A concealer is an amazing makeup product that helps hide blemishes on the face and make the skin appear flawless. Many famous brands in the market sell concealers, so finding one is usually quite easy. That said, individuals must apply it correctly and avoid mistakes. Certain errors made while using a concealer can defeat its purpose, and one might even end up highlighting the spots they were trying to cover.

1. Being heavy-handed
Applying too much concealer or being heavy-handed is one of the most common mistakes that gives the face a cakey appearance and spoils one’s look. Heavy-handed application under the eyes should especially be avoided as it can amplify the appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet. If there are too many spots to cover, using a color corrector is better than relying solely on a concealer.

2. Applying in the wrong sequence
People often struggle to decide whether to use a concealer or foundation first. Some believe the sequence does not matter and use either product first, but that can lead to a problem. Generally, the type of foundation must be considered when making this decision. When using a cream or liquid foundation, the foundation always comes first, followed by spot usage of concealer in the required areas. But when using a powder foundation, concealer is used first to avoid making it appear cakey and clumpy.

3. Choosing the wrong shade
Picking an incorrect shade is among the biggest errors that can ruin one’s makeup because concealer is not as easy to redo as lipstick. By the time one realizes their mistake, they might have highlighted panda eyes, which can take hours to remove. It is crucial to pick a concealer that is the same shade as one’s natural skin color or at least a similar shade. The only area on the face that should be treated with a lighter shade is the under-eyes. Concealers that are more than a shade lighter than the skin are a strict no-no.

4. Skipping skin prep
Irrespective of the makeup products being used, one must always start with skin prep. Moisturizer is a key element that contributes heavily to flawless makeup application. It ensures the makeup products go smoothly onto the skin and that there is no caking or piling. Moisturizer is all the more important for dry and flaky skin, as it helps settle the skin by hydrating and nourishing it. If someone has flaky skin, they might also need to add exfoliation as an essential step in their skin prep. A damp washcloth followed by a nourishing moisturizer or hydrating skin oil should do the trick.

5. Not blending it correctly
The appearance of a concealer can change depending on how one blends it. Improper blending can lead to poor results and affect one’s appearance. People who dab the concealer only a few times may be left with harsh outlines in certain areas. Similarly, those who dab the product too much risk rubbing it off their skin. Fingers are not the right tool to blend the concealer in. One should invest in a decent blending brush that is easy to use.

6. Not letting it sit
People with oily skin should not go ahead with their makeup without letting the base sit. Rushing the process can cause the makeup to shift or come off easily. If someone’s makeup disappears too soon every time, they should try setting it with a light translucent powder. This powder can be used after applying concealer to strengthen its hold and make it last longer. One should use the powder sparingly on blemishes and the other areas where the concealer has been applied. People with flaky or extra dry skin should not bother with the powder as it might make their skin appear more dry.

7. Using the wrong concealer for one’s skin
Different skin issues require different concealers. Dark circles are best treated with a peach-toned concealer that is light and does not settle in the creases. Similarly, acne can be dealt with a thicker skin-color matching concealer. The heavier consistency makes it easier to cover the bumps and redness. Full-coverage concealers also help cover acne blemishes and other marks on the skin, making it appear flawless.

8. Stroking it
Most people make this mistake, but it is easy to fix. Concealers are designed to be pigment-heavy in order to cover skin imperfections. But when people stroke concealers into their skin, they spread the pigment around. This means the product is no longer concentrated enough to do its job. Instead of stroking, one must tap the concealer in place to buff it. The process might take longer, but it delivers better results.