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The Color-Correcting Technique You Need More Than Contouring

These rainbow-hued color correctors are the makeup version of Photoshop
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If 2015 was the year of contouring, we're calling 2016 the year of color correcting. From the slew of YouTube tutorials to the uptick in searches for "how to color correct," it's obvious this is the trend to try. In recent months, every major brand has released a color-correcting product -- giving you no shortage of options to dabble with. But what exactly is color correcting, and -- most importantly -- why should you do it?

When it comes to color correcting your face, opposites attract -- literally. Color correcting works by cancelling out imperfections (think pimples, blotchiness, hyperpigmentation and dark circles) using the basics of second grade art class -- the colors on the color wheel. By knowing which colors are opposite each other on the color wheel, you can make virtually any imperfection disappear way more naturally than if you used foundation and concealer alone.

So get ready to swipe, prime and pat your way to a radiant, flawless complexion with our guide to color correcting.

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Color-Correcting Shade: Blue/Lavender
If you notice that your pallor is making you look like an extra on "The Walking Dead" (aka your skin is dull or sallow), swipe on a lavender shade underneath your makeup. Because purple is opposite yellow on the color spectrum, it will cancel out yellow tones to make skin appear bright and luminous. Those with warm undertones should reach for blue, for the same effect.

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Try: Marc Jacobs Cover(t) Stick Color Corrector, $42, in Bright Now
This stick makes it oh-so easy to brighten up your complexion. The marbleized blend of pink and lilac isn't just for show; the colors actually work together to even your skin tone and make it look smooth and vibrant. We like to apply it all-over in sheer layers with our fingers, after primer but before foundation.

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Apply a few drops of this liquid directly onto your skin or mix it into your foundation for more radiant skin. It's infused with good-for-skin ingredients like microalgae and alguronic acid, so skin is perfected immediately and over time.

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Try: Urban Decay Naked Skin Color Correcting Fluid, $28, in Lavender
This ultra lightweight yet incredibly pigmented liquid color corrector erases all traces of yellow, sallow skin for an instant brightening effect. It also blends easily, and contains vitamins C and E for extra skin benefits.

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BY ALLIE FLINN | SEP 8, 2016 | SHARES
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