Types Of Concealer Makeup

There are many different types of concealer. If you are just starting out with makeup, or getting your first blemishes (I feel for you) you may be overwhelmed by the types of concealer out there. Different types of concealer have different formulas, different levels of coverage and work best in different areas of the face. Knowing the basics can help you easily determine the best type of concealer for you.

Pot concealers are the most heavily pigmented and thickest types of concealers. They come in a pot and can be applied with fingers or dense, flat brushes. Typically, pot concealers work best for covering blemishes on the face. These concealers will usually be too thick to use to cover under eye bags or circles. Because of the high pigmentation, a little bit of concealer goes a long way.

A highly recommended concealer is the Studio Finish Concealer by MAC Cosmetics, which is popular because of it's full coverage, creamy formula and wide shade range.

A drug store alternative pot concealer is the Rave Cosmetics Concealer Tri-Pot, with three colors, mixing your perfect shade is easy.

Concealers in tubes and wands are not as thick as pot concealers, and will be more liquidy. These concealers offer medium to full coverage, are easy to blend, and can be used under the eyes as well as over blemishes.

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye Waterproof concealer is a cult favorite for concealing under eye imperfections. Its formula is made specifically for the under eye, with moisturizers designed to nourish the eye. A little bit goes a very long way, and the coverage is buildable, meaning you can add layers to achieve the amount of coverage you want.

A personal favorite of mine is Estee Lauder Doublewear, which works great both under my eye and on blemishes, and lasts ALL DAY and then some.

Stick Concealers are popular because they are easy to use. No brushes are required, and no product is ever wasted. Stick concealers vary in terms of texture. Some are thick and should be used for blemishes only, and some are creamy and work well under the eye and on blemishes. To tell if a stick concealer can work under the eye, see how shiny it is. If the product is shiny, then it is less dense and can work under the eye. If the product is more matte, avoid using it under the eye. This also applies to pot concealers, as some, such as the Bonni Brown Corrector, are meant for under-eye use.

The Hourglass Hidden Corrective concealer is a high-end item that will last you a very, very long time, even with daily use. This works under the eyes because of its creamy consistency, and also brightens to make you look more awake.

Think of what you need and choose a concealer accordingly. Looking to cover acne or acne scars? Try the MAC Studio Finish. If under eye bags and circles are dragging you down, check out the Bye Bye Under Eyes by IT Cosmetics or the Hourglass Concealer. Consider these other tips:

1. Think about the color of the area you plan on concealing. Is it a blueish under eye area? Look for a concealer shade that is more warm/salmon toned, to neutralize the blue. 
2. Think about correctors. If you have severe blemishes or under eye circles, you may need to neutralize them first in order to truly conceal them. Green colored correctors are available for redness and acne, and pink/salmon colored correctors are available for dark under eye circles. Correctors can be applied before concealer.
3. Try different application methods. Don't always stick with the wand or applicator that comes with a product, as it may not be right for you. Try applying with your fingers, brushes, sponges, and other items until you find the method that works best for you. I find that patting my concealer on with my ring finger works best for me, giving me the best coverage while blending to look natural.

Concealer palettes are great for makeup artists who need to match a wide variety of skin tones. Palettes are a pocket-friendly way of owning many different shades, but they aren't just for makeup artists.

The colors in concealer palettes that are too dark for you can work great as a base for contouring and creating very natural depth and shape to the face. Lighter shades work great as highlighters. I love my 15 color concealer palette because it was a great price and with the correctors, highlighting and contouring shades, I get GREAT use out of it.

If you are unsure as to your shade or best color for you, visit a make up counter where a professional can match you. Ask for your shade and undertone, and have them recommend some great color matches for you.