Hiding a hickey can be a tricky task, but with the right techniques and makeup, it is possible to conceal it effectively. Whether you are preparing for a special event or simply want to avoid unwanted attention, this guide will provide you with comprehensive instructions on how to cover a hickey with makeup. By following these steps, you can restore your skin to its natural appearance discreetly and without causing further irritation.
The first step involves addressing the discoloration caused by the hickey. Color correction is essential to neutralize the purple or red hues associated with a hickey. To do this, you will need a color corrector in a shade opposite to the hickey’s color on the color wheel. For instance, if the hickey is purple, you should use a yellow corrector. Apply the corrector directly onto the hickey and blend it outwards using a brush or sponge. By neutralizing the discoloration, you create a more even base for subsequent makeup application.
Once the discoloration is addressed, you can proceed with concealing the hickey using a concealer. Choose a concealer that is one shade lighter than your skin tone and apply it sparingly over the hickey. Use a small brush or a cotton swab to gently tap the concealer into the skin, rather than rubbing it. This helps to prevent the concealer from absorbing into the hickey and becoming more noticeable. After applying the concealer, set it with a translucent powder to prevent creasing and ensure longevity.
Camouflaging the Mark with Concealer
To effectively conceal a hickey with makeup, you’ll need a few essential products:
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Color Correcting Concealer: Choose a concealer with a yellow or orange undertone to neutralize the purple or red discoloration of the hickey. Apply a small amount of the color corrector directly to the mark, gently patting it in with your finger or a brush.
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Full-Coverage Concealer: Opt for a concealer with a high coverage formula to provide maximum opacity. Select a shade that closely matches your skin tone, or slightly lighter for a more radiant effect. Apply the concealer over the color corrector, blending well to create a seamless finish.
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Setting Powder: After applying concealer, set it with translucent powder to prevent it from smudging or creasing. Use a light touch and pat the powder into place with a fluffy brush.
Tips for Enhanced Concealment
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Use a Precise Brush: A small, angled brush allows for precise application of concealer, ensuring you target the hickey specifically. This helps minimize the chances of the concealer spreading or looking cakey.
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Layer Thinly: Apply concealer in thin layers, building up the coverage gradually. This prevents the concealer from looking too thick or unnatural.
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Blend Thoroughly: Use your fingertips or a damp beauty sponge to blend the concealer seamlessly into the surrounding skin. Avoid harsh lines or edges to achieve a natural-looking finish.
Utilizing Color Correction to Neutralize the Redness
Color correction is a fundamental technique employed by makeup artists to balance out and neutralize skin imperfections. In the case of a hickey, the primary objective is to subdue the prominent red hue. The color wheel serves as a valuable guide in identifying the complementary color that effectively cancels out the unwanted shade. For red, its complementary color is green.
To utilize color correction, follow these steps:
1. Select a Green Color Corrector: Opt for a color corrector in a pale green shade that closely matches the skin tone. Avoid using dark greens, as they can create an unnatural appearance.
2. Apply the Color Corrector: Using a small brush or a beauty blender, dab the green color corrector directly onto the hickey. Gently blend outwards, avoiding harsh lines. The green hue will counteract the redness, neutralizing its intensity.
| Color Corrector Shade | Skin Tone |
|---|---|
| Light Green | Fair to Light |
| Medium Green | Medium to Tan |
| Olive Green | Olive to Dark |
Diffusing the Hickey with Foundation
1. Choose the Right Foundation
Opt for a high-coverage foundation that can effectively conceal discoloration and redness. Look for foundations with full or medium coverage and a matte or semi-matte finish to minimize shine.
2. Use a Color Corrector
Before applying foundation, neutralize the bluish or purplish tint of the hickey with a green or yellow color corrector. Apply the corrector directly to the hickey and blend it outward with a brush or sponge.
