It helps banish tired-looking skin, brighten the eyes, and illuminate the complexion. Concealer is the makeup bag's secret weapon. But how should you apply it to get the best results? We'll tell you everything.

If you have stubborn dark circles caused by fatigue or genetics, you may want to get rid of them... That means you probably have a concealer in your beauty bag. But do you have the right shade? Are you applying it correctly? Are you making the most of all its uses? Concealer is the makeup bag's Swiss Army knife, the secret weapon you reach for when you want to quickly touch up or create a more elaborate look.

What's the difference between a corrector and a concealer?

It's a common mistake, but one you should learn to avoid! No, a corrector is not a concealer, and vice versa. A corrector is a makeup product designed to cover imperfections such as blemishes, small pimples, and redness. Concealer, on the other hand, is specifically designed to cover unsightly dark circles that appear under the eyes due to fatigue, poor circulation, or genetics, while also brightening the complexion. Although the two products are different, you can still use your concealer as a corrector! The reverse is less effective.

How to choose the right concealer?

It's a serious matter: the wrong concealer can have the opposite effect of what you want... Instead of concealing dark circles, it could make them stand out even more! You must therefore choose your concealer carefully. Simply follow these rules:

• Always choose a concealer that is half a shade lighter than your natural skin tone.
• If you have fair skin and blue or purplish dark circles, choose a beige shade with a yellow undertone to camouflage them and neutralize the shadows. If your dark circles are more brown or if you have dark skin, opt for an orange-toned concealer.
• As for texture, if you have dry skin, choose a creamy texture so as not to accentuate dryness or emphasize fine lines under the eyes. If you have oily skin, choose a mattifying, long-lasting texture.

Tips for applying concealer correctly

Applying concealer requires a certain level of skill, as the goal is for the result to look completely natural (or almost so). There are a few key steps to follow. Concealer is ideally applied by dabbing it on with your finger or a beauty blender. A brush is rarely recommended, as it may spread the product unevenly. However, there are concealer brushes that can do the job, but always make sure to blend the product thoroughly so that there are no streaks or noticeable residue in fine lines. Concealer should blend seamlessly into the skin!

Should you apply it before or after foundation?

This is THE big question, and opinions vary. Most makeup experts recommend applying concealer after foundation, as its texture is thinner than foundation and blends in seamlessly. After applying it, always use a large brush to apply a very fine loose powder to ensure it lasts all day!

P.S.: Remember that the best way to achieve a flawless makeup look is to apply it to prepped skin. This means applying your skincare routine (dark circle serum, moisturizer) before foundation and concealer. Don't neglect the eye area; this delicate area absolutely requires an eye contour serum to help it withstand makeup.

What tools should you use?

As explained above, concealer is ideally applied with a beauty blender (a small teardrop-shaped makeup sponge) or simply by dabbing it on with your finger to blend the product rather than dragging it across the skin as a brush might. If you do choose to use a brush, select a concealer brush with a flat tip and apply the product by dabbing, just like with a sponge or your finger.