There are a lot of confusion around this area and people seems to be confused as to why they need a concealer that is lighter than their foundation.
The idea is simple, although this is not a hard and fast rule, there are certain advantages that can be gained when your concealer is lighter than your foundation.
Let’s have a look:
1) Easier to cover - Everyone who reads my blog knows that I always recommend applying concealer first before foundation. Having your concealer one shade lighter than your foundation allows it to be covered up easily. E.g. it is easier to cover a lighter color with a darker color then to cover a darker color with a lighter one.
For those of you who apply blend your concealers on top of your foundation, the idea would be reversed and in which case, your foundation should be lighter than your foundation.
By the way, I have written an entire guide on the proper application procedures for primers, concealers and foundations. Check it out here.
2) Can be used as a Highlighter - If you choose to apply concealers after foundations, the concealer can act as a minor highlighter. However, unless you are experienced and know what you are doing with your makeup, using a concealer this way can be tricky, so experiment a little!
I recommend that you choose a concealer that is 1 shade lighter than your foundation. I've found that this works best for both blending and highlighting and really gives you that natural look.