In a world where heavy makeup and full coverage foundations seem to dominate the scene, there is a trend that is making its way more and more forcefully: the use of concealer instead of foundation. This technique, loved by beauty enthusiasts all over the world, promises a fresh, natural and luminous look, perfect for those who want a “no makeup makeup” effect.
But how do you use concealer instead of foundation? What are the advantages of this choice? And above all, is it suitable for all skin types? In this article, we will explore together all the secrets of this revolutionary technique, and I will provide you with a complete guide to obtain flawless makeup without sacrificing lightness.
Concealer as an ally for a “no makeup makeup” look
The "no makeup makeup” is a trend that celebrates natural beauty, focusing on light and imperceptible makeup that enhances the features without masking them. The concealer, with its light texture and its ability to blend perfectly with the skin, is the ideal ally to create this look. But also find out more about mature skin foundation.
What does “no makeup makeup” mean?
“No makeup makeup” is a makeup that aims to create the illusion of perfect and radiant skin, as if it were naturally free of imperfections. The goal is to enhance your features without creating a mask effect, using light products and targeted application techniques. But also discover all the secrets for using concealer on mature skin.
Why concealer is perfect for this look
Concealer, unlike foundation, does not create a uniform layer over the entire face, but focuses on areas that need correction, such as dark circles, pimples or discoloration. This allows you to obtain a natural and luminous result, without weighing down the skin. What are the best covering but light foundations.
Why use concealer as foundation?
Although foundation is a very common makeup product, there are several reasons why you might prefer to use concealer instead. This choice, in fact, offers numerous advantages, especially for those who want a natural, light and luminous makeup.
Concealer, being lighter and less occlusive than foundation, allows the skin to breathe, reducing the risk of clogged pores and the formation of imperfections. This makes it particularly suitable for those with oily or acne-prone skin, which tends to react negatively to products that are too heavy. Furthermore, by applying concealer only where needed, you avoid creating a uniform layer over the entire face, allowing the natural luminosity of the skin to shine through.
“No makeup makeup” effect
The concealer, thanks to its light texture and its ability to blend perfectly with the skin, is the ideal ally to create the “no makeup makeup” look, that is, a natural and imperceptible makeup that enhances the features without masking them. By applying it only on the areas that need correction, such as dark circles, pimples or discolorations, you get a fresh and radiant result, as if the skin were naturally perfect.
Long-lasting makeup, even in summer
Modern concealers are formulated to last a long time, ensuring flawless makeup all day long, even in hot and humid conditions. This makes them the ideal choice for summer, when foundation tends to melt and create a shiny, uneven effect. In addition, concealer, being lighter, does not create that heavy, sticky feeling typical of foundation during the warmer months.
Versatility and multifunctionality
Concealer is not just for covering imperfections. It can also be used for contouring and highlighting, sculpting the face with light and creating a three-dimensional effect. In addition, colored concealers can be used to neutralize skin discolorations, such as redness, purple circles or dark spots, obtaining an even and luminous complexion even without foundation.
Saving time and money
Using concealer instead of foundation can save you valuable time in your morning makeup routine. Application is quicker and easier, and doesn't require special brushes or sponges. Plus, a good concealer can last a long time, saving you money over buying foundation.
In conclusion, using concealer instead of foundation is a smart choice for those who want a natural, light and long-lasting makeup. This technique, versatile and suitable for all skin types, allows you to enhance your natural beauty without weighing down the face, obtaining a fresh and radiant result.
Benefits of using concealer instead of foundation
- Lightness: Concealer is much lighter than foundation, allowing the skin to breathe and reducing the risk of clogged pores.
- Naturalness: the concealer blends perfectly with the skin, creating an imperceptible “second skin” effect.
- Brightness: the concealer illuminates the shadow areas of the face, giving a fresh and rested appearance.
- Duration: Modern concealers are formulated to last a long time, ensuring flawless makeup all day long.
- Flexibility: the concealer can also be used to create contouring and highlighting, sculpting the face with light.
Oily Skin and Foundation: A Complicated Relationship
Who has the oily skin knows how difficult it is to find a foundation that doesn't make the situation worse. In fact, traditional foundations often tend to clog pores, stimulate sebum production and make makeup slide off in a few hours. Find out more aboutapplying foundation on blemish-prone skin.
