Concealer can brighten a tired face,
and can dramatically change your appearance if used correctly. It can cover up blemishes and it can totally
conceal under-eye circles. In fact, many makeup artist use concealer
primarily and skip
foundation
completely.
I discorvered that some of my
friends are afraid of concealers because they don't know how to find the right
shade or apply it properly. It could be difficult, but once you know the basics
and try the application process below, you'll find concealer may be your best
beauty purchase to date.
Pick
the Right Concealer
There are so many types of
concealers in the market, choosing one may be difficult. Keep in mind concealer
is not a beauty product to scrimp on
A basic rule of thumb is to choose a
concealer that's yellow-based and a shade or 2 lighter than your skin tone.
Don't go too light or you could end up with the dreaded look.
Should
You Apply Concealer Before or After Foundation?
This depends on where you're using
the concealer. For under-eye circles, apply concealer first, then foundation. For
blemishes and pimple coverage, apply foundation first or the concealer will be
rubbed away in the foundation application.
How
to Apply Concealer
Concealer looks most natural when
you work in "sheer layers and build it up gradually.
To properly apply concealer, follow
these directions:
- Apply several dots of concealer under the eyes close to the lashes. Apply a dot to the inside corners of the eyes. You can use your finger or, for best results, try a small-headed brush with firm bristles.
- Using the pad of your middle finger, tap in the concealer (always tap, never rub). Make sure to blend well. You can also use your index finger. There's no real rule to it, but I find the middle finger tends to be more gentle.
- Apply concealer on other uneven spots on the face -- including the chin, and around the nose and mouth if need be -- and tap in.
- Apply another layer if you need more coverage.
- Dust powder over your face to set your concealer.
How
to Disguise Dark Under-eye Circles
It's best not to use your basic
concealer to try to disguise dark under-eye circles. Instead, choose an
"under-eye concealer" specially formulated to cover up dark spots.
These work by brightening the dark areas under the eyes and are not to be used
to camouflage redness or blemishes.
How
to Cover Up a Pimple
Use a stiff brush with a pointy,
fine tip to dab on a concealer that matches your skin tone. It's important to
apply only to the red areas, not necessarily to the raised area. Let the
concealer dry. Apply a second layer. Set the concealer with a dusting of
translucent powder. If you find you overdid the concealer, use a tissue to
gently buff the concealer away. If that doesn't work, gently apply makeup
remover to the pimple. Then re-cover the pimple with concealer.
How
to Disguise Pockmarks and Deep Scars
You can disguise a concave pockmark
or scar by using an angled brush dipped in a concealer that's a shade lighter
than your skin tone. Fill in the center of the pockmark without going over the
edges and then dust skin with translucent powder. If the scar is raised, use a
concealer that matches your skin tone and pat the scar with the concealer,
setting the concealer with powder.
Enjoy…..
