Concealer

Concealer is a makeup product you use to cover up blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections on your face. You typically apply it after your foundation to target specific areas you want to conceal or highlight. In the world of concealers, there are various types and formulas to suit different skin concerns and preferences. For instance, you can find concealers that are specially formulated for dry skin, offering hydrating properties, or ones that are ideal for oily skin, providing a matte finish. The coverage level can range from light to full, depending on how much you want to cover. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C might be included to add skincare benefits, such as hydration or brightening. Brands like Benefit, Maybelline, and Tarte offer a wide range of concealers catering to different needs, including long-lasting formulas and those that are waterproof or crease-resistant. Whether you're looking for a product to help with under-eye circles, redness, or to use for contouring, there's a concealer out there for you.

Choosing the Right Concealer for Your Skin Type

Finding the perfect concealer starts with understanding your skin type. If you have dry skin, look for concealers infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamin E, which help to moisturize the skin and prevent the concealer from settling into fine lines. Maybelline's Fit Me Natural Finish Concealer and ColourPop's Pretty Fresh Hyaluronic Creamy Concealer are excellent choices as they offer hydration alongside coverage.

• For oily skin, opt for a matte finish concealer that won't slide off your face. Products like NYX Professional Makeup's Can't Stop Won't Stop 24HR Full Coverage Matte Concealer are designed to control shine and stay put all day.
• Those with sensitive skin should seek out non-comedogenic and fragrance-free options to avoid irritation. The Clinique line is known for its gentle formulas suitable for sensitive skin types.

No matter your skin type, make sure to choose a concealer that matches your skin tone for the most natural look. Test the product on your jawline to ensure the color blends seamlessly with your skin.

How to Apply Concealer for a Flawless Finish

Applying concealer correctly can make all the difference in achieving a flawless complexion. Start by applying a small amount of product to the areas you wish to cover, such as under the eyes, around the nose, and on blemishes or dark spots. Use a concealer brush, sponge, or your fingertips to blend the product into your skin.

1. For under-eye circles, apply the concealer in a triangle shape with the base along your lower lashes and the point toward your cheek. This technique brightens the entire eye area.
2. To cover blemishes, dab the concealer directly onto the spot and gently blend around the edges without rubbing the product away.
3. If you're using concealer to contour, choose a shade 1-2 times lighter than your skin tone for highlighting and 2-3 shades darker for contouring. Apply and blend where needed to define your features.

Remember, less is often more with concealer. Start with a small amount and build coverage gradually to avoid a cakey appearance.

What to Look For

When shopping for a concealer, consider the following tips to find the best match for your needs:

• Coverage: Decide whether you need light, medium, or full coverage. Full coverage concealers like Tarte's Shape Tape Concealer or Dermablend's Cover Care Full Coverage Concealer are ideal for hiding significant imperfections or for special occasions. For everyday use, a light to medium coverage concealer might suffice.
• Formula: Consider the formula based on your skin type. Liquid concealers are versatile and work for most skin types, while cream or stick concealers offer more coverage and are better for dry skin. Serum concealers like Laura Mercier's Flawless Fusion Ultra-Longwear Concealer provide a lightweight, hydrating option.
• Finish: Choose a finish that complements your skin and the look you're going for. Matte finishes are great for oily skin or for those who prefer a polished look, while dewy finishes work well for dry skin or for a more natural, radiant appearance.
• Ingredients: Look for beneficial ingredients that offer more than just coverage. Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and SPF can provide hydration, brightening, and sun protection, respectively. Brands like IT Cosmetics and BareMinerals often infuse their concealers with skin-loving ingredients.

By considering these factors, you can find a concealer that not only hides imperfections but also enhances your overall makeup look and benefits your skin.

FAQs for Concealer

What does concealer do? Concealer covers blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections on your face.

Can concealer be used as foundation? Yes, some people use concealer as a spot foundation or for a light makeup look.

How do I choose the right shade of concealer? Match it to your skin tone for blemishes or slightly lighter for under eyes.

Is concealer applied before or after foundation? It can be applied before or after, but most apply it after foundation.

Can I use concealer to contour? Yes, using shades lighter and darker than your skin tone can define features.

How do I prevent concealer from creasing? Set it with a powder and avoid thick application in crease-prone areas.

What's the difference between liquid, cream, and stick concealers? Liquid is lightweight, cream offers more coverage, and stick is for precise application.

Do I need to set concealer with powder? Setting with powder can help it last longer and prevent creasing.

Can concealer be used alone? Yes, for a natural look or spot concealing, it can be worn without foundation.

How do I choose concealer for dry skin? Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to moisturize the area.

Can I find Cruelty-Free or Vegan concealer options at Ulta Beauty? Yes, Ulta Beauty offers a variety of Cruelty-Free concealers and Vegan concealers. Check out our Vegan and Cruelty Free Conscious Beauty pages to discover how we classify these products to help you make informed, value-driven choices.

What is a Clean Ingredient concealer? A Clean Ingredient concealer is formulated without additives like parabens, phthalates, and other ingredients on Ulta Beauty’s Made Without List. Learn more about our Clean Ingredient standards on the Clean Ingredient Conscious Beauty page.