Why Foundation Can Make Oily Skin Worse
- Clogged pores: Foundations, especially long-lasting ones, can create a barrier on the skin that prevents perspiration, promoting the formation of blackheads and pimples.
- Stimulation of sebum production: Some ingredients in foundation, such as mineral oils and silicones, can stimulate sebum production, making skin look shiny.
- Melting effect: Heat and humidity can cause foundation to melt, creating a shiny, uneven look.
How concealer can help
Concealer, being lighter and less occlusive than foundation, is an ideal choice for those with oily skin. By applying it only to the areas that need correction, you avoid weighing down the skin and reduce the risk of imperfections.
Tips for choosing the right concealer for oily skin
- Oil-free formula: opt for an oil-free concealer, which won't make your skin greasy or clog your pores
- Light texture: choose a liquid or cream concealer with a light and impalpable texture, which blends easily with the skin without creating thickness
- Matte finish: prefer a concealer with a matte finish, which helps control shine and mattify the skin
- Long lasting: Make sure your concealer is long-lasting, to resist sweat and humidity without slipping off.
Summer and foundation: an (almost) impossible challenge
Summer, with its high temperatures and humidity, puts even the most resistant makeup to the test. Foundation, in particular, tends to melt and create a shiny and uneven effect, making the face look like a mask.
Heat, Sweat and Foundation: A Trio to Avoid
- Foundation melting: the heat melts the foundation, making it slide off the face and creating an uneven effect
- Lucidity: sweat and humidity increase sebum production, making skin shiny and foundation shine
- Oxidation: some foundations tend to oxidize when in contact with heat and sweat, changing color and creating an unnatural effect
Concealer as a fresh and light solution
Concealer, being lighter and more breathable than foundation, is the ideal solution for summer. By applying it only where needed, you avoid weighing down the skin and reduce the risk of a “melting” effect.
How to Set Concealer to Make It Last Even in the Heat
- First: apply a mattifying primer before concealer, to create a smooth, even base and control sebum production
- Face powder: set the concealer with a transparent or colored powder, to mattify the skin and increase the hold of the makeup
- Fixing spray: spray a thin layer of setting spray at the end of your makeup application, to create a protective barrier against heat and humidity
USEFUL RESOURCES:
- Concealer: Before or After Foundation? Here's What You Need to Know
Recommended products
Maybelline Instant Anti-Age Eraser Concealer
A liquid concealer with a light and covering texture, perfect for correct dark circles and wrinkles as well as imperfections. (Price €11,95 – BUY HERE)
Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer Concealer
A creamy concealer with a silky and luminous texture, ideal for a natural and radiant effect. (Price €35,50 – BUY HERE)
Tarte Shape Tape Concealer
High coverage liquid concealer, perfect for hiding even the most obvious imperfections. (Price €29,90 – BUY HERE)
How to Use Concealer Instead of Foundation: Step by Step Guide
Now that we have explored the benefits and ideal situations for using concealer instead of foundation, let's see how to apply it correctly to obtain a flawless and natural result.
Skin Prep: The Secret to Flawless Makeup
Before applying any makeup product, it is essential to prepare the skin properly. A good skincare routine and the use of a suitable primer are the first steps to long-lasting and flawless-looking makeup.
Cleansing, Hydration and Primer: Why They Are Essential
- Cleansing: Removing impurities and excess sebum from the skin is essential to prevent makeup from building up in the pores and creating an uneven effect.
- Hydration: well-hydrated skin is more elastic and luminous, and allows makeup to adhere better and last longer.
- First: primer creates a barrier between skin and makeup, smoothing the surface, minimizing pores and making makeup last longer.
Skincare tips based on skin type
- Dry skin: use a gentle cleanser and a rich, nourishing moisturizer.
- Oily skin: Opt for a purifying cleanser and a light, oil-free moisturizer.
- Mixed skin: use a balanced cleanser and a specific moisturizer for combination skin, which hydrates dry areas without greasing oily areas.
- Sensitive skin: Choose a soothing cleanser and a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizer.
