What Is The Difference Between Concealer, Foundation, And Primer?

A lot of ladies are lost on the differences among concealer, foundation, and primer. And who can blame them? With such a massive array of makeup products and marketing hype, it’s hard to know what you really need. Here’s a quick and easy guide to which face makeup does what and why you need each.

 

Primer concealer and makeup brushes on counter

 

What is primer?

Primer should always be the first step in your makeup routine. After you apply your moisturiser, grab your primer. It’ll gloss over any fine lines and visible pores. Primer creates a smooth canvas for your foundation and makes your cosmetics last for ages.

There are many different primers out there, so find the one that works for your skin. Red and irritated skin? You’ll love Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Calming Primer. Oily skin? Hylamide Matte 12 will transform your complexion and finished makeup look.

And primer isn’t just for your face! If you’re wearing shadow or liner, eyelid primer is essential. Go for theBalm Put a Lid on It Eyelid Primer to create a smooth, crease-free finish that makes your eye makeup last all day long.

Model with foundation swatch on cheek

 

What is foundation?

Foundation is perfect for creating a uniform skin tone. Although some women apply concealer before their foundation, this should really be the second step in your routine.

If you apply concealer first, it’ll end up getting smudged and blended in with your makeup. For a perfect skin tone, put on primer, and then follow up with foundation.

Want to find the right foundation for you? It’s time to start testing. The best way to pick a foundation is to match it up with your chest. If you’re tanner there, you can also test makeup colours on the back of your hand (and you should definitely upgrade your SPF!).

Get a few sample lines on your skin, and then go outside to check the makeup in natural light. Store lighting can be misleading, so be sure to see your foundation under the sun. Sure, it requires some effort, but it’s worth it.

Once you’ve found the perfect shade of foundation, stick with your brand. If your fave product is being discontinued or your skin’s needs change, visit Findation to cross-match products.

We love Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra 24H SPF 15. It comes in a wide range of shades that suit the majority of women’s skin tones.

 

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation

What is concealer?

Once you’ve gotten your primer and foundation on, your skin will look pretty amazing. In fact, those two steps are enough for many women. But not always! Of course, we all get red spotsand dark circles sometimes, and that’s where concealer comes into play.

Whatever your skin type, it’s essential to have two concealers on hand. To cover spots, go for Benefit Boi-ing Industrial Strength Concealer. For dark under-eye circles, Jane Iredale Active Light Under-Eye Concealer is sleep in a bottle. Apply as needed for a flawless look. And remember, it’s always best to start with a tiny dab and work your way up.

model wearing concealer swatches

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MAKEUP FOR EVERY SKIN TONE

Makeup for Every Skin Tone

Almost nothing in life is quite as difficult as finding the right makeup for your skin tone. We know this sounds a little dramatic, but if you haven’t had trouble finding the perfect shade of foundation, you’ve been blessed. And let’s not even get into picking out the right blush among an aisle filled with pink, coral and rosy red palettes. And if life wasn’t complicated enough, try narrowing down an eye shadow shade or tube of lipstick in the sea of shimmery goodness, also known as the never-ending cosmetics counter? It can be time-consuming, confusing, frustrating — just a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Okay, we’ll stop with the dramatics, but it seriously is a struggle! That’s why we made it our mission to make your next beauty shopping trip a bit easier by putting together a guide of the most flattering makeup shades for YOUR specific skin tone.  Just take your pick!

FAIR SKIN TONES
Makeup for Fair Skin

While your alabaster skin tone is as fair and flawless as that of Snow White, finding the right shade of anything is like searching for a spoolie in a haystack. Even the lightest of colors stands out against your ivory skin and let’s face it, that’s not always a good look. That’s why soft pink, coral and peach shades will enhance your natural beauty … without trying to cover it up or make it look like something it’s not!

MEDIUM SKIN TONES
Makeup for Medium Skin

So, you’re not quite light and you’re not quite olive. You’re sitting pretty in a happy — skin tone, that is. Medium skin tones have just enough warmth to give off a natural glow, so you’re in luck! Golden-brown, bronze and honey shades work wonders in enhancing your complexion via bronzers or highlighters, while lavender and rich blue shadows make your bright eyes really pop.

OLIVE SKIN TONES
Makeup for Olive Skin

Not only do you turn a beautiful shade of gold while having fun in the sun, but your glowing complexion always looks healthy and radiant! All you have to do before heading out the door is enhance your natural skin tone — that includes rosy pink or warm, peach blush and just a hint of shimmer on your cheekbones!

DARK SKIN TONES
Makeup for Dark Skin

Your rich skin tone can pull off just about ANY bright color. From glossy pink lippies to jewel-toned purple shadow — pigmented cosmetics are your BFF! You can try cranberry-colored or bright orange blush and even a subtle, shimmery bronzer (YES, bronzer!) to enhance your dark skin tone.