Selecting The Concealer
When choosing a concealer to cover a hickey, there are several key factors to consider:
1. Coverage Level
Opt for a concealer with high coverage to effectively mask the discoloration. Look for products labeled as “full coverage” or “maximum coverage.”
2. Color Correction
To neutralize the bluish-purple hue of a hickey, you’ll need a color corrector. Choose a green-tinted corrector specifically designed to counteract red and purple tones. Apply it thinly to the hickey before applying concealer.
Here is a table summarizing the best color correctors for different skin tones:
| Skin Tone | Recommended Color Corrector |
|---|---|
| Fair | Light green |
| Medium | Medium green |
| Dark | Olive green |
Tip: To prevent creasing, set the color corrector with a translucent powder before applying concealer.
3. Finish
A matte finish concealer will help minimize shine and reduce the appearance of texture. Avoid concealers with a dewy or illuminating finish, as they can emphasize imperfections.
4. Formula
Look for a concealer with a long-lasting formula that won’t smudge or fade throughout the day. Waterproof and transfer-resistant formulas are ideal for covering hickeys that may come into contact with clothing or water.
5. Application
Use a small, dense brush or a pointed sponge to apply the concealer precisely. Don’t apply too much product in one go; build up the coverage gradually to avoid caking or creasing.
Applying The Concealer
Now that you have prepped the area and chosen the right shade of concealer, it’s time to apply it. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Use a small brush or sponge
A small, pointed brush or a blending sponge will allow you to apply the concealer precisely and blend it seamlessly. Avoid using your fingers, as they can transfer oil and bacteria to the area.
Step 2: Dab the concealer on the hickey
Use a dabbing motion to apply the concealer directly to the hickey. Don’t rub or smear it, as this can move the pigment and make the hickey more noticeable. Start with a thin layer and gradually build it up until you achieve the desired coverage.
Step 3: Blend the concealer and set it with powder
Once you’ve applied the concealer, it’s crucial to blend it well to avoid any harsh lines or edges. Use a blending sponge or a clean brush to suavemente stroke outwards from the center of the hickey, blending it into the surrounding skin. Finally, set the concealer with a translucent powder to prevent it from smudging or fading.
Products to Avoid |
Products to Use |
|---|---|
| Oil-based concealers | Water-based or cream-based concealers |
| Matte concealers | Luminous or dewy concealers |
| Concealers with heavy coverage | Concealers with light to medium coverage |
Setting the Concealer
Once you’ve applied your concealer, it’s important to set it so that it doesn’t smudge or crease throughout the day. Here are a few tips on how to set concealer:
- Use a powder that is one shade lighter than your skin tone. This will help to brighten the area around the hickey and make it less noticeable.
- Apply the powder with a light touch, using a fluffy brush. Be careful not to over-powder, as this can make your concealer look cakey.
- If you have oily skin, you may want to use a setting spray to help keep your concealer in place.
- To ensure your concealer stays all day, apply setting powder
with a pressing or stippling motion. This will lock in the
concealer and prevent creasing without adding extra coverage
or texture.Wrong Rubbing the powder with a back-and-forth motion Right Pressing or stippling the powder gently
Using Corrector
Using a corrector is a quick and easy way to temporarily conceal a hickey. To use a corrector, follow these steps:
- Apply a moisturizer to the hickey area to help smooth the skin and make the corrector easier to apply.
- Dab a small amount of corrector to the hickey using a clean brush or sponge.
- Blend the corrector around the edges of the hickey to avoid harsh lines.
- Set the corrector with a translucent powder to prevent it from smudging or creasing.
- If necessary, apply additional layers of corrector and powder to achieve the desired coverage.
Tips:
- Choose a corrector that matches your natural skin tone.
- Avoid using too much corrector, as it can create a cakey finish.
- Set the corrector with a translucent powder to help it last longer.
- If the hickey is particularly dark, you may need to use a color corrector to neutralize the color before applying a regular corrector.
Camouflaging With Makeup
Step 1: Cleanse and Moisturize
Before applying makeup to cover a hickey, it’s important to cleanse the area to remove any dirt or oils. Follow with a light moisturizer to create a smooth base for makeup.
Step 2: Apply a Color Corrector
Color correctors are designed to neutralize discoloration. For a hickey, choose a green corrector to balance out the red hue. Apply a small amount directly to the hickey and blend outward.
