Concealer is a miracle product; choose the right type, apply it well, and it can transform your makeup routine. But we know that there are a lot of questions that need answering, and we’re here to help...
DOES FOUNDATION OR CONCEALER GO FIRST?
As a rule, we like to blend in our foundation first to even out skin tone and see how much concealer is actually needed, to prevent applying too much product.
If your skin is looking good, or you’re off to the gym, then you might be fine with just a touch of Rimmel’s Match Perfection Concealer, £5.49, to hide any redness or dark circles.
HOW DO I HIDE BLEMISHES?
The bane of our beauty life. The temptation is to throw lots of product at the problem, but often that makes it more obvious.
First up, make sure that your skin is well-hydrated – dry skin and blemishes are hardest to conceal. Then use Rimmel’s Lasting Finish Primer, £6.99, to even out your skin. If the blemish is very red, first apply a little highlighting concealer, like Match Perfection, to tone it down. Then build up the coverage using a thicker, creamier product, like Rimmel’s Hide the Blemish Concealer, £3.99, or Lasting Finish Concealer, £5.49. Use a small brush or your (clean!) fingers to gradually build up coverage, starting light and dabbing – not rubbing – more product on as needed. Finish with a dusting of Stay Matte Pressed Powder, £3.99, to set.
DO I NEED MORE THAN ONE CONCEALER?
Different concealers do different things, so it does help to have a couple of options to achieve the most flawless base possible. If you’re covering dark circles or general redness, then an illuminating formula like Wake Me Up, £5.49, or Match Perfection, £5.49, is perfect. If you’re aiming to cover up blemishes, then go for something creamier and more durable, like Hide the Blemish, £3.99. Finally, Rimmel’s Lasting Finish Concealer, £5.49, is a great all-rounder – a high-coverage, long-lasting formula that hides everything.
CAN I USE CONCEALER TO CONTOUR?
Yes! Rimmel’s Match Perfection Concealer, £5.49, is a great tool for contouring. After you’ve applied foundation, simply pick a concealer slightly lighter than your skin and use it to draw highlights along your cheekbones, down your nose and on your t-zone. Then use a darker shade to draw shadows under your cheekbones, on your temples and along the side of your nose. Use a brush to blend well for beautifully defined cheekbones and angles.
Caught up with concealer? Check out our guide to beating problem skin.
