Apply Concealer or Foundation First? Expert Tips

Ever found yourself staring at your reflection, brushes in hand, wondering, “Should I start with foundation or concealer?” You’re not alone in this classic beauty debate!  If you ask most professionals, the answer is clear—foundation comes first. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—your unique skin type, specific concerns, and desired look all play into the perfect order. While some experts lean towards foundation-first for an even base, the real answer lies in your personal needs and products.

No need to stress; At Fragrance Dealz, we’re here to help you navigate this makeup maze! Whether you’re a foundation-first fan or a die-hard concealer devotee, exploring both sides of the debate can lead to flawless, camera-ready skin. We’ll break down the pros and cons, share expert tips, and guide you to your best application method. So, grab your favorite products, get comfy, and let’s unlock the secrets to a complexion that looks naturally radiant and smooth!

Understanding the Basics: Foundation vs. Concealer 

What is Foundation?

Foundation is a makeup product designed to cover your entire face and create a smooth base for the rest of your makeup. It evens out your skin tone, reduces redness, and minimizes variations, providing a consistent canvas for your makeup.

Types of Foundation:

• Liquid Foundation: Versatile and suitable for most skin types.
  

• Powder Foundation: Ideal for oily skin as it helps control shine.
  

• Cream Foundation: Best for dry skin due to its hydrating properties.

When choosing a foundation, always pick one that matches your skin tone perfectly to avoid an unnatural look. Foundation is the key to making your makeup appear professional and polished, as it helps even out your complexion and minimizes blemishes or sun damage.

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What is Concealer?

Concealer is a highly pigmented product used to cover specific problem areas such as dark circles, acne, scars, and hyperpigmentation. Concealers can also be used to highlight certain areas of your face when applied strategically.

Types of Concealer:

• Color Correcting Concealer: Shades like green, peach, and orange are used to neutralize discoloration before applying foundation.
  

• True-Tone Concealer: Used after foundation to provide additional coverage for specific variations.

Key differences between the two products

To better understand the distinctions between foundation and concealer, let's compare their characteristics:

Aspect	Foundation	Concealer
Coverage	Sheer to medium	Medium to full
Application Area	Entire face	Specific areas
Texture	Typically lighter	Often thicker
Shade Range	Matches skin tone	Can be lighter or color-correcting
Primary Function	Evens skin tone	Conceals imperfections

The Traditional Approach

Option 1: Foundation First

Starting with foundation is the most popular approach for good reason—it creates a smooth, even base that often reduces the need for additional concealer. This method also helps you avoid that dreaded “cakey” look, allowing you to add extra coverage only where you truly need it.

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Benefits of applying foundation before concealer

Applying foundation offers several advantages:

• Creates a smooth canvas
  
• Evens out skin tone
  
• Reduces the amount of concealer needed
  
• Helps concealer blend seamlessly
  

Here's a comparison of skin appearance before and after foundation application:

Before Foundation	After Foundation
Uneven skin tone	Balanced complexion
Visible pores	Minimized pore appearance
Redness or discoloration	Even skin color

Best For:

• Generally good skin with minor blemishes.
  
• Natural "no-makeup" looks.
  
• Full-coverage foundation users.

Recommended Pick: 
Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation & Concealer #01 Linen – a dual-purpose formula that combines both foundation and concealer for all-in-one coverage, making it perfect for those days when you want to streamline your routine!

A Pro’s Tip: 

Celebrity makeup artist Bobbi Brown suggests, “Start with foundation so you can see what areas truly need concealing. It makes for a fresher, more natural-looking finish.”

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Option 2: Concealer First 

Some makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts prefer applying concealer first, especially when targeting specific imperfections like under-eye shadows or blemishes. This technique allows for precise coverage in troubled areas before blending the foundation seamlessly.

Advantages of applying concealer before foundation

• Targeted coverage: Allows for precise application on problem areas
  

• Less product waste: You may need less foundation overall
  

• Natural finish: Can result in a more skin-like appearance
  

• Customizable coverage: Easily build up coverage where needed

How concealer targets specific problem areas

Concealer excels at targeting specific skin concerns:

Skin Concern	How Concealer Helps
Dark circles	Brightens under-eye area
Blemishes	Covers spots precisely
Redness	Neutralizes discoloration
Fine lines	Smooths appearance of wrinkles

Scenarios where concealer-first is ideal

The concealer-first method works particularly well in certain situations:

1. When you have prominent under-eye shadows or blemishes
   
2. For special events or photoshoots requiring flawless skin
   
3. If you prefer a more natural, skin-like finish
   
4. When using lightweight or sheer foundations

Recommended Pick: 

Christian Dior Backstage Face & Body Flash Perfector Concealer #3 – this high-precision concealer provides buildable, blendable coverage, ideal for creating a flawless finish on targeted areas.
Expert Insight: Renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath says, “If you’re focusing on coverage for blemishes or under-eye circles, concealer-first can be a lifesaver. It gives you control over specific areas before applying a layer of foundation.”

