Question: I have dark under-eye circles. Is there any way to get rid of them?
Answer: Dark circles are famously annoying and unfortunately, there's no way to get rid of them. Here's how to cover them up so no one but you knows you have them.
Step 1: Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
At night, use a thick cream formulated for under the eye. During the day, apply a lighter cream before you apply makeup. This will help your corrector and concealer glide on more smoothly.Vitamin K eye creams such as Vita-K Solution gel or Peter Thomas Roth Power K Eye Rescue can help strengthen capillary walls so dark circles and veins become less visible.
Step 2: Apply a Corrector
Under-eye correctors are formulated for dark circles found under the eyes. They work by counteracting the purplish or blue circles under the eyes and they come in pink and peach shades. For best results, apply on a clean face. Dot the corrector at the corner of each inner eye and continue to "paint" the corrector under the eyes close to the lashes. Apply generously. Pat the corrector into the skin with the pad of your middle finger. Blend well.See my list of Top 12 Concealers.
Step 3: Apply a Concealer
After your corrector is applied, you'll want to use a yellow-based concealer. Dot the concealer under the eyes and use the "pat method" to press the product into the skin. When choosing a concealer, I recommend a shade lighter than your skin tone. If your circles are very dark, you can go 2 shades lighter. Make sure to blend well so you don't get a raccoon look.Step 4: Foundation Time
Now you can apply your foundation to your face, hitting the areas that need it most. No need to cover the entire face in foundation.Step 5: Set Makeup With a Yellow-Based Powder
Use a yellow-based powder to set your makeup. If you have super fair skin, use a white powder to set the concealer.See my list of the best concealers.
If All Else Fails, Consider Laser Treatments
If you have a chronic case of under-eye circles, you could contact a doctor about lasers. Lasers can thicken the skin by increasing collagen production, so you are less likely to see veins, according to Los Angeles facialist Kate Somerville in InStyle magazine.Must-reads:
