Whether caused by genetics or a lack of sleep, dark under eye circles can be a major beauty bummer. Dark circles under your eyes not only make you look tired and worn out, but they also make you appear older. Even if you can’t get rid of those dark circles for good, a few tricks can help you cover them up and fake a fresh, well-rested look.
Moisturizer
The first step to successfully hiding dark under eye circles is to thoroughly moisturize the area. If the area under your eyes is dry, any applied makeup will settle into cracks rather than lay on the surface of your skin. This not only calls attention to the fact that you are trying to camouflage dark areas, but it can age you.
Choose a moisturizer and a night cream made for the eye area. After washing your face in the morning, apply the moisturizer and let it sink in before applying any makeup. Apply night cream before you go to bed at night.
Primer
Facial primers have several roles: they help fill in fine lines, reduce the appearance of pores, keep makeup in place and help your makeup last all day. Put a primer on your face, concentrating on the skin under your eyes, after you moisturize, but before you apply any makeup.
Concealer
The next step in hiding dark under eye circles is concealer. There are two things to consider when choosing a concealer to help hide dark under eye circles: color and undertone. You have to find one that matches your skin color, but contains a slightly yellow undertone, which helps balance out dark under eye circles. The general rule is to choose a concealer that is one shade lighter than your foundation. Choosing a lighter concealer for your under eye area helps make your face look fresh and rested.
Some concealers are available in a tube that you can use to apply the concealer directly to your face, while others come in a pot that require you to use your fingers or a brush to apply. The form of concealer is a personal preference. The important thing to remember is to avoid applying too much. If you can see the concealer, it is too thick.
Powder
After you apply concealer, use a powder to keep it in place. Because most concealers are cream-based, the natural oils your face produces during the day can “melt” the concealer away if it is not set with powder. Use a large, fluffy makeup brush to apply loose powder. You can use powder that matches your skin tone or translucent finishing powders.
Highlighter
Highlighters are specialized beauty products made to lighten up certain areas of your face. While they are most commonly used on the cheekbones, eyebrow bones or tear ducts, highlighters can also help brighten under eye circles. After you apply concealer and powder, dab a powder highlighter in the bottom, inner corner of your eyes. The highlighter will help reflect light and make this area appear brighter.
Image: graur codrin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
