New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

When creating concealer, how many shades lighter than foundation should it be?

1. One shade lighter

2. Two shades lighter

3. One shade darker

4. Two shades darker

The correct answer is: Two shades lighter

The reason a concealer should be two shades lighter than foundation revolves around its purpose in makeup application. Concealers are specifically designed to effectively brighten the areas of the face that may appear darker, such as under the eyes, or to cover imperfections. By choosing a shade that is two shades lighter, the concealer helps to create a natural-looking highlight, enhancing the contrast between the highlighted areas and the rest of the face. This approach serves to reflect light and draw attention to the areas where the concealer is applied, achieving a more youthful and refreshed appearance. When the concealer is too close in tone to the foundation or darker, it fails to provide that brightening effect and can instead create an unnatural look that may accentuate imperfections rather than hide them. Hence, using a concealer that is two shades lighter not only aligns with standard makeup application techniques but also contributes to a more polished and aesthetically pleasing finish.