Should My Concealer Be Lighter or Darker?: 1 Minute to Choosing the Perfect Concealer Shade

When choosing a concealer, most makeup professionals recommend selecting a shade that is one to two shades lighter than your natural skin tone for under-eye brightening. This technique helps to neutralize dark circles and illuminate the eye area. For covering blemishes or redness elsewhere on the face, a concealer that matches your skin tone as closely as possible is ideal. It prevents the concealer from drawing attention to imperfections by creating unnatural contrasts. Opting for a lighter concealer under the eyes and a matching one for blemishes provides a harmonious, well-blended result.

Tips 1:

As a designer, I always look for balance and harmony in any composition—be it a living room or your makeup palette. Similarly, blending your concealer seamlessly into your skin tone is key. Just as you’d layer shades when creating a feature wall or coordinating textiles, layer your concealer with foundation and powder for a cohesive finish. If you’re a fan of precisely mapping out your beauty space, using a room planner can help you achieve organization and lighting that keeps your beauty routine on point.

FAQ

Q: How many shades lighter should my concealer be?

A: For under-eye areas, choose a concealer 1-2 shades lighter than your skin tone. For blemishes, match your exact skin tone.

Q: Should I use different concealers for blemishes and under-eye circles?

A: Yes, a lighter shade for under-eyes and a matching shade for blemishes provides the best results.

Q: What happens if I use a concealer that’s too light?

A: It may make blemishes stand out or create a stark, unnatural highlight under your eyes.

Q: How can I ensure a natural look with concealer?

A: Blend well and choose appropriate shades for each facial area; set with a translucent powder for a smooth finish.

Q: Can concealer double as a highlighter?

A: A lighter concealer can accentuate areas you want to highlight, but aim for no more than 1-2 shades lighter than your skin to avoid harsh contrasts.