Thanks to Hailey Bieber, micro-concealing is popping up on numerous Tiktok, and Instagram feeds. However, professional makeup artists have used this concealer application technique, especially to add more coverage to active acne.
What Is Micro-Concealing?
Allure says, “The idea behind micro-concealing is making the spots that you’re covering blend seamlessly into the rest of your skin even when you’re not wearing foundation by really zeroing in on the target.”
Does this technique sound familiar?
Micro-concealing sounds like spot-concealing repackaged for a new generation of makeup wearers. However, Gen Z is more open to embracing their natural complexions even if texture and acne peeks through the concealer.
In addition, the micro-concealing focuses on the less is more approach.
Hypebae and Celebrity Makeup Artist Mary Phillips says, “Makeup application has taught us to cover up the areas on our faces that we want to hide, but with micro-concealing, we’re tackling our annoyances head-on with a touch that says “I love my skin, but I still want to be beat.”
Benefits of Micro-Concealing
The same Hypebae article states, “Micro-concealing works for pitted acne scars, using the technique to bring them out and create a faux, raised look on the skin for blending and textural purposes.”
How to Micro-Conceal Like a Pro
Thankfully, almost everyone can incorporate micro-concealing into their routine due to its simplified application method. So say goodbye to multiple layers of foundation and concealer!
Skin Prep
Skincare ensures that makeup will blend seamlessly onto the skin. So, it’s crucial to have a routine that works for your skin type and provides a clean canvas for makeup application, even for something as minute as micro-concealing.
Optional: Primer
Primer isn’t necessary, but it can help prolong the wear time of concealer or foundation. Try finding a primer that has a sticky or tacky texture (like Milk Makeup Hydro Grip) to ensure the concealer has something to latch onto.
However, a high-quality moisturizer can work just as well, especially if your skin is susceptible to certain products.
Choose Concealer Shade & Formula
Next, you’ll want to choose the right concealer. The best concealer pairs well with your skin type and needs and blends seamlessly into the skin. It can be tricky to color match a concealer, but it will help match your skin tone to ensure it covers dark spots and blemishes.
For example, a concealer that is too light can quickly look gray on top of discoloration. Also, ask yourself how much coverage you want from a concealer, the desired finish, and staying power.
Apply With Finger or an Eye Brush
Unsurprisingly, you’ll only need a minuscule amount of product for micro-concealing. A tiny dot is all that’s required, especially if you’ve chosen a full coverage formula. To avoid contamination, you can dispense the concealer on the back of your hand or on a mixing plate.
Next, you[‘ll want to concentrate and blend on the areas that need the concealer. Also, you can get a precise application with your fingers or an eyeshadow detailing brush.
Optional: Set
Finally, you can set your concealer in place with a powder of your choice for a lasting finish. You may also opt for a setting spray. Dry to normal skin types and certain concealer formulas won’t need to be set and are ready to stay after application.
