e.l.f. Cosmetics offers some of the best affordable concealers on the market—like the 16HR Camo Concealer and Hydrating Camo Concealer—making them daily staples for many makeup users. While these concealers are packed with skin-friendly ingredients, wearing any makeup daily means your skin needs extra attention to stay healthy, smooth, and blemish-free.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to care for your skin when using e.l.f. concealer every day, so you can enjoy flawless coverage without compromising your skin’s health.
1. Start with a Clean Slate Every Morning
Applying concealer on skin that’s not properly cleansed can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and uneven texture. Even if your skin doesn’t look dirty, it still collects oils and pollutants overnight.
What to Do:
- Use a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type (hydrating for dry, foaming for oily).
- Rinse with lukewarm water to avoid drying out or irritating your skin.
- Pat your face dry—don’t rub.
2. Hydrate and Prime Your Skin
Even though e.l.f. concealers are designed to perform well on their own, hydrated skin improves how concealer sits and wears throughout the day.
What to Do:
- Apply a lightweight moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
- If you’re using a matte formula like the 16HR Camo Concealer, consider a hydrating primer to prevent dryness or creasing.
- Allow each layer (moisturizer and primer) to absorb before applying concealer.
3. Use Concealer Sparingly
Daily concealer use can lead to product buildup, especially under the eyes or around blemishes. Less is often more.
What to Do:
- Dot concealer only where needed—such as under the eyes, on blemishes, or around redness.
- Blend using a clean makeup sponge or brush to avoid spreading bacteria.
- Set lightly with powder if you have oily skin, but skip it for dry or mature skin to avoid caking.
4. Remove Your Makeup Thoroughly Every Night
This is the golden rule. Never sleep in your makeup—even if it’s a lightweight concealer.
What to Do:
- Start with a micellar water or cleansing balm to break down the concealer.
- Follow up with a gentle facial cleanser to remove any residue.
- Double cleanse if you’ve layered other products like foundation or sunscreen during the day.
5. Exfoliate 2–3 Times a Week
Concealer can cling to dead skin cells, making texture more visible. Regular exfoliation helps maintain a smooth canvas.
What to Do:
- Use a chemical exfoliant (like AHAs or BHAs) for a gentler, deeper clean.
- Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate the skin, especially if you wear makeup frequently.
6. Support Your Skin Barrier
Daily makeup use can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier if you’re not using the right aftercare.
What to Do:
- Incorporate barrier-repair ingredients like niacinamide, squalane, or ceramides into your nighttime skincare.
- Try a hydrating overnight mask 1–2 times per week to restore moisture and calm the skin.
7. Take Breaks When Needed
Even the best makeup needs a rest day. If you’re not going out or working from home, give your skin a chance to breathe.
What to Do:
- Go makeup-free once or twice a week.
- Focus on skincare that day—apply hydrating serums, masks, or SPF if you’re outdoors.
8. Clean Your Tools Regularly
Dirty brushes and sponges can harbor bacteria, leading to breakouts even if your concealer is clean and non-comedogenic.
What to Do:
- Wash makeup tools at least once a week with a gentle brush cleanser or mild shampoo.
- Let them dry completely before using them again to avoid mold or mildew buildup.
9. Choose the Right Concealer for Your Skin Type
Using the wrong formula can cause dryness, oiliness, or irritation over time.
What to Do:
- If you have dry or mature skin, use e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer for a satin finish and added moisture.
- If your skin is oily or acne-prone, try the 16HR Camo Concealer with a matte finish and long wear.
Final Thoughts
Using e.l.f. concealer daily doesn’t have to harm your skin—as long as you practice good skincare habits. By cleansing thoroughly, moisturizing well, exfoliating regularly, and choosing the right concealer formula, you can enjoy flawless coverage and keep your complexion healthy.
Remember: Great makeup starts with great skin. Let your concealer enhance—not hide—your natural glow.