where does concealer go

Concealer goes on specific areas you want to brighten, even out, or subtly reshape—not all over your face.
Quick Scoop
Think of concealer as a targeted eraser and highlighter in one.
1. Core spots for most people
- Under the eyes: inner and outer corners where darkness and shadows are strongest.
- On blemishes and acne marks: directly on spots that still show through after foundation or skin tint.
- Around the nose: sides of the nostrils where redness often appears.
- Any dark spots or hyperpigmentation: tapped just on the discoloration, not the whole area.
2. For brightening and lifting
- Center of the forehead (small area), bridge of the nose, and center of the chin to subtly brighten the face.
- Top of cheekbones and just a bit under the outer corner of the eye for a lifted look instead of one big triangle under the eye.
- Inner corners of the eyes to open up and “wake up” the eyes.
3. For shaping and contouring (optional)
Using a slightly lighter shade than your skin tone:
- Under eyes, center of the nose, middle of the forehead, chin, cupid’s bow, and under the brow bone to highlight and bring forward features.
Using a slightly deeper shade than your skin tone:
- Under cheekbones, sides of the nose, along the hairline, and jawline to softly sculpt the face.
4. Where it should NOT go
- Not as a full-face replacement for foundation in thick layers; covering your whole face in heavy concealer can look cakey and emphasize texture.
- Not swiped in big, heavy streaks; thin, targeted dots or small strokes that you blend out give a more natural finish.
5. Simple order to follow
- Apply skincare and, if you use it, primer.
- Apply foundation or skin tint.
- Add concealer only where you still see darkness, redness, or spots, and on any high points you want to brighten.
- Tap or bounce to blend (sponge, brush, or fingers), keeping the product mostly where you placed it.
TL;DR: Concealer goes under the eyes, on blemishes and redness, and on a few strategic high points to brighten—not all over the face in thick layers.