Say Goodbye to Dry Patches: 7 Tricks to Prevent Concealer from Cracking

1. Prep Your Skin to Avoid Cakey Concealer

Tips for all skin types:

• Dry Skin: Use a rich eye cream infused with hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and prevent flaking.
• Oily Skin: Opt for an oil-free moisturizer to hydrate without making the skin greasy.
• Combination Skin: Apply a lightweight moisturizer that balances hydration without being too heavy.
• Mature Skin: Use a hydrating primer to fill in fine lines and create a smooth canvas.

2. Choose the Right Concealer Formula

• For Dry Skin: A creamy, hydrating concealer prevents cracking and enhances smoothness.
• For Oily Skin: A matte, oil-free concealer helps control excess shine and keeps your makeup in place.
• For Combination Skin: Use a hydrating formula under the eyes and a matte finish for other areas.
• For Sensitive Skin: Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic formulas help prevent irritation and breakouts.

3. Master the Best Concealer Application Tips

• Apply in thin layers instead of thick, heavy strokes to avoid cakiness.
• Use a damp beauty sponge to blend seamlessly into the skin.
• Apply in a triangular shape under the eyes for a lifted effect.
• Use your ring finger for gentle tapping if blending with fingers.
• Avoid applying too close to the lower lash line to prevent creasing.
• Allow each layer to set before applying the next one for better longevity.
• Use a color corrector if you have dark circles before applying concealer to reduce the need for extra product.

4. Set It Right to Prevent Concealer from Cracking

How to set concealer for long-lasting wear:

• Use a finely milled, translucent setting powder.
• Take a small amount on a fluffy brush or damp sponge.
• Lightly tap over the concealer—avoid over-powdering to prevent a dry look.
• For dry skin, use a hydrating setting spray instead of heavy powder.
• Avoid excessive baking, as it can make your under-eye area look dry and emphasize fine lines.

5. Extra Tips for a Smooth Concealer Finish

• Mix a tiny bit of eye cream with your concealer for an extra hydrating effect.
• Use a brightening concealer with light-reflecting particles to make your under-eye area appear fresh and awake.
• For extreme dryness, apply a thin layer of facial oil before your moisturizer to deeply nourish the skin.
• If your concealer still creases, try using a hydrating mist before blending to add flexibility to the formula.

6. Avoid Common Mistakes That Cause Creasing

• Skipping eye cream: Dry under-eyes lead to cracking and uneven application.
• Applying too much product: Excess concealer is more likely to cake and settle.
• Using the wrong tools: Brushes can leave streaks—use a damp sponge for best results.
• Not setting properly: Always lock in your concealer with the right powder or spray.
• Using the wrong shade: Too light of a shade can emphasize fine lines, while too dark can look unnatural.
• Ignoring skincare: If your under-eye area is dehydrated or neglected, no makeup trick will completely fix the issue.

7. Quick Touch-Up Tips for a Smooth Concealer Look

• Use a damp sponge to lightly dab and refresh the area.
• Apply a drop of hydrating mist and gently blend.
• If needed, apply a tiny amount of concealer only where necessary and blend well.
• Use a blotting paper to remove excess oil before reapplying powder if needed.
• For an instant fresh look, press a small amount of moisturizer or primer over dry areas using your fingertips.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

1. How to stop concealer from getting cakey?
   Apply in thin layers, blend well, and set with a lightweight powder.
2. How to get concealer to not crack?
   Hydrate your under-eye area and use a creamy, non-drying concealer.
3. How do you keep concealer from breaking up?
   Use a primer, avoid excess product, and set lightly with a translucent powder.
4. Why is my concealer caking?
   It could be due to dryness, excess product, or improper blending.
5. What concealer doesn’t look cakey?
   Hydrating, lightweight, and buildable concealers like NARS Radiant Creamy or Maybelline Fit Me work best.