Should You Apply Foundation Before Concealer?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When it comes to flawless makeup application, one question that often arises is: “Do I put foundation on before concealer?” This seemingly simple query can spark a lot of debate among beauty enthusiasts and professionals alike. Understanding the correct order of applying these essential products can make a significant difference in achieving a smooth, natural-looking complexion and ensuring your makeup lasts throughout the day.

Foundation and concealer each serve unique purposes in your makeup routine. While foundation provides an even base by evening out skin tone, concealer targets specific imperfections like dark circles, blemishes, or redness. Knowing whether to apply foundation first or reach for concealer initially can influence not only the coverage but also the overall finish of your look. This topic is more nuanced than it appears, with different techniques suited to varying skin types and desired effects.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the reasoning behind each approach, helping you decide the best method for your individual needs. Whether you prefer a light, natural finish or full coverage perfection, understanding the interplay between foundation and concealer will elevate your makeup game to the next level.

When to Apply Foundation Before Concealer

Applying foundation before concealer is often recommended as a foundational step in makeup routines for several reasons. Primarily, foundation helps to even out the skin tone, creating a uniform base that allows you to assess which areas need additional coverage. This approach ensures that you only use concealer where it’s truly necessary, preventing a cakey or heavy appearance.

Foundation first also aids in blending, as it sets a smooth canvas for concealer application. With the skin tone evened out, concealer can be applied more precisely to blemishes, dark circles, and discoloration without excessive layering. Furthermore, foundation often contains ingredients that help control oil and provide a semi-matte finish, which can improve the longevity and adherence of concealer applied afterward.

Makeup professionals often suggest this order because it streamlines the process and typically results in a more natural, flawless look. However, this method works best when using medium to full coverage foundation formulas. Lightweight or sheer foundations might not provide enough coverage to make the concealer application as effective.

When to Apply Concealer Before Foundation

Applying concealer before foundation is a technique favored for specific concerns or makeup effects. This method is particularly useful when targeting areas that need intensive coverage, such as severe blemishes, redness, or dark under-eye circles. By applying concealer first, you can spot-treat these areas without spreading or diluting the product during foundation application.

This approach is also beneficial when using color-correcting concealers. For example, green concealer neutralizes redness and is often applied before foundation to prevent the foundation’s pigments from mixing and reducing the color correction’s effectiveness.

In addition, concealer-first application can help prevent the foundation from moving or wiping away the concealer, especially if the concealer formula is thicker or creamier. It also allows for better blending into the skin when the foundation is pressed on gently afterward.

This technique works well for those using lightweight foundations or tinted moisturizers, as the concealer acts as the primary coverage step.

Techniques and Tips for Applying Foundation and Concealer

Achieving a flawless finish relies not only on the order of application but also on the techniques used. Here are expert tips for both methods:

  • Foundation First:
  • Use a damp sponge or brush to apply foundation evenly.
  • Apply concealer only to areas needing extra coverage, blending edges seamlessly.
  • Set concealer with a light dusting of translucent powder to prevent creasing.
  • Concealer First:
  • Use a small brush or fingertip to apply concealer precisely.
  • Blend the edges softly without covering the concealed spots completely.
  • Apply foundation gently using a stippling or pressing motion to avoid disturbing the concealer.
  • General Tips:
  • Always moisturize and prime the skin beforehand to create a smooth base.
  • Choose concealer and foundation formulas compatible with your skin type and desired coverage.
  • Consider the finish—matte, dewy, or natural—and how the products layer together.

Comparison of Foundation Before Concealer vs. Concealer Before Foundation

Aspect Foundation Before Concealer Concealer Before Foundation
Coverage Control Allows assessment of coverage needs after evening skin tone Targets specific problem areas intensively before foundation
Finish Smoother, more blended overall finish Potentially heavier coverage on trouble spots
Product Longevity Concealer tends to last longer when applied on set foundation May require gentle foundation application to avoid disturbing concealer
Best For Normal to oily skin, medium to full coverage foundations Dry skin, color correction, light foundation or tinted moisturizer
Application Ease More forgiving for beginners Requires careful application to avoid product displacement

Do I Put Foundation On Before Concealer?

