Doing makeup without foundation is absolutely possible for many people. While foundation evens out skin tone and covers blemishes, there are other techniques and products that can help create a polished look without needing a full foundation routine. Here’s what you need to know about doing makeup with just concealer and no foundation.
What is the purpose of foundation in makeup?
Foundation is typically used as a base layer in makeup application. It serves several purposes:
- Evens out skin tone – Covers redness, Hyperpigmentation, blemishes
- Creates smooth canvas for other products – Allows seamless blending
- Controls shine – Matte or oil controlling formulas
- Long wearing – Stays put all day with minimal transfer or fading
While foundation can be incredibly useful for achieving flawless looking skin, it isn’t an absolute necessity for everyone. Other products can provide similar benefits in a more lightweight routine.
What is concealer and how does it differ from foundation?
Concealer is a makeup product used to cover and neutralize imperfections. It has extremely pigmented, opaque coverage to hide blemishes, under eye circles, discoloration, etc. Key differences between concealer and foundation include:
- Coverage – Concealer offers heavier, targeted coverage while foundation offers lighter all over coverage
- Shade range – Foundation comes in many shades to match skin tone. Concealer comes in fewer shades meant to color correct specific issues.
- Formula – Concealer is thicker and more emollient. Foundation is thinner and smoother.
- Application – Concealer is applied just to problem areas. Foundation is applied to the whole face.
Can you skip foundation and just use concealer?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to do your makeup with just concealer and no foundation! This allows you to spot conceal issues without needing to apply a full layer of foundation.
This technique works best for those with relatively clear, even toned skin. However, with the right approach and products, concealer-only makeup can work for many people.
Tips for makeup without foundation
- Exfoliate and moisturize – Smooth, healthy looking skin makes concealer application easier
- Color correct – Use green concealer for redness and purple concealer for yellowness before concealing
- Spot conceal – Apply concealer just where you need it, like under eyes or on blemishes
- Use illuminating products – Highlighters and illuminators give dimension without foundation
- Use cream products – Cream blush, bronzer, highlight create a dewy look
- Fill in brows – Defined brows help frame the face without foundation
- Curl lashes – Open up eyes and make lashes pop to draw attention
- Apply setting powder – Set concealer in place and reduce shine on other areas
What kind of concealer is best for no foundation makeup?
Look for the following qualities in a concealer for foundation-free makeup:
- Full coverage – Needs to conceal well on its own without foundation beneath it
- Emollient formula – Should blend easily and mimic bare skin
- Multiple shades – Different shades to correct redness, darkness, etc.
- Skin care benefits – Concealers with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C help skin look fresh
- Longwearing – Stays on all day without creasing or fading
- Non-drying – Won’t cake up or cling to dry patches
Makeup Steps for Concealer Only Routine
If you’re new to foundation free makeup, follow these steps:
- Prep skin – Moisturize and apply primer if desired
- Color correct – Use salmon corrector for undereye circles, green to reduce redness, etc.
- Conceal – Dot on concealer and blend in problem areas
- Set concealer – Use powder just where you applied concealer to set it
- Contour and bronze – Sculpt and define cheekbones if desired
- Blush – Add cream or powder blush to cheeks
- Brows – Fill in and define brows
- Eyes – Apply eyeshadow, liner, mascara to make eyes pop
- Lips – Finish with your favorite lip color
Pros and Cons of Skipping Foundation
Here are some of the key pros and cons to weigh when considering foregoing foundation:
Pros
- Lightweight, natural looking skin
- Faster and easier routine
- Avoid potential irritation or clogged pores from foundation
- Save money by using less product
- Easier touch ups throughout the day
Cons
- Less even tone andCoverage
- Blemishes, scars and discoloration may show through more
- Oil control may be less effective
- Can accentuate fine lines/wrinkles without a smoothing base
- May need more concealer to properly cover problem areas
FAQs
What if I have acne, scars, or hyperpigmentation?
Full coverage or color correcting concealers are critical! Look for industrial strength concealers packed with pigment. You may need to layer different shades. Be sure to set concealer with powder.
Should I use primer if skipping foundation?
Primer isn’t mandatory, but can help makeup last longer. Opt for hydrating primers or ones that fill pores or smooth texture.
What finish of concealer works best?
Lighter, more emollient formulas will mimic bare skin better. But matte formulas can help control oil and stay put. Find the right balance for your skin type.
Can you wear powder products without foundation?
Yes! Matte bronzer, blush, and eyeshadow all work beautifully to sculpt and define. Just ensure skin is exfoliated and moisturized for a smooth base.
What about glowy cream highlighters and blush?
Definitely! Cream blush, highlights, and illuminators create dimension and radiance without foundation. Sheer, dewy textures blended out beautifully on bare skin.
Tips for Specific Skin Concerns Without Foundation
Oily or acne prone skin
- Use oil controlling primer
- Set concealer and T-zone with pressed powder
- Use blotting papers to touch up shine throughout the day
- Avoid heavy creams, opt for powder products instead
Dullness and uneven texture
- Gently exfoliate 2-3 times per week
- Use an illuminating primer like Becca Backlight Primer
- Mix liquid highlighter like Armani Fluid Sheer into moisturizer
- Use radiant concealers like YSL Touché Eclat
Redness and Rosacea
- Color correct with green concealer to neutralize
- Use medium coverage mineral makeup
- Avoid irritating skincare ingredients like fragrance, alcohol, acids
- Choose gentle cream and liquid products
Mature skin
- Prep with moisturizers and serums focused on hydration
- Opt for luminous, satin finish concealers that won’t emphasize lines
- Tap and press products into skin rather than rubbing
- Powder minimally just on oily spots
Sample No Foundation Makeup Routine
Here is an example of a polished makeup routine using just concealer and no foundation:
| Step | Products |
|---|---|
| 1. Prep | Cleanse, moisturize, SPF, primer optional |
| 2. Conceal Undereyes | Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in shade for brightening |
| 3. Spot Conceal | Tarte Shape Tape to cover blemishes, scars, hyperpigmentation |
| 4. Contour | Fenty Match Stix in Amber for subtle sculpting |
| 5. Blush | Glossier Cloud Paint in Beam for a flush |
| 6. Brows | Anastasia Brow Wiz to fill and define brows |
| 7. Eyes | A neutral eyeshadow look, mascara, subtle liner |
| 8. Lips | YSL Volupté Tint-In-Balm for a your lips but better wash of color |
| 9. Set | Spray with Urban Decay All-Nighter setting spray to lock in makeup |
Conclusion
It’s absolutely possible to do your makeup using only concealer and no foundation. The key is using concealers strategically to color correct and cover only where needed. prep skin well, embrace glowy textures, define features like brows, and set concealer in place. With the right techniques and products, you can get a beautiful, fresh faced look without foundation.