How to apply concealer to hide dark circles without creasing
Choosing the right concealer shade, exactly where to apply it, and how to blend and set it so it doesn't settle into fine lines.
Dark circles make the face look tired, and concealer is the quickest fix. But too much product or the wrong shade can make the under-eye area look grey or creased. These steps give you a smooth, natural result.
Choose the right shade
- Under the eyes: one shade lighter than your skin, to brighten the area.
- On spots and marks: exactly your skin tone, because a lighter shade highlights the spot instead of hiding it.
Moisturise first
The skin under your eyes is thin and dries quickly, especially in air-conditioned rooms. Apply a light moisturiser and wait a minute for it to sink in, because dry skin is the main reason concealer cracks.
Concealer after foundation
Apply foundation first. It covers part of the darkness, so you need less concealer afterwards, and the thinner the layer, the smoother it looks.
Where exactly to apply it
Instead of drawing a big triangle under the eye, dot a little concealer at the inner corner and on the darkest part of the circle only. Start small, because adding more is much easier than taking excess away.
Blend by tapping, not wiping
Dampen a makeup sponge, squeeze it well, then tap the concealer gently until it melts into the skin. Wiping moves the product away from where you need it.
Set it with loose powder
Look up so the skin under your eye is stretched, then press a very small amount of loose powder on with the sponge or a small brush. This stops concealer settling into fine lines during the day.
Why does concealer crease?
- Too much product or layer on layer.
- Dry skin that wasn't moisturised before makeup.
- Too much powder under the eyes.
- Not blending before the product sets.
From Ahla
AHLA Hydrating Concealer has a lightweight formula that helps conceal the appearance of dark circles and minor imperfections without a heavy feel, in different shades. Pair it with the AHLA Beauty Blender Sponge, the Loose Powder in 7 shades, the Face Primer to prep the skin, and the Makeup Setting Spray as the final step.
