Should Concealer Be Lighter or Darker?: 1 Minute to Perfect Your Concealer Technique

When choosing a concealer, one of the most common questions is whether it should be lighter or darker than your natural skin tone. The general consensus among makeup professionals is that concealer should be about one to two shades lighter than your foundation or skin tone. This helps to brighten areas such as the undereye and highlight features, effectively masking shadows or dark circles. However, if you're using concealer to cover blemishes or redness, matching your exact skin tone will result in a more seamless blend. As a designer, I often approach color selection as a way to manipulate light and create visual harmony—this principle also applies to makeup. Just as a designer selects paint shades that either recede or pop based on the room’s lighting, choosing the right concealer shade can control how different areas of your face catch the light. If you’re experimenting with various concealer shades to perfect your look, the process is akin to using the right tools in a AI Interior Design platform: the right choices make all the difference in the final result.

Tips 1:

Always test concealer shades in natural lighting to see how they blend with your skin’s undertones. You can apply a swipe along your jawline and blend it out to check for harmony. For a flawless finish, use a brush or sponge that suits your skin texture and desired coverage. If you’re layering products, apply your concealer after foundation for targeted brightening or coverage.

FAQ

Q: Should under-eye concealer be lighter than my foundation?

A: Yes, using a concealer one to two shades lighter under your eyes helps brighten shadows and create a refreshed look.

Q: What shade should I use for covering blemishes?

A: Choose a concealer that matches your exact skin tone to blend seamlessly into the area you’re covering.

Q: Can I use the same concealer for highlighting and covering imperfections?

A: It’s best to use different shades: lighter for highlighting and matching for blemish coverage.

Q: How do I pick the right undertone for my concealer?

A: Match the undertone of your skin—warm, cool, or neutral—to ensure the concealer blends well. Test in natural light for accuracy.

Q: Where should I apply the lighter concealer shade?

A: Use it under the eyes, on the center of the forehead, chin, and tops of the cheekbones for a brightening effect.