November 18, 2020

MASTERING COLOUR CORRECTION

As the seasons change and that end of the year fatigue starts coming your way, you may be finding yourself reaching for your concealer more often than not. While concealer is one of the most coveted makeup products out there, sometimes, it just doesn't do the trick.

Why does this happen? First, it is crucial to understand that our complexions are differently toned, all depending on our ethnicity, our sun exposure, and our skin concerns. If your complexion is marked by dark circles, hyperpigmentation, scars, red patches or blemishes, you know how hard it can be to properly conceal in broad daylight.

This is where colour correction comes into play.

WHAT IS COLOUR CORRECTION?

Colour correction is a method developed by makeup artists who understood that using complementary colours (colours that are direct opposites on the colour wheel) can cancel out skin discolourations. Colour correcting palettes are usually composed of green, lavender, yellow and coral-toned concealers that camouflage an array of skin issues, such as dullness, redness, under-eye circles, and more.

Tim Quinn, Giorgio Armani's celebrity makeup artist explains that the basic goal of colour correction is to "make the complexion more harmonious by disguising any colour imperfections.”

Green-hued concealers neutralize redness-related issues, including rosacea, acne, broken capillaries and sunburns
Peach/coral/orange hues neutralize blue-tone dark circles & spots to help mask fatigue
Yellow hues target purple and brown trouble areas, making them great for concealing hyperpigmentation, veins, bruising and other dark spots such as sun damage. It can also brighten up the skin and banish dullness.
Purple hues will also cancel out any dullness or yellowing of the skin, as colours that are opposite of one another on the colour wheel cancel each other out

In short: a green-based concealer will cancel out red zits, a purple concealer will minimize yellow spots, and an orange/yellow concealer will take care of blue dark circles. By applying this theory, you’ll notice how much of a difference it makes in the way your makeup works for you!

HOW TO COLOUR CORRECT

Already confused? No need to panic. We've got it all broken down for you:

DARK UNDER-EYE CIRCLES?

Lightly pat a yellow or orange-based concealer in an upside-down triangle shape under each eye. Proceed to cover with your skin-toned concealer. Remember that the skin under your eyes is extremely fragile, so be delicate with your application. In this case, a liquid concealer might be a better choice.

DISCOLOURATION?

Hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and other blemishes can add years to your skin. Use a yellow-hued concealer (ideally in liquid or stick form) and apply over discoloured areas. For a flawless blend, follow up by applying your foundation with a lightly humid makeup sponge.

REDNESS?

A green-tinted concealer will become your new best friend if you are prone to breakouts and blemishes, or suffer from eczema, rosacea, or even psoriasis. Dab some green-based concealer to your blemishes and the area that surrounds them in order to fully camouflage the red spots. Follow up with your regular foundation application.

For a flawless look, we suggest applying your makeup in the order that follows: