Fashion

8 Things Lazy Girls Should Know About Concealer

by Miki Hayes

As lazy I can be when it comes to, well, everything, one thing I try not to skimp on is my makeup routine. But even though I enjoy spending time perfecting a smoky eye or vampy lip, I used to scoff at concealer. That was before I knew the things that lazy girls should know about concealer. It doesn't just have to be an extra step for extra coverage. Concealer is one of those stealthy, multipurpose products. I mean, yeah, it's pretty great for hiding dark circles. But it can do so much more than that.

In fact, because of how many roles concealer can play, it can end up saving you not only time but also money on your beauty routine. You may no longer need products like primers, highlighters, or even acne treatments. The right concealer can do it all for you. Plus, you'll totally be able to actually get ready in five minutes (or less), giving you extra time to do whatever (sleep). Here are eight things every lazy girl should know about concealer to help improve her makeup routine while being able to sustain her laziness. Because you can have both. And it's a beautiful thing.

1. Replace Foundation

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Concealer Invisible Cover Concealer, $39, Amazon

You don't have to do a full-face of foundation for a flawless-looking complexion. Instead, just use a full-coverage concealer to target key areas like under the eyes and around the nose. If you still want total coverage, mix in a few drops of concealer with your moisturizer for a makeshift tinted moisturizer. Either way, it'll take less time than having to buff in a regular foundation.

2. Color Correct

NYX HD Photogenic Concealer Wand in Lavender, $4.99, Amazon

Instead of taking the time or effort to cake on layers of foundation to hide trouble spots, try a color-correcting concealer instead. Easily brighten dark circles with a yellow concealer, blemishes with a green concealer, and brighten a sallow complexion with violet concealer. A sheer layer of foundation over any (or all) of these will have your face looking flawless without the cake.

3. Treat/Hide Blemishes

Murad Acne Treatment Concealer, $17.25, Amazon

Instead of spending time figuring out the best cocktail to treat blemishes with and the best ways to hide stubborn blemishes, do it all in one. You won't have to make sure you're using the right concealer formula to disguise zits if you're using one that is specially formulated to fight them at the same time.

4. Prime Eyelids

Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil, $20, Sephora

The same concealer you use anywhere else on your face can also be used to easily prime eyelids for shadow. No need to bust out another product. Concealer will help prolong the wear and make eyeshadows appear more vibrant.

5. Highlight

MAC Studio Conceal and Correct Palette, $40, MAC Cosmetics

Using a concealer one or two shades lighter than your complexion will make for some easy highlighting (while also providing extra coverage). Apply and blend anywhere you want a little extra lift like the cheekbones, the center of the forehead, down the nose, under the eyebrows, on the cupid's bow, and the center of the chin.

6. Correct Mistakes

Smashbox Precision Concealer Brush #5, $14, Amazon

If you had to quickly apply some winged liner or a bold lip and maybe didn't make those lines as crisp as possible, concealer can help with the cleanup. Using a precise, concealer brush, trace the edge of any application that needs a little help. So much easier than removing and reapplying.

7. Nude Lips

NARS Concealer, $24, Amazon

For the ultimate nude lip, simply tap on some concealer. And if you like using darker shades of concealer to contour, those can also be used on the lips in place of a brown lipstick.

8. Make Lips Look Bigger

Clinique Airbrush Concealer, $19.50, Amazon

Create the illusion of a larger pout by blending some concealer on the center of your lips. Just finish with a swipe of a light-colored gloss.

Who knew concealer could be MVP?

Images: Courtesy of Brands