For as long as I can remember, I’ve had the sleepiest eyes. I’ve got a lovely mix of puffy, dark and defined eyes that welcome me when I wake up every morning, and don’t really get much better by the time I go to bed. I used to be super self conscious of them, trying everything from tea bags to cold spoons, and every single concealer known to humanity – because it’s always worth trying at least once, right?
Once I came to the conclusion that they weren’t going to magically get better one day, I started doing some serious product testing to figure out what was going to work for me. And believe me, it took me years to figure out just what actually works for my defined dark circles…so let me do the testing for you so you don’t have to 😉
Here are my go-to products that have totally worked wonders for my under-eye circles. To be honest, mine are pretty severe, so if it’s worked for me I have a feeling they will work for you too! I picked up all these goodies at the new Blue Mercury store in River North when I swung by their grand opening a few weeks ago – and the new store is GORGEOUS! If you’re in the Chicago area, definitely stop by and be amazed by all the products and the new beautiful space!
Under-Eye Cream:Â I’m pretty sure it’s never too early to start using eye-cream, not only to make an immediate impact but to also prevent future wrinkles, puffiness and darkness. I’ve used a lot of under-eye creams over the years, and this combo from m-61 from Blue Mercury has made the most immediate and long term impact for me!
I use the PowerGlow Eye Cream every night after cleansing to smooth and revive under-eye skin, diminishing fine lines and under-eye circles. I honestly saw an improvement after just a few days, and now it’s become an essential part of my night-time routine. Even on nights where I travel, I make sure to pack this bad boy with me to refresh myself for morning.
For morning {and sometimes throughout the day}, I use m-61’s Hydraboost Eye Cream to brighten morning eyes, reduce fine lines, reduce puffiness and moisturize throughout the day. I use it every morning since it’s a little less intense the night time serum, and sometimes after work when I feel like I can relax and wipe off my makeup. Both products have been awesome for me, and even though they’re both a little pricey, they’ve lasted 4+ months for me!
 Concealer: Concealer has been my BFF for years, but it’s not until recently that I discovered my favorites for under-eye circles. I very rarely get my makeup done, but a few months ago I walked into a makeup store and nervously let one of the makeup artists give me a makeover with a few of their favorite products. Turns out, the products they used have quickly become some of my favorites!
I used Trish Envoy Triangle of Light Concealer and immediately saw a huge difference in my circles, it was like an instant eye-lift for my sleepy eyes. You basically outline downward facing triangle when you put the concealer on {with the point of the top triangle in the direction of your chin} and then pat it in like any other concealer. The way that the concealer plays with light make light deflect off your eyes, appearing less dark and prepping perfectly for another top concealer to really seal the deal.
On top, I’ve been using Nars Radiant Cream Concealer and it’s amazingly blendable, and gives fantastic coverage without looking too caked on {always a struggle!} I’ll usually put a little powder to set it, and it’s been consistently lasting all day long – even on the days where I work from 6-7PM!
Finishing Touches: To finish that “I just got 10 hour of sleep” look, I’ve been topping off my serums and concealers with a long lasting mascara and eyeliner. I love eye-liner {I’d guess I’ve tried at least 20 over the past few years} and by far Bobbi Brown’s eyeliner lasts the longest, which is important for someone who’s always on the go and working like I am. I also love Trish Envoy’s Curling Mascara that immediately opens up your eyes without needing a eyelash curler {does anyone still use those? Ouch!}
Phew, that was a lot of info – but after testing so many products over the last 15+ years, I wanted to share 🙂 Have any favorite products to cover up under-eye circles? I could always give a few more a try! xx
I’ve had seasonal allergies since I was little and it always came with dark circles as a consequence. It’s not just lack of sleep- I can see it in my grade school photos! I’ve always just sort of accepted that’s the way it is for me, but I might have to check some of these out. I don’t really use any special cream under my eyes, but when I do my makeup I use Laura Mercier secret concealer under my eyes. It definitely makes a difference in how noticeable any dark circles are. Thanks for sharing, Maya!
I definitely need that eye cream in my life! My dark circles have gone a bit crazy as of late. I’ve always sworn by the MAC Pro Longwear concealer, but I’ve heard great things about NARS, too!