Step 3: Use Concealer
Select a concealer that matches your skin tone. Apply it over the color corrector, blending it seamlessly into the surrounding skin. Use a brush or sponge to avoid over-applying.
Step 4: Set the Concealer
To ensure the concealer stays in place, set it with a translucent powder. Apply a small amount with a brush, gently pressing it into the skin.
Step 5: Conceal Any Visible Edges
If any edges of the hickey are still visible, use a thin brush to apply a small amount of concealer along the perimeter. Blend it thoroughly to eliminate any harsh lines.
Step 6: Covering a Hickey with Different Makeup Products
| Makeup Product | Application Method |
|---|---|
| Foundation | Apply foundation with a brush or sponge, blending outward to cover the hickey and surrounding area. |
| BB or CC Cream | Dot a small amount onto the hickey and blend it gently with your fingers or a sponge. Focus on evening out the skin tone. |
| Tinted Moisturizer | Apply a tinted moisturizer with a sponge or brush, paying extra attention to the hickey area. Blend it seamlessly into the surrounding skin for a natural finish. |
Covering With A Bandage
Covering a hickey with a bandage is a simple and effective way to conceal it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:
- Clean the area around the hickey with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment to the hickey to protect it from irritation.
- Cut a small piece of bandage, just enough to cover the hickey completely.
- Center the bandage over the hickey and carefully press down the edges.
- Cover the entire bandage with a larger piece of tape or a wrap to secure it in place.
- Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can irritate the skin.
- Change the bandage regularly to prevent infection and keep the area clean. A good rule of thumb is to change the bandage every 12 hours or so.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bandage |
|
|
Using A Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the hickey can help to reduce inflammation and pain. You can use a cold water bottle, a bag of frozen peas, or a cold shower. Wrap the cold compress in a towel to avoid direct contact with the skin and apply it to the hickey for 10-15 minutes at a time. Repeat as needed.
Benefits of Using a Cold Compress
| Benefit | How it Helps |
|---|---|
| Reduces inflammation | Constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and redness |
| Alleviates pain | Numbing effect reduces discomfort |
| Promotes healing | Cold temperatures slow down cellular processes, allowing the body to repair the affected area |
Wearing A Scarf Or Collar
When choosing a scarf or collar to cover a hickey, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Material | Opt for soft and breathable fabrics like silk, satin, or cashmere that won’t irritate the skin. |
| Size | Choose a scarf or collar that is large enough to completely cover the hickey and the surrounding area. |
| Color | Select a color that blends well with your skin tone or clothing, making it less noticeable. |
| Pattern | Consider scarves or collars with patterns or textures that can help camouflage the hickey. |
Specific Ways to Wear a Scarf:
- Simple Loop: Drape the scarf around your neck, then loop one end through the other.
- Infinity Scarf: Pull the ends of the scarf together, creating a continuous loop that wraps around your neck.
- Front Drape: Fold the scarf in half, then place it around your neck with the folded edge at the front.
- Side Drape: Wrap the scarf around your neck, crossing one end over the other and letting it hang on one side.
Home Remedies To Help Heal Faster
Cold Compress
Apply a cold compress to the hickey for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. The cold will help reduce swelling and pain.
Heat Compress
After a few days, when the swelling has gone down, you can switch to a heat compress. Heat will help improve circulation and speed up healing.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help reduce swelling and pain. Apply aloe vera gel to the hickey several times a day.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Dilute tea tree oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the hickey several times a day.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which is a protein that helps to repair skin. Take a vitamin C supplement or eat plenty of fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and broccoli.
Arnica
Arnica is a herb that has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Apply arnica cream or gel to the hickey several times a day.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help to reduce swelling and pain. Apply witch hazel to the hickey several times a day.
Iodine
Iodine is a disinfectant that can help to kill bacteria and prevent infection. Apply iodine to the hickey several times a day.
Camouflage Makeup
If you need to cover up the hickey quickly, you can use camouflage makeup. Choose a shade that matches your skin tone and apply it to the hickey. Be sure to blend the makeup well.
Concealer
Concealer can also be used to cover up a hickey. Choose a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your skin tone. Apply the concealer to the hickey and blend it well.
