Many of us keep a concealer handy in our makeup collection, but for those dealing with redness, dark spots, or persistent under-eye circles, a colour corrector can be a game-changer. Unlike conventional concealers that mask imperfections, colour-correcting makeup relies on colour theory principles to counteract unwanted tones, resulting in a more balanced complexion. To assist you in navigating this realm, we've crafted a detailed guide on colour correctors, covering their purpose, application techniques, and selecting appropriate shades to address specific skin concerns. Additionally, we'll introduce you to several noteworthy colour-correcting makeup options to enhance your beauty arsenal. Dive into the specifics below.
What Is Colour Correcting?
In essence, colour correction entails using tinted makeup, namely colour-correcting products, to address skin discolourations like dark circles, redness, or dullness. Unlike traditional concealers that simply conceal, colour correctors work by visibly neutralizing undesirable tones. Consequently, they come in various hues, ranging from yellows to reds to greens.
Where Should You Put Colour Corrector?
Similar to concealer, colour corrector is applied selectively to targeted areas rather than being applied all over the face like foundation. Its application is focused solely on the areas with discolouration that require neutralization, such as covering blemishes or counteracting dark under-eye circles. Hence, the application of colour corrector varies from person to person and may even differ daily.
What Colour Corrector Should You Use?
While you don't necessarily need an in-depth understanding of colour theory, having a basic grasp of the colour wheel can be beneficial. Colours positioned opposite each other on the wheel, such as red and green or purple and yellow, are complementary colours. When combined—or in the context of makeup, layered—they can cancel each other out. Therefore, colour-correcting makeup aids in achieving a more even-looking skin tone.
Just as with concealers, colour correctors are available in a wide array of shades. For instance, our Pro Fix Stick colour-correcting concealer sticks boast 24 unique shades, designed to address various skin concerns and cater to different skin tones. Selecting the appropriate shade depends largely on the specific skin issue you wish to address. Additionally, your skin tone and undertones play a crucial role in determining the ideal shade for your requirements (our article, "Meet Your Match: How to Match Your Foundation and Find Your Formula," offers insightful tips on identifying your skin tone and undertone).
Below, we'll delve into the specifics, outlining the suitable colour-corrector shades for different skin concerns.
What Does Green Colour Corrector Do?
For individuals grappling with redness stemming from breakouts or irritation, a green colour corrector can work wonders. Its minty hue aids in counteracting undesired red and pink tones across all skin tones, fostering a more uniform complexion.
How to Colour Correct Redness?
Use Green Colour Corrector
To combat redness effectively, apply a small quantity of green colour corrector to the areas exhibiting redness, blending until the redness diminishes. Begin with a modest amount, as you can always layer more if necessary.
Pro Tip: Utilize clean tools (such as a sponge, brush, or your fingertips) and exercise gentleness while blending the colour corrector, particularly if dealing with redness accompanied by breakouts or irritation.
What Does Purple Colour Corrector Do?
Purple colour correctors serve to illuminate and revitalize dull, sallow-looking skin. Lavender tones, in particular, can neutralize light yellow hues in the skin. Apply a lavender colour corrector exclusively to areas requiring evening out, ensuring thorough blending before applying foundation and concealer, if desired.
How to Colour Correct Dullness and Add Brightness
Use Lavender Colour Corrector
Are you wondering how to colour correct dullness and add brightness to your complexion? Look no further! Using a lavender colour corrector can work wonders for brightening up your skin tone. You don’t need to apply lavender colour corrector all over; simply dot it on areas like your chin, forehead, and under-eyes for a subtle brightening effect.
Pro Tip: If dullness is your main concern, consider using dewy makeup instead of matte products. This can help give your skin a soft, natural-looking glow.
What Does Blue Colour Corrector Do?
Blue colour correctors, similar to lavender ones, can neutralize unwanted warmth in your skin. They're especially effective at disguising orange tones and are suitable for all skin tones. You can also use deeper blue shades to cool down overly warm foundation or concealer.
What Does Pink Colour Corrector Do?
If you have fair skin and struggle with bluish-looking under-eye circles, a pink or peach-toned colour corrector is your best friend. These shades help balance out the bluish tones, giving you a more even complexion.
What Does Orange Colour Corrector Do?
Deeper peach and orange colour correctors are perfect for neutralizing dark spots and dark circles, especially on medium to deep skin tones. Consider your skin tone and undertones when choosing the right colour corrector. Alternatively, try a colour-correcting palette like our Colour Correcting Cream Palette to experiment and find the best shades for your needs.
