In the class of makeup best practices 101, makeup artists recommend applying eye makeup first before moving on to face makeup with foundation first and then (and only then) concealer.
Correct Order of Face Makeup
Foundation. Concealer. Powder. Bronzer/Blush/Highlighter.
Whether you're planning on applying a light coat of foundation or a full face of makeup, primer is an important first step. Using primer under your makeup will make your look last longer.
Step 2: Eyes
Trop says she likes to start on the eyes first for two reasons: First, to let the skin prep products fully absorb, and also in case there's any eyeshadow fallout that can be cleaned up, without having to re-do foundation and concealer.
"When applying eye shadow I suggest applying the eye shadow first before you apply foundation to avoid the fallout. First apply a thin layer of eye shadow primer, then eye shadow and eyeliner where you desire," celebrity makeup artist Billie Gene said.
In case of powder foundation, apply the concealer first to have an even out look. PROFESSIONAL TIP: Make sure that you apply a bit of moisturiser on your face before applying foundation or concealer.
2. Moisturize first. Moisturizer should be a part of everyone's skincare routine, whether you have dry skin or oily skin—and your under-eye area is no exception. Before applying concealer, apply a tiny bit of hydrating eye cream to plump and hydrate the area.
Using a hydrating cream or moisturizer
A moisturizer helps to brighten and soften the skin, making the foundation and concealer application easier. It also helps the makeup stay longer. Make sure to use a moisturizer that suits your skin type, and offers an all-day hydration.
Applying a foundation on the lips will help your lip colour stay in place and not smudge easily. Alternatively, if you are using a concealer on your skin, use it on your lips too. Using a foundation or concealer on your lips will ensure that the colour stays put for long and does not transfer.
And the answer is—whichever you prefer! Yup, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the hair or makeup first debate. It all comes down to personal preference, the occasion, and a few other factors that play into which order may be a better option.
Never put concealer or foundation on your eyelids as a base, it will cause your eye makeup to crease.
“Whether you use brushes or your fingers is really down to personal preference,” says Alex Phillips, Pro Makeup Artist at Trinny London. “There's no right or wrong.
Fingers are best for a quick and natural application; sponges are good for achieving a flawless finish; and brushes are ideal for full coverage. And sometimes, a little mixing and matching can go a long way.
Remember, there's no “best way” to apply your foundation, as both application techniques have their perks and unique touch. Applying foundation with a brush achieves flawless coverage and a precise, even finish. When you apply foundation with fingers, you tend to get a more natural effect that mimics your skin.
In the class of makeup best practices 101, makeup artists recommend applying eye makeup first before moving on to face makeup with foundation first and then (and only then) concealer.
Under-eye bags are often accompanied by dark circles or hyperpigmentation due to blood pooling in the area which can appear purple or blue in color. To counteract this darkness, start by applying a concealer in a peachy or salmon shade if you have a light to medium skin tone.
No matter what application method you choose, you should start with a primer to even-out the texture of your skin (your forehead, for example, is typically more oily than the cheeks, so foundation will look different on different areas of the face if you don't use a primer).
After you moisturize, smooth on a primer before you put on your foundation. "Applying primer as a makeup base is the key to softening wrinkles," says Jaclyn Peresetsky, a makeup artist and co-owner of Skin Perfect Clinic in Ohio. Choose one with a silicone base, which fills in uneven skin texture and fine lines.
So, do you use concealer before or after foundation? The proper way to apply the two products is to first smooth on a foundation and then apply your concealer. Foundation will create that even canvas we talked about earlier, and then concealer can be used to spot correct any outstanding areas that need extra coverage.