While doing makeup, I used to prefer concealer and color corrector and I used to think that the work of both is to hide dark circles and uneven skin tone, then why are both products needed?
But when I started using these two differently in makeup, I understood that concealer and color corrector do not work the same way; both have different purposes and it is not necessary to use both in the makeup look.
If you are also confused about whether to apply corrector first or concealer and which product should be used in which situation, then let me explain through my simple understanding and experience.
What is Concealer?
Concealer is a makeup product that is used to cover areas where we need extra coverage. I mostly use concealer for the under eye, small marks, redness and dark circles. Concealer is usually chosen close to the skin tone, some people also use a slightly lighter shade for brightening.
For me, the purpose of concealer is simple, to provide coverage and to make the skin look more beautiful. If the under eye is only a little dark and there is not much color difference, then I usually find concealer alone better.
What is Color Corrector?
The work of the corrector is a little different. It is to balance the unwanted color instead of directly covering any dark spot.
Color Corrector is available in shades like orange, green, yellow and lavender.
Initially I too used to feel strange seeing green or orange corrector but when I understood the different colors used to balance specific tones, the concept became simple.
For example, peach corrector can be used for darkness, while green can help in balancing redness.
What is the difference between color corrector and concealer?
Color Corrector = Color Balance
Concealer = Coverage
Color corrector balances out unwanted tones in an area while concealer corrects that area to match the rest of the skin.
Different shades of color corrector
Every day does not require every color corrector. I also prefer to choose the color corrector according to the situation.
Peach Corrector
Peach corrector for light to medium skin tone is popular for balancing under eye darkness. If the under eyes appear to have a blue or purple tone, then the peach corrector can be useful.
Orange Corrector
Orange corrector is used to balance the deeper looking darkness. It is not necessary to apply too much corrector to the skin. It is better to start with a thin layer.
Green Corrector
Green corrector is used to balance the redness. For example, it can be used with a very small amount on any red areas around the nose.
Yellow Corrector
The yellow corrector is there to balance out some of the bluish purple looking tones but is not necessary for every skin tone.
How to apply concealer and corrector?
If I am using both products, then I follow this simple order.
Step 1: Prepare the Skin
First of all, complete your normal skin routine.
Step 2: Apply Color Corrector
Apply only on the area where the actual color difference is visible. I have also noticed that applying too much corrector can lead to the need to apply more layers of concealer.
Blend gently with a finger, small brush or makeup sponge.
Step 3: Apply Concealer
Apply a concealer close to the skin tone over the corrector. I blend the concealer with a tapping motion; it seems to me that it is easy to blend on the under eye area.
Step 4: Foundation
If you do full makeup, then you can apply foundation according to your routine. It is not necessary to apply heavy foundation every time. If the base is already ready and looking good, then light coverage can also be enough.
Step 5: Setting
If needed, a very small amount of setting powder can be applied to the under eye or concealer area.
Can just concealer be used?
Yes, concealer can be used alone if you do not feel the need for color correction.
For me, color corrector is not necessary every time in daily makeup. If the marks or dark circles are very noticeable, then I just cover them with concealer. If concealer is giving the required coverage, then there is no need to add extra product.
Is color corrector necessary in every makeup?
Color corrector is not a compulsory step of makeup; it is useful when a specific area cannot be easily covered with concealer alone, and if the skin is already looking good after applying foundation, then you can skip the corrector.
My Simple Understanding
After understanding both products, it is not necessary to use every product in makeup. If I just want a little coverage then concealer is fine. If the color difference is visible in some area then you can use color corrector first and then concealer. Just remember a simple rule.
FAQs
Are color corrector and concealer the same?
No, both are different. A color corrector neutralizes discoloration, while a concealer gives coverage.
Should I apply concealer or color corrector first?
Usually color corrector is applied first and concealer later.
What to use for dark circles?
Peach corrector can be helpful in light to medium skin tones and then concealer can be applied.
Can we use color corrector without concealer?
Yes, but the color of the corrector can remain visible on the skin, so it is often used with concealer.
Does color corrector turn makeup cakey?
The corrector itself does not necessarily make the makeup look cakey, but too much product and multiple heavy layers can make the makeup look cakey.
Want to learn about Cushion Foundation? Read our guide on Cushion Foundation: Why is it popular?