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Factors Influencing Your Choice

When deciding whether to apply foundation or concealer first, several factors come into play. Understanding these elements will help you make the best choice for your unique skin and desired look.

A. Skin type considerations

Your skin type significantly impacts your makeup application order. Here's a quick guide:

Skin Type	Recommended Order	Reason
Oily	Foundation first	Helps control shine and provides a smooth base
Dry	Concealer first	Prevents concealer from clinging to dry patches
Combination	Depends on area	Adjust based on specific zones of your face

B. Coverage needs

Your coverage requirements also play a crucial role in determining the order:

• Light coverage: Apply concealer for spot treatment
  

• Medium coverage: Either order can work, depending on your preference
  

• Full coverage: Foundation first creates an even base for concealer

C. Type of foundation and concealer

The formulations of your products can influence your application order:

1. Liquid foundation + cream concealer: Foundation first
   

2. Powder foundation + liquid concealer: Concealer first
   

3. Stick foundation + stick concealer: Interchangeable order

D. Desired final look

Your end goal affects your application technique:

• Natural finish: Apply concealer first for a "no-makeup" look
  

• Flawless complexion: Start with foundation for an airbrushed effect
  

• Targeted coverage: Use concealer  to address specific concerns

Application Techniques for concealer and foundation

Now that we've explored the factors influencing your choice between foundation and concealer application order, let's dive into the techniques for both methods. Mastering these techniques will help you achieve a flawless, professional-looking finish regardless of which approach you choose.

Tools and brushes to use

Selecting the right tools is crucial for a seamless application. Here's a comparison of tools for foundation and concealer:

Tool	Foundation	Concealer
Brush	Dense, flat-topped brush	Small, precise concealer brush
Sponge	Beauty blender or makeup sponge	Mini beauty blender
Fingers	Works well for liquid formulas	Ideal for cream concealers

Blending tips for seamless finish

To achieve a flawless look, follow these blending tips:

1. Use light, tapping motions rather than dragging or rubbing
   
2. Blend outwards from the center of your face
   
3. Pay extra attention to edges and hairline
   
4. Layer thin coats for better coverage and a natural look
   

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 Color Correcting Before Foundation

Color correcting can be a powerful tool in your makeup arsenal. Here's a quick guide to color correcting:

Color	Corrects
Green	Redness
Purple	Sallowness
Peach	Dark circles
Yellow	Bruising

Apply your color corrector before foundation for a flawless base. Then, follow with foundation and concealer as needed.

Using Different Techniques for Different Areas of the Face

Your face isn't one-size-fits-all, so why should your makeup application be? Try these area-specific techniques:

• Under eyes: Apply concealer first, then blend foundation over it
  

• Blemishes: Use foundation first, then spot conceal
  

• T-zone: Apply a lighter foundation, then use concealer for extra coverage

FAQs:

Should I apply concealer or foundation first?
Typically, foundation first provides a smooth base, making it easier for concealer to cover any specific imperfections like under-eye shadows or blemishes. However, if you have prominent imperfections, concealer-first can give more precise coverage. The choice ultimately depends on your skin needs and desired finish.
What is the benefit of applying foundation first?
Applying foundation first evens out your skin tone, reducing redness and minor imperfections, so you’ll likely use less concealer. This approach creates a natural, seamless finish.
Can I put on concealer before foundation?
Yes, you can! Concealer-first works well for covering specific areas like dark circles or blemishes. Just be sure to blend carefully, so foundation doesn’t disrupt your concealer.
What types of foundation work best with concealer?
Liquid foundations blend well with concealers for a smooth finish. For oily skin, a matte foundation can help control shine, while powder foundations work best with matching setting powders to avoid a cakey effect.
Can I use concealer on my entire face?
While you can use concealer on your entire face, it’s usually not recommended. Concealer is thicker than foundation and meant for spot coverage, so applying it everywhere may create a cakey or heavy look. Instead, focus on areas needing extra coverage, like dark circles or blemishes, and use foundation for the rest of your face for a more natural finish.

Conclusion:

In the timeless debate of applying concealer or foundation first, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Generally, starting with foundation creates a smooth base, minimizing the need for heavy concealer and achieving a natural look. However, applying concealer first allows for precise coverage on areas like dark circles or blemishes, offering a more lightweight, targeted approach. Your skin type plays a role too—those with oily skin may benefit from foundation first to control shine, while dry skin types might prefer concealer first to avoid any clinging.

Now that you know the ins and outs, why not test it out yourself? Try both methods and see what feels best for your unique skin! Now that you know the ins and outs of applying concealer and foundation, it’s time to try it for yourself! Head over to your vanity, give it a go, and see what works best. And if you’re still in need of the perfect foundation or concealer, check out FragranceDealz.com for top-rated products that suit every skin type and tone. Share in the comments—your tips might just be someone’s beauty breakthrough!

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