Dark circles and under-eye bags are common beauty concerns that can make you look tired or older. Fortunately, with the right makeup techniques and products, you can conceal them flawlessly. Here’s a step-by-step guide from a beauty editor on how to conceal under-eye bags and dark circles, leaving your skin looking bright, fresh, and flawless!
1. Prep the Skin
The key to flawless makeup is a well-prepped canvas. Start by applying a lightweight, hydrating eye cream. This helps to plump up the skin, reduce puffiness, and smooth fine lines, creating a perfect base for makeup.
Tip: Choose an eye cream with ingredients like caffeine or hyaluronic acid to target puffiness and hydrate the under-eye area.
2. Use a Color Corrector
If your dark circles have a bluish or purple hue, use a peach or orange color corrector to neutralize them. For lighter skin tones, a light peach corrector works best, while deeper skin tones benefit from orange correctors. Apply a small amount to the darkest areas, usually the inner corner of the eyes, and blend gently with your finger or a beauty sponge.
Tip: Less is more! Use a thin layer to avoid cakiness.
3. Choose the Right Concealer
Pick a concealer that is one to two shades lighter than your natural skin tone to brighten the under-eye area. Opt for a creamy, hydrating formula to prevent creasing. Dab the concealer in a triangle shape under your eyes – this brightens the entire area rather than just the dark circles.
Tip: Avoid thick, matte concealers, as they can emphasize fine lines and make the skin look dry.
4. Blend, Blend, Blend
Blending is crucial to achieving a flawless finish. Use a damp beauty sponge or your ring finger to gently blend the concealer, pressing it into the skin for a seamless look. Be careful not to drag or tug at the delicate under-eye area.
Tip: Lightly tap with your finger or sponge for an airbrushed effect.
5. Set with a Translucent Powder
To ensure your concealer stays in place all day without creasing, lightly set it with a translucent setting powder. Use a fluffy brush to apply a small amount of powder under the eyes. This will lock in the concealer and keep the area looking smooth.
Tip: Avoid applying too much powder to prevent a dry or cakey look.
6. Brighten with a Luminizing Pen
For an extra brightening boost, apply a luminizing pen or highlighter in the inner corners of your eyes and along the tops of your cheekbones. This will reflect light and give your eyes a more awake and lifted appearance.
Tip: Choose a highlighter with a subtle shimmer to avoid looking too shiny.
7. Finish with Mascara
Complete your look by curling your lashes and applying a few coats of volumizing mascara. This will open up your eyes and draw attention away from any remaining under-eye shadows or puffiness.
Tip: Focus on the upper lashes to lift your eyes and avoid applying mascara to the lower lashes, which can accentuate bags or circles.
Conclusion
With the right techniques and products, you can flawlessly conceal under-eye bags and dark circles, making your eyes look brighter and more awake. From prepping the skin to using color correctors and setting powder, these steps will give you a natural, radiant finish. Now you’re ready to face the day looking refreshed and confident!