There’s no denying that the concealer is the most multi-tasking product in your makeup kit, airbrushing dark circles, ill-timed breakouts and fine lines out of existence with a stroke. But its fine wand can serve as a double-edged sword if used incorrectly—the penalty for improper application ranges from exaggerated creasing to ashy overlays and pronounced puffiness. Beyond basic shade-matching woes, it pays to put your technique into consideration. From celebrity makeup artists to beauty bloggers, we scoured the depths of the internet to round up the expert-approved ways for using your concealer to camouflage every skin concern like it never happened.
Under-eye circles
Start by applying primer and foundation evenly on the face. In a pinch, stick foundations can also work double duty as a concealer. However, since they are extremely pigmented, it is essential to get the colour right—anything too light can make skin look ashy. If you are opting for a liquid concealer, look straight into the mirror as you apply the product on the areas of the face where skin looks dark. Using a concealer brush or your fingers, pat it into the skin and blend the edges alternately. Once it is seamlessly blended into the skin, take care of any potential creasing with a light dusting of setting powder on the area.
Fine lines
After your usual skincare routine of moisturising, prep your skin by applying luminous primer on the face and neck. Opt for a foundation with a dewy finish for a soft, airbrushed look. To avoid having the concealer crease into fine lines over the course of the day, opt for light coverage. With a gentle hand, paint three lines over the area and use a spot of product on the inner corner of the eyes as well. With a dampened beauty sponge, press the product gently into the skin and blend it in.
Acne scars
After moisturising your skin, use a full coverage foundation to provide the pigments of the concealer with a sufficient base to latch on to. Apply your chosen concealer (or a stick foundation) in broad strokes over the area with the acne scars. Run a beauty sponge lightly under the tap, and squeeze out excess water with your fingers. Lightly dab the dampened sponge over the areas where the product is applied as you start building light layers over the discolouration. For further concealment, opt for a concealer with a sponge micro-applicator that can be stippled over the skin for spot precision.
Also read:
How to apply concealer, from Bollywood's top makeup artists
These are the only 10 makeup brushes you actually need in your beauty kit
