How to Use Concealer on the Face

Concealer gives your face a flawless appearance.

Concealer is an essential part of any woman's makeup collection. You can use this makeup miracle to cover blemishes and dark circles under the eyes. Concealer comes in both a liquid and a solid form, so you can choose which one is best for you. When purchasing a concealer, you should choose one that is a shade lighter than your natural skin tone for the most natural results. Applying makeup with clean fingers is important, as dirty hands can introduce bacteria to your face.

Things You'll Need

• Mild soap
• Cotton ball
• Astringent
• Oil-free moisturizer
• Concealer
• Green concealer
• Foundation
• Loose powder
• Large powder brush

Instructions

1. Wash your face with mild soap and warm water. Soak a cotton ball in astringent, and wipe it all over your face to completely remove any dirt. Wipe a thin layer of oil-free moisturizer all over your face, and allow it to dry completely.

   Moisturizing might sound counterproductive if you have oily skin, but it actually helps. When your skin is dried out, your oil glands work overtime to keep it moisturized. Using a moisturizer keeps your skin from getting too oily and prevents the concealer from sliding off.

2. Apply a small amount of concealer on your blemishes using your fingertips. No matter what type of concealer you use, apply it directly to your fingers instead of on the blemish itself. This helps prevent the spreading of bacteria and the contamination of your concealer. Once you have the makeup on the blemish, blend it in thoroughly, especially around the edges.

3. Use green concealer to hide stubborn, bright red blemishes. Apply foundation over this concealer once you've blended it in. This is the only type of concealer that should be used underneath foundation. All others should be used alone, strictly on problem areas, while the foundation is used to cover the rest of the face.

4. Hide those dark circles under your eyes with a thin layer of concealer. Blend the makeup with your fingertips, in downward strokes toward the tops of your cheekbones.

5. Seal your makeup with a light layer of loose powder. Use a large powder brush to gently sweep it all over your face. Pressed powder often gives women a fake, "cakey" look.

Tips & Warnings

• Pat your foundation when blending, and never rub or stretch your skin.

References

• Makeup Sense: Foundation and Concealer Application