What's your current technique to apply concealer over a blemish or spot?

I’ll apply foundation first, and then I’ll go in and spot conceal with a flat, synthetic brush just where I need it and then gently buff/blend with my foundation brush. I try not to set that area as much to ensure it looks more “skin-like.”

— Christine

17 Comments

Comments that do not adhere to our comment policy may be removed. Discussion and debate are highly encouraged but we expect community members to participate respectfully. Please keep discussion on-topic, and if you have general feedback, a product review request, an off-topic question, or need technical support, please contact us!

Please help us streamline the comments' section and be more efficient: double-check the post above for more basic information like pricing, availability, and so on to make sure your question wasn't answered already. Comments alerting us to typos or small errors in the post are appreciated (!) but will typically be removed after errors are fixed (unless a response is needed).

We appreciate enthusiasm for new releases but ask readers to please hold questions regarding if/when a review will be posted as we can't commit to or guarantee product reviews. We don't want to set expectations and then disappoint readers as even products that are swatched don't always end up being reviewed due to time constraints and changes in priorities! Thank you for understanding!

Comments on this post are closed.
Seraphine Avatar

This is one of the questions I put on my list for the next time we’re asked for question suggestions!
I pretty much do the same thing that Christine posted, but it doesn’t always work for me—has anyone had the problem of makeup refusing to stick to a blemish?

Christy Avatar

If it absolutely won’t stick, I can usually fix that by dabbing a liquid styptic (like for cuts when shaving) on the spot, waiting for the styptic to dry, and then reapplying the makeup. I use a tiny brush–like this one https://www.smithcosmetics.com/collections/shop-all/products/202-microliner-brush — to apply concealer over the blemish, and sort of scribble around the outside, wait a bit, then tap with a finger.

Kira Avatar

I stick NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer directly on all spots I want to conceal, then I buff the dabs out with a FENTY BEAUTY Precision Concealer Brush 180. The brush bristles are synthetic, so it washes clean with the semi-liquid concealer I use. Using a brush avoids transmitting oil from my skin (if I used my finger instead).

liz Avatar

hydrate hydrate hydrate, then pat on Maybelline FitMe concealer with my ring finger in two thin layers. I basically never set anything with powder these days, and honestly only use concealer or foundation for special occasions lately. My skin has been really acneic and dehydrated due to stress and autoimmune issues, so any kind of base just makes me look crunchy af unless i REALLY prep.

Deborah S. Avatar

I don’t get a lot of blemishes in the traditional sense, except when I used a CBD based product on my face and developed several blemishes that even a couple of months later, I can still see a faint redness. Those types of blemishes cover fairly easy and I simply apply whatever concealer I am currently using, always on the hunt for a new and better one, and tap it out with a brush. I use a very inexpensive Elf brush that is a very small flat shader. I started using this brush after watching Pony apply her concealer. Not that the girl needs to as her skin in absolutely flawless. If I am covering pigmentation from sun damage, that is a different issue. It is much harder to cover than blemishes and I haven’t hit on the perfect technique. I frequently end up with the pigmentation peaking through a few hours past. I usually apply a slightly thicker concealer and let it sit on the pigmentation for a few minutes to thicken up a little. I then tap around the edges with the same Elf brush. As soon as I have it looking okay, I tap a setting powder on with my finger. I have tried tapping on with a brush but prefer using my finger for powder. Then when my makeup is finished and I am applying my finishing powder, I avoid those areas so that I don’t mess up my work.

brendacr1 Avatar

I have the same problem with my hyperpigmentation Deborah. I have been using Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Essence for the last six months and the spots are getting lighter, I haven’t been having to use so much cover up and it is noticeable. I hope this continues throughout the summer months, that will be the test.

Teasha Avatar

I rarely break out anymore, but I used to. I make sure I have a silicone primer down so it’s smooth. Then base if I’m using it. Then a fine liner brush dipped in concealer. Use my ring finger to dab it out. Set everything, as usual. If I need a touch up anywhere, go back in with the fine liner brush. It’s so specific and doesn’t leave you with a massive dot. It takes some time, but it works great if you have a lot to cover.

Nikki Avatar

I dab my concealer on the blemish with the included doe-foot wand and blend it by tapping on and around the blemish with my ring finger. Same for dark circles under my eyes, except I swipe both the wand and my finger for the dark circles. If the blemish starts poking through again after I’ve done my foundation, I dab on a bit more concealer and one more drop of foundation.

We try to approve comments within 24 hours (and reply to them within 72 hours) but can sometimes get behind and appreciate your patience! 🙂 If you have general feedback, product review requests, off-topic questions, or need technical support, please contact us directly. Thank you for your patience!