Dec 01, 2021

Liquid vs. Cream Concealer: What's the Difference?

There are a ton of different concealers on the market. They come in a variety of different formulations and consistencies. Two of the most popular forms of concealer are liquid and cream.

They can both help you cover blemishes and other imperfections. However, there are several distinct differences between these two products. The concealer you choose will depend on your skin type. You could end with bad results if you select the wrong makeup for your skin.

Find out what sets these concealer formulations apart. We will go over what skin types work with these formulations so you can get the most out of your concealer.

What Is Concealer?

Concealer is a product that offers a high level of coverage. It can cover dark spots, pimples, and other blemishes on your skin. It can also brighten and highlight certain facial features.

Although it may look similar, it is very different from foundation. It is a much thicker consistency and offers a higher amount of coverage. Foundation is meant to be used all over your face, while concealer is used to target specific areas. The two products work hand-in-hand to help you achieve perfect-looking skin.

You're not meant to use concealer as foundation or vise versa. You create an even base with foundation and then use concealer to cover any blemishes that are still visible. HIDE Premium Foundation provides excellent coverage while still allowing your skin to breathe. It can create the perfect foundation for any makeup look.

What Is Cream Concealer?

Cream concealers contain a high amount of pigment and provide a lot of coverage. The formulation allows you to cover anything you want.

Some cream concealers contain beneficial ingredients like beeswax, avocado oil, and shea butter. These formulations can be less than ideal for oily skin types. When you have excess oil issues, the last thing you want to add to your skin is more oil.

Cream concealers are a popular choice for people that struggle with acne. However, since the formulation is on the heavier side, it can be pore-clogging. When pores become blocked up, it can lead to more breakouts. If you have acne-prone skin, look for a non-comedogenic, oil-free concealer.

On the flip side, cream concealer can make you look flaky if you have dry skin since it will cling to dry patches. You also have to be careful when applying cream concealers because they tend to crease. If you have fine lines and wrinkles, you should use a different concealer.

What Is Liquid Concealer?

Liquid formulations are the most versatile types of concealer. They also provide the most hydration since they contain the highest amount of water. These concealers offer medium to full coverage. You can build up the coverage to fit your needs.

It works best for people with normal to dry skin. However, oil-free formulas can work for all skin types. People with oily skin can actually benefit from the extra moisture. When your face is too dry, your oil glands can go into overdrive, creating oily skin.

This type of concealer can also work well for people with acne. It offers enough coverage to cover blemishes but still allows your skin to breathe. You won't have to worry about breaking out when you use a high-quality liquid concealer.

HIDE Premium Concealer feels weightless on the skin and is made with pigments that mimic skin. You can get a flawless natural finish. The oil-free formula resists sweat and will stay in place for over 12 hours. Plus, it will work for any skin type.

Different Concealer Formulas

While we may be comparing liquid and cream formulations, you may be wondering how they differ from the other concealers on the market. There are a lot more options than just cream and liquid. There are also stick, color-correcting, and pen formulations.

Stick Concealer

Stick concealer is similar to cream, but it is a little drier with a semi-solid texture. It offers a high level of coverage, thanks to the amount of pigment. The compact packaging makes it easy to take with you on the go for touchups. However, it's less than ideal to use during the summer months since it can slide off in the heat.

The thicker consistency means it requires a little effort to blend it out. The warmth from your fingertips can help it melt into your skin. This concealer can be heavy on the skin, and people with oily skin should be wary. Stick formulations can also clog your pores.

Color Corrector

Color correcting concealers utilize complementary colors to cancel out discoloration on your face. They often come in thicker creamy consistencies, although they make liquid color correctors as well. Green and peach shades are common colors.

These colors can neutralize the imperfections you want to cover. For example, you can cover a red pimple with a green color corrector since green is on the opposite side of the color wheel as red. You will still have to use a skin-toned concealer to cover the color corrector.

Concealer Pen

They also make concealers in pen packaging. The consistency is similar to a liquid formulation. This type of concealer has a tip that makes it easy to apply the product precisely.

It is easy to toss in your bag and take with you. Concealer pens come in handy when you want to highlight your brow bone or apply touchups in your under-eye area.

How To Cover Anything

You can cover all of your imperfections with the right concealer. Here is a guide to using concealer to hide anything.

Hiding Under-Eye Bags

Liquid concealer works best in the under-eye area. You can use a peachy color corrector first if you have dark circles. Apply your product with a damp makeup sponge. Run the sponge under a faucet, and then squeeze out all the excess water.

Bounce the sponge gently under your eyes to blend out the product. Next, dip the sponge in translucent powder and dab it over the concealer. You can also use a fluffy powder brush. The powder will help prevent the concealer from settling into the fine lines under your eyes.

Concealing Scars or Dark Spots

A cream concealer can work well to hide a scar or dark spot completely. Use a concealer brush to apply the product just where the discoloration is. Finish with a setting powder to lock it in place. HIDE Premium Concealer may be liquid, but it is uniquely formulated to cover anything, even scars, and dark spots.

Covering Redness Around Your Nose

The area around your nose can get oily, even if you don't have oily skin. Therefore, you want to use an oil-free concealer to cover any redness in the area. Use a damp makeup sponge or your ring finger to dab on the concealer.

Next, set the product with a translucent powder to combat any oiliness. You only need a light layer if you don't have oily skin.

The Best Choice

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to concealer. However, liquid concealer is the most versatile, and it can work for all skin types. If you select the right formulation and apply it correctly, you can achieve a flawless finish.

HIDE products can help you cover anything. They are ultra-lightweight so that you can wear them all day with an undetectable finish.