Clever concealer cover-ups that work
Concealer is probably the hardest working item in your makeup bag - and the first thing you should reach for when your complexion is looking less than flawless. We've chosen the best buys to cover up any skin problem! By Lisa Barrett
Spots and blemishes
Makeup artist Daniel Sandler has worked with some of the best-known faces in the beauty and fashion industry. He says, “To get a good coverage on spots or blemishes, I avoid anything too creamy or greasy as it wears off quickly. A small tipped makeup brush is the best way to apply concealer to hide single spots – use it to apply on top of – not under - foundation or tinted moisturiser before setting with powder.” A stick or pencil concealer works well on individual spots or blemishes as you can get precise application directly on the spot.
Best buys
Green People Multi Active Pencil Concealer
Daniel Sandler’s Camo Cover
Pigmentation and scars
Most makeup artists would recommend choosing a specialist product for areas that need a heavier, more concentrated coverage, such as the Charles Fox store in Covent Garden who will choose your perfect shade and show you how to apply it. Clare Weyers, owner of Elite School of Beauty Therapy, recommends layering a highly pigmented cream formula or specific camouflage concealer with a sponge or fingers before setting with a thin cover of powder. She says, “Apart from specialist camouflage concealers, I’ve found mineral powder makeup is good for covering scars or birthmarks. I apply using a brush in circular motions and build it up gradually.”
Best buys
Tattoo Secret Camouflage Kit
Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Ultimate Concealer
Spider veins and redness
As a makeup artist with almost 30 years experience in achieving perfect looking skin on countless magazine and film shoots, Amanda Jackson-Sytner offers her advise on erasing redness. “Start by smoothing a cooling primer onto clean skin to calm and soothe areas of high colour, before using a foundation brush to sweep your usual base over the whole face. Next, concentrate on red marks and capillaries with a small brush and a concealer which matches the tone of your base, feathering the product at the edges so it blends seamlessly in.“
Best buys
Studio-10 Age Defy Skin Perfector
Dr LeWinn’s Skin Perfect Anti-ageing Concealer
Under-eye shadows
Concealing darkness under the eyes helps to give the whole face a wide awake look. Daniel says, “Dark circles need a light textured but covering, creamy concealer that doesn't contain powder or it will make the under eye area look dry and older. Look for a formula that contains moisturisers and vitamins to protect and nourish the delicate skin whilst still covering up any darkness. I sometimes find a colour neutralising concealer will also help reduce the problem.” Use the tip of the ring finger to gently pat and roll the concealer into the hollow under the eye. A touch of light reflecting concealer on the inner corner of the eye is a great trick for making you look like you’ve had at least 8 hours sleep.
Best buys
Clinique Airbrush Concealer
Rodial Instaglam Eye Tint
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