If you want a flawless makeup look, concealer is an essential key that should not be overlooked. Not only does it help conceal skin imperfections, but concealer also boosts your confidence.
This article will discuss in detail what concealer is, its functions, types, how to choose the right one, and the risks of its use. Let’s dive deeper into understanding concealer and why it is an important part of your makeup routine.
What Is Concealer?
Concealer is a cosmetic product designed to address specific facial skin issues, such as acne, scars, dark circles under the eyes, redness, and more.
This product has a thicker texture compared to foundation, allowing for higher coverage in targeted areas. Concealer is often used after foundation to touch up areas that need extra attention.
The Difference Between Concealer and Foundation
While both are used to even out the skin, concealer and foundation have fundamental differences. Foundation is designed to provide a base layer for the entire face, creating an even skin tone.
Meanwhile, concealer is applied specifically to cover certain areas. Additionally, concealer usually has higher pigmentation, making it more effective for covering small blemishes. Therefore, you can rely on foundation alone if there are no specific facial issues to cover.
Also Read: What is Primer Makeup and Its Function
Concealer’s Functions for Facial Skin
Next, let’s explore how concealer works to perfect your skin’s appearance.
1. Concealing Acne and Acne Scars
Acne and acne scars can often lower confidence. With concealer, you can cover these spots without making them look heavy or unnatural.
A matte formula concealer is ideal for acne as it controls oil in the area. Use a small applicator for precision and set it with translucent powder to make it last longer.
Also Read: Tips Choosing Sunscreen for Acne-Prone Skin
2. Covering Dark Circles Under the Eyes
Dark circles under the eyes often make the face look tired and dull. Orange or peach-toned concealers work well to neutralize these dark areas, especially on tan skin.
Apply gently using your fingers or a small sponge for a smooth finish. Then, set it with a bit of powder to prevent creasing.
3. Evening Out Skin Tone
Uneven skin tone, such as dark patches or redness, can be corrected with concealer. Choose a concealer shade close to your skin tone for a smoother skin effect. Blend it well for a natural result.
4. Neutralizing Redness
For redness caused by allergies, acne, or irritation, green concealers are the solution. Green tones neutralize redness on the skin, creating a calmer and more even look. Apply gently to the red areas before using foundation.
5. Enhancing Specific Facial Features
Beyond covering imperfections, concealer can also enhance facial features. For example, use a lighter concealer for highlighting cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, or the forehead. This technique adds dimension to the face and creates a fresher look.
6. Hiding Small Scars or Visible Veins
Small scars or visible veins can be concealed with creamy-textured concealers. With high pigmentation, these concealers effectively mask such problems. Use your finger to tap the concealer until it blends perfectly with your skin.
Types of Concealer
Now that you understand the main functions of concealer, the next step is to know the different types of concealers available and which ones suit your needs.
1. Liquid Concealer
Liquid concealers are the most commonly used type and have a fluid texture. They are versatile and suitable for various skin types, especially oily and combination skin.
Advantages:
- Its lightweight texture makes it comfortable for all-day wear, even on sensitive areas like under the eyes.
- Easy to blend with fingers, brushes, or makeup sponges, making it beginner-friendly.
- Can be applied in thin layers or built up for higher coverage without making the makeup look heavy.
- Ideal for oily skin, as some formulas help control excess oil.
Also Read: Skincare for Oily Skin
Disadvantages:
- May not always provide full coverage, especially for prominent dark spots or scars.
- Some products might not mix well with other makeup if not applied correctly.
Usage Tips:
For best results, use a damp makeup sponge to blend liquid concealer naturally. Apply with a tapping motion, not rubbing, to maintain maximum coverage. Use the built-in applicator for precise application on small areas.
Liquid concealers are ideal for evening out skin tone or covering dark circles with a lightweight and natural finish.
2. Cream Concealer
Cream concealers have a thicker texture than liquid concealers, offering higher coverage. They are often packaged in jars or palettes, requiring additional applicators like brushes or sponges.
