Sometimes it’s the weather, sometimes it’s just a Tuesday and your concealer just doesn’t want to play ball. At one time or another everyone has had to deal with the dreaded under-eye crease. Not sure what happened — you followed all the steps to prepping your skin and yet halfway through your day or night you notice the cakiness settling in. Curious if the crease-free under-eye is even possible? You’re not alone. Below we’re discussing some of the top ways to ensure crease-free concealer.
Tips for setting concealer
Tip #1: Set with powder
The number one trick at the top of most lists is to set your concealer with powder to minimize creasing. A long-time favorite has always been Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder for Under Eyes. Take this tip one step further by opting for a sponge concealer application instead of a brush. Dip your sponge into the powder and rub together to disperse the product, then use a blotting motion to apply, pushing the product into the skin.
Tip #2: The formula matters
Similar to picking a moisturizer, choosing a concealer that works with your skin type is key. Concealers can range from thick to lightweight with the latter being easier to ensure a crease-free finish.
Tip #3: Location, location, location
From adding brightness to concealing dark circles, each person has a different reason for applying concealer. In addition to this, the shape of your eye will play a big difference when it comes to application methods. Instead of drawing in a large triangle under your eye apply a few dots along the inner eye area and a few drawn up and away from the face near the outer eye. Our favorite trick is to also apply a dot in the bottom and top of the arch of your eyebrow to draw the eye up.
Tip #4: Build your coverage
Applying too much product is the number one way to create creasing and caking. Instead of applying everything all in one go, add a few dashes or product over time increasing the amount only as needed.
Tip #5: Apply concealer after foundation
Growing up in the 90s and 00s, we learned to apply concealer first and then foundation. However, swapping this layering method is actually a better way to apply. By applying foundation first, you create an even canvas that usually requires less concealer after.
Tip #6: Find out which tools work best for you
From flat brushes, to fluffy or a sponge instead — try testing out different methods of applying concealer and setting powder to see what works best for your skin. Some makeup artists even believe that blending with your finger is the best way to blend because it warms up the product and allows it to blend easier.
Tip #7: Choose a lightweight moisturizer
If you've ever put on your foundation or concealer and noticed it sitting on top of your skin, your moisturizer could either not have settled yet or it is too heavy to apply under makeup. Try swapping it out for a light, water-based product and wait for it to fully absorb before applying makeup over it.