Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Concealer Makeup

Concealer makeup comes in many different types and can be used in a variety of situations. Although women have been using them for decades, men are now jumping on the bandwagon as well. The "Erace" concealer launched by Max Factor in 1938 was the very first to be sold commercially.

Concealers come in varying shades and coverages, normally from light to heavy. They range from loose powder, pressed powder, matte mousse, pencil, liquid, cream, and paste depending on the coverage.

The main uses for concealers are to remove problem spots, improve dark areas, and to even out complexions. The best ones would have various traits that would suit different skin types. For example, they can be used to cover up imperfections such as dark circles, fine lines, under eye circles, wrinkles, pimples, birthmarks, and spider veins. They can be used for touch-ups on the road or when you only have five minutes to do your make-up.

Selecting the Best Concealers

The best one for those with problem skin would be something that is non-comedogenic (won't produce acne), resistant to water, and free from fragrance. Meanwhile, the best concealer for someone who is always on the go is one that is enriched with vitamins and minerals, lightweight, and can be used under makeup. An example of this type is one made completely with mineral pigments. Mineral concealers are made without artificial starches, oils and dyes.

Identifying the Popular Types of Concealers

They come in sticks, pots, tubes, wands, and pencils. Some may also come with brushes.

Cream concealers can be used for facial imperfections, but may not be suitable for dark circles under the eyes.

Pot concealers are similar to cream concealers in terms of texture, but can still be used for dark circles under the eyes.

Tube concealers are good for overall application due to its creamy texture.

On the other hand, wand concealers and pencil concealers are good for light touch-ups.

The Right Way to Use Colored Concealers

It's important to find the correct colored one for your skin since this will ensure that you properly cover-up your flaws, rather than make them more noticeable. Colored concealers can be used to correct discolorations in skin tones. Yellow concealers can be used to correct bluish skin imperfections. On the other hand, purple concealers can be used to correct shallow skin. Meanwhile, the blue ones can be used to camouflage rosacea or broken veins.

Using Under-Eye Concealers

Lighter-colored ones can be used to hide dark under-eye circles. Meanwhile, darker-colored concealers can be used to hide scars, moles and birthmarks. Lastly, neutral-colored concealers can be used to hide bruises that are brownish or purplish in tone.

How to Properly Apply Concealers

Applying one should start at the base. The base starts with the application of a foundation for makeup with the use of a sponge (dry or wet). This ensures that the concealer will stick properly with the right concentration. Next the concealer is applied because the foundation is thicker. Powder is then applied lightly over this in order to set the makeup. This will help prevent streaking or caking.

What to Avoid When it Comes to Concealers

Make sure to choose the right shade when choosing concealers for your skin that is the one closest to your skin tone. It should be no more than two shades lighter than your foundation. Make sure to blend it well so that it doesn't stand out and become noticeable. For under eye circles, they should be applied under and around the eye area.

Those with dry skin can try using liquid concealers, which will work better. They can also be a better option when it comes to overall facial coverage. Apply them with a sponge or with a finger. Always apply the foundation first when using liquid concealers.

Cream concealers are still the most popular choice. These will have to applied and blended in well to ensure proper consistency. The right amount to use would be a dime-size portion. Make sure to apply the concealer before the foundation when using cream concealers. Cream concealers are best applied for dark circles under the eyes.

Merilee Paige is a Face Makeup enthusiast. For more great expert advice on Concealer Makeup, visit http://www.makeuptodiefor.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Merilee_Paige