Advantages:
- High coverage makes cream concealers effective for covering dark spots, acne scars, and redness.
- Provides a smooth finish, especially on dry skin that needs extra moisture.
- Highly versatile, suitable for full-face use or for contouring and highlighting.
Disadvantages:
- If over-applied, cream concealers can look cakey or heavy, especially in areas with fine lines like under the eyes.
- More difficult to blend compared to liquid concealers, particularly on poorly hydrated skin.
Usage Tips:
Before applying cream concealer, ensure your skin is moisturized. Use a small brush to apply concealer to the targeted areas, then blend with a makeup sponge or fingers for a seamless look. Avoid over-application to maintain a natural finish.
Cream concealers are a perfect choice for special occasions when you need flawless coverage that lasts all day.
3. Stick Concealer
Stick concealer has a shape similar to lipstick or crayon, making it very practical to use. This type of concealer is suitable for those who travel frequently as it is easy to apply without requiring additional tools.
Advantages:
- Practical and portable, making it ideal for mid-day touch-ups.
- Very quick to apply; simply swipe directly from the stick onto the desired area.
- Provides good coverage to quickly conceal small blemishes, scars, or dark circles.
Disadvantages:
- Not ideal for dry skin as its denser texture may make dry areas appear flakier.
- Prone to clogging pores if not blended properly or used on oily skin.
Tips for Use:
For best results, use a light moisturizer before applying stick concealer, especially if you have dry skin. After application, blend with your fingers or a small sponge for a smoother, more even finish. Ensure you apply the concealer lightly to avoid a cakey appearance.
Stick concealer is the perfect choice for those needing a quick and practical solution to conceal skin imperfections.
How to Choose the Right Concealer Shade
Once you understand the types of concealer, the next step is knowing how to choose the right shade for your specific needs.
Selecting the correct concealer shade is essential for achieving the best makeup results. Here’s a simple guide:
- Green: To neutralize redness from acne or irritation.
- Orange: Suitable for covering dark circles on medium to tan skin, brightening the under-eye area.
- Yellow: Used to even out pale or dull skin tones.
- Purple: Ideal for brightening dull areas of skin, such as around the nose or mouth.
How to Use Concealer for Maximum Results
After choosing the right concealer shade, let’s explore techniques for effectively using it.
1. Understand the Skin Issues to Address and Your Skin Type
Before using concealer, identify your skin concerns. Do you want to cover acne, dark circles, or redness? Additionally, ensure you choose a concealer suitable for your skin type—liquid for oily skin or cream for dry skin.
2. Select the Appropriate Concealer
Use a concealer with the right shade for specific concerns. For professional results, you may want to have several types of concealers in different shades for various needs.
3. Apply Concealer Sparingly and Blend
Avoid using too much product. Apply just enough and blend with a sponge or fingers using gentle patting motions to ensure it seamlessly integrates with your skin.
4. Set the Concealer with Powder
Translucent powder is essential for setting concealer to make it last longer and prevent smudging, especially in oily areas like the nose.
5. Complete Your Makeup
After applying concealer, proceed with other makeup products such as blush, highlighter, or lipstick to perfect your look.
Also Read: Proper Daily Makeup Routine
Risks of Using Concealer
In addition to its diverse functions, there are risks to be aware of when using concealer. Here are a few:
1. Eye Infections and Irritation
Unhygienic use of concealer, particularly around the eyes, can cause infections or irritation. Ensure the applicator is always clean and not shared with others.
2. Bacterial Spread on the Skin
Applying concealer directly from the packaging without cleaning the applicator first can harbor bacteria that lead to acne or irritation.
3. Skin Allergies Due to Concealer Ingredients
Some concealer products contain ingredients that may cause allergic reactions on sensitive skin. Always conduct an allergy test before using it on your face.
Concealer is a magical tool that helps you create a flawless complexion. By understanding its functions, types, shades, and proper usage techniques, you can easily address various skin concerns. Don’t forget to maintain applicator cleanliness and perform an allergy test before trying new products to avoid irritation.
