Concealer is a woman's secret weapon when she wants to hide dark under-eye circles, redness under the eyes (from crying or lack of sleep) or red marks on skin, like scarring from pimples. To get the most out of it, though, you need to choose the right formula of concealer for you, in the right shade.

Choosing a Color
Using the right color concealer for your skin is crucial to getting good coverage. If the color you apply to your blemishes or under-eye circles is too light or too dark, it will only emphasize the imperfections you are trying to hide. To get the right color for your skin, it's important to test the product before buying it. Dab a splotch of the concealer on the side of your neck, just under your ear. When you blend it in, it should become invisible. (This actually works much better than testing it on your face). If you have pimples or blemishes, you may want to try a concealer that has acne medication in it. There are several available to try, including ones by Clearasil and Bonne Bell.

Choosing the Right Formula for You
Before you buy, you'll also want to figure out which formula of concealer you want to get - there are several kinds. The difference between them is in how they are applied, and whether they offer light or heavy coverage.

• If your skin is fair to medium in tone, and also if it's dry, you'll want to choose a lighter, sheer concealer. A concealer stick, wand or a light concealer cream are your best bets.
  
  
• If your skin is olive or dark in color, a concealer that offers heavier, drier coverage will be better for you. Try a concealer stick, or if your skin is very dry, a cream formulation (you'll get a bit less coverage with cream but lots more moisturizing).
  
  
• If your under-eye circles or blemishes aren't that obvious, skip the concealer and use an oil-free foundation instead. Swipe a little foundation over blemishes or under-eye circles first, then apply the foundation all over your face and blend in for full but light coverage.

About the Author:
Cathy Jacob is the owner and editor of Myjellybean.com, an outstanding Web community that has a large and loyal following among tween and teen girls in North America and worldwide. Our mission is to be a girl's "best friend" on the Internet. Fresh daily features include beauty, horoscopes, quizzes, advice, embarrassing moments, games, chat boards, music, celebrities, fitness, e-cards and more. Myjellybean.com is all about encouraging girls to be themselves, explore their universe and have fun along the way.

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