When learning how to cover acne with makeup, it’s worth noting that different spots require different products and tools. While certain formulas work well for whiteheads, others work best for raised blemishes and blackheads. To find out exactly how to conceal every type of breakout going, we’ve quizzed the pros.
Battling against a breakout? Do not fret. While the best foundation cannot treat acne at the source (following the right skincare routine for acne will help here), makeup can help boost our confidence by minimizing the appearance of angry blemishes. The key is knowing what products to use, and for what spots, in order to achieve a smooth, even base.
“It’s important to make sure the products contain ingredients that are kind to skin,” says celebrity makeup artist and KVD ambassador, Nikki Wolff. “Hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and vitamin C can be found in everything from the best primers and foundations to blushers and even bronzers.” Want to know which is best for your specific skin situation? Keep scrolling to discover how to cover acne with makeup just as the professionals do.
How to cover acne with makeup: your expert guide
How to cover whiteheads
Whiteheads are a mild (albeit stubborn) form of acne that occurs when dead skin cells and oil become trapped within the pore. In terms of their appearance, they look like tiny white bumps on the skin’s surface.
“Whiteheads can cause texture on the skin,” says Bobbi Brown pro artist, Hollie Ellis, who has mastered the art of how to cover acne with makeup. “Because of this, it’s important to use a cushiony primer that will smooth your complexion as well as hydrating products.” Contrary to what we may think, applying a full coverage matte concealer can make matters worse. “It will highlight the area even more,” adds Hollie who recommends opting for lightweight formulas instead.
It pays to read up on how to get rid of whiteheads with skincare. Then, what you can't eradicate, cover with makeup following Hollie’s step-by-step:
- Step 1: “Prep your skin with a good primer that will create a smooth canvas, ready for makeup.” Her go-to? “Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base is formulated with hyaluronic acid and shea butter to plump up and smooth skin.”
- Step 2: “For best results, apply your foundation first before you conceal.” This way, you won't overdo it on the concealer and can avoid that caked on finish. The best foundation for acne-prone skin is something breathable and not as heavy as you might think. "Look for liquid formulas in medium coverage to create an even, not heavy, base."
- Step 3: Next, add concealer to the areas that need more coverage. “Bounce and press your chosen concealer onto spots—go for hydrating and non-drying formulas.” This will help avoid that dreaded 'ring of flakes' we often see around whiteheads.
How to cover blackheads
Blackheads consist of the same material as whiteheads, namely dead skin cells, oil, and sebum. The difference is that whiteheads are closed pores, while blackheads are open—hence why they’re dark in appearance, due to the oxidation of clogged build-up.
To learn how to get rid of blackheads properly, read our ultimate skincare guide. As for makeup, there are several ways to help disguise a breakout of blackheads. “The trick here is to use mattifying products,” says Hollie, “anything too oily or shiny will highlight open pores.” Follow her top tips:
- Step 1: “Start off by using skincare products that will target open pores and blackheads. Ingredients like the skincare acid salicylic acid help lift dirt and debris, creating a fresh canvas.”
- Step 2: A mattifying primer is a must when learning how to cover acne with makeup. “It will smooth the skin's texture and help minimize the appearance of pores. Apply this before foundation, in the areas where you see blackheads.”
- Step 3: Next, use a foundation that won't further clog the pores. “I love Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Weightless Foundation as it contains naturally derived mineral powders that help keep excess oil in check while concealing blackheads.”
- Step 4: “The challenge with blackheads is that you can occasionally still see the open pores through makeup. To smooth over those areas, look for the best setting powders that are sheer.” Powders with soft-focus elements are perfect for this, gently blurring over blackheads.
How to cover cystic acne
Cystic acne is a more severe form of acne that occurs when bacteria (along with oil and dead skin cells) gets trapped in the pores, causing infection and inflammation. They’re often painful, pus-filled pimples that appear swollen and red.
“This type of spot can cause a lot of redness so it’s important to use color correcting products that will help even skin tone,” says Hollie. Her top tip? “Avoid anything that’s comedogenic (pore blocking) or products containing alcohol as these will irritate the skin further.” Here’s her step-by-step to conceal cystic spots like a pro:
- Step 1: “Again, start with a good base. Look for the best face moisturizers that are hydrating but oil-free and will help balance skin.”
- Step 2: “Then, use a green color corrector to help take down redness. Swipe or dab a concealer onto any areas of redness next, usually around the blemish, and press the product in with fingertips or one of the best makeup brushes.”
- Step 3: “Seal it all in with one of the best full coverage foundations using a stippling brush to create a seamless blend."
woman&home thanks Nikki Wolff and Hollie Ellis for their time and expertise.
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