‘Concealer Sandwiching’ Is the Most Natural-Looking Way to Cover Up Acne

Blemishes have a frustrating way of showing up at the least opportune moments. If you’re looking for how to cover acne with makeup but still want skin to look natural, it’s time to learn the “concealer sandwiching” method.

According to makeup artist Vincent Ford, concealer sandwiching is exactly what its name implies. “Concealer sandwiching is a technique where the foundation is sandwiched between two layers of concealer,” he tells Glamour. “This not only helps cover imperfections but lasts much longer than concealer applied only on top of the foundation.”

This method for covering acne with makeup may seem pretty simple, but using the right products is crucial. Start with a cream concealer mixed with a color corrector to get rid of any “redness, hyperpigmentation, or other color concerns,” says Ford. If you’re not sure how to pick the right color corrector shade for your skin tone, Ford has some helpful guidelines.

“The color corrector shades should be chosen by skin concerns,” he says. “If you are fair and have more redness to cover, choose a green or mint color corrector. Violet areas can be neutralized using a yellow corrector. For medium skin tones that have darker areas, choose a peach-based corrector. Deeper skin tones benefit from orange and red-based correctors to hide hyperpigmentation.”

For the most accurate match, he recommends the Ben Nye Color Corrector Wheel, which features six different correcting shades. “It has every color needed for all skin tones,” he says.

To get a skin-like finish, Ford suggests using a hydrating concealer with buildable coverage. “My go-to for this technique is the Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer,” he says. “It has the perfect mix of coverage with a natural matte finish.” After you’ve mixed your concealer and color corrector, apply the product with a dense concealer brush using light stippling motions.

For the middle of the sandwich, press a matte foundation over the corrected areas. Ford uses the heel of his palm to lightly press product into skin. “Make sure not to swipe so none of the first layer is moved,” Ford says. “My favorite matte foundations are the Fenty Pro Filt’r Foundation, YSL All Hours Foundation and the Lancome Teint Idole Foundation.”

Finish the sandwich by applying another layer of concealer, but only for areas that are still peeking through. Once again, make sure you’re using a pressing or tapping motion with your finger or concealer brush.