Image source: http://media.musely.com/u/f91d8905-907f-49c3-bc5b-b10c162e1459.jpg
Cosmetics are meant to enhance your natural beauty, not to hide it, and definitely not meant to cause skin problems. Concealer is a product that many women, however, do not know how to properly apply. Concealer can ultimately cause the skin to look silky smooth and flawless when applied the correct way. The way most women apply it usually makes the make-up looked caked on or makes the skin look oily, lifeless, and dry. Sometimes the wrong application can even cause dermatology problems. The following tips can help you learn how to apply concealer the correct way, no matter what brand you use.
Tip #1: Use only new, clean products to apply the concealer.
You can apply concealer with your fingers, a brush, a make-up sponge, or a cotton swab. However, no matter how you choose to apply the make-up, make sure that the application product is clean and, if possible, new. When you apply concealer with old tools, the leftover caked on make-up from last application can cause clumps and uneven application. It can also harbor bacteria that can stick to your face and causes blemishes and other dermatological issues. Even if you use your fingers, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before-hand, and always wash your face before applying makeup.
Tip #2: Choose a concealer that perfectly matches your skin tone.
Without the perfectly matched make-up, it does not matter what application process you use. Today, most of the major brands work well with all skin types, but you have to find the best color for your skin tone. Do not just look at the bottles and choose the color that seems right. You may be surprised to find that your face is a lot darker or lighter than you think. Concealer is made with either cool or warm undertones, so even if you get the right darkness, you still may not have the perfect color. Test out small sizes to find the one that is right for you, and remember, you may need a darker color in the summertime if you spend a lot of time outside. Many cosmetic lines have transparent color swatches that you can put your hand under and match your skin tone to the concealer hue.
Tip #3: Apply foundation before applying concealer.
Concealer is meant to do just what the name implies and conceal. It should not be the first thing you put on your face, since concealer is too heavy for an all-over coat that evens out your skin tone. First, put on foundation to do that job; then use concealer to cover up the problem spots. If you use concealer like foundation, you will most likely end up with a caked-on, heavy look.
Tip #5: Set the concealer with a pressed powder.
After applying foundation and concealer, set your face with a pressed powder. Many women skip this step, but if you do, you will likely find that the concealer has worn off by the middle of the day. Pressed powder can actually save you money, since it means you have to apply your concealer less often.
Tip #6: Use a light touch.
For the best application, apply the concealer with a light hand. You can always add more if needed, but with most great products, you actually need to use very little to cover up blemishes. If the concealer comes out to thick, you can draw more attention to those spots on your face. Remember, foundation first, then concealer. If you need more concealer, add it then, but most concealers will likely cover any blemish with just a single coat.
Tip #7: Use special concealer to cover up bruises, dark circles under your eyes, and other hard-to-cover blemishes.
Regular concealer might not work for every person in every instance. For example, if you are trying to cover a scar, dark circles under your eyes, a bruise, or other contrasted blemishes, you may need a special concealer to get the proper coverage. Apply this concealer after foundation and a light touch with your regular concealer. You may be surprised to find that you do not actually need the heavy-duty make-up in most cases. We are usually extra critical of our own faults, but the blemishes on your face may not be that bad, calling only for a regular concealer.
Concealer should be used sparingly, and if you apply it with a discerning eye, it will not look like you are wearing any make-up at all. The right concealer and other make-up products can be your best friends, making your skin look alive, healthy, and fresh, while the wrong application for these products just will not do your natural beauty the proper justice.
Suzanne Bradley is a freelance writer who writes about fashion and beauty, often focusing on a specific product such as concealer.
