Scars can be a constant reminder of past injuries, surgeries, or even acne breakouts. They can make you feel self-conscious and affect your confidence. While some people choose to embrace their scars, others prefer to hide them with makeup. 

With the right techniques and products, you can effectively conceal scars and feel more confident in your skin. In this article, we’ll provide tips and step-by-step instructions on how to hide scars with makeup, so you can feel your best and confidently face the world.

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1. Preparing Your Skin for Makeup Application

Preparing your skin for makeup application is an important step when you want to hide scars with makeup. Here are some steps you can take to get your skin ready:

  1. Cleanse your skin: Before applying makeup, make sure your skin is clean and free of any dirt or oil. Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face and remove any impurities that may clog your pores.
  2. Moisturize your skin: Apply a moisturizer to your face to keep your skin hydrated and to create a smooth surface for makeup application. Consider using a heavy moisturizer or facial oil if your skin is particularly dry.
  3. Apply primer: A primer is a product applied before the foundation to help it stay on longer and provide a smooth surface for application. Use a primer specifically designed for scars or one that contains silicone to help fill in any uneven textures.
  4. Use color correctors: Depending on the color of your scar, you may need to use a color corrector to even out your skin tone. For example, if you have a red scar, use a green color corrector to neutralize the redness. Similarly, use a yellow or orange corrector if you have a blue or purple scar.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your skin is prepped and ready for makeup application, which can help you achieve better coverage for your scars.

2. Choosing the Right Makeup Products

a). Types of Makeup Products That Work Well for Covering Scars

  • Foundation: Foundations with a thicker consistency, such as full coverage or cream-based, can effectively cover scars. Liquid foundation can also work well, especially when used with a concealer.
  • Concealer: Concealers that match the skin tone and have a high-coverage formula best hide scars. Choose a shade that matches the skin tone with a yellow or orange undertone to neutralize any purple or blue undertones in the scar.
  • Color Correctors: Color correctors can counteract discoloration in the skin. A green color corrector can help neutralize redness or pink hues, while a peach or orange corrector can balance out any blue or purple undertones in the scar.
  • Setting Powder: Setting powder can be used to set the foundation and concealer in place, which can help it last longer and prevent transfer. Choose a translucent powder that matches your skin tone.

b). Selecting the Right Shade of Foundation and Concealer

  1. Test the foundation and concealer on the skin in natural light to ensure a good match.
  2. If the scar is darker or lighter than the surrounding skin, choose a concealer shade that matches the scar.
  3. If the scar is close in color to the surrounding skin, use a foundation that matches the skin tone, then use concealer to spot-conceal the scar.

c). Consideration for Different Skin Types and Textures

  1. For oily or combination skin, look for oil-free products or have a matte finish to help control shine.
  2. For dry skin, use a hydrating primer and a foundation that provides hydration, such as a liquid foundation or a tinted moisturizer.
  3. Avoid products that are too thick or heavy for textured skin or raised scars, as they can accentuate the texture. Instead, opt for a light coverage foundation and a concealer that can be layered to build up coverage gradually.

3. Applying Makeup to Hide Scars

When applying makeup to hide scars, it’s important to take your time and use the right tools to achieve a natural-looking finish. Here are some step-by-step instructions to help you cover your scars with makeup:

  1. Start by cleaning and moisturizing the skin, as discussed earlier. Ensure the skin is completely dry before moving on to the next step.
  2. Apply a primer to the scarred area to create a smooth base for your foundation and concealer. This will help the makeup adhere to the skin and last longer.
  3. Use a small brush or your finger to apply a color corrector to the scarred area if needed. For example, if the scar is red or pink, use a green color corrector to neutralize the color. If the scar is dark or purple, use a peach or orange color corrector to balance the tone.
  4. Apply your foundation with a brush or sponge, starting in the center of the scarred area and working your way outward. Blend the foundation evenly into the surrounding skin to avoid harsh lines.
  5. Once you have applied your foundation, use a small concealer brush or your finger to apply concealer directly on top of the scar. Choose a concealer that matches your skin tone and apply it in thin layers until you have achieved the desired coverage. Be sure to blend the edges of the concealer into the surrounding skin to avoid any visible lines.
  6. You can use a translucent powder to set the makeup and make it last longer. Apply a small amount of powder to the scarred area using a powder brush or sponge, careful not to disturb the underlying makeup.
  7. Lastly, check your makeup in different lighting to ensure the coverage looks natural and even. You can also take a step back from the mirror to understand the overall effect better.

By following these steps and using the right products, you can effectively cover your scars with makeup and achieve a flawless, natural-looking finish. Be patient and experiment with different techniques until you find the best.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Advice on Selecting Makeup That Won’t Further Irritate the Scarred Area

  • Look for products that are labeled “non-comedogenic,” “hypoallergenic,” or “fragrance-free.”
  • Avoid makeup with ingredients that irritate the skin, such as alcohol, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide.
  • Test makeup on a small skin patch before applying it to the scarred area to ensure it doesn’t cause any irritation.

Tips for Avoiding Makeup Transfer Onto Clothing or Other Surfaces

  • Allow makeup to dry fully before putting on clothing or touching the skin.
  • Use a setting spray or powder to help the makeup stay in place.
  • Avoid touching the scarred area throughout the day to prevent makeup from rubbing off.

Importance of Removing Makeup Properly and Caring for the Skin

  • Use a gentle makeup remover that is formulated for sensitive skin.
  • Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the scarred area when removing makeup.
  • Apply a moisturizer or healing ointment to the scarred area after removing makeup to help promote healing and prevent dryness.

Conclusion

Hiding scars with makeup can be a simple yet effective way to boost your confidence and feel more comfortable in your skin. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can learn how to conceal scars with makeup in a natural and seamless way. 

Remember, there’s no shame in having scars, but there’s also nothing wrong with wanting to hide them sometimes. Ultimately, it’s all about finding what works for you and what makes you feel the most confident and comfortable. So experiment with makeup and different techniques until you find the perfect way to conceal your scars and embrace your natural beauty.

On By Ruth