How to choose the right primer
- Mattifying primer: ideal for oily skin, it helps control shine and minimize pores.
- Illuminating primer: perfect for dull skin, gives a radiant and luminous effect.
- Smoothing primer: suitable for skin with wrinkles and imperfections, it evens out the surface and facilitates the application of makeup.
- Colored primer: useful for correcting discolorations, such as redness or dark spots.
Concealer Application: Techniques That Make the Difference
Once you have prepped your skin, it is time to apply concealer. Choosing the right texture, application tool and technique can make the difference between a natural result and an artificial one.
Liquid, stick or compact concealer: which one to choose?
- Correction fluid: ideal for correcting dark circles and imperfections, it blends easily with the skin and offers buildable coverage.
- Stick concealer: perfect for covering pimples and dark spots, it offers high coverage and long-lasting hold.
- Compact concealer: useful for quick touch-ups, it offers medium coverage and a matte finish.
Brush, Sponge or Fingers: How to Apply Concealer
- Brush: ideal for blending liquid or cream concealer, it allows you to obtain a precise and uniform result.
- Sponge: perfect for applying liquid or cream concealer, it allows you to obtain high coverage and a natural finish.
- Dita: useful for applying stick or compact concealer, the warmth of your fingers helps the product blend into the skin.
Where to apply concealer for a natural look
- Dark circles: Apply concealer in an inverted triangle shape under the eyes, blending outwards to brighten the look.
- Pimples and blemishes: apply the concealer directly onto the imperfection, tapping gently with your fingers or a sponge.
- Redness and discoloration: apply concealer to red or discoloured areas, blending the edges well for a uniform effect.
How to blend concealer?
Blending concealer is a fundamental step to obtain a natural and uniform makeup, avoiding the unsightly “mask” effect. Correct blending allows the concealer to blend perfectly with the skin, creating an imperceptible “second skin” effect.
Tools for blending concealer
There are several tools you can use to blend concealer, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Blending brush: ideal for blending liquid or cream concealer, it allows you to obtain a precise and uniform result. Choose a brush with soft and synthetic bristles, flat or angled, depending on your preferences and the areas to be blended.
- Makeup sponge: perfect for applying and blending liquid or cream concealer, the sponge allows you to obtain high coverage and a natural finish. Be sure to dampen it slightly before use to avoid absorbing too much product.
- Dita: the warmth of your fingers helps blend the concealer into your skin, making blending easier and more natural. However, this technique can be less precise and hygienic than using brushes or sponges.
Blending techniques
Regardless of the tool you choose, there are a few blending techniques you can use to get the best results:
- Tap: This technique is ideal for blending concealer into dark circles or blemishes, avoiding dragging the product and creating creases. Use your fingertips or a sponge to gently pat the concealer, starting from the center of the area to be corrected and blending outwards.
- Blend with circular movements: This technique is perfect for blending concealer on larger areas, such as the cheeks or forehead. Use a brush or sponge to blend the concealer in light circular motions, starting from the center of the area to be concealed and blending outward until you get a uniform effect.
- Fade outwards: this technique is useful to avoid creating product build-up and highlighting wrinkles or expression lines. Always blend the concealer outwards, following the natural direction of the facial features.
Tips for a perfect blend
- Less product is better: Start by applying a small amount of concealer and gradually add more if needed. Too much product can look heavy and artificial.
- Blend the edges well: make sure you blend the edges of the concealer well to avoid color breaks and obtain a natural result.
- Set with powder: once the concealer has been blended, set it with powder to increase its hold and prevent the formation of creases or shine.
Errors to avoid
- Drag the corrector: Avoid dragging concealer across your skin, as this can crease and highlight imperfections.
- Blend too much: over-blend the concealer can reduce its coverage and ruin its corrective effect.
- Using dirty tools: Make sure you clean your brushes and sponges regularly to avoid transferring bacteria and impurities to your skin.
With a little practice and the right tools, blending concealer will become a breeze, allowing you to achieve flawless, natural makeup, even without foundation!
Concealer Setting: For Long-Lasting Makeup
Once the concealer has been applied, it is important to set it with powder to increase its hold and prevent the formation of creases or shine.
Transparent or colored powder: which one to use?
