Should concealer be applied before foundation? This question has been a topic of debate among makeup enthusiasts for years. While some believe that concealer should always be applied before foundation, others argue that it can be done in reverse. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of both approaches to help you decide which one works best for you.
Concealer is a versatile product designed to cover blemishes, dark circles, and other imperfections on the skin. It is thicker than foundation and provides more coverage, making it an excellent choice for targeted areas. Applying concealer before foundation ensures that these imperfections are well-covered, and the foundation can then be used to even out the skin tone and provide a smooth base.
One of the main advantages of applying concealer before foundation is that it allows for better control over the coverage. By covering specific areas with concealer first, you can ensure that these areas are well-hidden before applying foundation. This method is particularly beneficial for those with acne, dark circles, or other skin concerns that require more coverage.
Another advantage of using concealer before foundation is that it can help to prevent foundation from caking or settling into fine lines and pores. By applying a thin layer of concealer to these areas, you can create a barrier that prevents the foundation from clinging to these imperfections, resulting in a more natural-looking finish.
However, there are also some drawbacks to applying concealer before foundation. One potential issue is that if the concealer is not properly blended, it can create a mask-like appearance on the skin. This can be especially noticeable if the concealer is applied to the undereye area, as it can make the area look too heavy or unnatural.
Additionally, applying concealer before foundation can make the process more time-consuming. It requires extra steps and attention to detail to ensure that the concealer is blended seamlessly with the foundation. For some people, this may not be worth the effort, especially if they are in a hurry or have a limited amount of time to apply makeup.
On the other hand, some makeup artists and professionals recommend applying foundation before concealer. This method is based on the idea that foundation provides a more even base for the concealer to blend into. By applying foundation first, you can create a smooth canvas that allows the concealer to be applied more evenly and blended more seamlessly.
Applying foundation before concealer can also help to prevent the concealer from creasing or settling into fine lines and pores. Since foundation provides a barrier, it can prevent the concealer from sitting on top of these imperfections, resulting in a more natural-looking finish.
However, there are still some concerns with this approach. Applying foundation before concealer may not provide enough coverage for certain skin concerns, such as severe acne or dark circles. In these cases, the concealer may not be able to cover the imperfections effectively, resulting in an uneven or patchy appearance.
In conclusion, whether you should apply concealer before foundation or vice versa depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you require more coverage for specific areas, applying concealer before foundation may be the better option. However, if you are looking for a more natural-looking finish and have a smooth canvas to work with, applying foundation before concealer might be more suitable. Ultimately, it is essential to experiment with both methods to find the one that works best for you and your skin concerns.
