It’s one of the most common makeup frustrations out there. You spend time carefully applying your concealer to brighten your under-eyes and cover dark circles, only to look in the mirror an hour later and see it has settled into every fine line. This is known as creasing, and it can make you look more tired than when you started. But don’t worry, you don’t have to give up on concealer. The key is to understand why it happens and how to adjust your technique. Learning how to stop concealer creasing is a game-changer for a flawless, long-lasting makeup look.
Why does my concealer crease anyway
Before we dive into the solutions, it helps to understand the cause. The skin under your eyes is much thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face. It also moves constantly as you blink and make facial expressions. This combination of thin skin and frequent movement creates a perfect environment for makeup to settle. Several factors can make creasing worse. Applying too much product is a primary culprit; the excess has nowhere to go but into the lines. Using a formula that is too thick or dry can also contribute, as it won’t move with your skin. Finally, not prepping or setting the area properly means the concealer is left to slip and slide throughout the day.
Your step by step guide to a smooth finish
Getting a crease-free finish is all about technique. Follow these steps, and you’ll see a dramatic difference in how your concealer wears.
- Start with skincare: Hydration is non-negotiable. A well-hydrated under-eye area is plumper and smoother, giving concealer a better canvas to sit on. Apply a lightweight eye cream and give it a few minutes to absorb fully before you even think about makeup.
- Use a primer: A silicone-based or hydrating primer can fill in fine lines and create a barrier between your skin and the makeup, which helps prevent creasing.
- Apply less than you think: This is the most critical step. Apply small dots of concealer only on the areas you need coverage, typically in the inner and outer corners. Avoid putting a thick layer all over the under-eye area.
- Blend properly: Use a damp makeup sponge, a small fluffy brush, or your ring finger to gently tap and blend the product into your skin. Tapping pushes the product in, while swiping can cause streaks and lead to creasing.
- Look up and set: Before the concealer has a chance to settle, look up to stretch the skin under your eye, making it as smooth as possible. Then, immediately learn how to set under eye concealer by taking a very small amount of a finely milled translucent powder on a fluffy brush or sponge and lightly pressing it over the area.
Exploring the baking makeup technique
For those who need their makeup to be completely bulletproof, the baking makeup technique can be an effective, though more intense, option. After blending your concealer, apply a thick layer of translucent powder over the area. Let it “bake” for 5-10 minutes. During this time, your body heat helps the makeup and powder meld together. Afterwards, you gently sweep away the excess powder with a clean, fluffy brush. This method creates a very smooth, matte, and crease-resistant finish, making it popular for events and photography. However, it can be too drying for some, especially those with already dry skin.
Finding the best concealer for mature skin
As we age, our skin naturally becomes drier and develops more fine lines, making concealer choice crucial. The best concealer for mature skin is typically one with a hydrating, lightweight, and luminous formula. Heavy, matte concealers will only accentuate texture and lines. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. These formulas provide coverage without feeling heavy and are designed to move with the skin rather than settling. You can find an excellent selection of modern, hydrating concealers in the ScentSphere shop, perfect for achieving that youthful, radiant look.
Why does my concealer crease in my under eye lines
This often happens due to natural skin texture applying too much product or not setting it correctly. The under eye area has many fine lines where makeup can settle.
What is the best way to set under eye concealer
Using a very light dusting of a fine translucent setting powder with a fluffy brush or a damp sponge is the most effective method. This locks the concealer in place.
Is there a type of concealer that is less likely to crease
Yes hydrating and lightweight liquid concealers are generally less prone to creasing than thick creamy formulas. Look for products that are self setting or have a satin finish.