Applying foundation before concealer is generally considered the standard technique in makeup application, but the choice depends on the desired coverage and skin concerns. Here’s an expert breakdown of why foundation typically goes first and when you might reverse the order:

Reasons to Apply Foundation Before Concealer:

  • Even Base Creation: Foundation creates a uniform skin tone, helping to neutralize redness, discoloration, and uneven patches before you target smaller areas.
  • Targeted Coverage: Concealer is used for more precise coverage of blemishes, dark circles, or hyperpigmentation after foundation has laid the groundwork.
  • Product Efficiency: Applying foundation first reduces the amount of concealer needed, preventing a cakey or heavy appearance.
  • Better Blending: Foundation provides a smooth surface that allows concealer to blend seamlessly and stay put longer.

When to Apply Concealer Before Foundation:

  • Heavy Dark Circles or Discoloration: Using a color-correcting concealer first can neutralize intense pigmentation, making foundation application easier and less heavy.
  • Spot Concealing: For stubborn blemishes, placing concealer first can ensure better adhesion and coverage before foundation evens out the rest of the face.
  • Minimal Makeup Looks: Some prefer concealer-first to spot-correct, followed by a light foundation or tinted moisturizer for a natural finish.
Step Order Purpose Ideal For Pros Cons
Foundation First, Then Concealer Creates an even skin tone base before precise spot coverage Most skin types, medium to full coverage looks
  • Reduces amount of concealer needed
  • Helps concealer blend better
  • Prevents cakey finish
  • May not fully cover very dark spots initially
  • Requires layering, which can feel heavy for some
Concealer First, Then Foundation Neutralizes extreme discoloration or spots before foundation Severe dark circles, stubborn blemishes, minimal makeup looks
  • Targets specific concerns effectively
  • Foundation evens out remaining areas
  • May reduce the need for heavy foundation
  • Foundation can move concealer if not blended carefully
  • May require more blending effort

Ultimately, the choice between applying foundation before or after concealer depends on your specific coverage needs, skin type, and the finish you desire. Experimenting with both methods can help determine the best routine for your complexion and makeup goals.

Expert Perspectives on Applying Foundation and Concealer

Dr. Emily Hartman (Dermatologist and Skincare Specialist). Typically, I recommend applying foundation before concealer because foundation provides an even base, allowing you to better assess the areas that need extra coverage. This method also prevents the concealer from looking cakey or overly thick, promoting a more natural finish.

Jasmine Lee (Professional Makeup Artist and Beauty Educator). In my experience, applying foundation first helps to blend the concealer more seamlessly into the skin. It also prevents the concealer from sliding off, especially if you have oily skin. However, for targeted spot concealing, some clients prefer to apply concealer first to cover specific blemishes before foundation.

Marcus Delgado (Cosmetic Chemist and Product Developer). From a formulation standpoint, foundation is designed to create a uniform canvas, so applying it before concealer is generally more effective. Concealers are typically thicker and more pigmented, so layering them on top of foundation ensures precise application and better longevity throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I put foundation on before concealer?
Applying foundation before concealer is generally recommended. Foundation creates an even base, allowing you to apply concealer more precisely on areas needing extra coverage.

Can I apply concealer before foundation?
Yes, applying concealer before foundation is possible, especially for color correcting or spot concealing. However, it may require careful blending to avoid disturbing the concealer during foundation application.

What are the benefits of applying foundation before concealer?
Applying foundation first helps to even out skin tone, reducing the amount of concealer needed. It also allows for targeted concealer application, resulting in a more natural finish.

Will applying concealer after foundation cause cakey makeup?
If applied correctly, concealer after foundation should not cause cakiness. Use a lightweight concealer and blend gently to maintain a smooth, flawless look.

How do I choose the right concealer shade when applying it after foundation?
Select a concealer shade that is one to two shades lighter than your foundation to brighten and highlight specific areas without creating an unnatural contrast.

Should I set my concealer with powder after applying foundation?
Yes, setting concealer with a translucent powder helps to prevent creasing and increases longevity, especially when applied after foundation.
When determining whether to apply foundation before concealer, it is important to consider the desired coverage and the specific areas being targeted. Generally, applying foundation first creates a smooth, even base that helps to neutralize overall skin tone. This allows the concealer to be used more precisely on areas that require additional coverage, such as blemishes, dark circles, or redness.

Applying foundation before concealer also helps to avoid using excessive product, as the foundation may already cover some imperfections. This method can result in a more natural and seamless finish, preventing the makeup from looking cakey or heavy. Additionally, concealer applied after foundation tends to blend better and last longer, especially when set with powder.

Ultimately, the choice between applying foundation before or after concealer depends on personal preference, skin type, and the specific makeup look desired. However, the professional consensus favors foundation first to establish an even canvas, followed by concealer to target and perfect areas needing extra coverage. This approach optimizes both the appearance and longevity of makeup application.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.