Your concealer and foundation should both match your skin tone. But this doesn't mean they always need to be the same shade. In fact, for concealers,it's best to pick a shade lighter than your foundation if you're applying it under your eyes.
``Always go a shade lighter than your foundation.'' The lighter tone will cancel out dark discoloration, but be careful not to go too fair. Concealers that are more than one shade lighter than your skin tone can leave you with a ghostly shadow.
Concealer does not need to be lighter than your foundation. IMO, it actually should be the same tone as your foundation, even for under the eyes. (If you want to brighten under the eyes that's where powder can come in.) You can apply foundation and concealer in whatever order you like.
A foolproof way to pick a highlight concealer shade is to choose something w/ the same undertone as ur foundation match and simply go 2 shades lighter. If that pushes u into another undertone choose something lighter but neutral or cooler since a warmer shade could read as too light or ashy.
While there are no set rules, makeup experts and artists recommend using concealer after applying foundation. When you apply foundation first, it covers up a lot of imperfections on its own, cutting down the need to spot correction and the amount of concealer used.
Does Concealer Go Under or Over Your Foundation? We talk a lot about how there are no rules in makeup and this is another case where that rings true. With that being said, there is a preferred method for makeup order to get a crease-free and smooth texture. For a more natural finish, apply foundation before concealer.
Begin Swatching on Your Lower Cheek
Through systematic elimination, you'll pinpoint the concealer shade that seamlessly compliments your complexion. If you're looking for the perfect brightening shade, simply go one or two shades lighter than your perfect match within the same undertone family.
Swatch on your jawline: Apply a small amount of foundation on your jawline and blend it towards your neck. The right shade should seamlessly blend into your skin. Consider your skin type: Different formulas work better for different skin types (e.g., matte for oily skin, dewy for dry skin).
When you are first exploring products and choosing a concealer colour, we recommend going at least one shade lighter than the colour of your foundation. Using a two or three shades lighter product may create a grey, ashen look that you will definitely want to avoid.
In general, we recommend everyone keep two concealers on deck: One to cover up dark spots and blemishes, and another for your under-eye area. The one you use on your face should match your foundation as closely as possible for a seamless, undetectable finish.
Bringing light to areas only draws more attention to that area. Meaning, if you're trying to conceal darkness and go too light with your concealer, it's going to bring more attention to that area. It could also have a graying effect, which is definitely not what we want to cover any sort of darkness or discoloration.
Consider your skin's undertones
Similar to foundation, finding the ideal concealer shade ultimately depends on your skin tone and undertone. Your skin tone refers to how much melanin you have on the surface of your skin, and it can fluctuate depending on how much sun exposure you get.
Start by applying primer, then even out your complexion with a skin tint or sheer foundation. If desired, you can apply concealer to any areas that need additional coverage. Then, add a little blush or bronzer, swipe on a coat or two of mascara, and apply a lip balm or gloss.
As a rule of thumb, opt for a sponge when you want to achieve a flawless finish and when using liquid formulas. Alternatively, reach for a brush when you want a precise application and are working with powder or cream-based products.
“If you're using a lightweight under-eye concealer, the warmth of your finger will help it sink into your skin really nicely,” explains Katie. “But if it is a heavier concealer, I would be worried that it would look cakey or you'd add too much by just using our fingers.
Clarins Everlasting Concealer
Its lightweight, fluid texture blends seamlessly for a natural finish without settling into wrinkles or creasing, making it an ideal choice for mature complexions.
The rule of thumb for picking your concealer shade is based on your foundation shade. Beauty experts advise that everyone should have two shades of concealer in their arsenal, one lighter and one darker since daily sun exposure means your skin tone shifts slightly all the time.