3. Apply Foundation in Thin Layers
Apply your foundation in thin layers, building up the coverage gradually. Start with a small amount and blend it thoroughly with a brush or sponge. Avoid applying too much foundation, as this can make the hickey look cakey and unnatural.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying foundation over a hickey:
| Step | Materials | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Color corrector | Apply a thin layer of green or yellow color corrector directly to the hickey and blend outward. |
| 2 | High-coverage foundation | Apply a small amount of foundation over the color corrector and blend outward with a brush or sponge. |
| 3 | Foundation brush/sponge | Continue applying foundation in thin layers, blending thoroughly to avoid a cakey finish. |
| 4 | Setting powder | Apply a small amount of setting powder to set the makeup and minimize shine. |
Setting the Makeup for Long-lasting Coverage
Once you’ve applied your concealer and foundation, it’s crucial to set your makeup to ensure it stays put all day. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Use a translucent powder
Apply a translucent powder over your foundation using a fluffy brush. This will help absorb excess oils and create a matte finish.
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Set with a setting spray
Hold a setting spray about 12 inches away from your face and mist it evenly. This will help keep your makeup in place for hours.
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Blotting papers
If you find your skin getting oily throughout the day, use blotting papers to gently press and remove excess oils without smudging your makeup.
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Touch-ups
Carry a small touch-up kit with you to refresh your makeup throughout the day as needed. Apply a small amount of concealer and powder to any areas that have faded or smudged.
Here’s a table summarizing the different methods for setting makeup:
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Translucent powder | Apply with a fluffy brush over foundation to absorb oil and create a matte finish. |
| Setting spray | Hold 12 inches from face and mist evenly to keep makeup in place for hours. |
| Blotting papers | Gently press onto skin to remove excess oil without smudging makeup. |
| Touch-ups | Apply concealer and powder to any areas that have faded or smudged as needed. |
Enhancing the Surrounding Area to Divert Attention
1. Highlight Your Brows and Lashes
Draw attention away from the hickey by defining your brows with a brow pencil or powder. Apply mascara to your lashes to make your eyes pop.
2. Add a Touch of Blush
Sweep some blush over the apples of your cheeks to create a natural, rosy glow. This will draw attention to your face and away from the hickey.
3. Accentuate Your Lips
Apply a bold lipstick to make your lips the focal point of your face. Darker shades will draw attention to your lips, minimizing the appearance of the hickey.
4. Wear a Statement Necklace or Earrings
A large necklace or a pair of statement earrings can draw attention to your neckline and away from the hickey. Choose pieces that complement your outfit and create a stunning visual impact.
5. Use a Bright Eyeshadow
Apply a bright eyeshadow in a shade that complements your eye color. This will make your eyes stand out and draw attention away from the hickey. Consider using a shimmery or metallic eyeshadow to create a more dramatic effect.
| Eyeshadow Shades | Complementary Eye Colors |
|---|---|
| Gold | Brown, hazel |
| Silver | Blue, gray |
| Green | Brown, green |
| Purple | Blue, hazel |
| Pink | Blue, brown |
Masking the Hickey with a Lip Stain
Lip stains are long-lasting, pigmented formulas that can effectively cover up hickeys. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a lip stain:
- Start with a clean face. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt or oil.
- Apply a color corrector. Use a color corrector that matches the opposite of the color of the hickey (e.g., green for red hickeys, orange for purple hickeys). Apply a small amount to the hickey and blend it out.
- Apply a lip stain. Choose a lip stain that matches your skin tone or a shade slightly darker. Apply a thin layer to the hickey and let it dry completely.
- Apply a second layer. If necessary, apply a second layer of lip stain to build up the coverage and ensure the hickey is fully concealed.
- Set the makeup. Use a loose powder or setting spray to set the makeup and prevent it from smudging or fading.
- Choose a temporary tattoo or bandage that matches your skin tone.
- Clean and dry the skin around the hickey.
- Place the tattoo or bandage over the hickey, aligning the edges.
- Smooth out any wrinkles or creases in the tattoo or bandage.
- Allow the tattoo or bandage to adhere to the skin for the recommended time, usually around 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the tattoo or bandage carefully, avoiding stretching or damaging the skin.
