How to Cover Up a Scab on the Face

How to Cover Up a Scab on the Face
Written By
Lisa Maire
Lisa Maire
Published: Aug 8, 2015
Updated: Dec 13, 2021
2 minute read

Having a scab on your face, whether the scab is from an old pimple or a wound, makes anyone feel self-conscious in a social situation and distracts from your appearance. While most body scabs can be covered with an adhesive bandage, bandages are not viable options for covering a facial scab. However, with a little facial makeup and the proper application, you can minimize most facial scabs.

Purchase a high-quality concealer from a local drug store or makeup retailer. The concealer should match your skin tone and be noncomedogenic -- a product that doesn't clog pores -- so it does not irritate the scab on your face.

Soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol. Carefully rub the cotton ball on the scab and allow the area to dry for at least one minute. Follow up with an antibacterial cream to hasten the healing process and soften the scab for the make-up application.

Clean your hands with soap and water. Dip your clean finger into the concealer. Carefully dab the concealer on top of the scab, attempting to cover the scab as efficiently as possible. Do not rub the concealer in; simply dab. Continue this process until at least two layers of concealer have been applied and let dry.

Apply liquid foundation to a makeup sponge. Dab the foundation onto the scab and gently blend the makeup around the scab; do not rub the makeup on aggressively as this can cause the concealer to fade or the scab to come off. Continue applying and blending the makeup to your entire face so your complexion looks even.

Wait for the makeup to dry for several minutes and then apply a second coat of liquid foundation on top of the scab, if it is still visible. If adding bronzer or blush on top of the scab, apply gently with a soft brush.

Lisa Maire

Lisa Maire has been writing professionally since 2010 and is currently writing for eHow. After graduating from Saint Louis University with Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and communications she traveled south and now resides in…

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