What Does Yellow Colour Corrector Do?
Wondering what a yellow colour corrector can do for your skin? If you're dealing with purple discolouration like dark spots or under-eye circles, a warmer yellow-toned colour corrector is the key. For fair skin tones, opt for a paler, pastel yellow shade, while deeper skin tones can benefit from a darker, golden hue.
How to Colour Correct Dark Circles
Use Pink, Yellow, or Orange Colour Corrector
Colour correcting dark circles can be tricky, but with the right colour corrector, you can achieve a flawless look. Choose from pink, yellow, or orange colour correctors based on your skin tone and underlying hues. Fair skin tones work well with peach and pale yellow shades, while medium to dark skin tones can opt for deeper orange shades. Apply a small amount to your dark circles and blend gently for a seamless finish.
Pro Tip: Pop on our Face Freezie Reusable Cooling Undereye Patches before colour correcting your dark circles to help de-puff and refresh your eye area.
How to Colour Correct Dark Spots
Use Yellow or Orange Colour Corrector
As with dark circles, there are a few different shades that can help colour correct dark spots, depending on your skin tone. Once you pick the right one, the actual colour-correcting process is a breeze: Just apply a small dot to areas of concern and blend.
Pro Tip: Pair your colour-correcting routine with a full-coverage foundation for a natural-looking yet flawless finish.
How to Colour Correct: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Once you’ve figured out which shade you need, applying your colour corrector is pretty straightforward. First, you’ll apply primer, then dot on your colour corrector where needed and blend. Finally, you’ll layer on the rest of your base makeup (specifically, foundation and concealer). Below, learn exactly how to apply colour corrector properly for an even finish.
Step 1: Prime Your Face
Begin by applying a makeup primer to prep your skin. Primer helps your products adhere better and last longer. Choose a primer that addresses your specific concerns, such as blurring pores, mattifying the skin, or adding a glowy look.
Step 2: Apply Your Colour Corrector
After letting your primer set, use a Pro Fix Stick colour corrector to target areas with discolouration. Apply the creamy formula directly to areas like under the eyes for dark circles, dark spots, redness, or blemishes.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet on which colour-corrector shade to use:
For redness: Neutralize red and pink tones with a green colour corrector.
For dark circles and dark spots: Use a peach colour corrector if you have fair skin, or a deeper orange shade if you have medium to dark skin.
For sallowness: Balance out unwanted warmth with a lavender colour corrector.
You can use your fingers, a brush, or a sponge to blend out the pigment; choose whichever tool works best for you. Note that there may still be a tint left on your skin after blending, and that’s fine—your foundation and concealer will help cover that up.
Step 3: Layer On Foundation
Now, apply your chosen foundation. For customizable coverage, consider using Bare With Me Blur Tint Foundation. Start with a small amount and build up as needed for additional coverage in specific areas.
Step 4: Add Concealer Where Needed
After foundation, use a Pro Fix Stick in a shade matching your natural skin tone for extra coverage. Apply the velvety formula to areas that require additional concealing, following the same technique as colour correction.
What Colour of Concealer Should I Use?
Match your concealer shade to your foundation for a seamless blend. You can test different products or use virtual try-on tools to find the perfect match. Ensure the concealer blends well with your skin tone for a natural look.
Pro Tip: On more minimal makeup days, you can skip the foundation and concealer. Just be sure to sheer out your colour corrector, so you’re not left with obvious patches of colour.
Step 5: Set Your Makeup
Once you’ve colour corrected, concealed, and blended your base to perfection, set it all in place by misting your face with a setting spray.
Next: How to Use Cream Highlighter Sticks for Radiant-Looking Skin
Show us how you use your Pro Fix Sticks! Share your creativity on social media and tag us @nyxcosmetics_canada.
Colour Correction & Concealer FAQs
What Concealer Is Best? Liquid, Cream, or Stick?
The "best" concealer type depends on your personal preferences. Concealer sticks offer precise application for targeted areas, while liquid concealers are more fluid and spreadable. Choose based on your needs and preferences.
How Should I Blend a Concealer Stick?
After applying concealer with a stick, blend it using a tool like a brush or makeup sponge, or use clean, dry fingers for blending.
Is Colour Correcting Better Than Concealer?
Colour correcting and concealing serve different purposes. Colour correctors tone down discolouration, while concealers cover imperfections for an even skin tone. Both have their uses based on your needs.
Can You Wear Colour Corrector By Itself?
If a colour corrector is sheer enough, it can be worn alone. For a natural look, layer skin-coloured concealer or foundation over colour-correcting makeup.
