How to Apply Concealer and Contour? Contour with Concealer in Easy Steps
Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, "Why doesn't my makeup look like those Instagram tutorials?" You're not alone! Many of us struggle with concealer and contour, ending up looking more cakey than flawless. But don't worry – I'm here to help you nail that perfect look. With a bag full of different shades of lipsticks, foundation, or other creams, concealer is the one you should not miss to carry. Whether you want to make dark circles disappear or hide the appearance of wrinkles, concealer can help you find your desired results in many ways to enhance your overall eye makeup.
As a makeup artist with over a decade of experience, I've witnessed the transformative power of makeup. From red carpet glamour to everyday looks, I've had the privilege of helping countless individuals discover a new, sculpted version of themselves. The secret? It's all about choosing the right shades, mastering your blending, and working with your unique face shape. Trust me, once you get these basics down, you'll be contouring like a pro in no time!
In this beauty blog, "How to Apply Concealer and Contour," I'm spilling all my secrets. I will guide you through the process of applying concealer and contour effectively. We will also discuss detailed information about using Concealer for the perfect contoured look to feel more confident. So, let's dive straight into the power of concealer application in the makeup world.
What Is a Concealer?
Concealer is an important cosmetic product used in makeup applications. Concealer is usually found in liquid or cream formulations designed to conceal skin imperfections. The concealer consists of ingredients like water, glycerin, dimethicone, tocopherol, silica, and many others that help enhance the beauty of individuals by concealing and creating a smooth skin texture.
To choose the best concealer for contouring, select a shade 1-2 tones darker than your skin. Consider your skin type: cream formulas work well for dry skin, while powders suit oily skin. Look for long-lasting, buildable products with good coverage. Test the concealer in natural light for the most flattering result.
What is Concealer Used For?
The main purpose of using concealer in makeup application is to hide the appearance of various imperfections on the skin. Concealer is typically applied under the eyes to cover dark circles, blemishes or acne spots, around the nose to hide redness, and on areas of hyperpigmentation. Applying concealer to these targeted areas helps to create a more even, smooth, and flawless complexion, resulting in a radiant appearance. It's also used on eyelids as a primer, above the brows to define and lift, and in the inner corners of the eyes to brighten the face.
The concealer acts as a complementary product to the foundation, allowing for more precise coverage in areas where additional correction is needed. It helps to create a smooth canvas for the rest of the makeup application, resulting in a more polished and perfected look.
How Do You Choose the Best Concealer for Contouring?
Choosing the correct concealer for contouring is both fun and challenging at the same time. Several factors are involved in choosing the concealer that makes the perfect contour in the appearance. The first thing that should be considered while choosing the concealer for contouring is the concealer shades. Select the shade of concealer that complements your skin tone. Choose a concealer a few shades darker than your skin tone for the perfect contouring procedure. Doing this helps provide the needed shadow effect for a perfect contour appearance. The texture of the concealer should be chosen wisely to give a better result. For contouring, cream or liquid concealer works best as it blends easily and provides a smooth, seamless, natural looking finish. They also provide precise application and buildable coverage.
Concealer with a matte finish complements contouring as it helps create depth and shadows, which is essential for contouring and sculpting the face. Ensure the concealer has good staying power to maintain the contoured effect throughout the day. Look for long-wearing formulas that are resistant to fading or smudging. It's essential to test the concealer before purchasing. Apply a small amount on your jawline or the area you plan to contour to see how it blends and matches your skin tone. Natural lighting is best for accurate color assessment.
What Does Contour Do?
Contouring is a technique of using makeup in such a way as to enhance the shape and structure of the facial appearance. Contouring involves using makeup products, typically in darker or lighter shades than the natural skin tone, to create the illusion of shadows and depth to the face structure.
Applying contour products to areas such as the hollows of the cheeks, jawline, cupid's bow, and nose can help define facial features, create the appearance of sharper cheekbones, and achieve a more sculpted look overall.
Why Contour with Concealer?
Contouring with concealer combines the benefits of both contouring and concealing. Concealer is used to cover blemishes, dark circles, or any imperfections on the skin, whereas contouring helps to add dimensions, creating the illusion of shadow rather than actual skin. Most beauty lovers feel confused about whether you can use concealer as a contour.
Yes, you can use concealer as a contour. Using concealer as a contour involves selecting a shade significantly darker than your skin tone. This darker shade should be applied strategically to areas where you want to create shadows and definition on your face, such as underneath cheekbones, along the jawline, and at the sides of the nose. Use a small makeup brush or sponge to apply the concealer precisely, blending it well into your skin. Blend thoroughly to avoid harsh lines and achieve a seamless, natural-looking contour.
