How can a guy use make-up to cover imperfections without looking effeminate?

Even the hunkiest models and actors have their faces painted before they stride down the red carpet or go in front of the camera, so don't shy away from using make-up to look fresher.

Just remember, your aim is to look like you have a naturally good complexion, not a pretty face. So you need at most three items: A light foundation, an undereye concealer and another concealer for other imperfections such as acne scars.

Stay away from everything else, such as mascara, blusher, eyeshadow and lip colour.

To look less tired, get a good undereye concealer, such as the Amazing Cosmetics Amazing Concealer, or Make Up For Ever HD Concealer, S$52, both from Sephora, 01-05 Ion Orchard.

Dab the product on the grey areas and blend gently with your ring finger.

To hide acne, try Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage concealer, S$46, from Tangs Beauty; or M.A.C Studio Finish SPF 35 Concealer, S$30.

Try the concealers before you buy; get the beauty advisers at the counters to help you pick the right colour, which should blend well with your skin tone so you do not look like you are wearing any make-up.

To even out your complexion, use a sheer foundation or BB cream.

Men's skincare brand Lab Series rolled out its BB Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF35 PA+++ (left, $72, from Lab Series, B3-44 Ion Orchard) in 2011. It has a sheer texture, is non-greasy and has anti-ageing benefits.

Or try Giorgio Armani's Maestro Fusion Make Up, $100, from DFS Galleria Singapore, 25 Scotts Road, which is a super sheer foundation.

To get a true match, test the colour on your jawline and in between your brows.

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