Finding Your Perfect Concealer: Tips for Shade Matching and Application

Choosing the right concealer can be a transformative step in your makeup routine. A well-matched concealer can cover blemishes, brighten the under-eye area, and create a flawless canvas for your foundation. However, with so many options available, finding your perfect shade and knowing how to apply it effectively can be a challenge. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the world of concealers.

How Do I Find My Shade of Concealer?

Finding your ideal concealer shade starts with understanding your skin tone and undertone. Here’s how to get it right:

Know Your Skin Tone: Determine if you have a fair, medium, or deep skin tone. This will assist you in reducing the number of possibilities.

Determine Your Undertone: Your undertone may be neutral, chilly, or warm. A quick way to check is by looking at the veins on your wrist:

Warm undertones: Greenish veins indicate warm undertones.

Cool undertones: Bluish veins suggest cool undertones.

Test Shades: Swatch a few concealers on your jawline or the inner part of your arm to find the shade that disappears into your skin. The right concealer should blend seamlessly without being too light or dark.

Consider the Coverage: If you’re using concealer for specific blemishes, choose a shade that matches your foundation. For the under-eye area, opt for a shade that is one or two shades lighter to brighten the eyes.

How to Match Concealer for Under-Eye?

Matching concealer for the under-eye area requires special attention, as this area can be darker than the rest of your face. Here are some tips:

Select a Lighter Shade: To combat dark circles, choose a concealer that is slightly lighter than your foundation. This will help brighten the area and create a more awake appearance.

Consider the Formula: Look for creamy, hydrating formulas that provide good coverage without settling into fine lines. Liquid concealers are often the best choice for this delicate area.

Use Color Correctors: If your dark circles are particularly pronounced, consider using a color corrector first. Peach or orange correctors can neutralize the bluish tones in dark circles before applying your concealer on top.

Blending is Key: When applying under-eye concealer, use your ring finger or a damp beauty sponge to gently tap the product into the skin. This helps avoid tugging on the delicate skin and ensures a seamless finish.

Do You Need Primer for Concealer?

Using a primer before applying concealer can enhance the overall look and longevity of your makeup. 

Smooth Base: A good primer creates a smooth canvas for your concealer, helping it glide on effortlessly and adhere better throughout the day.

Prevents Creasing: Primers can help prevent concealer from settling into fine lines or creasing, especially in the under-eye area.

Hydration: If you have dry skin, a hydrating primer can add moisture, ensuring that your concealer doesn’t emphasize dryness or flakiness.

Choose Wisely: If you opt for a primer, select one that complements your skin type. For oily skin, a mattifying primer may be beneficial, while a hydrating primer works well for dry or combination skin.

FAQs

What Color Concealer Cancels Out Dark Circles?

Peach or orange concealers are most effective for canceling out dark circles, especially those with bluish tones. Lighter skin tones can use peach shades, while deeper skin tones may find orange correctors more effective.

What Happens If Concealer Is Darker Than Foundation?

Using a concealer that is darker than your foundation can create shadows instead of brightening the area. This may draw attention to dark circles rather than concealing them. It’s best to use a lighter shade for under the eyes.

What Color of Concealer Is Best for Dark Circles?

Peach or salmon-colored concealers work well for neutralizing dark circles. After applying the corrector, follow up with a concealer that matches your foundation for seamless blending.

What Color Concealer Brightens Under Eyes?

A light yellow or peach-toned concealer can effectively brighten the under-eye area. These shades reflect light and help to create an illuminating effect, making you appear more awake and refreshed.