The Best Concealer For Acne To Try Now

How to use concealer to cover acne

Start with a natural base

Begin by first applying a light layer of foundation all over. Choose a formula that offers even but light coverage. This will ensure that some of your real skin shines through. So, your makeup will appear natural, even if you’re using high-coverage acne-safe concealer. 

Avoid direct contact with the blemish

No matter what type of concealer for acne you choose to use, avoid dotting it directly on the blemish (even if the acne-safe concealer comes with a doe foot applicator). Instead, dispense some product on the back of your hand and then apply it to the spot, with a brush or your finger. 

Use the right shade

You need to be extra careful about the shade of acne-safe concealer you choose, especially if your spot is raised and swollen. Never apply a concealer for acne that’s lighter than your skin tone. This will only highlight the spot. 

Instead, choose a shade that matches your skin tone perfectly.  

Warm the concealer

Warming the acne-safe concealer against your finger will loosen it up and make it easier to blend. This is especially important if you’re using a concealer that isn’t a liquid formula.  

Apply strategically

“You want the most coverage only on the centre of the blemish,” says Charlotte McHale, Clarins Training Manager. “So, place most of the product there. Along the outside, you almost want it to blend away into nothing.” 

Play with light and shadow

You could also apply the laws of contouring here. If the raised spot is casting a dark shadow under it, you could dab a hint of acne-safe concealer in a lighter shade there, just to lift the shadow. Use a minimal amount of product to do this, and make sure to blend well.

Don’t forget to powder

Powdering will mattify the spot, and therefore bring less attention to it. So, use a completely matte setting powder (we don’t want any shimmer particles).

When you’re powdering, be careful not to be too rough. Use a gentle patting motion with a brush or powder puff (don’t forget to wash or sanitise the tool after use, to avoid spreading bacteria). 

Can you use concealer after you pop a pimple?

“You can try to cover a popped pimple, but know that you’re fighting a losing battle,” McHale warns. “It’s always easier to cover a spot before you pop it. Because once you do, you’re trying to cover something redder, more inflamed, shiny and potentially even runny. You’re asking for trouble.”

If your spot is too large to conceal, and make-up just can’t cover it, why not stick a pimple patch on it? Hydrocolloid pimple patches don’t just disguise a breakout but also absorb fluid from the spot, leaving it flatter within hours.

The best concealer for acne, spots and acne scars

The 2-in-1 hydrating concealer

Stop the search for the best concealer for acne – the Instant Concealer, £25, stands out as the ultimate choice on the market. This exceptional concealer not only delivers high coverage but does so with a lightweight formula, making it perfect for use under the eyes and on spots.

Infused with hydrating aloe vera, it features a smooth texture that seamlessly blends into the skin. The formula’s light-reflective properties add an extra touch by brightening up the under eyes. However, it’s recommended to set it with powder when applying it on blemishes for optimal and long-lasting results.

Next read: Base 101: How to Make Foundation Look Natural on Acne