Prep Your Skin
Prepping your skin before applying any other makeup is crucial to a flawless result.
“Start by applying face primer on the targeted area, i.e. over the dark spot, or even over your entire face,” Roberts says. “The purpose of the primer is to make sure that the concealer and other makeup ingredients stay even throughout the day.”
Start With Color Corrector
Next, apply a color corrector over the dark spots, preferably a yellow colored one as this will help brighten the discoloration on the spots and the area around them, according to Roberts. “Yellow is also ideal for lessening the purple hues that emanate around these dark spots,” Roberts says. “Peach or pink color correcting concealers are also great for covering up dark spots. Go for light yellow/peach/pink if you have a light skin tone, and deeper hues of these colors if your skin tone is darker.”
Next: Foundation
“Once you’ve covered your dark spots with the color correcting concealer, it’s time to apply foundation in order to make your makeup even,” Roberts says. “If you have oily or combination skin, opt for a powder foundation as this will have a mattifying effect on your skin. For those with dry skin, the best foundation is a hydrating, radiant one that you can apply using a makeup blender. Start with your nose and work your way outwards to the edges of your face for a more even appearance. Also, strictly use foundation that is as close to your skin tone as possible.”
Finally: Concealer
Your final steps is applying concealer if the dark spots are still visible through your foundation, Roberts says. “Start from under your eyes and work your way towards your temples using an upward motion,” she notes. “Then apply between your eyebrows, the bridge of your nose, and finally your chin. Finish with either a powder or setting spray to keep your makeup from smudging.”
Bikal, who has experience covering marks left by piercings, says these products are among their favorite when concealing and covering spots:
Color Correctors:
- Urban Decay Naked Skin Color Correcting Fluid
- NYX Professional Makeup Color Correcting Concealer Palette
- Make Up For Ever 5 Camouflage Cream Palette
Foundations:
- Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
- MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation
- NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation
And, let’s not forget mistakes to avoid when covering and concealing.
** Applying too much product: “Use a light hand and build coverage gradually to avoid a cakey appearance,” Bilal reminds us.
** Neglecting proper blending: Blend the color corrector and foundation thoroughly to achieve a seamless finish, Bilal says.
** Using the wrong shade: This can’t be said enough: ensure that the color corrector and foundation match your skin tone to avoid noticeable color differences, according to Bilal.
And don’t forget to treat your dark spots once the concealer comes off at the end of the day. “At the end of each day when you remove your makeup, make sure to use a brightening serum to treat your dark spots,” Roberts says. “Serums that contain niacinamide, retinol, and vitamin C are perfect for lightening dark spots over time.”