We get it: eyes are the window to the soul… so you need them to look *perfect* at all times. But that’s not always possible. Things happen, plus there’s genetics that come into play sometimes. So we’ve put together a playbook of sorts for what you can do in any eye situation you may run into.
Dark Circles/Redness
Skin Fix: Blue, purple, and red tones are the result of dilated blood vessels the peep through thin under-eye skin, says derm Shari Marchbein, MD. Try a cream with caffeine in it (such as Sunday Riley’s), a vasoconstrictor that can temporarily shrink vessels, to help discoloration.
Concealer Tip: It’s all about color correction. Cancel out blue or purple circles with a peach (for lighter skin tones) or orange (for darker complexions), says celebrity makeup artist Allan Avendaño. To neutralize redness, go green. Let the color set for a minute, then top with your favorite concealer.
Pigmentation
Skin Fix: Are your under-eyes more brown than blue or red? “It’s likely due to excess pigment in the skin, which is mostly genetic and more common in women of color,” says Dr. Marchbein. Ingredients like hydroquinone, kojic acid, soy, and licorice extract (Caudalie has the latter) can help hinder the production of melanin to lighten the area. And don’t leave the house without your shades. The sun’s rays can make the darkening worse.
Concealer Tip: A high-coverage one (check out Tarte’s) a shade or two lighter than your natural skin tone, will counteract any darkness. Pat it into place using a damp sponge.
Puffiness
Skin Fix: If you have bags 24/7, blame them on orbital fat pads (aka the love handles of under eyes). They are genetic and require a dermatologist’s help. But if you spy puffiness in the morning only, “it’s probably due to fluid retention,” says Dr. Marchbein. Massage an eye cream back and forth under your eyes for a couple minutes to help drain the excess fluid. (Try out the Mary Kay TimeWise eye cream).
Concealer Tip: Place a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your skin just under the bag. Like highlighting, “it will bring the area forward to create a more even-looking surface,” explains Avendaño.
Fine Lines
Skin Fix: Before bed, dab on a retinol cream (if your skin can handle it) to boost collagen and soften lines over time. In the morning, switch to a formula with hyaluronic acid – a humectant that draws moisture to the skin, temporarily plumping lines. (Bonus: It counteracts any drying side effects from the retinol.)
Concealer Tip: Skip the setting powder post-concealer because it can end up in the tiniest of lines. If your concealer creases midday, pat it back into place with the warmth of your finger, or go for a long-wear option, like Rimmel’s.
Dryness
Skin Fix: The skin barrier around your eyes is super thin, meaning moisture can easily escape, explains Dr. Marchbein. A ceramide-based eye cream (like CeraVe’s) helps build up your protective barrier, keeping eyes hydrated.
Concealer Tip: “Creamy versions provide coverage and won’t cling to dry patches,” says Avendaño. Covergirl’s is filled with hydrating vitamins E, B3, and B5.
Get ready to kiss goodbye to any pesty eye situation that you weren’t quite sure how to handle.
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