Remember that while using concealer for contouring is possible, it may not provide the same depth and dimension as traditional contouring products designed specifically for this purpose. Experiment with different shades and techniques to find what works best for your skin tone and desired look.
[Recommended to Read: How to Contour Nose]
How to Apply Concealer and Contour in a Perfect Way?
Concealer application is important to contour for facial appearance because it helps create a more seamless and natural-looking contour effect. By using concealer strategically, you can brighten and bring attention to specific areas of the face, making your style for prom or any other event look more polished and defined. Here is how you can have a perfect contour effect using concealer to contour by following the below steps:
For Applying Concealer
Follow these steps to learn the best way to apply concealer perfectly:
Step 1: Prepare Your SkinStart by cleansing your face and applying a moisturizer that suits your skin type. Allow it to be fully absorbed before moving on to the next step. It is essential to know your skin type before starting a makeup routine, as it helps you to decide on choosing the right products that fit your skin needs.
Step 2: Choose the Right ConcealerSelect a concealer that matches your skin tone or is one shade lighter to have a smooth, flawless, and natural finish. You can also use color correctors to address specific concerns:
- Green color corrector: Neutralizes redness or acne.
- Peach or orange color corrector: Prevents dark circles on fair to medium skin tones.
- Salmon or pink color corrector: Works well for dark circles on medium to deep skin tones.
- Yellow color corrector: Helps to brighten dull skin or cancel out purple undertones.
Under-eye circles: Dot a small amount of concealer in an upside-down triangle shape under your eyes. Gently blend it using your ring finger or a damp beauty sponge. Avoid tugging or pulling on the delicate under-eye area.
Blemishes or redness: Use a small concealer brush or a clean fingertip to apply concealer to the targeted areas precisely. Pat and blend the concealer until it seamlessly blends with your skin. You can layer a bit more product for additional coverage.
Applying concealer with your finger might seem intimidating at first, but it's actually quite simple and effective!. You can blend concealer with your finger for a quick and seamless application. The warmth helps melt the product into the skin, achieving a natural finish without the need for brushes or sponges.
To prevent creasing and extend the longevity of your concealer, set it with a translucent setting powder. Use a fluffy brush to dust the powder lightly over the concealed areas. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then gently dust off any excess product (powder) using a clean brush.You can also use a setting spray to increase the longevity and set the makeup application.
For Contouring
Follow these steps below for contouring in a perfect way:
Step 1: Choose the Right Contour ShadeChoosing the right contour shade depends on your skin tone and undertone. For fair to light skin tones, opt for cool taupe or light brown shades. Medium skin tones should go for warm browns, and deeper tones can use richer chocolates or terracottas. Always test shades on your jawline for the perfect match.
Step 2: Identify the Areas to Contour- Cheeks: Suck in your cheeks to find the hollows, and apply the contour shade just below the cheekbones. Blend it upward towards the ears using a contour brush or a small, fluffy brush in gentle, circular motions.
- Jawline: Apply the contour shade along the jawline to create a definition and a more sculpted appearance. Blend it downward towards the neck to avoid any harsh lines.
- Nose: Apply a thin line of contour shade on the sides of your nose to create the illusion of a slimmer shape. Blend it out using a small concealer brush or your fingertips. Be sure to blend the edges well to avoid any visible lines
Step 3: Blend, Blend, Blend
Blending is crucial to achieve a natural-looking contour. Use a clean brush, a makeup sponge, or your fingertips to blend the contour shade thoroughly. Circular motions will help soften any harsh lines and seamlessly blend the product with your natural skin tone.
Many makeup users are often confused about whether to apply concealer or contour first in their routine. When applying makeup, it's generally best to use concealer before contour. Apply concealer to cover blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections. Once blended, follow with contour to sculpt and define facial features. This order allows for a smoother base and prevents the concealer from disrupting your carefully applied contour, resulting in a more polished finish.
