Kayla Young
Concealer or Foundation, which comes first? This is one of the most commonly searched beauty terms on the Internet! To answer the question that so many are asking, there are a few things that you have to consider. These aspects will determine which one you apply first.
We’ll take you through the tips and tricks to demystify your concealer and foundation application, so you know whether to put concealer before or after foundation.
Contents
Do You Use Concealer Before or After Foundation?
Let’s break it down.
Always apply your foundation first, unless you are using a powder foundation. Applying your liquid or cream foundation first creates an even base to reduce overall redness, discoloration, and minor blemishes.
If you were to apply your concealer first, you may end up wiping some off when you apply foundation. Or you might use a lot more product than necessary, which can create a heavy, cakey look.
Foundation is meant to even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes, discoloration, and excess redness.
It does a surprisingly good job at hiding a lot of issues on its own. So until you’ve applied your foundation, it’s hard to judge how much concealer you actually need to use.
Applying your foundation first gives you a smooth base that’s easy to blend before you get to concealing.
Once you have cleaned your skin, apply a sheer layer of foundation all over the face, including around the eye area, so you use less concealer later.
After your foundation has had time to absorb, you can go over any areas you areas with a concealer that are still discolored, whether they be blemishes or acne.
Follow up with face powder to set your makeup.
Seems simple? It is. But there’s an exception to the rule.
If you’re using a powder foundation, apply concealer directly to areas that need more coverage first. Then buff on your powder foundation.
You can then build up your powder foundation coverage as much as needed without it looking cakey and overdone.
Make-up Hack #1 – You can use eyeshadow primer on blemishes before applying concealer. The primer restores the velvety texture to the blemished skin, so concealer has something to stick to.
Make-up Hack #2 – You can use lip balm instead of an eyeshadow primer. Just make sure it’s a natural, non-oil- based, non-medicated lip balm that does not contain flavors or fragrances.
Choosing the Right Foundation
With all of the foundations on the market, it is important to understand the differences and which formula is best for you.
Liquid Foundation
This is the most common type of foundation and it comes in a variety of formulas and consistencies. You should opt for a moisturizing foundation if you have dry or dehydrated skin, like one of the following:
If you have normal or oily skin, we recommend using an oil-free foundation. Being oil-free allows for a weightless feel and blendable full coverage. Try one these oil-free liquid foundations:
Cream Foundation
Cream foundations are great for comfortable, smooth wear. Cream foundation is a good choice for those with dry or mature skin.
It provides medium to heavy coverage and helps skin look soft and smooth.
Powder Foundation
Powder foundation is available in pressed or loose powder and is great for absorbing excess oil or setting other foundations or concealers. Powder foundation lightly evens out your skin without looking caked on, for a more natural, “you-just-better” look.
And if you tend to sweat easily or you expect to be wearing foundation in the heat, powder foundation is a great choice.
A powder foundation will stay put in high temperatures, unlike liquid cream foundations. Those tend to melt in the heat.
Regardless of whether you choose a powder, cream, or liquid foundation, you should choose the color closest to your natural skin color.
If you choose a foundation that oxidizes, the color may change throughout the day.
Choosing the right concealer
Spoiler alert – You might need more than one concealer. Ultimately, concealers are result-specific products, so you have to think about what you are trying to achieve with your concealer.
The area under your eyes is different from the rest of your face. Dark spots or under-eye circles need different coverage than red spots or blemishes.
Should concealer be lighter than foundation?
While under-eye concealer should be lighter than your natural skin tone, you want your all-over concealer to match your skin color and foundation as closely as possible.
You should choose a concealer based on your skin concern and tone.
Best Concealers for Hiding Blemishes
Best Concealers for Under Eye Circles and Dark Spots
Take Away
As to concealer before or after foundation, the majority of makeup artists agree that you want to go with the foundation first.
Applying a light layer of liquid or cream foundation to even out the complexion and reduce the appearance of blemishes, before using concealer is the way to go. This will allow you to see what areas still need to be addressed, and which ones you can leave alone.
Generally, concealer is thicker in consistency than foundation. So if you want your makeup to look as natural as possible, applying foundation first will ensure you are using less product and will keep things looking natural.
But if you are using a powder foundation, apply the concealer first. Then buff on your powder foundation after to avoid it looking cakey.
