Having an even and radiant complexion is a desire for many. However, dark spots can be a nuisance that prevents achieving flawless-looking skin. Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, occur when some areas of the skin produce more melanin than others. This results in small darker patches on the skin that can vary in size, shape and color.
Causes of Dark Spots on Black Skin
There are several potential causes of dark spots on black skin:
- Sun exposure – Exposure to UV rays from the sun can trigger excess melanin production leading to dark spots.
- Hormonal changes – Fluctuations in hormones during puberty, pregnancy or with birth control pills can cause melanin overproduction.
- Skin injuries – Trauma to the skin from cuts, burns, acne, etc. can leave behind dark marks as they heal.
- Aging – As we age, skin tends to produce more melanin which leads to age spots or liver spots.
- Genetics – Some people are just prone to developing dark spots for genetic reasons.
- Skin conditions – Certain skin conditions like melasma or acanthosis nigricans also cause dark patches.
Best Color Correctors for Dark Spots on Black Skin
Color correctors are specialty colored makeup products designed to neutralize dark spots and discoloration. Using color theory, they counteract the dark tones to make the skin appear more even. Here are some top options:
| Product | Key Features |
|---|---|
| LA Girl Pro Conceal HD Concealer |
|
| Black Opal Total Coverage Concealing Foundation |
|
| Black Radiance True Complexion Contour Palette |
|
How to Use Color Correctors on Dark Spots
Using color correctors takes some practice but can make a visible difference on dark spots when done properly. Here are some tips:
- Start with a clean, moisturized face so the product glides on smoothly.
- Identify the color of the dark spots. Pink or red toned spots are color corrected with green. Blue/purple toned spots are counteracted with peach/orange.
- Take a small amount of color corrector on a brush or sponge.
- Dab directly onto the dark spots and blend outwards.
- Layer product to build coverage only on the dark areas until neutralized.
- Avoid applying all over the face as it will look unnatural.
- Set with powder to lock in place.
- Apply foundation, concealer and powder products over it.
Color correctors work best when used sparingly just on the spots rather than all over. Start with a thin layer and slowly build up coverage. Using too much can make it obvious you have heavy makeup on. Take the time to softly blend the edges so it looks natural.
Tips for Making Color Correctors Last on Dark Skin
The key to making color correctors last is proper application and using suitable products on top. Here are some useful tips:
- Exfoliate first to remove dead skin cells so product adheres better to smooth skin.
- Use a primer before color correction to fill pores and create a smooth base.
- Apply cream or liquid correctors using a damp makeup sponge for seamless blending.
- Press powder lightly over corrector to set it rather than rubbing.
- Use an oil controlling foundation formula made for dark skin tones.
- Spray a makeup setting spray as the final step to lock in the coverage.
- Avoid touching or rubbing face during the day to prevent shifting product.
Prep work like exfoliation and priming makes a big difference in longevity. Set each layer well with powder to prevent creasing and wear. Blot skin rather than rub throughout the day to prevent disturbing the coverage. Reapply color corrector and powder during the day as needed on any spots that peek through.
How to Apply Makeup Over Color Correctors
Applying other makeup products smoothly over color correctors takes some finesse. Follow these steps for a flawless look:
- After applying color corrector to spots, set with translucent powder to prevent creasing and transferring.
- Use a makeup sponge to stipple and blend out the edges of the corrector so they blend with skin seamlessly.
- Apply liquid or cream foundation all over face and neck. Opt for medium coverage formulas to let corrector show through.
- Use concealer to cover any remaining discoloration or imperfections, blending well with sponge.
- Set again with translucent powder to lock in coverage.
- Apply bronzer, blush, highlight etc. as desired. Softer powders work best on top.
- Finish with makeup setting spray. Avoid extra powder at end for a natural matte result.
The goal is to layer products while still allowing the color correctors to peak through and neutralize the dark spots. Starting with thin layers makes the other products apply more evenly on top. Take the time to blend fully between each step too.
How to Apply Color Corrector for Beginners
If you’re new to using color correctors, keep these beginner tips in mind:
- Less is more – Use sheer layers and slowly build up to avoid a cakey mess.
