Color-Correcting Your Complexion

Before re-touching and airbrushing existed, top makeup artists achieved complexion perfection with Technicolor powders and creams. Brightly-hued concealers camouflage uneven skin tones in a snap. While the effect seems magical, the trick is simply a matter of understanding how different shades in the rainbow cancel each other out.  If you’re looking for an easy way to perfect your skin without piling on cakey layers of foundation, check out our guide to color-correcting makeup.

GREEN

If you’re acne-prone or have a ruddy complexion, opt for a mint green corrector to neutralize too much flush. "Green is great for covering any redness on the skin such as a blemish or rosacea," says L'Oréal makeup artist Collier Strong. Lightly dust the color over trouble spots such as the T-zone and cheeks, then apply foundation.
Beautylish recommends: L'Oréal Studio Secrets Color Corrector in Green

LILAC

During the winter your skin loses its sun-kissed glow, and your face can appear sallow and dull. Collier suggests a lilac primer, which mutes these yellow undertones. Just like bronzer, you should apply the lavender tint to areas where the sun would normally hit your face: cheekbones, nose, and chin. Then apply tinted moisturizer or foundation normally.
Beautylish recommends: Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer in Balance

PINK

While many factors contribute to dark under-eye circles, naturally thinner skin around the eyes reveals noticeable veins we’d like to cover up. "A peachy-pink corrector is perfect for brightening the eye area," says Collier. If you have more yellow or green-toned shadows, opt for a pastel pink corrector. First apply a base concealer, then dab a rosy hue directly over bags to erase bold, blue capillaries and reflect light like a highlighter would. 

Beautylish recommends: Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Talc-Free Mineral Correcting Concealer Trio

APRICOT

"I use apricot-correctors on medium to dark complexions to add luminosity to the skin," says Collier. "But if brown spots or freckles are your primary concern, a color corrector will not give enough coverage. I’d suggest a concealer the same color as your skin to cover these issues." Swipe the apricot primer shade along cheekbones or all over your face for a radiant base.

Beautylish recommends: Koh Gen Do Foundation Color Corrector Dark Apricot