Color correcting is not a stand-alone practice but rather designed to enhance your existing routine for a flawless makeup finish. Color correcting involves neutralizing skin tone issues, concealing imperfections and dark circles, and finally brightening the face and eye area for a lifted and vibrant look. It may at first seem a little strange to be applying green and purple creamy shades to your face, but it truly is genius when you see the end result for a flawless complexion. Read on to find out exactly how color correcting works and how to use a great color correcting palette for all-day radiance.
What Is a Color Correcting Palette?
Color correctors are a type of concealer, usually in a cream-based form. Since you only use a small amount at a time, they come in a palette similar to eyeshadows and blushers. Colors are usually pastel shades including green, purple, orange, and sometimes yellow, pink, and some natural tones. The colors are specifically chosen for different purposes, so make sure you follow the color guides to solve the specific issue at hand. This may include neutralizing red areas, hiding dark circles, covering signs of fatigue, and creating a neutral and even base for your make-up application.
Types of Color Correctors
Color correctors are available in different forms, from creamy formulas and liquids to powders and sticks. Here’s how to choose the right type of color corrector for your skin.
Palettes and individual pots
Color correcting palettes or individual color pots are usually a thick cream consistency with high pigmentation. They are very effective and ideal for covering really bothersome areas. These types are best for dry to normal skin. They are not always a good choice for individuals with oily complexions, as they can break down easily on the skin. Having said that, there are palette formulas designed specifically for oily skin, so if you prefer this type of application there should be a brand out there just for you. Creamy and blendable to achieve the perfect enhancing effect, this type of color corrector is intended to be applied over trouble areas before applying foundation.
Stick correctors
Stick correctors have a small tip allowing you to target detailed areas like breakouts or fine contouring around the nose. It is best applied under your foundation and usually also comes in a pigmented creamy formula but not always as thick as those in color palettes and pots.
Liquid correctors
Due to the thinner consistency, liquid correctors are low coverage options for minor imperfections over a larger area. They can be used under foundation to improve the appearance of dark or red areas or between a foundation and a pigmented setting powder.
Color correcting drops and primers
Both color correcting drops and primers are suitable if you have a larger surface area that needs correcting. Drops offer more pigmentation than primer. Both products can, however, be applied all over the face to neutralize the tone and if used underneath foundation, they will help your makeup last longer. Alternatively, blend with moisturizer for a light, natural cover just to even out your complexion.
Powders
Powder color correctors can be worn on their own or over foundation. They are a good option to create a matte finish on oily skin types and for setting makeup with an even finish.
What Color Corrector Shade Should I Use?
Purple, pink, green, and orange may seem confusing for achieving a natural even skin tone, but there is a method to the madness.
Purple
The light purple or lilac color lifts a dull complexion. This should be applied to any areas that need a little brightening such as the cheeks, forehead, or chin.
Green
Green is used to neutralize red patches. It is ideal for applying to blemishes, any red areas, and works best on fair to medium skin tones.
Yellow
If your skin is very light and flushing pink a light yellow corrector can offer a more gentle evening out of your complexion as opposed to green.
Orange
Just as green works best on lighter skin tones, orange correctors are most effective on deeper skin tones. Peach and orange shades lift any grey or blue undertones and are ideal for applying under your eyes or to even out dullness around the mouth.
How to Color Correct Dark Eye Circles
Now that you know the type of corrector that might be best for your skin and the color you need depending on the problem area, it is time to learn how to apply your color-correcting make up for the best outcome.
If you are using a primer, apply your primer first. You only need a small amount of color, as the purpose is not to completely block out the color but to create a neutral base before applying foundation. Depending on the size of the area you are covering, use a concealer brush, beauty blender, or a combination with your fingers, as the warmth from your hands helps it smooth onto your skin.
Many people make the initial mistake of applying too much color. Start with a small amount only where needed and gradually build it up a little more if required. Keep in mind that you are still adding foundation and possible contouring or bronzers, which will further enhance your look.
Depending on your complexion, the area around your eyes can have different undertones from red to blue or purple. You may have to try a few colors to see which works best with your skin. Peach and orange color correctors are usually successful for neutralizing dark circles under your eyes.