- Apply makeup over the tattoo or bandage if desired to further blend and conceal the hickey.
| Hickey Color | Color Corrector |
|---|---|
| Red | Green |
| Purple | Orange |
| Blue | Yellow |
| Yellow | Purple |
Camouflaging with a Temporary Tattoo or Bandage
Temporary tattoos or bandages with skin-toned designs can instantly cover up hickeys. Choose a tattoo or bandage that closely matches your skin tone and apply it over the hickey. This method effectively conceals the discoloration and creates a smooth, even surface.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Temporary Tattoos:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to apply and remove | May not be waterproof or smudge-resistant |
| Available in various skin tones | Can be more expensive than bandages |
Bandages:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof and smudge-resistant | Less variety in skin tones |
| Affordable and widely available | Can be more noticeable and bulky |
Disguising with a Neck Scarf or Collar
If you don’t have any makeup on hand or prefer to conceal your hickey more subtly, a neck scarf or collar can do the trick. Consider the following options:
Neck Scarf
Wrap a scarf loosely around your neck, covering the hickey. Choose a fabric that’s lightweight, breathable, and doesn’t irritate your skin. If the scarf is too tight, it may draw attention to the hickey.
Collars
High-neck collars can effectively conceal hickeys on the neck or chest. Button-up shirts, turtlenecks, or collared tops are suitable options. Ensure the collar fits comfortably and doesn’t cause any discomfort or chafing.
| Item | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|
| Neck Scarf | – Versatile – Less obvious than makeup |
– May not be available in all situations |
| Collars | – Effective at concealing – May be less comfortable |
– Not suitable for all occasions |
Distracting with Jewelry or a Necklace
Draw attention away from the hickey by accessorizing with a statement piece. A chunky necklace or a pair of bold earrings can act as a focal point, directing the eye away from the discoloration.
Specific Items to Consider:
| Jewelry Type | Recommended Style |
|---|---|
| Necklace | Choker, pendant necklace, statement necklace |
| Earrings | Hoop earrings, tassel earrings, chandelier earrings |
Choose a piece that complements your outfit and draws attention to your face or neckline. Avoid overly delicate or fine jewelry, as it may not be distracting enough.
Choose the Right Concealer
Opt for a cream or liquid concealer that matches your skin tone. A color corrector can also help neutralize any discoloration.
Prep Your Skin
Cleanse and moisturize your skin to create a smooth base for makeup.
Apply Primer
A primer helps smooth skin and create a barrier between your skin and makeup, improving its longevity.
Conceal the Hickey
Apply concealer directly onto the hickey, then blend outwards using a brush or sponge. Layer as needed to achieve full coverage.
Set Your Makeup
Use a translucent powder or setting spray to set your makeup and prevent it from smudging or fading.
Use a Color Corrector
If the hickey is particularly dark, apply a green or yellow color corrector underneath the concealer to neutralize the redness.
Use a Brush or Sponge
For precise application, use a concealer brush. For a more natural finish, blend with a damp beauty sponge.
Layer and Build Coverage
Don’t try to cover the hickey in one thick layer. Apply thin layers and build up coverage gradually.
Avoid Harsh Scrubbing
When removing makeup, avoid harsh scrubbing, as this can irritate the hickey and make it more noticeable.
Consulting with a Professional for Additional Guidance
If you encounter any challenges or have concerns about covering a hickey effectively, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a professional makeup artist or dermatologist. They can provide personalized recommendations and ensure that the makeup is applied safely and effectively.
How To Cover A Hickey With Makeup
A hickey is a bruise that is caused by sucking on the skin. It can be embarrassing to have a hickey, especially if it is in a visible location. Fortunately, there are a few ways to cover up a hickey with makeup.
The first step is to apply a color corrector to the hickey. A color corrector is a type of makeup that is used to neutralize the color of a blemish. For a hickey, you will need to use a green color corrector.
Once you have applied the color corrector, you can apply foundation over the hickey. Be sure to use a foundation that matches your skin tone. You may need to apply several layers of foundation to completely cover the hickey.
Once you have applied the foundation, you can set it with powder. Powder will help to keep the makeup in place and prevent it from smudging.
If you are still having trouble covering up the hickey, you can try using a concealer. Concealer is a type of makeup that is used to cover up blemishes. Be sure to use a concealer that is the same color as your skin tone.
People Also Ask About
How to cover up a hickey quickly?
To cover up a hickey quickly, you can try using a cold compress. A cold compress will help to reduce the swelling and bruising.
How to cover up a hickey on your neck?
To cover up a hickey on your neck, you can try using a scarf or turtleneck. You can also try using a necklace or choker to cover up the hickey.
How to cover up a hickey that is dark?
To cover up a hickey that is dark, you may need to use a color corrector. A color corrector is a type of makeup that is used to neutralize the color of a blemish.
