Concealer should be your go-to for looking refreshed—whether you're covering up a breakout, balancing out redness, or brightening under tired eyes. But if your concealer looks patchy by midday or settles into fine lines, you're not alone.
Let’s walk through some common mistakes that might be getting in the way—and the simple tweaks that can make all the difference.
1. Skipping Skin Prep
Concealer works best when your skin is prepped and hydrated. Applying it over dry or unbalanced skin can lead to flaking, creasing, or uneven texture. A quick cleanse followed by a light moisturizer creates the ideal surface. If your skin tends to dry out under makeup, something gentle like Light Facial Cream helps smooth things over without being heavy.
2. Using the Wrong Shade
If your concealer looks too obvious or off in photos, your shade might not be quite right. Under-eye circles usually need something just a touch lighter than your skin tone, while blemishes or redness are better matched exactly. The Color Match Quiz is a good place to start if you're unsure—it's quick, and honestly pretty accurate.
3. Applying Too Much at Once
More product doesn’t always mean better coverage. In fact, using a heavy hand can create a cakey finish or draw more attention to the areas you’re trying to disguise. A thin layer of Concealer, tapped in with your ring finger or a soft sponge like the Perfect Blender, often does the trick. You can always build coverage gradually.
4. Skipping Color Correction
Sometimes concealer alone isn’t enough—especially if you’re dealing with darker under-eyes or a strong red blemish. That’s where a Color Concealer can help. Peach tones brighten shadows under the eyes, while green tones cancel out redness around the nose or chin. Once the tone is corrected, your regular concealer can go on top and blend in effortlessly.
5. Forgetting to Set It
Even the creamiest, most blendable concealers can start to crease without a light setting step—especially under the eyes. A quick dusting of Perfect Stay Finishing Powder helps everything stay put and softens any harsh edges. If you like a more natural look, use a small fluffy brush and just tap a little into the areas that tend to crease most.
Concealer isn’t meant to be stressful—it’s just about knowing how to work with your skin instead of against it. With the right application and products that play well together, you can go from “meh” to smooth and seamless in seconds.
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