Dealing with pimples can be frustrating, especially when you want flawless skin for a special event or just daily confidence. The good news? With the right techniques and products, you can hide pimples so well that no one will even notice them.
This ultimate guide will teach you step-by-step how to cover pimples naturally, without making them look cakey or obvious. Whether you have a single zit or multiple breakouts, these pro makeup tips will help you achieve smooth, flawless skin.
Let’s dive in!
Why Covering Pimples with Makeup Can Be Tricky
Pimples are raised, discolored, and sometimes textured, making them harder to conceal than other imperfections. Common mistakes people make when covering pimples include:
- Using too much product → Makes the pimple look more obvious.
- Skipping color correction → Redness or darkness still shows through.
- Rubbing instead of dabbing → Disturbs the pimple and removes coverage.
- Using the wrong formula → Oily concealers can clog pores and worsen breakouts.
The key is to neutralize discoloration, smooth texture, and blend seamlessly—just like professional makeup artists do.
What You Need Before You Start
Before covering pimples, you need the right products. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and why:
1. Cleanser
- Why? Makeup applies best on clean skin.
- What to use? A gentle, non-drying cleanser (CeraVe, La Roche-Posay).
2. Moisturizer
- Why? Hydrated skin prevents makeup from looking flaky.
- What to use? Oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer (Neutrogena Hydro Boost).
3. Primer
- Why? Smooths skin texture and helps makeup last longer.
- What to use? A pore-filling primer (e.g., Benefit POREfessional).
4. Color Corrector
- Why? Cancels out redness or dark spots.
- What to use?
- Green corrector → Neutralizes red pimples (NYX Color Correcting Palette).
- Peach/Orange corrector → Hides dark acne scars (LA Girl Pro Concealer in Orange).
5. Concealer
- Why? Provides full coverage.
- What to use? A high-coverage, matte concealer (Tarte Shape Tape, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer).
6. Foundation (Optional)
- Why? Evens out skin tone for a seamless finish.
- What to use? A medium-to-full coverage foundation (Estée Lauder Double Wear, Maybelline Fit Me).
7. Setting Powder
- Why? Locks makeup in place and prevents shine.
- What to use? A translucent powder (Laura Mercier, Maybelline Fit Me Loose Powder).
8. Tools
- Makeup sponge (Beautyblender) → Best for blending without irritation.
- Small concealer brush → Precise application on pimples.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cover Pimples Like a Pro
Step 1: Start with a Clean Face
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove oil and bacteria.
- Avoid scrubbing—this can irritate pimples.
- Pat dry with a clean towel (dirty towels can transfer bacteria).
Step 2: Moisturize Properly
- Apply an oil-free moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.
- Wait 2-3 minutes before moving to the next step (let it absorb).
Step 3: Apply Primer
- Use a pea-sized amount of primer.
- Focus on areas with pimples to smooth texture.
Step 4: Color Correct the Pimple
- For red pimples: Dab a tiny amount of green corrector directly on the pimple.
- For dark spots: Use peach/orange corrector.
- Blend edges gently—don’t rub.
Step 5: Apply Concealer
- Choose a full-coverage concealer that matches your skin tone.
- For raised pimples:
- Apply concealer directly on top.
- Let it sit for 10 seconds before blending (helps coverage).
- For flat marks: Blend slightly around the edges.
- Press, don’t rub—use a dabbing motion with a sponge or brush.
Step 6: Set with Powder
- Lightly dust translucent powder over concealed areas.
- This locks makeup and prevents shine.
Step 7: Apply Foundation (Optional)
- If you need extra coverage, apply foundation after concealer.
- Use a damp sponge for a natural finish.
Step 8: Avoid Heavy Layers
- Too much product makes pimples more noticeable.
- Build coverage lightly instead of piling on thick layers.
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Coverage
✅ Use oil-free, non-comedogenic makeup → Prevents clogged pores.
✅ Clean makeup brushes regularly → Dirty brushes spread bacteria.
✅ Don’t pick at pimples → Makes them harder to cover.
✅ Blot excess oil throughout the day → Keeps makeup fresh.
✅ Spot-treat pimples at night → Helps them heal faster.
How to Remove Makeup Without Irritating Pimples
At night, never sleep with makeup on—it worsens breakouts.
- Use micellar water (Bioderma, Garnier) to dissolve makeup gently.
- Follow with a gentle cleanser (CeraVe, Cetaphil).
- Apply acne treatment (salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide).
- Moisturize to keep skin balanced.
Do you want to know How to clean makeup brush?
FAQs About Covering Pimples with Makeup
1. What’s the best concealer for pimples?
- Full-coverage, matte concealers (Tarte Shape Tape, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer).
- Avoid shiny or creamy concealers—they highlight texture.
2. Can makeup make pimples worse?
- Yes, if you use heavy, oily products.
- Always choose non-comedogenic makeup and remove it properly.
3. How do I cover a pimple without concealer?
- Use a green color corrector + foundation.
- Or try spot-focusing with a full-coverage foundation.
4. Why does my pimple still show through makeup?
- You might be skipping color correction or using too little product.
- Try layering lightly instead of one thick coat.
5. Should I put foundation or concealer first on a pimple?
- Correct → Conceal → Foundation → Powder.
6. How do I stop makeup from looking cakey on pimples?
- Use thin layers, blend well, and set with a light powder.
7. Can I wear makeup on an open pimple?
- It’s best to avoid makeup on broken skin.
- If needed, clean the area → apply antibiotic ointment → lightly cover.
Final Thoughts
Covering pimples with makeup is easy when you know the right steps. The key is:
✔ Prep skin properly
✔ Color-correct first
✔ Use full-coverage concealer
✔ Set with powder
✔ Avoid heavy layers
With these pro techniques, your skin will look flawless—no one will ever know you had a pimple!
Got more questions? Drop them in the comments!