Make Up Tips: Covering Up A Black Eye With Makeup

What causes a black eye?

A black eye happens when trauma causes eyes to swell and become discolored. Blood and other material collect around the eye, causing swelling and bruising. Black eyes are relatively common; you don't have to be in a physical altercation to get one. Falls, sinus diseases, allergic reactions and even certain facial surgeries can cause black eyes. Black eyes usually last about a week. During that time they undergo color changes ranging from black, to bluish-red, to brownish-yellow.

Concealing eye trauma isn't as simple as applying heavy foundation or concealer to the affected area; in fact, too much make-up can make the injury look worse. Do not attempt concealment if there is an open cut around the eye.

Before attempting concealment, make sure that the swelling around the eye has gone down. When you're ready to start, prepare by packing the eye with ice for fifteen minutes. Cold compresses also work well. If you have the time, consider switching to a heated washcloth for a few minutes. Heat works to dilate the blood vessels.

If a black eye causes pain, avoid aspirin. Aspirin makes it hard for blood to clot, which will stop the eye from healing as quickly as it could. Try acetaminophen, instead.

Corrective concealers

Normal foundations and concealers made to match the wearer's skin will not, in most cases, hide a black eye. Thick make-up might serve to call attention to the bruising, or give the area around the eye an unnatural appearance. Liquid concealers tend to work better than creams; liquids are more malleable and don't clump. The idea for concealment is to blend. Corrective concealers, especially for bruises, usually come in hues like yellow or green.

It might seem strange to use yellow or green on your face, but specific colors have been shown to cover and neutralize opposing hues better. Since black eyes are bruises, most will be bluish-red in the beginning. As they heal, they tend to take on brownish-yellow tones. The following are the best color combinations for concealing black eyes:

Covering Up

While sponges work well for overall make-up application, they often take on the sponge's pattern and aren't great for blending and concealing purposes. With your fingers, dab a yellow-based concealer around the bruise. Blend outward, allowing some of the concealer to go beyond the afflicted area. When blending is finished, the area should have a flat, natural appearance. When the bruise is covered, let it set. Next dab concealer that matches your skin tone over the area and let it set. Once dry, you may now apply your make-up as you would normally.

For brownish-yellow bruises, a light green-based concealer works best. Use the same techniques as listed above.