Tips for covering up blemishes

When all else fails, there’s always makeup. You do not have to cover up your blemishes by any means, but we understand how stubborn breakouts can affect your mood and self-esteem. If a pimple or two bothers you, mind these tips:

With concealer, less is more: Loading up on product can turn cakey quickly. Rather, use precise movements to conceal blemishes: Swipe the product directly over the zit and spread the formula until the surrounding area is all covered. Take a moment to let it dry down fully before layering on any more products.

Use powder to nix shadow: Sure, a concealer can cover up discoloration, but if you have an angry, raised mound, grab a setting powder: Not only does it help your concealer last longer, but it can also mattify and blur the area, so you’re less likely to see the raised zit. With a clean eyeshadow brush, take a bit of powder and press it onto the pimple.

Use a zit patch: OK, not a makeup tip, but we’d be remiss not to mention the quick-fix nature of acne patches. These hydrocolloid dressings suck the entire gunk trapped in your pores, and some options include ingredients to soothe or treat the blemish simultaneously, like salicylic acid or niacinamide. Some even come in fun shapes and colors to take away some of the frustration associated with a blemish: Slap on a star-shaped sticker and call it a day.