Should I Apply Concealer or Foundation First?

When it comes to the order in which we apply makeup, some of us have preferences. Maybe you do your eyeshadow before foundation to clean off any fallout, or maybe you prefer to do your entire base before tackling any other areas. But where concealer and foundation are concerned, there actually could be a reason for starting with one over the other. 

“I’d say it generally depends on the look you’re going for and your skin’s needs, but I usually prefer applying foundation first, then concealer,” celebrity makeup artist Allan Aponte says. Starting with foundation helps create a uniform base, evening out your skin tone and texture. This allows you to see exactly where you might need additional coverage, making the concealer application more precise.

“With foundation already in place, you’ll often find you need less concealer, which can help prevent a cakey look,” Aponte explains. “Applying concealer over foundation often results in a more seamless blend, especially around the edges of the concealed areas.” By starting with foundation, you avoid layering on too much product and can achieve a more natural finish.

Another benefit of applying foundation first is that it can provide a base to help “lock in” your concealer, making it last longer throughout the day, especially for areas prone to movement, like under the eyes or around the mouth.

However, there are exceptions to this technique. “For very dark under-eye circles or prominent blemishes, you might want to apply a color-correcting concealer first, then foundation, then regular concealer if needed,” Aponte advises.

Ultimately, the best method comes down to your skin type, the products you’re using, and the final look you want to achieve. “I always recommend experimenting to find what works best for you,” Aponte says, encouraging makeup enthusiasts to try both techniques to see which delivers the best results.