They say makeup is both an art and science—and nowhere is that more evident than with color correctors. Despite the dazzling array of cosmetic products on the market, color correcting remains one of the most misunderstood tools, especially for beginners. But once mastered, it can completely transform your makeup game.

Ever wondered how some people seem to have effortlessly even, radiant skin? Their secret often lies in color correction. Unlike traditional concealers, color correctors work based on the principles of the color wheel to neutralize unwanted tones—creating a smoother, more balanced base for your foundation.

The magic of color correcting starts with the color wheel. Remember in art class how opposite colors cancel each other out? That same principle applies to your skin. Redness, dullness, and dark spots all have specific tones—and with the right corrector, you can neutralize them for a flawless finish.

Use for: This is your go-to product for calming sunburn, neutralizing rosacea-related redness, concealing angry red blemishes, minimizing broken capillaries, and reducing red spots in general.

Use for: Enjoyed the sun a bit too much? Or is your foundation looking a little too warm? If you’re dealing with orange-tinted hyperpigmentation, an overly tanned appearance, or a foundation that pulls too orange on your skin, a blue corrector can balance things out.

Use for: Bid farewell to dull, yellow, or sallow skin! Lavender or purple correctors are ideal for adding radiance, giving your complexion a refreshed and youthful appearance.

Use for: For those annoying dark under-eye circles that have a bluish or purplish tint, this corrector is a lifesaver. Additionally, especially if you have lighter skin tones, it works wonders at hiding visible veins and bruises.

Use for: Orange correctors are essential for medium to deep skin tones, effectively neutralizing stubborn blue or grayish undereye circles. They’re also a secret weapon for minimizing beard shadow and evening out discoloration in areas with darker pigmentation.

Use for: Red or brick correctors provide powerful neutralization of deep blue, green, or gray undertones. They’re especially effective for people with deeper skin tones who have noticeable dark spots or very dark undereye circles.

Use for: For fair to medium skin tones, peach or salmon correctors, which fall comfortably between yellow and orange, are used for addressing mild dark circles and minor pigmentation issues.

Use for: A pink corrector is ideal for lighter skin tones because it brightens the undereye area and revitalizes dull or greenish skin.

Manila Bulletin Lifestyle spoke with professional makeup artists Byron Velasquez and Muriel Vega Perez to guide us on how to properly use color correctors.

Byron shares, “For Filipino skin tones, we usually use green, yellow, peach, and orange. When applying, less is more. Start with a small amount of product and build up if necessary. You don't want to create a new color—you just want to neutralize the undesirable tone. Pro tip: Blend the edges well and set the corrector with a little powder before applying concealer or liquid foundation.”

Apart from choosing the right color, Muriel also shared some tips on selecting the right product. “We also need to consider your skin type for the product formulations,” he said. “For oily skin, opt for a matte and oil-free formulation. For dry skin, choose hydrating and creamy correctors like Beauty Hive Correctors. And for sensitive skin, make sure the product is fragrance-free. Lastly, always try before buying. Make sure it blends well with your skin, can be layered to achieve your desired look, and, of course, adapts well to your skin."