How to colour-correct stubborn imperfections

How to colour-correct stubborn imperfections

If you follow any makeup related content on social media, chances are you’ve heard of colour correction. It’s a method of using complementary colours to neutralise unwanted hues in your complexion, and like any good makeup technique, there’s an art to getting it spot on.

While foundation can work wonders, some stubborn discoloration calls for a little extra help – and that’s where colour correcting concealer comes in. So, whether you’re worried about pimples, hyperpigmentation, redness or dark circles, this technique is here to help you get the perfect makeup finish.

Choosing the right colour correcting concealer

So you understand the concept, but where to start when it comes to selecting the right colour corrector for your goal? It’s helpful to imagine (or Google!) a complementary colour wheel, and look at the colours that appear on opposite sides of the circle. These are the pairs that, when combined, will cancel each other out and leave you with an even base for the rest of your makeup application. For example, green works best on red spots, purple for yellowness, and orange for dark eye circles and bruises.

Green colour corrector

The best choice for unwanted pink and red hues on the skin, green toned concealers will neutralise everything from pimples and acne scars to birthmarks and rashes. Green is also great for eczema and rosacea – and you could even try a correcting green primer if the redness is an issue all over your complexion.

Orange and peach concealers

If you suffer from blue dark circles under your eyes or dark spots – either from sun damage or ageing – orange and peach concealers are your best friend. Orange works best on darker skin tones or heavy blue tones, while those with lighter skin or less pigmented spots should opt for peach.

Purple colour correcting

Opt for a purple or blue tinted concealer when tackling sallowness, or deeper yellow and orange tones. These products are perfect for combatting dark spots and hyperpigmentation – use a spot concealer to hide localised blemishes, or try out a purple primer to neutralise yellowness in your whole face.

How to apply colour correction

The key to getting colour correction right lies in the application process. Your colour correcting concealer should be applied after your skincare and primer, but before your normal concealer and foundation.

First, make sure you’ve chosen the right colour to neutralise your blemish, and then cover the area gently using thin layers. Less is usually more with colour correction – you don’t want any of the complementary colour to show through when you’ve finished – so take it slowly and keep checking your skin in natural light as you go.

Use a makeup sponge to gently pat coverage into your skin, avoiding wiping or painting motions to make sure you don’t get colourful concealer all over your face. When you’re finished, gently press your normal foundation on the area to complete the neutralisation – or if you need more, try applying your tone matched concealer in the same way first. Just remember, makeup is all about accentuating your skin – not hiding it completely. The colour correction process is here to help other parts of your beautiful skin to shine through.

DCYPHER your perfect skin tone

The best way to complete your colour corrected skin? Use the DCYPHER Skin Tone Analyser to discover your unique Skin Tone ID, and have our world-first technology mix your perfect foundation shade to measure. No more trial and error, just flawless foundation that’s made for your skin – and no one else’s. Apply our Custom Foundation on top of colour concealer for the perfect finish you’ve been waiting for.