- Have realistic expectations – Color correctors neutralize dark spots but won’t remove them completely.
- Correct then conceal – Apply corrector first, then use concealer on top if needed.
- Set it – Use powder to lock the corrector in place so it lasts.
- Blend edges – Softly buff out the perimeter so it blends seamlessly into skin.
- Know your undertones – Green reduces redness, orange/peach counters blue/purple tones.
- Use a small brush – For precision, opt for a pointed brush to pat on product.
It takes some experimenting to find what works for your particular skin and spots. Have patience and keep trying combinations of color correctors, concealers and setting powders. Soon you’ll find the right routine for flawless looking skin!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While color correctors can work wonders, the wrong technique can leave skin looking a mess. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Using too much product and layering on multiple correctors
- Applying evenly all over instead of just on dark spots
- Forgetting to set powder between layers
- Blending outward instead of patting directly on spot
- Not matching corrector color properly to skin undertone
- Letting it crease by not setting powder properly
- Covering up corrector completely with too much concealer
Take the time to apply corrector with precision and care. Blend out just the edges while leaving maximum coverage on the dark spots themselves. Set every layer well and don’t use too many products. Match your corrector properly to your unique skin undertones.
How to Make Color Correctors Last All Day
Here are some pro tips to keep color correctors looking freshly applied all day long:
- Prep skin well – exfoliate and moisturize so base is smooth
- Use primer before corrector for a tacky base
- Press and roll product in rather than rubbing
- Set each layer with powder to prevent transferring
- Spray makeup setting spray after powder
- Use oil absorbing foundation and pressed powder
- Carry powder and corrector for touch ups during day
- Blot skin rather than rubbing face during day
Avoid excess oil buildup interfering by using mattifying products. Powder is key for locking in each layer. Bring corrector and powder for quick touch ups. At end of day, gently blot skin rather than rubbed to prevent lifting product off spots.
Best Application Tools and Brushes
Having the right tools makes application much easier. Look for these brushes and sponges:
- Dense foundation brush – Buffs product into skin smoothly
- Fluffy powder brush – Lightly applies setting powder evenly
- Pointed concealer brush – Precision application on small areas
- Beauty blender sponge – Gives seamless blending for natural look
- Beauty precision sponges – Tiny tip for exact placement in corners of eyes and lips
The right brushes allow you to tap and stipple product directly onto spots rather than rubbing. Small tipped tools help with accuracy. Sponges make blending the perimeter of correctors easy for a polished look.
Finding Your Perfect Color Corrector Shade
Choosing the right color corrector shade for your skin is key. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Test shades along jawline in natural light to see undertones
- Opt for peachy/orange tones to neutralize blue/purple dark spots
- Pick green based correctors for reducing redness and pink spots
- Don’t go too light or dark – match skin tone for a natural effect
- Sheer formulas allow customizing color intensity
- Mix two shades to create your own perfect customized shade
Take your time testing out sample corrector shades to find the one that seamlessly blends into your skin. Mixing formulas and shades gives even more fine tuning options. The right shade match will camouflage spots without being noticeable.
How to Use Color Theory to Neutralize Different Skin Tones
Here is how to pick the best color corrector shades to neutralize various skin tone undertones:
| Skin Tone | Undertone | Corrector Color to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Fair | Pink | Green |
| Fair Neutral | Peach | Lavender |
| Light-Medium | Yellow | Purple |
| Medium-Tan | Golden | Red |
| Deep | Olive | Orange |
| Dark | Blue/purple | Peach/orange |
The basic color theory rule is to neutralize tones with their opposite on the color wheel. So blue/purple tones are counteracted with peach/orange. Green reduces redness. Yellow combats purple. Customize the intensity to perfectly match your particular skin.
Conclusion
Dark spots can make achieving flawless looking skin a challenge. However, color correctors provide a solution to camouflaging and neutralizing discoloration. For dark skin specifically, peach and orange hued correctors counteract the blue/purple undertones best. Just remember to apply them precisely only on the spots and blend edges for a natural effect. With the right application tools and techniques, color correctors can make skin appear remarkably smooth and even.