Tips for Applying Concealer to Achieve a Youthful, Lifted Look

Professional makeup artists reveal their top tips for using concealer effectively. Concealer wands can hide signs of fatigue, blemishes, and discoloration. Applying concealer strategically can brighten and lift your facial features, enhancing your overall appearance.

For under-eye application, remember that less is more. Use a lightweight formula and focus on specific areas of darkness. According to T. Cooper, a New York City-based makeup artist, apply concealer upwards on the inner and outer corners without covering the entire area. This method brightens eyes with minimal creasing.

Similarly, enhance your face beyond the eyes. Applying concealer near the mouth’s shadows lifts and brightens these areas, says Lex Smith from Tarte Cosmetics. Also, placing concealer below the cheekbones lifts the face subtly without over-reliance on contouring.

Drita Paljevic from Kevyn Aucoin Beauty suggests applying concealer on eyelids to even out tone or on the nose’s center for subtle highlights. A hint under the eyebrows defines and lifts—especially effective for a more alert look.

Cooper also mentions applying concealer on the ears to tie the look together, particularly with short hairstyles. Use a fluffy brush instead of a flat one to blend concealer naturally, ensuring a smooth, skin-like finish.

After applying concealer, set it with powder or setting spray for durability.