We can all agree, pimples aren’t the best in timing. Here’s a quick and easy masterclass on pimple-covering for those days where we won’t let zits steal the spotlight. 

Related: What’s The Deal With Maskne? This Skincare Habit Prevents Mask Acne Before It Shows Up

Breakouts always love going to parties where they aren’t invited. Sometimes it’s a big event, a really important meeting or during this love month, a romantic date. Eventhough, blemishes are nothing to be ashamed of, we still don’t want them to be the main focus.

Normally, it is suggested to leave fresh pimples alone to avoid aggravating them further, but when in those desperate situations having the basics down on pimple-covering makeup is a great help. 

We gathered to top tips to look glowing inside and out even when you’re not having the best skin day:

Lesson # 1

HYDRATING SKINCARE

Doing the right type of skincare routine can make a lot of difference in how well makeup will sit on top. Create a routine that has antiseptic qualities but not overly stripping. Start with gentle cleansers such as salicylic acid and AHAs. These are exfoliating ingredients that unclog pores and removes the dry flakes surrounding the zit. 

Second, focus on hydrating your skin as much as you can. Use lightweight moisturizers for all-over the face but for those bumpy areas, gently massage a highly nourishing moisturizer or serum to let the makeup glide over it and lastly, always finish off with sunscreen.

Skincare suggestions:

CosRx Daytime Low Ph

A cleanser designed for daily use, it has a low pH formula that deeply cleans the skin without messing its moisture barrier.

 Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner

A K-beauty holy grail product for a reason, Acwell’s licorice toner is a life-savior when it comes to sudden breakouts. Formulated with 10% licorice water which is a herbal brightening ingredient and peony extract as its added antioxidant, it helps calm down pimples and redness that can be hard to cover. Leaving you with a calm, smooth and glowing base to start with.

Oxecure Facial Acne Lotion

A clear and lightweight daytime moisturizer that is formulated with 2% Salicylic Acid to dry out reduce inflamed acne. While its moisturizing natural extracts of Mangosteen, Aloe Vera, and Witch Hazel keep your skin looking plump and nourished.

SNAILWHITE’s new Brightening Day Cream SPF30/PA+++

Acne-targeted products can make your skin sensitive to the sun, that’s why sunscreen is an absolute must. SnailWhite’s day cream has SPF30/PA+++ and is formulated with Chia Seed Extract, Butterfly Bush Extract, and Snail Mucin that will protect, hydrate, and strengthen the skin. 

Lesson # 2

KEEP IT SANITARY

When doing a pimple-covering routine, don’t go sraight from the applicator to your skin. Doing so can transfer bacteria from your acne back into the tube and contaminating it. Instead, use the back of your hand as a palette. Use a pointed brush when you want exact coverage on the spot or use the warmth of your finger to gently pat and blend concealers on top.

Lesson # 3

FIND THE RIGHT FORMULA AND SHADE

Your base makeup plays a huge role in concealing your pimples seamlessly rather than highlighting them even further. If a blemish has dryness around it, spot conceal with moisturizing concealers and only use as much as necessary. This will avoid making products cling to the dry patches and look cakey. 

Shade match with your natural color on the cheeks so it can disappear easily into the whole look. Precisely set those spots with a powder that has coverage but no sheen. For the rest of the makeup, creams are less likely to accentuate your blemishes.

Spot Concealer suggestions:

Glossier Stretch Concealer

A tried and tested product when it comes to covering up dry pimples, this concealer is smooth and moisturizing. It has buildable coverage that will help you achieve a dewy, glowing finish.

Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage

A full-coverage concealer with a long-wearing formula that completely covers blemishes and discoloration. It has a unique two-shade compact that allows you to customize exactly the right shade and undertone to match your skin tone. 

Charlotte Tilbury Air Brush Flawless Finish

A micro-fine finishing powder, this powder disguises sets in products without suffocating the skin. With a breathable and velvety-texture formula it seamlessly blends your spots into a filter-like finish.

Lesson # 5

ALL SET AND LOCKED

Pimple-covering is all precision work so after spending all the extra love and care in your pimple-covering routine, you would want it to stay in place. Let the makeup melt into the skin with a hydrating mist that focuses on brightening to help your skin look like healthy.

Setting Spray suggestions:

Ellana Mineral Cosmetic Flower Power Setting Spray

 This mist will help prolong the makeup wear while revitalizing your complexion. Enriched with Izayoi and vitamin C rose fruit that locks in hydration and glow.