New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

How many shades lighter should concealer be compared to foundation?

1. One or two shades lighter

2. Three or four shades lighter

3. Equal to foundation shade

4. One shade darker

The correct answer is: One or two shades lighter

Choosing a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your foundation is based on the purpose of concealing and highlighting specific areas of the face. The goal is to brighten the under-eye area or any blemishes, thus enhancing your overall complexion without creating an unnatural contrast. A shade that is too light can lead to an overly stark appearance, which may draw attention to the area instead of blending it seamlessly into the rest of your makeup. This practice supports an attractive and natural look, allowing the concealer to effectively mask imperfections while simultaneously brightening dull areas of the skin. Therefore, selecting a concealer one or two shades lighter maintains a balanced and harmonious appearance. In contrast, shades significantly lighter than your skin tone might produce a dramatic effect that can be unflattering or exaggerated, while matching the foundation shade may not address the intended brightening effect that concealer provides. A shade darker would defeat the purpose of concealing, as it could accentuate rather than minimize the appearance of imperfections.