FOR THE LOVE OF GLOSS

If, like me, you’ve been plagued by dark under eye circles for as long as you can remember, it can feel like you might need to turn to the dark arts in order to eradicate them. But I have some wonderful news: I’ve recently stumbled upon a few miracle-working products that keep dark circles at bay AND are easy to incorporate into your routine. Thank me later.

Dark circles happen for a number of reasons, including genetics, allergies, dehydration, and a variety of lifestyle factors and skin conditions that may or may not be beyond our control. So while staying hydrating and getting enough sleep are important weapons in the war against dark, tired-looking under eyes, many of us need something extra to brighten this area.

Enter Nars Light Reflecting Eye Brightener. This light, creamy, hydrating brightener is somewhere between a concealer and an eye cream. It has the best texture. It instantly covers darkness and is simultaneously extremely light. It makes eyes look bright all day without ever creasing. I would recommend to anyone looking for brighter, more awake looking eyes. It will tone down but not erase the most extreme under eye circles. But for light-to-medium coverage, it can’t be beat.

For those looking for a bit more coverage – or for those with fewer eye crinkles than my 40-year-old complexion is currently dealing with – I am very impressed with Lys Beauty Triple Fix Concealer, a full coverage brightening concealer that really, really works. This also happens to be my November Ipsy glam bag pick. It has a creamy texture that goes on very smoothly. It definitely provides more coverage than the Nars product but can look a little heavy up close – if you aren’t concerned about fine lines, this will be your best friend. If you are, I’d recommend moisturizing well and applying with a light hand.

Speaking of application, the Beauty Blender Micro Mini Pro Makeup Sponge is the secret weapon of under eye makeup success. The soft sponge and tiny angles allow you to gently tap the product into the corners of your eyes, under your lashes, and any other delicate place you need to add a little product without pulling sensitive skin or creating smudges. I’m a huge fan.

So there you have it, your guide to brighter under eyes. No dark magic required.