A hickey, also known as a love bite, is essentially a bruise caused by sucking or biting the skin. While it may seem painful, many enjoy giving or receiving hickeys. However, in the light of day, a visible hickey can be embarrassing, especially when heading to work or school.

But don’t worry, makeup can be your best friend in situations like this! Whether you need to cover up a real hickey or want to make a fake one, makeup can help. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to make a fake hickey with makeup and share expert tips to conceal real hickeys.

How to Make a Fake Hickey with Makeup

Creating a fake hickey with makeup is surprisingly simple and realistic if done right. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect faux love bite:

Choose a Color Palette: Use a combination of red, purple, and brown eyeshadows or lipsticks to mimic the natural look of a bruise. Start with a light red base, and blend darker purples or browns to build depth.
Apply with a Sponge or Finger: Lightly dab the makeup onto the skin in circular motions to create an uneven, blotchy appearance. Hickeys are rarely perfect, so make sure not to over-blend.
Blend the Edges: Use a clean brush or sponge to softly blend the edges of the hickey, making it look like it's fading into your natural skin tone.
Set with Translucent Powder: Lock in the makeup with translucent powder to prevent smudging throughout the day.

6 Ways to Conceal a Hickey with Makeup

1. Lipstick

Using a lipstick that matches your skin tone is a great way to cover a hickey. Choose one that is a shade or two lighter than your skin tone and blend it over the affected area.

2. Concealer

One of the most common methods is using a high-coverage concealer. Apply it directly to the hickey and blend well into your skin. Set the concealer with powder to ensure long-lasting coverage.

3. Foundation

A full-coverage foundation matching your skin tone can easily cover a hickey. Build coverage gradually and finish with setting powder to keep the foundation in place all day.

4. Color Corrector

For deeper bruises, use a color corrector. A green or yellow corrector can neutralize the purple and red tones of a hickey. Apply concealer and foundation over it to finish.

Color corrector for hickey

5. Liquid Highlighter

If you don’t have a color corrector, liquid highlighter can also help. Apply a small amount to the hickey and blend. This is ideal for small or faded hickeys.

6. Themed Makeup

Get creative! If you’re attending a costume event, you can turn your hickey into part of your makeup look. Use eyeliner or face paint to make it look intentional, like a bruise or fun design.

Themed makeup for hickey cover

Conclusion

Whether you're trying to make a fake hickey with makeup or cover up a real one, these professional tips will help you achieve the perfect look. With the right makeup products and techniques, hickeys can be hidden in no time, leaving you confident to go about your day. So grab your concealer, foundation, or even a lipstick, and follow these simple steps for flawless results!