Simple makeup: when and how to use concealer

Confused about when to use concealer and what products to apply before and after? Are you starting to practice makeup or feel like you’ve been doing it all wrong? We’ve got the answers for you here. Read on to know everything about using concealer!

Table of Contents

Should you dot concealer before or after foundation?

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Most makeup artists say that foundation should be applied first. Foundation acts as a base for the skin – it evens out skin tone and reduces dark spots and discolouration – so it makes sense to apply foundation first. If you dot your concealer first, you might smudge the spots when you apply foundation! ^{[1] X Research Source}

You can apply concealer first if there are dark circles or hazy features. After that, you still have to apply foundation and reapply a thin layer of concealer if necessary.

Can you apply concealer without foundation?

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Yes, if you want a natural face like no makeup. If you don’t have too many dark spots to cover and don’t want to wear makeup all over your face, you can simply apply concealer where needed. This will help you have a lighter face and less time consuming makeup. ^{[2] X Research Source}

Should the concealer be lighter or darker than the foundation?

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Both, in terms of sun exposure and different uses! Your skin tone can change slightly if you’re exposed to the sun daily, so having both light and dark tones will make it easier for you to choose. Another reason for this is, different light and dark tones will be used to create different effects. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

For example, you can use a slightly lighter shade to cover dark circles under your eyes or use it as a highlighter to create volume.

How should you apply concealer?

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Use your fingers to dab or dab concealer on areas that need to be covered. Start under the eyes, then work around the nose, mouth, and center of the forehead – these areas are often more discolored. Pat or dot instead of applying or rubbing to blend concealer into skin. Try not to apply too much cream, as it will build up in a thick layer on the face and look unnatural. ^{[4] X Research Sources}

If you have acne or other skin conditions, you can apply concealer all over your face if needed.
You can also use a concealer brush or makeup sponge to blend well.
Remember to apply powder all over your face to keep the concealer in place.

Should you apply moisturizer before applying makeup?

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Yes – use moisturizer to hydrate skin and have a clean base. Clean skin helps the cosmetic layer to be smooth. It also helps to set makeup with minimal smudging and minimal creasing. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

Apply moisturizer after exfoliating – like after washing your face with a cleanser.

Do you need to apply primer before applying makeup?

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Not necessary – this depends on factors such as skin type and foundation. Primer can cause irritation and breakouts if your skin is sensitive and oily, for example. You can also skip the primer if you don’t need to keep your makeup on all day. Since some functions of moisturizer and primer overlap (both create a barrier to help prevent foundation from clogging pores), you can be safe with just a moisturizer – but the thing is. This depends on the effect you want. ^{[6] X Research Sources}

Some moisturizers can be a more effective substitute for a primer than others; some are even designed to replace primer!
Some foundations may work better without a primer, while others may still require a primer to last longer.
A moisturizer can’t always replace a primer that adds effects like shine reduction and color correction.

Advice

If kept clean and tightly sealed, concealer can last up to a year and a half. You should also replace your concealer with a new one if it changes color or smells. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

Steps