In the world of beauty, trends come and go, but every now and then, a tip emerges that promises to revolutionize your makeup routine. One such trick involves the unlikely pairing of red lipstick and concealer. While it might seem unconventional at first glance, this technique has garnered attention for its ability to transform tired, dark under-eye areas into bright, refreshed canvases.
The concept is simple: apply red lipstick under your concealer to neutralize dark circles. This hack has taken social media by storm, especially on platforms like TikTok, where beauty enthusiasts and makeup artists alike swear by its transformative effects. But what makes this method so effective, and how can you incorporate it into your own routine? Let’s dive into the details.
1. How a Strange Lipstick Trick Took Over Beauty TikTok
Beauty TikTok is known for its innovative and sometimes bizarre makeup tips, but few have captured the collective imagination like the red lipstick under concealer trick. The method gained traction when beauty influencers began posting their before-and-after videos, showcasing the dramatic difference this hack could make.
With videos often garnering millions of views, the trend quickly spread, with users eager to test the results for themselves. The appeal lies not only in the dramatic results but also in the simplicity of the technique. With just a tube of red lipstick and some concealer, anyone can achieve a look that appears bright-eyed and well-rested.
2. The Color Theory Behind Red Lipstick Under Concealer
At the heart of this beauty hack is a fundamental principle of color theory: complementary colors. Red sits opposite green and blue on the color wheel, which means it can effectively neutralize the bluish-greenish tones of under-eye circles. When applied correctly, the red lipstick cancels out these dark hues, creating a neutral base for your concealer to work from.
By neutralizing the underlying darkness, the concealer can perform as intended, highlighting and evening out skin tone without any shadows peeking through. This method is a perfect example of how understanding color theory can elevate your makeup application to new heights.
3. Why Dark Circles Look So Stubborn in Photos and Real Life
Dark circles can be a persistent problem, often appearing even after a good night’s sleep. This is because they’re not just about fatigue; they can be caused by genetics, thin skin, or even allergies. In photos, these circles can appear more pronounced due to lighting and shadows, which emphasize any discoloration under the eyes.
Additionally, typical concealers can sometimes fail to fully cover these circles because they don’t address the color imbalance. Instead of simply layering more product, which can look cakey, the red lipstick method aims to correct the problem at its source by neutralizing the color beneath the concealer.
4. Choosing the Right Shade of Red for Your Skin Tone
While the concept is straightforward, choosing the right shade of red lipstick is crucial for the success of this hack. Those with fair skin may benefit from a lighter, more pink-toned red, while deeper skin tones might find a richer, more orange-based red to be more effective.
It’s important to experiment with different shades to find the one that best neutralizes your specific under-eye discoloration. Remember, the goal is to cancel out the blue and green tones, so the right shade will depend on the exact color of your dark circles.
5. Step-by-Step: How to Apply Red Lipstick as an Under-Eye Corrector
To begin, apply a small amount of red lipstick directly to the areas with dark circles. Use a brush or your fingertip to gently blend the lipstick into the skin, ensuring an even application. Remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a thin layer and build up if necessary.
Next, apply your usual concealer over the lipstick, blending it out with a damp makeup sponge or brush. The goal is to cover the red completely while achieving a smooth, natural finish. Set the area with a translucent powder to lock everything in place and prevent creasing throughout the day.
6. Blending Techniques That Prevent Creasing and Cakiness
One of the most common concerns with applying multiple layers of product under the eyes is the potential for creasing and cakiness. To avoid this, ensure each layer is thin and well-blended before moving on to the next.
Use a damp makeup sponge to blend the concealer over the red lipstick, as this will help press the product into the skin for a flawless finish. Be sure to set the area with a finely milled translucent powder, focusing on the areas most prone to creasing, such as the inner corners and directly under the lower lash line.
7. Comparing Red Lipstick to Traditional Color Correctors
Traditional color correctors are specifically formulated to address various discolorations, including under-eye darkness, but they often come in palettes with multiple shades. While effective, these products can be costly and intimidating for makeup novices.
Red lipstick offers a more accessible and budget-friendly alternative, utilizing a product many already own. While not originally intended for this purpose, the creamy texture and pigmentation of lipstick make it a viable option for color correction, providing results comparable to traditional correctors.
8. The Viral Before-and-After: What You Can Realistically Expect
The before-and-after shots that have gone viral on social media are undoubtedly impressive, but it’s important to manage expectations. While the red lipstick hack can greatly reduce the appearance of dark circles, the final result will depend on factors like the severity of discoloration and the products used.
For those with very dark circles, the hack can significantly brighten the under-eye area, but it may not completely erase the darkness. However, for moderate discoloration, the transformation can be quite dramatic, often making you appear more awake and refreshed.
9. Common Mistakes That Ruin the Hack (And How to Fix Them)
One common mistake is applying too much red lipstick, which can make it difficult to fully conceal with your usual products. To fix this, start with a thin layer and gradually build up if needed. Another issue is not blending the lipstick well enough, leading to uneven coverage.
If you find the area looking too red or pink even after concealer, try using a slightly thicker or more pigmented concealer to counteract the color. Additionally, if the area starts to crease, ensure you’re setting it properly with powder and consider using an eye primer to prep the skin.
10. Skin Types, Undertones, and When This Trick Works Best
This technique works best for those with blue or green undertones in their dark circles, as the red lipstick effectively neutralizes these shades. However, it’s less effective for those with brown or red undertones, where a peach or orange corrector might be more suitable.
Skin type also plays a role. Those with dry skin should ensure their under-eye area is well-moisturized to prevent the product from settling into fine lines. Oily skin types might benefit from a mattifying primer to help the products stay in place throughout the day.
11. Budget-Friendly Beauty: Turning One Lipstick Into a Multi-Use Product
One of the biggest advantages of this hack is its cost-effectiveness. By using a product you likely already own, you can save money on additional makeup purchases. Red lipstick is incredibly versatile, not only serving as a color corrector but also as a blush or eyeshadow in a pinch.
This multi-use approach is perfect for those looking to streamline their beauty routine or those who travel frequently and want to minimize the number of products they carry. With a bit of creativity, a single tube of red lipstick can become a staple in your makeup bag.
12. Pro Makeup Artists Weigh In on the Red-Under-Concealer Trend
Many professional makeup artists have weighed in on the red-under-concealer trend, with opinions ranging from enthusiastic endorsement to cautious skepticism. Some praise the technique for its simplicity and effectiveness, particularly for clients with noticeable under-eye darkness.
Others caution that while it’s a great trick for photoshoots and events, it may not be suitable for everyday wear, especially for those with sensitive skin or who prefer lighter makeup looks. Overall, the consensus is that while the hack can be highly effective, it’s important to tailor the approach to individual skin types and needs.
13. When to Skip the Hack and Reach for Something Else Instead
While the red lipstick hack can be a game-changer for many, it’s not the best solution for everyone. Those with sensitive skin or allergies to certain lipstick ingredients should skip this method to avoid irritation.
Additionally, if your dark circles are primarily brown or red, you might find that a peach or orange color corrector works better for you. As with any beauty trend, it’s crucial to consider your unique skin concerns and preferences before incorporating a new technique into your routine.
