How to Use Makeup for Tattoo Cover Up

These days, tattoos are so commonplace it’s becoming increasingly rare to meet someone who doesn’t have one (or several). At this point, tattoos are even part of seasonal beauty trends just like the latest social media-viral manicure or celeb-approved haircut. They’re no doubt a great way to dip into your creative expression, but if you ever find yourself wanting to conceal your ink, there is a good chance you turn to makeup as your go-to method of tattoo cover up. 

With a little concealer and the right technique, your tattoo can be out of sight, out of mind in a matter of minutes. To help you conceal your ink like a pro, follow with this step-by-step tutorial for the best tattoo cover-up routine using color corrector, concealer and setting spray.

The Best Makeup Products to Cover Tattoos

Of course, it should go without saying that your body art is beautiful and a great expression of your personality — so show it off whenever you want. But on those occasions when you need to keep it to yourself, grab these products, perfect for masking a tattoo for a short period of time.

1. Color-Correcting Crayon or Primer

Since tattoos tend to have black and blue tones, a peach or orange color corrector can really help to cancel those out, especially if you have a large or darkly shaded tattoo. This step is highly recommended because it also helps to cut down on the amount of foundation and concealer that you’ll need to achieve full coverage. We suggest the L’Oréal Paris True Match Color Correcting Crayon in Orange, or the L’Oréal Paris Prime Lab Up to 24H Dullness Reducer. 

2. Full-Coverage Foundation

While there is tattoo makeup specifically made for concealing tattoos, there’s no need to spend extra money if you already own a full-coverage foundation. Using this type of foundation is essential as it’ll serve as the base of your tattoo makeup and ensure that you don’t need to cake on a ton of concealer for coverage. 

If you’re looking for recommendations, the L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour Fresh Wear Foundation can be built up to full coverage, offering a light, breathable finish that comes in 40 diverse shades. 

3. Full-Coverage Concealer

You’re going to want to use a full-coverage concealer that can mask your tattoo in a single swipe. The L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer up to 24H Full Coverage comes in 25 shades with a matte, full-coverage finish and waterproof formula that makes it ideal for concealing tattoos anywhere on the body. 

How to Cover Your Tattoo With Makeup in 5 Simple Steps

Once you have gathered all the right products, follow these easy steps to temporarily conceal a tattoo with makeup.

Step 1. Prime Your Tattoo

Before moving on to the concealing portion of hiding your tattoo, it’s important to prep the area for makeup application with a makeup primer. Primer creates a smooth base so the rest of your makeup can apply seamlessly and it extends the wear time. Apply an even layer of the L’Oréal Paris Prime Lab Up to 24H Matte Setter to your tattoo and the surrounding area. If you’re using a color-correcting primer like the aforementioned L’Oréal Paris Prime Lab Up to 24H Dullness Reducer, use that in place of a mattifying primer. 

Step 2. Use a Color Corrector

Next, take your orange color-correcting concealer and apply a generous layer to conceal your tattoo. Blend it out with a damp makeup sponge. 

Step 3. Apply Foundation and Blend With a Makeup Sponge

Use your finger to dab the foundation onto the color-corrected area of skin, then, use a makeup sponge to create an even, seamless blend. Remember to blend outwards so the concealed area matches the rest of your skin. 

Step 4. Follow Up With Concealer

Next, build up the coverage with concealer and blend with your makeup sponge. Be sure to use a shade that most closely matches your skin tone for a seamless look. 

Step 5. Set With Powder and Setting Spray

We’re betting that you want your tattoos to stay covered until you’re ready to wash your makeup off, which means it’s a good idea to set everything with a face powder and setting spray. Use a face powder like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24H Fresh Wear Foundation in a Powder for extra coverage and a smudge-resistant, long-wearing finish. Then, give it a few spritzes of the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray to lock everything in place. 

How to Hide a Tattoo Without Makeup

Using foundation and concealer isn’t the only way to disguise a tattoo. If you don’t have the time to work through an entire makeup routine, then you can settle for a quick fix à la accessories. 

Accessorize Strategically

If your tattoo is on your neck, simply wear your hair down to cover it, or you can also wear a scarf or chunky necklace to conceal a neck tattoo. If your tattoo is on your wrist, pop on a large bangle or watch with a thick band to disguise it. Keep in mind that the watch band is less likely than the bracelet to shift up and down throughout the day and expose your tattooed skin.

If your tattoo is on your finger, try wearing a stylish and elaborate ring that’ll conceal it. If you can get away with gloves to cover larger finger tattoos, work them into your wardrobe for the day. If your tattoo is on your ankle or foot, put on tights and shoes that mask it. Even if it’s sandal weather you can wear some stylish metallic socks for an edgy, yet on-trend look.

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Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn