How to Cover Serious Dark Circles Under the Eye

Dark under eye circles can be caused by genetics, poor nutrition or even lack of sleep. However, they usually get worse as you age. Although sleep and a healthy diet will go a long way to reduce dark circles, there is a simple technique you can use to cover them up NOW. Proper application of moisturizer, concealer and eye makeup will cover serious dark circles under the eye, improving your appearance and confidence in minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizer
• Concealer
• Flat acrylic brush
• Eyelash curler (optional)
• Iridescent eyeshadow
• White highlight pencil

Instructions

1. Apply a dab of your favorite moisturizer under each eye, directly onto your dark eye circles. Allow it to absorb into the skin for at least one minute, which will prevent the concealer from appearing dry and flaky.

2. Choose a concealer that's no more than half a shade lighter than your normal skin tone, and in a peach tone which will cancel out darkness. A concealer that is too light will just make serious dark circles appear gray and ashen.

3. Saturate a flat acrylic brush, no larger than your pinky finger, with your chosen concealer. Place it on the line where your nose meets the dark circle. This area is also called the crescent area, due to its shape.

4. Rest the brush on the crescent area and apply the concealer to your dark circles using a patting motion, making sure not to wipe or brush the area. Dab or pat it on, or else you'll remove the concealer from the skin.

5. Curl your upper lashes with an eyelash curler, if desired, as this will help take attention away from your problem. Playing up your upper lids and lashes is especially important for serious dark circles.

6. Apply iridescent, pearly or white eye shadow to the upper lids, as this will make the eyes appear fresher and more alive. Dab a bit of a white highlight pencil in the V-corner of your eye near your nose. This will wake up the eye and take attention from the dark circles under your eyes.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're skilled in applying makeup, you may use your pinky finger or a makeup sponge to apply the concealer, but only if you know what you're doing. If you're unsure about your ability, use the flat brush to be sure you're applying the makeup to your dark circles properly.

• Do not apply the concealer right under the eyelid, particularly if you have puffiness. Instead, focus only on the darkness, and leave everything else alone.

• Do not apply dark eyeliner or mascara to your lower eyelids if you have serious dark circles under your eyes. This will make them stand out even more. Instead leave the bottom lid bare, and focus on light, bright colors on the upper lid.