How To Use A Color Correcting Concealer

What Is a Color-Correcting Concealer?

Color-correcting concealers are designed to neutralize skin imperfections like redness, sallowness and general discoloration. And while some mild skin discoloration issues can often be covered with foundation and a classic concealer, wearing a color-correcting concealer underneath your foundation can give you the complete coverage you’re looking for.

“Color-correcting concealer is used to neutralize and correct skin discoloration,” says celebrity makeup artist Courtney Hart. “It balances darkness, redness and hyperpigmentation so that skin tone is even and consistent.”

How to Choose a Color-Correcting Concealer

When determining what color to use, refer to the color wheel. Complementary colors, or opposite pairings on the color wheel, cancel each other out, which can help give your face a neutral canvas for applying foundation. Think about the specific skin issue you are hoping to neutralize or mask.Is it redness? Dark blue-ish under-eye circles? Then, determine the correct complementary color based on the color wheel. Read on for a full breakdown of each shade.

How to Apply a Color-Correcting Concealer

Once you have your product, keep in mind that less is more. “Color-correcting concealer should be applied under your regular concealer,” explains Hart. “Apply it in thin layers and limit it only to the specific areas that are discolored. The next step is to use a bit of a concealer that is a match to your skin to blend and create a seamless finish.”

Once you’ve applied your color corrector and your regular concealer to the affected areas, press (don't swipe) your foundation onto your face. Using this pressing technique rather than swiping foundation across your skin will ensure that the color-correcting concealer stays in place.

How to Use Green Color Correctors

Green color corrector “is used to correct redness (red being opposite green on the color wheel),” says Hart. The color green can help correct red spots such as birthmarks, rashes or breakouts. If you struggle with rosacea, eczema or moderate redness on the cheeks, opt for a green concealer to neutralize the red. We recommend a long-wear formula, like the Lancôme Teint Idôle Ultra Wear Camouflage Corrector in Green, which blends seamlessly into skin for a natural finish.