ asserts Laura Kay, who advises applying it sparingly with a fluffy brush.
To avoid a cakey finish, gently press the powder onto your skin, focusing on areas prone to oiliness and creasing. It’s essential not to overdo it; too much powder can settle into lines and enhance wrinkles. The goal is a light, invisible finish that sets your concealer without altering its color or texture. A good setting powder acts as an insurance policy for your makeup, ensuring that your look lasts all day without a hitch.
8. **Forgetting to Hydrate**: Hydration is the foundation of radiant skin, yet many skip this step, thinking concealer alone can mask all skin imperfections. Makeup artists unanimously agree that without proper hydration, your concealer might highlight dry patches and fine lines rather than conceal them. ‘A well-moisturized canvas is half the battle,’ says beauty guru Scott Barnes.
Incorporate a good moisturizer or a hydrating primer into your routine before applying makeup. Not only does this step create a smoother surface for makeup application, but it also helps in achieving a more natural finish. For the ultimate hydration boost, look for products enriched with hyaluronic acid and other skin-loving ingredients.
Product on Amazon: Burt’s Bees Renewal Firming Face Cream, Anti-Aging Retinol Alternative, Moisturizing Natural Origin Skin Care, 1.8 Ounce
Price: $17.92
Rating: 4.3 with 15,841 ratings
Brand: Burt’s Bees, famed for its commitment to natural and effective skincare solutions.
View “#Applying Concealer Before Foundation” posted on instagram >>>
9. **Applying Concealer Before Foundation**: The ongoing debate around this technique can significantly impact the outcome based on your skin type and desired look. While some opt to apply concealer first for targeted coverage, many professionals recommend starting with foundation to build a uniform base. ‘Foundation first can help you use less concealer,’ notes makeup artist Alphie Sadsad, ‘allowing your makeup to look more natural and less layered,’ which is a game-changer in application technique.
After applying your foundation, it’s time to evaluate where you may need additional coverage and gently dab concealer onto those spots. This method guarantees that your concealer blends harmoniously with your base, eliminating any stark contrasts between the products, thus ensuring a flawless finish that lasts longer throughout the day.
10. **Overlooking Skin Tone and Undertone**: Many makeup lovers often focus solely on the color of their concealer, neglecting the importance of undertones, which can lead to an unflattering mismatch. Grasping your skin’s undertone plays a crucial role in choosing a concealer that enhances your natural beauty. Beauty experts from No7 emphasize that ‘your concealer should match your skin tone and undertone to blend seamlessly,’ ensuring a polished and natural appearance.
To determine your undertone, examine the veins on your wrist: blue or purple suggests a cool undertone, green indicates warm, and a mix of both points to a neutral undertone. Once you’ve identified your undertone, choose a concealer that aligns with it. This simple adjustment can dramatically improve the effectiveness of your concealer, making your skin look more even and radiant.
In pursuit of that flawless finish, remember that concealer is both an art and a science. With these expert tips and an understanding of what to avoid, you’re well on your way to mastering its application. Embrace these insights to enhance your natural beauty and achieve a youthful, radiant complexion every day.
Related posts:
‘I’m a makeup artist and you’re making a big mistake with concealer – your face looks dry and cakey’
Jennifer Lopez’s Makeup Artist Reveals $10 Secret to Looking 20 Years Younger!
6 makeup tricks to camouflage wrinkles, rather than highlight them