Concealer Blending Techniques For Different Face Shapes
Concealer blending techniques differ for each face shape, helping to highlight your best features and create harmony. Here's a quick guide for different face shapes:
1. Oval Face:
- Focus on under-eye area and any blemishes
- Light application as this face shape typically needs minimal correction
2. Round Face:
- Apply concealer slightly lower than the under-eye area to elongate the face
- Highlight the center of the forehead and chin to create length
3. Square Face:
- Soften jawline by blending concealer along the edges
- Highlight the center of the forehead and chin to balance strong angles
4. Heart-shaped Face:
- Concentrate on under-eye area and sides of the nose
- Blend concealer along the jawline to soften and balance the chin
5. Diamond Face:
- Focus on under-eye area and cheekbones
- Apply concealer to the temples to soften angular features
6. Rectangular Face:
- Apply concealer to soften the corners of the forehead and jawline
- Highlight the cheekbones to add width
7. Triangle/Pear Face:
- Focus on brightening the under-eye and upper cheek area
- Apply concealer along the jawline to soften and slim
For all face shapes, remember to:
- Blend well into the hairline and down the neck for a seamless finish
- Use highlighting concealer strategically to bring forward certain features
- Consider contouring in conjunction with concealer for more dramatic face-shaping
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying Concealer and Contour
Contouring using concealer can help enhance facial beauty, but applying it in the wrong way can mess up the whole application process. So, here are the common mistakes to avoid while applying concealer and contour. Avoiding these mentioned steps during the application helps to get the results you desire.
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Over-applying concealer: Using concealer excessively can make the under-eye area appear cakey and emphasize fine lines or wrinkles. So, start with a small amount and build up coverage as needed to avoid a heavy look.
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Choosing the wrong shade: Selecting a concealer shade that is too light or too dark for your skin tone can make the concealer stand out rather than blend seamlessly. Test shades on your jawline or inner wrist to find the best match for your skin tone.
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Using the wrong tools: Using the wrong tools to contour and concealer placement leads to uneven application and blending. Go for brushes, sponges, or beauty blenders specifically designed for these purposes to achieve better results.
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Neglecting to set the makeup: Failing to set your concealer and contour with a translucent powder or setting spray can result in creasing and a shorter wear period. Setting the makeup helps it last longer and gives a smoother finish.
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Ignoring your face shape: Different face shapes may require adjustments in contour placement. Consider your face shape when contouring to enhance your features in a way that complements your unique facial structure.
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Skipping color correction: If you have specific color concerns like redness or dark spots, color correction can help neutralize those tones before applying concealer. Skipping this step may result in less effective coverage.
[Recommended to Read: Common Makeup Mistakes and How to Avoid Them]
Final Thoughts on Applying Concealer And Contour
When it comes to achieving a flawless, sculpted look and adding dimension to the facial appearance, knowing how to apply concealer and contour is key. Concealer, used to hide imperfections and brighten certain areas, pairs perfectly with contouring, which adds depth and definition to the face. To choose the best concealer for contouring, consider your skin tone and select a shade slightly lighter for highlighting and a darker concealer shade for contouring. Blend concealer shades seamlessly so there are no visible lines or harsh transitions between colors providing natural transition.
By following the right techniques and blending seamlessly, you can achieve a beautifully enhanced appearance that highlights your best features. Practice, experimentation, and finding the right products will help you master the area of makeup art in forming concealer and contouring.
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FAQs on Applying Concealer & Contour
What is the purpose of concealer in makeup application?
Concealer is used to cover up blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections on the skin.
How do I choose the right shade of concealer?
Select a shade that matches your skin tone or is slightly lighter for a highlighting effect.
What areas of the face should I apply concealer to?
Apply concealer under the eyes, on any redness or blemishes, and on areas you want to highlight, such as the center of the forehead and down the bridge of the nose.
How does contouring enhance facial features?
Contouring adds shadows and depth to create the illusion of sharper cheekbones, a more defined jawline, and a sculpted appearance.
How dark should the contour be?
Contour should be 1-2 shades darker than your natural skin tone. It should create a subtle shadow effect, not appear as a dark stripe. The goal is to mimic natural shadows on your face, enhancing your features without looking obvious.
Do you use contour before or after the foundation?
Contour is typically applied after foundation. This allows for a smooth base and helps the contour blend seamlessly with your foundation for a natural-looking sculpted effect. Applying contour after foundation also prevents the foundation from covering up or altering the contour placement.
What's the difference between cream and powder contour?
Cream contour offers a more natural, dewy finish and is best for dry skin. Powder contour provides a matte finish and is ideal for oily skin.
Which areas of the face should I contour?
Contour the hollows of the cheeks, temples, along the jawline, and the sides of the nose to achieve desired sculpting effects.
How do I set concealer and contour to make them last longer?
Set the makeup with a light dusting of translucent powder to prevent creasing and ensure long-lasting wear.
Should I apply concealer before or after the foundation?
It is generally recommended to apply concealer after foundation to achieve a more natural and blended look.
