Concealer

Concealer is a cosmetic product that is used to hide imperfections and discolourations on the skin. It is available in cream or liquid form and can be applied to specific areas of the face, such as dark circles under the eyes, around the nose, and on blemishes or dark spots. Face concealer is similar to foundation but is typically thicker and more pigmented. Its purpose is to provide coverage by blending into the skin with a concealer brush or sponge and creating a more uniform complexion.

• There are various types of concealers available in the market, each serving a different purpose. The most common types include colour-correcting concealers, under-eye concealers, hydrating concealers, brightening concealers, and more.

• Colour-Correcting Concealer is used to neutralise specific skin tone issues like redness, dark under-eye circles, and dark spots. It comes in various shades including green, blue, peach, and yellow which all counteract a specific color concern.

• Full Coverage Concealer primary use is to create a uniform and flawless complexion by camouflaging any skin issues such as dark circles, age spots, redness, and blemishes. It is more opaque compared to other concealer levels of coverage.

• Hydrating Concealer provides coverage for imperfections on your skin but also helps hydrate your skin. It is formulated with ingredients to moisturise and nourish your skin providing a smoother and more radiant complexion.

When selecting a concealer, it is essential to find a shade that closely matches your natural skin tone or is slightly lighter for under-eye brightening. Depending on the specific concern and the coverage required, you can choose from different types of concealers, each catering to various skin types and needs. Some concealers are specifically formulated for sensitive or acne-prone skin, while others may have added skincare benefits like hydrating or anti-aging properties.

Read more about How to Choose a Concealer Shade for Your Skin Tone

The general rule of thumb is to apply concealer makeup after foundation. This is because the foundation helps create an even base for the concealer to adhere to, resulting in a more seamless and natural look. By first applying foundation, you can even out your skin tone and minimise any redness or discolouration. Then, apply concealer to target specific areas that require extra coverage, such as under-eye circles, blemishes, or dark spots.

There may be exceptions to this rule depending on personal preference or specific makeup techniques. For example, you may wish to use concealer before foundation if you want a more luminous and highlighted effect.

When choosing a concealer shade, it's generally recommended that the concealer should be slightly lighter than your foundation. The reason is that a lighter shade of concealer can effectively brighten and highlight the areas where you apply it. In the instance of concealing dark circles, it helps create a more lifted and awake appearance.

However, it's important not to go too extreme with the difference in shade. The concealer should still be close to your natural skin tone and not excessively lighter, as this can lead to an unnatural or overly highlighted look.

As with any makeup rule, individual preferences may vary, and experimenting with different shades can help you determine what works best for your specific skin tone and desired makeup style.