- Transparent powder: ideal for setting makeup without altering its color, perfect for all skin types.
- Colored face powder: useful for further correcting discolorations or even out the complexion, choose a shade slightly lighter than your concealer.
How to apply powder without weighing down your makeup
- Soft bristle brush: use a soft-bristled brush to apply the powder lightly, avoiding creating thickness.
- Small amounts: take small amounts of powder at a time, to avoid creating a “powdery” effect.
- Strategic areas: focus on areas that tend to get shiny, such as the T-zone (forehead, nose and chin).
Fixing tips based on skin type
- Dry skin: Use a hydrating powder or opt for a light translucent powder.
- Oily skin: choose a long-lasting mattifying powder that helps control shine.
- Mixed skin: apply powder only to areas that tend to get shiny, such as the T-zone.
With these simple steps, you will be able to use concealer instead of foundation like a pro, achieving natural, luminous and long-lasting makeup.
Concealer Instead of Foundation: Tricks from the Pros
Once you've mastered the basics of applying concealer instead of foundation, it's time to explore some advanced techniques used by makeup professionals to achieve even more amazing results.
Color correcting: correcting dischromias with colors
Color correcting is a technique that uses complementary color theory to neutralize skin discolorations, such as redness, purple circles, or dark spots. Using specific color correctors, you can achieve an even and luminous complexion, even without foundation.
The Color Wheel: How It Works
The color wheel is a fundamental tool for understanding color correcting. Opposite colors on the wheel neutralize each other:
- Green: neutralizes red (pimples, rosacea, irritations)
- Yellow: neutralizes purple (purple circles, bruises)
- Orange: neutralizes blue (bluish dark circles, superficial veins)
- ____: neutralizes green (dark spots, scars). Learn more about pink concealer and how to use it best
- Viola: neutralizes yellow (yellowish spots, age-related discolorations)
Which color concealer to use for each imperfection
- Redness: green corrector
- Dark Circle Concealer purplish: yellow corrector
- Bluish dark circles: orange corrector
- Dark spots: pink or peach concealer
- Yellowish spots: purple concealer
How to apply color correctors
- Apply the colored concealer directly onto the discoloration, using a small brush or your fingers.
- Blend the edges well to avoid color breaks.
- Apply your skin tone concealer over your colored concealer to even out your look.
- Set with powder.
Contouring and highlighting with concealer: sculpting the face with light
Il Contouring and the highlighting or strobing These are techniques that allow you to sculpt the face, emphasizing the strong points and minimizing the weak ones. Using concealers of different shades, it is possible to create plays of light and shadow that define the features and give three-dimensionality to the face.
How to choose the right concealer shades
- contouring: choose a concealer that is two or three shades darker than your skin tone, with a cool or neutral undertone.
- highlighting: choose a concealer one or two shades lighter than your skin tone, with warm or neutral undertones.
Where to apply concealer for contouring and highlighting
- contouring: Apply dark concealer under the cheekbones, on the sides of the nose, on the jawline and on the temples.
- highlighting: Apply the light concealer to the cheekbones, Cupid's bow, bridge of the nose, chin and center of the forehead.
How to Blend Concealer for a Natural Look
- Use a blending brush or a damp sponge to blend the edges of the concealer well, avoiding color breaks.
- Make sure your contouring and highlighting blend harmoniously with the rest of your makeup.
- Set with powder to increase hold.
Concealer and other products: creating a complete makeup
The concealer can also be used in combination with other makeup products to create a complete and sophisticated makeup look.
Blush, Bronzer and Highlighter: How to Use Them with Concealer
- Blush: apply blush to the cheeks, blending it towards the temples for a lifting effect.
- bronzer: Apply bronzer under the cheekbones, on the sides of the nose and on the jawline to create a tanned effect.
- Illuminating: Apply highlighter to cheekbones, Cupid's bow, bridge of nose and inner corner of eye to brighten face.
Mascara, eyeliner and lipstick: complete the look
- Mascara: apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes to open up your eyes.
- Eyeliner: draw a thin line of eyeliner along the upper lash line to define the eye.
- Lipstick: choose a nude lipstick or a transparent gloss for a natural look, or dare with a brighter color for a touch of vivacity.
