It’s an undeniable, open secret known by many — attaining a clear, luminous complexion is not an easy feat. It requires hard work, patience as well as the financial ability and willingness to spend on various skincare products. Not to mention having the perseverance to adhere to a strict skincare regimen to maintain smooth, unblemished skin. And even so, success isn’t guaranteed. As such, it is not surprising that many people tend to get disheartened and give up halfway.
Swollen, pus-filled zits, unsightly acne scars and pesky dark spots — these are just some common skin issues that we are plagued with that negatively impact our self-esteem. Coupled with a red, flushed complexion or dull, sallow skin and intense dark eye circles, there are times whereby we wish that a smoothing ‘filter’ can be put on our skin in real time, just like the way we edit our photos. Sadly, while that isn’t possible, we can settle for the next best thing — makeup.
Possessing transformative capabilities, makeup is our temporary, go-to solution for an airbrushed, flawless looking complexion. But what most of us fail to realise is that the type and way that these makeup products are used, can affect their overall effectiveness. This is especially so if you have specific skin conditions like rosacea or struggle with hyperpigmentation and cystic acne. Therefore, the usual makeup application methods or beauty products might sometimes not be enough to hide these skin problems. This is when the nifty, multi-purpose cosmetics known as colour correctors can come in handy.
Depending on their hue and formulation, colour correctors can be used to address a diverse range of skin concerns such as unflattering dark spots, inflamed breakouts, ghastly looking dark eye circles or a sallow complexion. They are available in various forms like cream, liquid and powder as well as incorporated into other makeup products or used on its own. For the sake of specificity though, we will be focusing on the use of colour correcting concealers in this guide.
With the ability to even out skin tone while hiding various flaws, colour correcting concealers have become a staple product in many beauty aficionados’ makeup collection. However, in order to enjoy the best results, it is essential that you are aware of the specific makeup techniques and know-how involved. In light of this, we have come up with a guide on how to apply colour correcting makeup as below.
Mastering The Art Of Using Colour Correctors
With the plethora of colour corrector concealers out there in the market, it can be challenging to pick out the right one. But fret not, as finding a suitable colour corrector is easier than it seems. The general rule of thumb is to get a colour corrector in a shade that is contrasting with your specific skin issue. For instance, if you have a red, blotchy complexion riddled with acne outbreaks, opt for a green colour correcting concealer that can aid in cancelling out the crimson tone of your skin. Whereas if your skin is peppered with numerous unattractive dark spots or sunspots, go for a yellow colour correcting concealer that conceals and neutralises these skin discolourations.
On the other hand, if your primary concern is your shadowy bluish or purple dark eye circles, counteract them with an orange colour correcting concealer. As for those who have a pasty, yellowish complexion, balance it out with either a blue or purple correcting concealer that can add some colour to your face.
Asides from that, it’s also important to take the formulation of colour correct concealers into consideration. Go for sheer based colour correctors if your skin issues are less serious. But if they are more severe, use colour correctors with a full coverage formula instead.
Worried about looking like a circus performer with multi-coloured streaks on your face? In order for your colour correcting concealer to blend in effortlessly with the rest of your makeup, there are certain procedures that need to be taken while applying it. Here is a breakdown:
Always Apply Primer
To achieve a durable, long-lasting look, begin your makeup routine with putting on some primer. It will not facilitate the easy application of the other makeup products to be applied thereafter but can aid in making enlarged pores seem less visible, thus resulting in a smooth and seamless finish.
Dab Colour Colour Correcting Concealer Onto The Problem Areas
Cover up any irksome dark spots, deep-set acne scars, red and raised blemishes as well as dark eye circles by applying colour correcting concealer on the affected areas. Avoid putting copious amounts of colour correcting concealer all at once as it may backfire and cause your makeup to look dry and cakey. Instead, put on a small amount and increase the intensity accordingly. Depending on your personal preference, product formulation and skin issue, you can choose to apply the colour corrector with your fingers, brush, blender or directly if it’s in a stick form. Most importantly, be sure to spread and blend it out into your skin thoroughly so that the product doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.
Use A Lightweight Foundation
For a thoroughly distributed coverage, apply a lightweight matte based foundation after putting on colour correcting concealer. Stay away from those with overly rich formulas as they can ruin the evenness of your makeup application and accentuate any uneven areas like ice pick scars.
Finish Off With Normal Skin Tone Concealer And Setting Spray
Ensure a subtle, natural-looking finish by re-applying concealer in the shade of your skin tone onto the same problem areas. Then, end off with spraying a setting spray to keep your makeup in place for a longer duration of time.