Fashion

Here Is The Perfect Concealer For Every Pimple Life Throws Your Way

by Emily Arata

The unexpected appearance of a pimple is much like that of a co-worker you can't stand. She drops by your desk for an impromptu chat about Mason jars and her Pinterest boards – and it's nearly impossible to get her to leave.

You want to be sympathetic to her, but you just don't have the patience. Instead, you keep it simple by not offering any follow-up questions and then conveniently announce that you're buried beneath a never ending pile of work.

In the same way, you can plan to cope with pimples. The rude, always ill-timed red mounds ruin your complexion and mean half an hour spent in front of the mirror trying to find a strategy for getting rid of them.

There's no easy fix for an omnipresent coworker, but luckily the solution to a pimple is as simple as a trip to a makeup specialty store. No matter how unfortunate the blemish, we've got a cover-up.

Here are the best concealer matches for every pimple life throws your way.

The Whitehead-Turned-Scab Your Boyfriend Tried Unsuccessfully To Pop

Ulta

Maybelline FaceStudio Master Conceal, $6, Amazon

There is no struggle like trying to cover up a scab with makeup. Layering concealer or powder over the flaky, textured area makes it a focal point, when all you're trying to do is pretend the spot doesn't exist.

To remedy the situation, begin moisturizing immediately to rid yourself of the peeling skin flakes for good. Respect the scab instead of trying to peel it off (which will only prolong the misery). Then stock up on a creamy concealer to cover the red spot without creating a mess.

The Lurking Red Spot That Might Turn Into A Pimple

Amazon

NYX Above & Beyond Full Coverage Concealer in Green, $4, Amazon 

One day, your skin is a perfect canvas. By the next, you begin to notice a dull ache somewhere around your forehead. The worst part of a clogged pore sitting far below the surface of the skin is that it takes several days to rise up. When it does, that's an entirely separate battle.

For now, just focus on the problem at hand: a splotchy redness that's difficult to cover up. Tackle the problem with careful use of a green-tinted concealer designed to counteract the red, dabbing it on with a small brush. Let the color set for several minutes before continuing with your regular makeup application, including regular concealer and foundation.

The Cystic Acne You Don't Want Your Mom To Notice

Benefit

Benefit Erase Paste Concealer, $20, Sephora 

Moms have an eye for detail; regrettably, usually about the things you'd rather her not notice. When it comes to a cystic breakout that's already making you self-conscious, your mom's dermatologist recommendations and homemade skin treatments can feel like overkill. Instead of dishing on your skin's condition, hide it throughout your weekly family dinner.

To cover up the breakout, call in concealer with serious oomph to provide a layer of color that sits over the acne without drying it out. Make sure to let it set several minutes, and stipple with a light layer of loose powder for longevity. By dessert, you'll still be looking good.

The Pimple Developing While You're At Work

Sephora

CoverFX Blemish Treatment Concealer, $25, Sephora 

You're at the office, trying to be a #GirlBoss, but your skin isn't cooperating. The splotch that seemed minuscule during morning makeup application has suddenly doubled in size. By lunch, it might be a full-on whitehead.

Resist the urge to poke and prod (we know, it's the most challenging thing you'll do all day), and reach into your bag for emergency reinforcements. Use a concealer that has the added benefit of drying ingredients to begin treating the pimple while making sure it's not obvious.

The Bumps That Might Be Pimples ... But You're Not Sure

Clinique

Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer, $25, Sephora 

With the weather constantly shifting and skin that seems to have a mind of its own, it's challenging to keep track of every minor irritation that comes your way. If you've noticed slightly problematic spots but aren't too concerned about developing a serious acne problem, rely on an all-in-one product.

A formula that's both concealer and foundation ensures even color and tone, without the hassle of eight different acne products.