Tips for a simple but effective eye and lip makeup
- Eyeshadow: apply a neutral eyeshadow on the mobile eyelid to even out the color and create a luminous base.
- Pencil: use a brown or black pencil to define the upper and lower lash line, blending it slightly for a smoky effect.
- Eyebrows: comb and fill in your eyebrows with a pencil or a specific eyeshadow, to frame your gaze.
With these professional tricks, you will be able to use concealer instead of foundation to create flawless and personalized looks, suitable for any occasion.
Concealer instead of foundation: FAQ
Despite the many advantages, using concealer instead of foundation can raise some questions and doubts. In this section, we will answer the most common FAQs to help you clarify any uncertainties and use this technique to its fullest.
What is the difference between concealer and foundation?
Concealer is designed to cover discolorations and imperfections, so it generally has a creamier texture and greater pigmentation. Foundation, on the other hand, is usually more fluid and has less pigmentation.
Can you use foundation as concealer?
I would say that it is extremely difficult because usually the foundation never has the coverage of a concealer. You should therefore find a foundation that has a very high coverage and also a rather dense and creamy texture.
Can I use concealer instead of foundation every day?
Absolutely! Concealer, being lighter and more breathable than foundation, is perfect for everyday use. It allows you to obtain a natural and luminous look without weighing down the skin, ideal for days when you want minimal makeup or for those with sensitive or oily skin.
Is the concealer suitable for all skin types?
Generally, yes. However, it is important to choose the right concealer based on your skin type. For dry skin, opt for a hydrating and creamy concealer. For oily skin, choose an oil-free and long-lasting concealer. For combination skin, you can use a liquid or cream concealer, applying it only to the areas that need correction.
How to choose the right concealer for my skin tone?
The ideal concealer should be one or two shades lighter than your skin tone, to illuminate the shadows and create a lifting effect. If you have dark circles or obvious discolorations, you can also use a colored concealer to neutralize them before applying the concealer of your skin tone.
What are the best concealers on the market?
There are many great concealers on the market, suitable for different needs and budgets. Among the most popular are:
- Maybelline Instant Anti-Age Eraser: a liquid concealer with a light, full-coverage texture, perfect for correcting dark circles and imperfections.
- Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer: a creamy concealer with a silky and luminous texture, ideal for a natural and radiant effect.
- Tarte Shape Tape Concealer: a high coverage liquid concealer, perfect for hiding even the most obvious imperfections.
- Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Concealer: a long-lasting, water- and sweat-resistant liquid concealer, ideal for hot, humid days.
- Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Sculpting Concealer: a multi-use concealer with high coverage, also usable for contouring and highlighting.
How to remove concealer at the end of the day?
To remove concealer, use a gentle cleanser or a micellar water specifically designed for makeup. Gently massage the product onto your face with a cotton pad, focusing on the areas where you applied concealer. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat your face dry with a soft towel.
Conclusion: Concealer instead of foundation: the revolution of natural makeup
Using concealer instead of foundation is a real revolution in the world of makeup. This simple but effective technique allows you to obtain a fresh, natural and luminous look, without sacrificing the coverage of imperfections.
Summary of the benefits of using concealer instead of foundation
- Lightness: Concealer is much lighter than foundation, allowing the skin to breathe and reducing the risk of clogged pores.
- Naturalness: the concealer blends perfectly with the skin, creating an imperceptible “second skin” effect.
- Brightness: the concealer illuminates the shadow areas of the face, giving a fresh and rested appearance.
- Duration: Modern concealers are formulated to last a long time, ensuring flawless makeup all day long.
- Flexibility: the concealer can also be used to create contouring and highlighting, sculpting the face with light.
- Suitable for all skin types: by choosing the right concealer, this technique is suitable for everyone, even those with oily or sensitive skin.
- Perfect for summer: concealer is the ideal solution for the warm months, when foundation tends to melt and create a shiny effect.
- Easy to apply: applying concealer is quick and easy, even for those who don't have much experience with makeup.
If you are looking for a natural and luminous makeup, I encourage you to experiment with using concealer instead of foundation. This technique will allow you to enhance your natural beauty without weighing down the skin, obtaining a fresh and radiant result.
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