The Benefits Of A Cream Concealer And When You Should Use One
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With so many variations of concealer, it can take time to choose one that's right for you. So let's start with the basics. What exactly is concealer, you ask? Neutrogena describes concealer as foundation's little sister. Although it can hide imperfections or blemishes on the skin (via Paula's Choice), concealer has various uses, including highlighting and contouring. In addition, it can work as a primer for eyelids and lips. If you prefer a no-makeup look, you can use concealer on its own. However, it works best on top of foundation.
Makeup states that if you're trying to hide a breakout, choosing a concealer shade similar to your skin tone is best. They recommend using a shade up to two times lighter than your skin for the under eyes. According to Curology, concealer exists in many forms, including liquid, stick, and cream. Cream concealer typically comes in a pot or a palette but can also be available in a tube. Curology writes that all concealers have their pros and cons. Nevertheless, some makeup artists prefer using cream concealer with good reason.
Cream concealer provides full coverage
According to Paula's Choice, cream concealer provides the skin with medium to full coverage. Simply put, cream concealer is buildable and customizable. Moreover, this product is known for its ability to cover blemishes, scars, and more. Makeup artist Emma White Turle explained to Who What Wear," A cream concealer is usually denser in consistency and gives a fuller coverage than, say, a liquid concealer." Paula's Choice explains that cream concealer is thicker and, thus, can better cover imperfections.
If you do choose to use a cream concealer to hide scars or blemishes, HIDE Cosmetics recommends using a setting powder to ensure everything stays in place. Alternatively, you can also apply cream concealer to highlight certain facial features such as the cheekbones or jawbones. Per Paula's Choice, cream concealer is ideal for covering dark under-eye circles. Due to high coverage effects, HIDE Cosmetics adds that cream concealer can also cover up acne.
Cream concealer cancels out discoloration
Paula's Choice reports that cream concealer is known for covering skin discoloration. Again, this is due to its thick texture. The company says that cream concealer can even hide melasma and birthmarks. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) describes melasma as dark skin spots on the skin that usually appear during pregnancy. Likewise, it's more common in women with medium to dark skin tones. Harvard Health Publishing notes that melasma is not physically harmful but can affect mental health.
The AAD notes that there are few treatment options for melasma. Sometimes, it goes away on its own. However, cream concealer can ultimately provide women with relief and a boost in their self-esteem if they feel insecure over their melasma. According to Makeup, cream concealer is available in various colors, including green, red, pink, yellow, and more. Each of these shades works differently to color-correct imperfections. Green, for example, is ideal for hiding redness on the face, while red can conceal blue hues.
It's ideal for dry skin
Curology states that cream concealer is perfect for dry skin, Likewise, Paula's Choice notes that those with normal and sensitive skin can also use it. However, HIDE Cosmetics warns that cream concealer could cling to dry patches and cause flakiness. Regardless of your skin type, Anastasia Beverly Hills states that you should always prep your skin before doing your makeup. This, of course, is especially important if you do have dry skin.
L'Oréal says exfoliating and moisturizing the skin is vital to prepping dry skin. Moreover, they recommend purchasing a primer specifically made for dry skin to ensure all of your products, including cream concealer, go on seamlessly. Cream products are generally the best for dry skin, Coveteur reports. Besides cream concealer, cream blush, and cream eye shadow will keep your skin looking hydrated and fresh. To set makeup on dry skin, L'Oréals suggests avoiding powder and using a setting spray instead to lock everything in.
How to apply cream concealer
When applying cream concealer using a brush is the best tactic. Makeup artist Jamie Dorman said (via Who What Wear), "I like to apply cream concealers with a stiff brush, patting gently to cover the imperfection completely." They added, "If I need to blend the edges, I will use a small fluffy eye brush." On the other hand, Reader's Digest advises placing the cream concealer on your skin with your fingers and dabbing it in with a makeup sponge. Similarly, you could use a brush to place and dab the concealer on the skin. To blend the product in, you could use your finger or makeup song.
A makeup artist for Alima Pure explains why these techniques work best. "The natural oils and waxes in Cream Concealer are most effective when the heat of your skin warms them up a little bit. They blend more easily, and they cover more smoothly. Gently swirl your finger in the pan to warm the formula, then apply with a brush or your fingertips." she said.
If you want to use cream concealer to highlight your facial features, makeup artist Gita Bass told Who What Wear, "When applying cream concealer under eyes or to highlight, apply it to the back of your hand first and warm it up with your fingers. This creates a more sheer consistency that won't crease or settle into lines."
Is cream concealer right for you?
Per Paula's Choice, some concealers might work for some and not for others. Regarding cream concealer, HIDE Cosmetics states that it was well-liked by individuals suffering from acne. However, this can be a double edge sword. Paula's Choice notes that both cream concealers and stick concealers are not ideal for oily skin. Its thick consistency can ultimately lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Curology reports that a liquid concealer or a concealer with a matte texture will work best for oily skin.
Having said that, Pauala's Choice notes that cream concealer is perfect if you want a full-coverage and flawless look. As aforementioned, cream concealer is best for dry skin. If you have dry skin and want to use it to cover dark under-eye circles, Paula's Choice suggests applying eye cream before going in with the product. Full coverage options include the Boi-ing Industrial Strength Concealer by Benefit Cosmetics and the Soft Matte Complete Concealer by NARS.