Beauty Q&A: What Is Concealer Spackling?

STEP 1: Prep the Skin 

Whether you’re going for a matte or a dewy look, it’s key to prep the skin before spackling on the concealer — it’ll help the concealer stick and dry down properly on the skin. “The technique works best when combined with hydrating serums, like the Fourth Ray Hyaluronic Acid Serum, and a gripping primer, like the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer,” says Ogueria. “If an individual has very oily skin, they may want to substitute a gripping primer for a mattifying primer.” One option we love is the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Lock Mattifying Primer. 

STEP 2: Choose a Pot Concealer 

While you may still want to use a liquid concealer under the eyes, it’s not the best option for spackling. “A liquid concealer won’t dry down correctly or smoothly over spots or imperfections,” says Ogueria. “A pot, cream-like concealer is the best selection. It can also be in a lipstick-type tube, like the Dermablend Quick Fix Concealer.” 

STEP 3: Spackle With a Brush

Next, grab a concealer brush to apply a generous amount of product over any blemishes, red spots or pigmentation. “From there, it’s critical to not blend the concealer, but rather allow it spackle and settle,” says Ogueria. “It requires a minimum of two minutes to let the concealer dry in place.” 

While it may seem easier to simply apply the concealer with your fingers, Ogueria urges against it. “Don’t spackle with your fingers because you should avoid touching your face as much as possible — especially if you are prone to acne.” 

STEP 4: Apply Foundation 

Once your concealer has dried down, it’s time to apply foundation over top. To make sure the concealer doesn’t get blended or smudged, it’s best to apply foundation with a sponge and not a brush. “A brush will disrupt the concealer whereas a sponge will simply layer the foundation on top of the spackled concealer,” says Ogueria. 

You can also add liquid concealer over top of your foundation to brighten areas or setting powder to keep shine and oil at bay.