5 mistakes you (probably) make when applying concealer

5 Common Concealer Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And How to Fix Them)

Beauty

5 Common Concealer Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And How to Fix Them)

Unlock the Secret to Flawless Skin – Avoid These Concealer Mistakes!

We’ve all been there – you’re running late, trying to make yourself look awake and fresh, and you grab your concealer to quickly mask those dark circles or blemishes. But somehow, no matter how much you blend, it just doesn’t look quite right. It may even crease, cake up, or look like it’s settled into every fine line on your face.

If you’ve ever had your concealer look less than perfect, don’t worry – you’re not alone. In fact, most people make at least one (if not all) of the common concealer mistakes that can sabotage your flawless look. But the good news is, these mistakes are easy to fix, and once you learn how to apply concealer the right way, you’ll never look back.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through five of the most common concealer mistakes people make – and I’ll show you exactly how to fix them to achieve a smooth, natural, and flawless finish. Whether you’re a makeup newbie or a seasoned pro, these tips will change the way you apply concealer, making sure your makeup always looks fresh and radiant.


Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Concealer Shade

One of the most fundamental steps to flawless concealer application is choosing the right shade. But so many of us pick a shade that’s either too light or too dark for our skin tone, thinking it’ll work because it’s “close enough.” This is where things can go south quickly.

Why It’s a Problem: If you go too light, you risk creating a stark contrast with your skin, and it can draw attention to the area rather than masking it. On the other hand, choosing a shade that’s too dark won’t cover dark circles effectively, leaving you with an uneven complexion.

How to Fix It:

  1. For Dark Circles: Choose a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your skin tone. This will brighten the under-eye area without creating an unnatural effect.
  2. For Blemishes and Redness: Pick a concealer that matches your skin tone exactly. For redness, look for one with a green undertone to neutralize the color.
  3. For Hyperpigmentation or Dark Spots: Opt for a concealer with a peach or orange undertone to correct the discoloration.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, always test the concealer on your jawline or inner wrist. The skin in these areas is usually the closest match to your face and can help you find a shade that blends seamlessly.

Mistake #2: Not Prepping Your Skin Properly

A lot of people skip the prep step when applying concealer, thinking that concealer alone will do the job. However, your skin’s texture and condition play a huge role in how the concealer applies and stays throughout the day.

Why It’s a Problem: If you apply concealer to dry, flaky, or uneven skin, it will likely settle into fine lines and dry patches, making it even more noticeable. Even if you don’t have dry skin, applying concealer directly onto skin without prepping can lead to a patchy and uneven finish.

How to Fix It:

  1. Exfoliate: Exfoliating helps to remove any dead skin cells and smooth the surface, allowing your concealer to apply evenly.
  2. Hydrate: Use a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer to nourish your skin. This step is crucial for avoiding dryness and creating a smooth base for concealer.
  3. Use a Primer: A good primer will help to fill in any pores or fine lines, providing a smoother canvas for concealer. Look for primers designed specifically for under-eye areas or areas with blemishes.

Pro Tip: If your under-eye area is particularly dry, use a hydrating eye cream before applying concealer. This will prevent your concealer from cracking and settling into fine lines.

Mistake #3: Applying Concealer Before Foundation

This is a classic mistake that many people make – applying concealer first, followed by foundation. While it may seem like a time-saver, this method can actually lead to uneven coverage and an unnatural finish.

Why It’s a Problem: When you apply foundation after concealer, the foundation can mix with the concealer, causing it to shift or blend away. Plus, applying concealer before foundation doesn’t give you a chance to assess whether you need as much coverage in certain areas.

How to Fix It:

  1. Apply Foundation First: Always apply your foundation first, as this will give you a better idea of where you still need additional coverage.
  2. Use Concealer Only Where Needed: Once your foundation is in place, then use concealer on spots, blemishes, or dark circles that still need extra coverage. This method will ensure that you don’t overdo it with the concealer and that your makeup looks seamless.

Pro Tip: For extra coverage under the eyes, use a lightweight, hydrating concealer that won’t settle into creases, and remember to use a light hand.

Mistake #4: Applying Too Much Concealer

Less is more, especially when it comes to concealer. One of the most common mistakes is applying too much product, thinking it will cover more. Unfortunately, this only leads to a cakey, heavy appearance that doesn’t look natural.

Why It’s a Problem: Using too much concealer can make your skin look unnatural and cause the product to settle into fine lines and wrinkles. It can also emphasize texture and dryness.

How to Fix It:

  1. Start Small: Use a small amount of product at a time and build coverage as needed. Start by applying concealer in a thin layer, and then add more if necessary.
  2. Blend, Blend, Blend: Blend the product out using a makeup sponge, brush, or your fingers. Make sure it’s well-blended to avoid harsh lines.
  3. Use a Setting Powder: After applying concealer, lightly set it with a translucent setting powder to prevent creasing and ensure it stays in place.

Pro Tip: If you have particularly stubborn blemishes, try using a color-correcting concealer first (such as green for redness or peach for dark circles) before applying a regular concealer. This will allow you to use less product for better results.

Mistake #5: Forgetting to Set Your Concealer

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when applying concealer is not setting it properly. Even the best concealer can crease or fade throughout the day if it’s not set with powder or another setting product.

Why It’s a Problem: If you don’t set your concealer, it will likely crease into fine lines, fade away, or slip off your skin. This is especially true in areas like under the eyes or around the nose, where we naturally have more movement.

How to Fix It:

  1. Set with Powder: Lightly dust a translucent setting powder over your concealer to lock it in place. This will prevent it from creasing or moving throughout the day.
  2. Use a Baking Technique: For under-eye areas, you can “bake” your concealer by applying a generous amount of setting powder and letting it sit for a few minutes before blending it in. This will give you a smooth, flawless finish.
  3. Choose the Right Powder: Choose a lightweight setting powder that won’t make your skin look dry or cakey. A finely milled powder is usually best for setting concealer without causing texture issues.

Pro Tip: If you have dry skin, you may want to opt for a hydrating setting spray instead of powder. This will set your makeup without adding any extra dryness.

FAQ: Concealer Application Questions Answered

1. How do I know if my concealer is too light or too dark? A concealer that’s too light will create a stark contrast, while one that’s too dark won’t effectively conceal dark circles or blemishes. To find the right shade, test it on your jawline or wrist. If it blends seamlessly with your skin, you’ve found the right match.

2. Can I use concealer for contouring? Yes! You can use a slightly darker shade of concealer to contour your face, particularly the hollows of your cheeks, your jawline, and the sides of your nose. Just make sure to blend it well so that it looks natural.

3. How do I prevent my concealer from creasing? To prevent creasing, be sure to hydrate your skin before applying concealer, use a lightweight formula, and set the product with a fine setting powder or spray. Also, try to apply concealer sparingly – less is more!

4. Can I use concealer as a foundation? While concealer is typically used for spot coverage, you can use a full-coverage concealer as a foundation in a pinch. Just be sure to blend it well and set it with powder to avoid a cakey look.

5. How often should I replace my concealer? Concealer has a shelf life of about 6 to 12 months. If the formula starts to change in texture, smell, or color, it’s time to replace it. Also, make sure to keep your concealer tube sealed tightly to prevent it from drying out.


Conclusion: Flawless Concealer Awaits

Mastering the art of concealer application can truly elevate your makeup routine and give you that flawless, radiant look you’ve always wanted. By avoiding these common mistakes and following the tips I’ve shared, you’ll be able to achieve a smooth, natural-looking finish every time. Remember, practice makes perfect – so take your time, find the products that work best for you, and soon enough, applying concealer will become second nature.

Happy blending!