Concealer is one of those magical products that can instantly brighten your face and hide imperfections. But if you’re not careful, it can have the opposite effect, making you look older and more tired.
From choosing the wrong shade to applying too much, there are several common concealer mistakes that are aging you. Let’s break down these blunders so you can get the flawless, youthful look you’re aiming for.
Using the Wrong Shade
The wrong shade can emphasize, not hide. When your concealer is too light or too dark, it can accentuate the very imperfections you’re trying to hide.
A too-light concealer can create an unnatural, cakey look and draw attention to fine lines, while a darker shade can make you look tired and dull. Always choose a concealer that is one to two shades lighter than your skin tone to brighten the under-eye area and a shade that matches your skin for blemishes.
Applying Too Much Product
Less is often more when it comes to concealer. Overloading on concealer might seem like a good idea to cover up imperfections, but it can actually backfire.
Too much product can settle into fine lines, making them more noticeable and adding years to your appearance. Instead, apply a light layer, and build it up gradually where needed for a more natural, youthful look.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Skipping Setting Powder
Concealer without powder is a recipe for disaster. If you skip setting powder, your concealer can crease and settle into lines.
This makes your skin look older and tired. Use a light dusting of translucent powder to set your concealer in place, preventing it from moving throughout the day and helping you maintain a fresh, youthful finish.
Using a Thick Formula
Heavy formulas are often the enemy of youthful skin. Thick, heavy concealers can create a cakey, unnatural finish that ages your face by accentuating texture and fine lines.
Choose a lightweight, buildable formula that blends smoothly into your skin. A more fluid concealer allows for a natural, radiant finish that mimics youthful skin.
Applying Concealer Before Foundation
Foundation first, concealer second. While it’s tempting to apply concealer before foundation for a more “corrected” look, this can often lead to a patchy, uneven application.
Concealer should be used after foundation to spot-treat specific areas, like dark circles or blemishes, so it blends seamlessly and doesn’t look too harsh.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Ignoring the Under-Eye Area
Don’t forget this delicate area. The skin under your eyes is more delicate and prone to creasing, so be careful with how you apply concealer.
If you apply it directly onto creases or skip moisturizing first, the concealer will settle into lines and make you look older. A lightweight, hydrating concealer with a brightening effect can make your eyes look more awake and youthful.
Choosing a Matte Formula
Matte formulas can be unforgiving. While matte concealers work great for covering blemishes, they can emphasize dryness and fine lines, especially under the eyes.
Opt for a creamy or hydrating concealer that gives your skin a dewy finish and avoids the flat, lifeless look that matte products can create, keeping your skin glowing and fresh.
Not Blending Properly
Blending is key to a smooth finish. Concealer that’s not properly blended can look harsh and obvious, drawing attention to fine lines or blemishes.
Use your fingers, a sponge, or a brush to gently blend the product into your skin. The goal is a seamless finish that looks like your natural skin, not like you’re wearing makeup.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Using a Concealer That’s Too Thick for Your Skin Type
Match the texture of your concealer to your skin. Different skin types need different concealers. If you have dry skin, using a thick, heavy formula can accentuate flakiness and fine lines, making you look older. If you have oily skin, choose a matte, oil-free concealer.
For dry skin, opt for a hydrating, lightweight formula that provides coverage without drying out the skin.
Applying Concealer Too Close to the Lash Line
Leave a little space for a softer look. When you apply concealer too close to your lash line, it can highlight any under-eye bags or wrinkles.
Instead, leave a small space between the lash line and your concealer to avoid a heavy, overdone look. This creates a more natural finish and makes you look younger.
Not Using a Corrector for Dark Circles
Concealers alone can’t fix everything. If you struggle with dark circles, a color-correcting concealer is essential.
Yellow or peach-tinted correctors help neutralize the bluish or purple tones of dark circles, while concealers are better for blending and brightening the area. Skipping the corrector and using just concealer will often result in a grayish, tired look.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Using a Concealer with Too Much Coverage
Full coverage isn’t always the answer. While full-coverage concealers are great for blemishes, they can be too much for under-eye circles, where thinner, lighter coverage is more flattering.
A concealer with medium or buildable coverage lets you layer the product gradually, giving you a fresher, more natural appearance.
Applying Concealer in a Reverse Triangle
This technique can make you look tired. The reverse triangle (where you apply concealer in an inverted triangle shape under your eyes) can actually make you look more tired and accentuate puffiness.
Instead, opt for a small dot of concealer in the inner corner of your eye and gently blend it outwards for a more natural and lifted look.
More from The Style Trunk
- 25 Stylish Short Haircuts for Women Over 60 Who Want to Look Younger
- 16 Haircuts Men Find Incredibly Attractive on Women
- Seniors, Stop Making These 17 Fashion Mistakes for a More Flattering Look
- Stay Stylish Over 60: 15 Tips for a Polished, Ageless Look
- 20 Eye Makeup Faux Pas That Can Add Years to Your Face
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
