What’s the Difference Between a Concealer and a Corrector?

Introduction

Let’s clear something up: concealer and corrector are not the same thing. While they’re often used together (especially for under-eyes, pigmentation, or breakouts), they do very different jobs.

Knowing the difference between a concealer and a corrector can completely change how your makeup looks—making it smoother, more natural, and longer-lasting. In this post, I’ll explain what each product does, when to use it, and how to layer them like a pro.

What Is a Corrector?

Purpose: Correctors are used to neutralise unwanted tones in the skin before applying concealer.

Think of them as colour theory in action—they cancel out specific tones by using the opposite shade on the colour wheel.

Examples of correctors:

• Peach or orange: Cancels out blue or purple under-eye circles

• Green: Neutralises redness from blemishes or rosacea

• Lavender: Brightens dull, sallow skin with yellow undertones

• Yellow: Helps brighten purplish areas or veins

Texture: Usually creamy and pigmented but sheer enough to layer under concealer.

When to use:

• Before concealer

• On areas where the skin tone is off rather than just dark or discoloured

  
  

💡 Correctors don’t cover—they balance

What Is a Concealer?

Purpose: Concealers are used to cover and brighten areas of the face. They match your skin tone or are slightly lighter and are used for actual coverage, not colour correction.

What they do:

• Hide blemishes

• Brighten under-eyes

• Define or lift facial features (like contouring or highlighting)

  
  

Types of concealers:

• Liquid (great for under-eyes or natural looks)

• Cream (offers more coverage for blemishes or scars)

• Stick (for quick touch-ups or full coverage spots)

  
  

When to use:

• After colour correcting

• On areas that need lifting, brightening, or blending into foundation

  
  

💡 Concealer enhances and perfects, once the skin tone is balanced.

How to Use Them Together for Flawless Skin

1. Start with your base: Moisturiser and foundation if you’re using one.

2. Apply corrector only where needed: Blend lightly with a brush or sponge.

3. Apply concealer over the corrector: Pat gently to avoid moving the product.

4. Set lightly with powder: Especially under the eyes or over blemishes.

   
   
   
   

   Pro Artist Tip:

   If you’re using both products under the eyes, go in with a peach corrector first, then a lightweight concealer just in the inner corner and centre. This avoids a heavy, cakey look and gives a bright, lifted result.

   
   

   Final Thoughts

   
   

   Correctors and concealers are like your skin’s dream team—one neutralises, the other perfects. Once you know how to use both, your makeup looks more natural, balanced, and seamless. Whether you're covering dark circles, redness, or pigmentation, understanding the difference makes all the difference.

   
   

   Love & Artistry, Philippa