Does Concealer Go Under Foundation? The Answer You’ve Been Waiting For
When it comes to mastering the art of makeup, there are many debates and controversies surrounding the right application order of different products. One of the most common questions is: does concealer go under foundation? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of makeup and provide a clear answer to this age-old question.
Direct Answer: Does Concealer Go Under Foundation?
Yes, concealer typically goes under foundation. But before we dive into the why’s, let’s first understand the purpose of each product.
Foundation: A Primer for the Face
Foundation is a liquid, cream or powder product applied all over the face to:
- Even out skin tone
- Provide sheer to medium coverage for skin imperfections
- Set the stage for the rest of your makeup look
Concealer: Targeted Coverage for Specific Spots
Concealer, on the other hand, is a highly pigmented product applied directly to specific areas of the face to:
- Cover up blemishes, dark circles, acne, scars, or other imperfections
- Neutralize redness or sallowness
- Enhance or change the shape of the face
Why Concealer Goes Under Foundation
So, why does concealer typically go under foundation? Here are some reasons:
- Targeted application: Concealer is designed to target specific areas of the face, rather than providing full-face coverage. By applying it under foundation, you can ensure that the product doesn’t get mixed with the foundation and lose its intended effect.
- Better blending: When you apply concealer under foundation, it’s easier to blend the edges, creating a seamless transition between the two products.
- Less suffocating sensation: Foundation can feel heavy or suffocating if applied over a thick layer of concealer. By applying concealer under foundation, you can still achieve the coverage you need without the added thickness.
- Enhanced wearability: Foundation can help extend the wearability of your concealer by allowing it to stay in place longer and look more natural.
The Exception: Common exceptions to the Rule
While concealer typically goes under foundation, there are some exceptions:
- Color correction: In some cases, you may need to apply a color-correcting product (e.g., green to counteract redness) underneath your foundation. This is more targeted and specialized than a standard concealer.
- Blemish or spot cover: For very minor blemishes or spots, you may get away with applying a small amount of concealer directly to the area without using foundation first.
- Glitzy, full-coverage makeup: In some cases, you might want to apply a thin layer of foundation and then build up coverage with concealer, especially for extreme coverage needs (e.g., for theatrical or performance makeup).
Tips and Tricks for Applying Concealer Under Foundation
To get the most out of your concealer and foundation combination, keep the following tips in mind:
- Choose the right foundation: Select a foundation that complements your skin tone and type. This will help your concealer look natural and blend seamlessly.
- Apply concealer in thin layers: Start with a small amount and build up coverage as needed to avoid caking or accentuating fine lines and wrinkles.
- Blend, blend, blend: Use a gentle blending motion to merge the edges of the concealer with your foundation.
- Set with powder: Set your foundation and concealer with a light dusting of powder to extend wearability and prevent creasing.
Conclusion: Get the Most out of Your Concealer and Foundation
By now, you should have a clear understanding that concealer typically goes under foundation. By choosing the right products, understanding the purpose of each, and following our tips and tricks, you can achieve a flawless, natural-looking complexion that’s perfect for your skin type and tone. Remember, the key to success lies in the application order and blending technique.
References:
- [1] "The Science of Makeup: Understanding the Physics of Perfecting Your Face" by Dr. Francesca Fusco
- [2] "The Art of Concealer: A Guide to Mastering the Basics" by Bobbi Brown
- [3] "The Foundation Guide: Choosing the Right Shade for Your Skin Tone" by Bobbi Brown
Author Bio:
Sam is a freelance makeup artist with over 10 years of experience in the industry. She specializes in creating natural, flawless makeup looks and has worked with various beauty brands and publications.