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The classic makeup dilemma: when applying a full face, should you go for foundation or concealer first? While some makeup steps are pretty straightforward—primer goes on first, and setting spray is for last—concealer and foundation don’t follow a set order.
In short, both methods work, as there are benefits and drawbacks to each approach. Some swear by applying foundation first, while others are loyal to the concealer-first technique. To give you more insights, we consulted three expert makeup artists for their take on the debate.
Why You Might Want to Apply Foundation First
Most beauty editors and makeup artists align with team foundation. Foundation serves as the base of your makeup, so it makes sense to apply it first. This is especially beneficial if you're aiming to cover up redness, blemishes, or uneven skin tone. "As a professional artist, I prefer to apply foundation first so that when I blend concealer into it, the result looks flawless," says celebrity makeup artist Kim Baker.
Applying concealer first can often shift the product away from the area you intended to cover. If you’re trying to conceal blemishes, this may result in a less-effective coverage, and you might find yourself applying more concealer after foundation anyway.
Additionally, applying concealer before foundation can waste product. Foundation is designed to even out your skin tone, which reduces the need for excessive concealer. Until you apply foundation, it’s difficult to judge how much concealer you’ll actually need. Overdoing it under your foundation can lead to a cakey finish.
Celebrity makeup artist Robert Sesnek almost always starts with applying a thin layer of foundation, and in many cases, that’s enough if you’re using the right product. "I’d say 90% of the time, I achieve flawless coverage with just foundation, layering concealer only if needed. This method provides a softer, lighter, more natural look while still covering imperfections."
Applying Foundation Before Concealer: The How-To
- Start by applying primer, then spread a thin layer of foundation over your face.
- Blend the foundation evenly using a beauty blender or sponge.
- Apply a small amount of concealer to areas needing extra coverage or highlighting.
- Set the concealer with a loose setting powder to prevent creasing, and proceed with the rest of your makeup routine.
If you choose to apply foundation first, make sure the textures of both your foundation and concealer match. Combining different formulas—like liquid concealer over powder foundation—can sometimes result in an uneven or cakey finish.
Why Some Prefer Concealer Before Foundation
There are advantages to applying concealer before foundation. For instance, if you're being photographed, concealer might work better first because flash photography can emphasize where it's been applied.
"In rare cases when I apply concealer first, it’s usually for an editorial, photoshoot, or TV appearance, where studio lights can easily wash out the face," says Sesnek. "By applying concealer first, and then highlighting and contouring, you're restoring the skin’s tones in a more defined and controlled way."
Another situation where applying concealer first is beneficial is when you're spot-concealing and your concealer doesn’t perfectly match your foundation. "If your concealer is too light, it’s best to apply foundation over it to conceal the mismatch," explains Baker.
Lastly, celebrity makeup artist Sebastien Tardif suggests that if you have very dark under-eye circles or discoloration that require color correction, you may want to apply color-correcting concealer before foundation, then follow up with regular concealer. Some concealers for dark under-eye circles, such as Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector, are specifically designed to be applied before traditional concealer. "The benefit of applying concealer first is that it addresses the root issue directly. Foundation doesn’t help with discoloration or fatigue around the eyes, so a color-correcting base works to neutralize those signs of tiredness effectively."
Applying Concealer Before Foundation: A How-To
- After primer, apply a small amount of concealer where you need coverage.
- Blend out the concealer using a beauty blender or sponge.
- Apply a light layer of foundation to your face, ensuring it’s evenly spread.
- Set the concealed areas with loose setting powder, then continue with your makeup routine.
If you're going for contouring, apply a concealer that's two shades lighter than your skin tone after foundation. "A concealer that’s one or two shades lighter than your skin tone works as a highlighter, which is a common trick we see on social media," says Tardif. "This helps brighten the eye area while creating a contoured effect—a win-win."
Key Insights
Although most beauty experts recommend applying foundation before concealer, there are times when starting with concealer is more beneficial, such as:
- If you're about to be photographed
- If your concealer shade doesn't match your foundation
- If you're correcting discoloration with color-correcting products
Aside from these situations, keep in mind that concealer is thicker than foundation. For the most natural look, use it sparingly after applying foundation.
