How to Use Concealer the Right Way (Even If You're a Beginner)

Have you ever stood in front of the mirror, holding your concealer, wondering where exactly it should go or why it never seems to blend in right? You’re not alone. Many people struggle with how to use concealer properly, especially when dealing with dark circles, blemishes, or uneven skin tone. The good news is, mastering concealer application is easier than you think—once you understand the basics.

At Touched By An Angel Beauty School, we help beginners and future beauty professionals build the confidence and skills they need to apply makeup with precision. Whether you're learning makeup application in one of our hands-on classes or getting pampered with discounted services by our student stylists, this guide is your complete walkthrough to using concealer the correct way. With the right techniques, anyone can achieve a smooth, radiant complexion.

What Is Concealer and Why Do You Need It

Concealer is a must-have product in every makeup routine. It is used to hide dark spots, under-eye circles, blemishes, redness, and other imperfections. More than just a cover-up, concealer can also brighten and highlight areas of the face when applied correctly.

There are different types of concealers, each serving a specific purpose. Liquid concealer works well for most skin types and offers buildable coverage. Cream concealer is ideal for dry skin and provides a more hydrating finish, while stick concealer is convenient for on-the-go touchups. At Touched By An Angel Beauty School, concealer application is a core part of our makeup curriculum because it plays such a key role in creating flawless makeup looks.

How to Choose the Right Concealer Shade

Choosing the right shade is one of the most important steps in learning how to use concealer. Using a shade that is too light or too dark can actually draw attention to the areas you're trying to minimize.

For the under-eye area, it’s best to select a concealer that is one to two shades lighter than your foundation. This helps to brighten and lift the area. When covering blemishes or red spots, a concealer that matches your exact skin tone will blend better and provide a more natural look. Color correctors also play a role—green concealer helps to neutralize redness, while peach or orange correctors work well on dark circles with blue or purple undertones.

Understanding your skin’s undertone is also essential in selecting the right product. If you have warm undertones, choose a concealer with yellow or peach hints. For cooler undertones, look for pink or neutral shades.

Do You Put Concealer On Before or After Foundation?

The order in which you apply concealer and foundation depends on what you want to achieve. For everyday makeup routines, applying foundation first creates a smooth base, allowing you to see exactly where you need to add extra coverage with concealer. This method helps prevent using too much product.

However, if you're using a color-correcting concealer—such as green or peach—you should apply it before your foundation. This neutralizes discoloration and allows the foundation to blend more seamlessly over the corrected area. At our school, we recommend starting with a light layer of foundation and then adding concealer where needed for a polished, natural finish.

How to Apply Concealer for Beginners

If you're new to makeup, applying concealer can feel overwhelming at first. At Touched By An Angel Beauty School, we teach our students and clients to keep it simple with a few easy steps.

Start with clean, moisturized skin and apply a primer if needed. Follow with your foundation. Then, using a small amount of concealer, dab it onto areas that need extra coverage, such as the under-eye area, around the nose, or over blemishes. Blend the concealer using a damp makeup sponge, a brush, or your fingertip, tapping gently to avoid smudging or streaking. Finally, set the concealer with a light layer of translucent powder to keep it in place throughout the day.

Where to Put Concealer on the Face

Concealer is not just for covering under-eye circles. It can be used strategically across the face to highlight and correct various areas. Common places to apply concealer include under the eyes, on the center of the forehead, down the bridge of the nose, on the chin, and around the mouth and nostrils to address redness or shadows.

Spot concealing is also an effective technique. If you have a few blemishes or areas of discoloration, you can apply a small amount of concealer directly onto those spots and blend it out to even your complexion without using heavy foundation all over the face.

How to Apply Concealer for Dark Circles

Dark circles are a common concern for many individuals, and concealer can be a highly effective solution when applied properly. Start by applying a peach or orange color corrector to neutralize the blue or purple tones often found in dark circles. Follow with a concealer that is one shade lighter than your foundation.

Use the triangle method—applying the concealer in an upside-down triangle under the eye—to create a lifting effect. Blend the product gently with a damp sponge or brush, making sure to tap rather than rub. Finish by setting the area with a finely milled powder to reduce creasing.

How to Blend Concealer Like a Makeup Artist

Blending is the most critical part of concealer application. Poor blending can leave harsh lines and uneven coverage, while proper blending makes your skin appear smooth and seamless.

Use a damp beauty sponge for a natural, airbrushed finish. Alternatively, a small brush or your fingertip can work well for targeted areas. Always blend outward into your foundation to avoid visible borders between products. On delicate areas like the under-eye region, use gentle tapping motions to avoid tugging the skin and causing premature creasing.

How to Conceal Under-Eye Bags Over 50

For mature skin, concealing under-eye bags requires extra care. Skin under the eyes becomes thinner and more delicate with age, so it's important to use hydrating and lightweight products.

Begin with a nourishing eye cream to plump and prep the skin. Choose a creamy concealer that won't settle into fine lines. Apply a small amount and blend using a sponge or brush with gentle tapping motions. Avoid heavy powders or thick products, which can emphasize texture. A light dusting of setting powder is all you need to ensure a smooth finish.

Concealer Hacks and Pro Tips

There are many creative ways to use concealer beyond basic coverage. It can double as an eyeshadow primer, helping your eye makeup last longer and appear more vibrant. It also works well for cleaning up the edges of your lipstick or defining the brow area for a sharp, clean look.

If you want to create a subtle highlight, apply a lighter concealer to the high points of your face—such as the bridge of your nose, the tops of your cheekbones, and your cupid’s bow. For a quick everyday look, mix a small amount of concealer with your moisturizer to create a custom tinted cream.

Frequently Asked Questions About Concealer

Many beginners wonder if it’s okay to wear concealer without foundation. The answer is yes. Spot-concealing is a great way to achieve a natural, no-makeup makeup look. Another common question is whether concealer should be lighter than foundation. When concealing blemishes, your concealer should match your skin tone. When brightening the under-eye area, it should be slightly lighter.

People also ask about product ingredients. For instance, Tarte’s popular Shape Tape concealer is not water-based—it has a thicker, creamier formula that provides full coverage. If creasing is an issue, try using less product and set it immediately with a small amount of translucent powder.

Learn With Us or Book a Service Today

At Touched By An Angel Beauty School, we specialize in teaching aspiring beauty professionals the foundations of great makeup, including how to use concealer the correct way. Our training programs are designed for beginners and advanced learners alike. If you're interested in becoming a makeup artist, our cosmetology and makeup classes can set you on the path to success.

If you’re not ready for the classroom but still want to enjoy the benefits of professional makeup, book an appointment at one of our salon locations. All services are performed by our supervised students and offered at affordable, discounted rates.

To learn more or to schedule a service, visit our website at touchedbyanangelbeautyschool.com. You can also contact your nearest location to inquire about classes, availability, or booking your next beauty service with one of our talented future professionals.