Colour correctors look strange in the tube, but they solve problems that concealer alone can't. The idea is simple: colours opposite each other on the colour wheel cancel each other out. Pick the shade that is opposite to the problem, apply a thin layer, then cover with your usual base.
Which colour corrector do you need?
Green: for redness
Green cancels red. Use it on blemishes, flushed cheeks, redness around the nose or broken capillaries. For small spots, a pen such as the Revlon PhotoReady Color Correcting Pen 010 For Redness lets you dab exactly where you need it. If redness covers larger areas, a green-tinted primer like Clarins SOS Primer Redness evens out the whole face before foundation.
Lavender: for dullness
Lavender counteracts yellow, sallow tones and makes tired skin look brighter. Try the Revlon PhotoReady Color Correcting Pen 020 For Dullness on the high points of the face or anywhere skin looks flat.
Yellow and peach: for dark circles
Yellow helps neutralise purple and blue tones, and suits light to medium skin. On deeper skin tones, peach or orange correctors usually work better for dark circles.
How to apply colour corrector
- Prep: moisturise first, especially under the eyes, so the corrector doesn't cling to dry patches.
- Use less than you think: a sheer layer is enough. Too much and the colour shows through.
- Pat, don't rub: tap it in with a fingertip or a small brush so it stays where you put it.
- Cover: apply foundation or concealer on top. For under the eyes, a full-coverage formula like Maybelline Super Stay Under-Eye Concealer or the creaseless Clarins Everlasting Long-Wear Concealer blends the corrector away.
- Set: finish with a light layer of powder, such as Elizabeth Arden PRO Loose Setting Powder, to help it last.
Common mistakes
- Using green under the eyes: it can make shadows look grey.
- Applying corrector over foundation instead of under it.
- Skipping concealer on top and leaving the colour visible.
Shop the full range in our Face edit, with plenty of picks under £10.