From subtle, sheer coverage to heavy-duty camouflage, concealer will even out your complexion, minimising imperfections for a flawless finish.
Colour theory
Choose a shade that is slightly lighter than, but close to, your skin tone. You may need to buy two shades – one for summer when you’re using fake tan and one for winter when your skin is lighter. Blend the two in between times. Most women require a yellow-based concealer, but there are other shades to address specific issues:
Pink-based beige counteracts dark areas on fair skin.
Peachy tones brighten medium to dark skin tones.
Green neutralises redness so is great for rosacea, birthmarks, angry pimples and around nostrils.
Violet equalises yellowish dark circles, bruises and veins.
Smashbox Studio Skin 24 Hour Waterproof Concealer, $55.
Maybelline Master Conceal Camouflaging Concealer, $21.99.
Shiseido Perfecting Skin Concealer, $52.
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer, $47.
Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Correcting & Highlighting Perfector, $53.
Choose your formula
Liquid is easily buildable and offers medium coverage. The skin under the eye is delicate and dry – and one of the first areas to become crêpey and creased with age – so look for a hydrating formula.
Cream with a pigment-rich formula is ideal for hiding pimples, scars, pigmentation and redness. Apply sparingly with a concealer brush.
Sticks are great on the go and for larger areas. Swipe down your nose, across the forehead, cheeks and chin, then blend with your fingers.
Pens generally offer sheer coverage, with brightening formulas for boosting radiance in dull areas – ideal when you’re low on sleep.
Palettes are great for customising a shade if you can’t find a perfect match. Use a soft concealer brush and mix shades together on the back of your hand before applying.
Australis Bright Eyes Illuminating Under Eye Concealer in Musk, $14.99
Designer Brands Take Cover Mineral Concealer, $10.99
Thin Lizzy Concealer Crème, $29.95
Australis Bright Eyes Illuminating Under Eye Concealer in Banana, $14.99
Clinique Anti-blemish Clearing Concealer, $41
Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Maximum Coverage Concealer, $53
Apply it like a pro
– Using your ring finger, gently press and roll (don’t rub!) to blend colour into skin.
– Use a medium, synthetic-bristle concealer brush (natural bristles soak up too much colour) to apply an upside-down triangle under eyes, gently blending outward.
– Use a lightweight translucent powder to set concealer on oily skin types or in hot weather.
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