Do You Apply Concealer Before or After Foundation?
Applying the right way
When it comes to foundation and concealer, many of us struggle to get it right. We’ve all been there – standing in front of the mirror, staring at our pores, blemishes, and imperfections, wondering how to get the perfect, flawless base. But fear not, dear reader, for we’ve got the answer to this age-old question: do you apply concealer before or after foundation?
The Golden Rule: Apply Concealer After Foundation
The answer, in short, is yes, you should apply concealer after foundation. This may seem counterintuitive, as you’d think that covering up blemishes and dark circles first would be the most effective way to achieve a flawless face. However, applying concealer before foundation can have unintended consequences, including:
- Unnatural-looking coverage: When you apply concealer before foundation, it can look like you’re wearing a mask, rather than a natural layer of makeup.
- Difficult to blend: When you apply foundation on top of concealer, it can be hard to blend the two products seamlessly, resulting in an uneven, cakey finish.
- Build-up of product: Using too much concealer and then adding a layer of foundation can lead to a thick, heavy base that’s more like a mask than a natural-looking finish.
Why Applying Concealer After Foundation Makes Sense
So, what’s the logic behind applying concealer after foundation? Here are a few key reasons why:
- Better coverage: When you apply foundation first, you’re already providing a uniform base for your skin tone. This means that any concealer you apply on top will be more targeted and effective at covering specific areas, like blemishes, dark circles, and imperfections.
- Easier blending: With foundation as the base, you can easily blend your concealer into your skin, creating a seamless, natural-looking finish.
- Less product: By applying foundation first, you use less products overall, as the foundation provides an even base for your skin tone.
The 5-Step Process
So, how do you get it right? Here’s the 5-step process to achieve a natural, flawless base:
- Prep your skin: Before applying any makeup, make sure to cleanse, moisturize, and prime your skin.
- Apply foundation: Use a foundation that matches your skin tone and provides the right amount of coverage for your skin type. Apply it evenly, using a brush, beauty blender, or fingers.
- Allow foundation to set: Let the foundation set for a few minutes to allow it to dry and oxidize.
- Target specific areas: Identify areas that need extra coverage, like dark circles, blemishes, or red spots, and apply concealer as needed.
- Blend, blend, blend!: Blend the concealer into your skin using a brush or ring finger, making sure to feather it out towards the hairline, jawline, and edges of the face.
Conclusion
In conclusion, applying concealer after foundation is the way to go for a natural, flawless base. By following the 5-step process, you can easily achieve a smooth, even finish that looks like your own skin. Remember, it’s all about providing a uniform base with your foundation and then targeting specific areas with concealer. Happy makeup-ing!
Additional Tips and Tricks:
- Start with a small amount of concealer: Use a small amount of concealer and build up coverage as needed.
- Choose the right concealer: Pick a concealer that’s one shade lighter than your foundation to brighten up the area.
- Blend, blend, blend!: Make sure to blend your concealer into your skin thoroughly to avoid any harsh lines or creases.
- Set with powder: Set your makeup with a light dusting of powder to ensure it lasts all day.
Table: Key Differences Between Applying Concealer Before and After Foundation
| Applying Concealer Before Foundation | Applying Concealer After Foundation | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Unnatural-looking | Natural, targeted coverage |
| Blending | Difficult to blend | Easier to blend |
| Product Build-up | More product used | Less product used |
| Skin Tone | Not even base tone | Even base tone |
| Overall Finish | Cakey, heavy | Smooth, natural-looking |
By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be on your way to achieving a flawless, natural base that looks like your own skin. Happy makeup-ing!