Understanding Concealer: What It Is and How It Works
What Is Concealer?
Concealer is a cosmetic product used to conceal imperfections such as dark circles, blemishes, and discolorations on the skin. Think of it as a more pigmented counterpart to foundation, designed to cover specific areas rather than providing an all-over tint. It works by creating a barrier that hides these flaws, allowing for a smoother and more uniform complexion.
How Concealer Works
When applying concealer, the principle is simple: it masks areas of the skin that need extra coverage. The formula typically contains higher levels of pigments than regular foundation, enabling it to effectively conceal rather than just blend into the skin. Concealer can be layered, ensuring we can achieve the desired level of coverage without looking cakey.
Choosing the Right Shade: A Simple Guide for Everyone
Understanding Undertones
When selecting a concealer shade, understanding your skin tone and undertone is vital. Skin tones generally fall into three categories: fair, medium, and deep. Each range will have its undertones, which can either be warm (yellow, peachy), cool (pink, rosy), or neutral. We can determine our undertone by observing the veins in our wrist; blue veins may indicate a cool undertone, while green suggests warmth.
Matching Concealer to Your Skin
The ideal concealer should be one or two shades lighter than your foundation if you’re using it to brighten areas like under the eyes. However, if concealing blemishes, a shade that closely matches your foundation is best for seamless blending. Always swatch the concealer on your jawline in natural light to ensure it complements your skin’s colour.
Types of Concealers: Cream, Liquid, and Stick – Which One to Pick?
Cream Concealers
Cream concealers are thick and provide full coverage, making them excellent for hiding larger blemishes or scars. They have a rich consistency that allows for easy blending and can be applied with a brush or fingertip. We recommend cream concealers for those with dry to normal skin, as they can offer a nourishing texture without settling into fine lines.
Liquid Concealers
Liquid concealers are versatile and come in various formulations, from lightweight to full coverage. They’re easy to apply and can be used for both under-eye areas and general blemishes. If you prefer a more natural finish or have oily skin, liquid concealers are a fantastic choice because they won’t add extra shine to your complexion.
Stick Concealers
Stick concealers are portable and convenient, ideal for on-the-go touch-ups. They offer good coverage and are great for targeted application on blemishes. However, they can be somewhat drying, so we suggest using them sparingly and ensuring the skin is well-moisturised beforehand.
Application Techniques: Easy Steps for a Flawless Finish
Preparing Your Skin
Before applying concealer, ensure your skin is prepped. Wash your face, apply a moisturiser, and for those using concealer under the eyes, consider an eye cream to hydrate the delicate area. This step helps the concealer glide on smoothly without clinging to dry patches.
Application Method
For precise application, we can use a small brush, our fingertip, or a makeup sponge. Layering is key: start with a small dot of concealer and build up coverage gradually for a more natural finish. When applying under the eyes, use a tapping motion to avoid disturbing the skin.
Setting Your Concealer
After application, set your concealer with a translucent powder to avoid creasing, especially in areas prone to movement, like under the eyes. Lightly dust the powder with a small brush, ensuring not to overdo it, which can cause dullness.
Top Recommendations: Our Favourite Concealers for Every Skin Type
Best for Oily Skin
For those with oily skin, we recommend a liquid concealer with a matte finish. Look for non-comedogenic formulas that provide lasting coverage without clogging pores.
Ideal for Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, a cream concealer is your best friend. Opt for a hydrating formula that includes ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which will help retain moisture while providing coverage.
For Combination Skin
Combination skin thrives with liquid concealers that balance both moisture and coverage. We encourage looking for lightweight, buildable formulas that can adapt to the varying needs of your skin.
Under-Eye Concealer Options
For dark circles, choose lightweight concealers with brightening properties. Look for options that contain skin-care ingredients like caffeine to reduce puffiness while providing excellent coverage.
