The question of how to use concealer has been long debated. I’ve seen several debates on forums and on YouTube. After seeing a recent debate on one of my fave forums, I decided to chat about it here on the blog.
Everyone has their own personal method and order of application. I was taught that the order of applying concealer depends on the type of foundation you are using.
This is what I was told when I started wearing makeup…If you are wearing a liquid or cream foundation, the concealer goes on top. If you are wearing a powder foundation, the concealer goes under.
I know over time trends and techniques change, so I wanted to know what professional makeup artists (MUA) tell their clients or how they apply concealer. So me being me…I decided to reach out to my favorite MUA, Alexandra Butler, to pick her brain and see which method she uses. She is known for her phenomenal color correction and concealer technique. Why not ask one of the best?! She told me that she applies concealer before she applies makeup. She also stated in the same convo that she prefers to do her nose contours with powder, not cream.
For some reason, in my head, I thought she was going to say she applies foundation and concealer the same way I do. Do not judge me! No, I say that because she is a MAC diva and MAC is where I got my info. Again, do not judge me. So, I guess even the pros have their favorite order of application and it varies by MUA.
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After I stopped to think about it, her method of application makes sense. She applies concealer under the foundation to correct any discoloration. Then applies a different concealer on top for highlighting and contouring. I’m assuming that is the reason because that is the method I have now changed to for covering my dark under-eye circles.
When applying concealer under foundation you end up using the foundation to blend out the concealer but you have to be careful not to over blend and remove the concealer.
To answer the question of how to use concealer…If you are using a liquid or cream foundation and you need color correction, apply a corrector and concealer under the foundation. If you like highlighting and contouring, you can go back and highlight with a lighter concealer for your desired highlight look. Two great concealers for highlighting are the Anastasia Of Beverly Hills Contour Palette and the NAR Radiant Creamy Concealer.
The one application method that is definite is using concealer with powder foundation. If you are using powder foundation be sure to apply the concealer under the foundation and use the powder to set the concealer. We do not want you going out looking like a hot cakey mess if you apply the powder under the cream concealer. Please do not try to apply the concealer over the powder foundation. That will not end well!
How do you apply your concealer?
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What a great topic!! My makeup routine is completely wrong according to the official MAC application way, but the hell with it…I think whatever works best is the way to go. I usually apply my concealer after foundation but I usually do wear liquid so that goes along with your theory!! 😀
Thanks! That’s why I say try and see what works best for you. LOL The MAC rep that taught me said after but Alex says before. I can see the before to use the foundation to blend the concealer out.