The 'Demi Method' Is The TikTok-Viral Secret To A Flawless Natural Makeup Look
TikTok has done it again with the "demi method" makeup technique. The demi beauty trend, which is also referred to as micro concealing, makes use of tonal shades to neutralize skin tone and spot conceal blemishes for a barely-there look and feel. The simple technique has gained popularity since the rise of the color theory makeup trend, which introduced color-correcting concealers as an everyday essential.
One of the major advantages of the demi method is its targeted concealing technique, as it appeals to those with a range of skin concerns, including dark circles, acne scars, melasma, and sun spots. It's easy to assume that a foundation-free look only works for certain skin types, but this method proves that an even complexion is universally attainable.
Another benefit to this minimal technique is that you can avoid creasing and textured skin from thick layers of foundation and concealer, which tend to settle in fine lines and creases, per Erin Wygant Beauty. The only downside, perhaps, is that this technique offers a subtle, yet flattering, look — it may feel too simple for those accustomed to medium or heavy coverage.
How color theory applies
One thing is certain: demi devotees know their way around the color wheel. There's an undeniable learning curve to the demi method, as it requires a careful eye and a basic understanding of color theory. Familiarize yourself with the color wheel to help you recognize the various tones of your skin.
Next, identify the complementary shade — in other words, the shade on the opposite end of the color wheel. If you wanted to conceal blue under-eye circles, for instance, you would neutralize the bluish-purple tones with an orange-yellow shade. Similarly, to neutralize redness or acne, reach for a green concealer. Before concealing problem spots, however, apply a color-correcting primer and then use a shade darker than your skin tone on the light areas to even out the skin and make it easier to conceal the colored areas.
Beauty and fashion content creator Tara Sigari shared her interpretation of the demi method in a TikTok video where she focused on darkening the light areas, such as the apple of her cheek, the side of her nose, and other areas where light naturally hits. To conceal her dark circles, she used a bare amount of liquid concealer to trace a thin line in the fold of her under-eye area, the outer corner of her eye, and the nasolabial fold. In a side-by-side comparison, the side that underwent the demi method is considerably brighter. Despite the obvious difference, the demi method still creates a subtle and undetectable transformation.
What you will need for the 'demi method'
The demi method is a versatile makeup technique. In most cases, you can make do with the tools and products you already own. First and foremost, you'll need a color-correcting palette that contains tonal shades that match your skin tone. Look for cream concealers for best results, though liquid concealers will also work well here. If you already have a color-correcting palette, but it doesn't contain skin-tone shades, you can try to mix different shades of cream or liquid makeup products to formulate a replacement. For instance, TikToker @lisaamariaj combined a cream bronzer with her concealer to use under her eyes and on the light areas of her face.
High-precision brushes are the best tools for this cream concealer technique, per L'Oréal Paris. Look for an eyeliner or micro concealer brush to spot conceal and a small fluffy brush to blend it out. Make sure you use brushes designed for thicker consistencies, as you may struggle to blend cream concealer with the soft bristles of a powder brush.
If you love the idea of the demi method, but you still want to define and sculpt, use the hybrid method and finish with your standard makeup routine. Skip the foundation, but follow up with your bronzer, contour, and blush. Swipe on some mascara and shiny lip gloss — et voilà.