Mastering the Look: Where to Put Concealer to Look Younger?

Many makeup artists agree that strategic concealer placement is the single most effective way to brighten and lift the face, creating a more youthful appearance.

This guide will show you exactly where to put concealer to look younger, transforming your look with simple, targeted techniques.

Quick Summary

To achieve a youthful lift, apply concealer to the inner and outer corners of the eyes, blending upwards. Use a lighter shade in an inverted triangle shape under the eye to brighten, and use a small amount to lift the corners of the mouth and define your features.

Key Points

• Strategic Placement: Focus on lifting and brightening key facial areas like eye corners and under-eye.

• Less is More: Avoid heavy, cakey application which can settle into fine lines and accentuate texture.

• Hydration is Key: Always prep mature skin with a hydrating eye cream and primer to ensure smooth application.

• Upward Blending: Blend concealer in upward motions to create a visual lift and counteract gravity.

• Right Formula: Opt for lightweight, creamy, and hydrating formulas over thick, matte concealers.

• Set Sparingly: Use a minimal amount of finely-milled setting powder to lock in concealer without drying the area.

The Strategic Approach to Concealer

Aging skin requires a smarter approach to makeup, and concealer is a prime example. While in your youth you might have used concealer to simply hide a blemish, for mature skin, it becomes a powerful tool for strategic highlighting and lifting. The key is to use less product and apply it with precision to reflect light and create the illusion of a more lifted and awakened complexion. By focusing on areas where shadows naturally fall, you can turn back the clock without heavy, cakey makeup that settles into fine lines.

Step-by-Step Guide: Where to Apply Concealer

Brighten the Under-Eye Area

The under-eye area is often the first place to show signs of aging through dark circles and hollowing. Instead of applying concealer in a thick stripe directly under the eye, which can crease, use the following methods for a lifted effect:

• The Inverted Triangle: Draw a triangle with the base under your eye and the point extending down towards your cheek. This method brightens a larger area and blends more seamlessly with your foundation, avoiding a stark, disconnected patch of concealer.
• Inner and Outer Corners: Focus a small amount of product on the inner corner where darkness is most prominent. Then, place a small dot on the outer corner of your eye and flick the product gently upwards towards your temple. This creates a powerful lifting effect that mimics a facelift.

Lift the Face and Define Features

Concealer can be used strategically beyond the eyes to create a more defined and lifted look.

• Corners of the Mouth: As we age, the corners of the mouth can begin to turn downwards, casting a shadow. A tiny touch of concealer here, blended upwards and outwards, can instantly lift the entire mouth area.
• Marionette Lines: For deep-set marionette lines, apply a very fine line of concealer directly into the deepest part of the line. This helps to brighten the shadow and make the line appear less prominent. Blend carefully with a small brush.
• Under the Cheekbones: Apply a thin line of concealer just under the hollow of your cheekbones and blend upwards. This creates the illusion of higher cheekbones and adds definition without heavy contouring.

Concealer Formulas for Mature Skin

Choosing the right product is just as important as the application technique. Mature skin often benefits from hydrating, lightweight formulas that don't emphasize texture.

Feature	Lightweight/Creamy Concealer	Thick/Matte Concealer
Finish	Radiant, hydrating	Matte, can be drying
Effect	Does not settle in lines, plumps skin	Accentuates fine lines and wrinkles
Coverage	Buildable, natural-looking	High, but can look heavy
Best For	Under-eyes, all-over brightening	Spot concealing blemishes, not recommended for under-eyes
Application	Blends easily with tapping motion	Requires more effort to blend, can look cakey

Prep and Blend for Flawless Application

Preparation and blending are critical for a seamless finish that doesn't cake or crease.

1. Prep Your Skin: Always start with a well-moisturized face and eye area. A hydrating eye cream or primer can make a huge difference in how your concealer sits on the skin. Let the product fully absorb before applying makeup.
2. Tools of the Trade: For under-eyes, a damp beauty sponge or a fluffy concealer brush is best. These tools allow you to tap and press the product into the skin, avoiding any dragging motions that can pull the delicate skin.
3. Use a Tapping Motion: The patting or tapping motion is crucial. Avoid swiping, which moves product and can cause it to settle into lines. Gently tap the product to melt it into the skin for a smooth, airbrushed effect.

Final Touches for a Radiant Look

After applying concealer, a light dusting of translucent, finely-milled setting powder can lock everything in place without adding texture. Use a fluffy brush to press the powder onto the concealed areas, focusing on the inner corner and the areas with the most movement. Remember that the goal is not to eliminate all wrinkles, but to use light and shadow to create a refreshed, bright, and vibrant complexion.

With these expert tips, you can confidently use concealer to enhance your features and achieve a more youthful and radiant look. The key is in the placement, not the amount. For additional makeup tips and tutorials, visit Makeup.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to hide dark circles with concealer for an anti-aging effect?

Use a peach or yellow-toned color corrector first, followed by a light layer of hydrating concealer applied in an inverted triangle shape under the eye. This neutralizes discoloration and brightens the area effectively.

How do I prevent concealer from creasing in fine lines?

The key is preparation. Use a hydrating eye cream and primer, apply a thin layer of a lightweight, creamy concealer, and set it lightly with a finely-milled translucent powder.

Should I apply concealer before or after foundation for a younger look?

For mature skin, apply concealer after foundation. This allows you to use less product and precisely target the areas that need brightening, preventing a heavy, over-done look.

Can I use concealer to lift the corners of my mouth?

Yes, apply a small amount of concealer slightly lighter than your skin tone to the shadowed areas at the outer corners of your mouth. Blend outwards and upwards to create a lifted illusion.

What color concealer should I use to look younger?

For brightening, choose a concealer that is one to two shades lighter than your foundation. For dark circles, use a color corrector with peach or apricot undertones underneath your concealer.

How can I avoid a cakey or textured concealer finish on mature skin?

Use a minimal amount of product, blend with a damp sponge or soft brush using a tapping motion, and avoid thick, heavy formulas. Ensure your skin is well-hydrated beforehand.

Is it better to use a brush or a sponge for blending concealer?

Both can work, but for a seamless, skin-like finish on mature skin, a damp sponge or a soft, fluffy brush is often preferred. The key is to use a gentle, patting motion instead of dragging the product.