By Christina Flach
Whether you’re a mom, a founder, or just living a full life (hi, all of the above), under-eye darkness can show up when your energy doesn’t. I’ve had my fair share of early call times, sleepless nights, and nonstop schedules—but I’ve learned how to fake eight hours of sleep in just a few easy steps. These are my go-to tricks for brightening the under-eye area quickly and effectively, including a few budget-friendly options I always keep in my back pocket.
Step 1: Chill It Down:
Cold therapy reduces puffiness fast. You don’t need anything fancy – keep two metal spoons in the fridge or try a reusable gel eye mask. For travel or events, I love the Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber De-Tox Eye Patches, but an affordable dupe is the COSRX Advanced Snail Hydrogel Eye Patch – hydrating, smoothing, and under $20 for 60 eye patch pairs.
Pro Tip: Celebrity makeup artists often keep mini jade rollers or chilled spoons in their kits to massage the under-eye area right before concealer. It helps de-puff and boosts circulation.
Step 2: Hydrate the Area:
Hydration is key to preventing creasing and helping makeup lay beautifully. I love OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright+ Eye Crème, but for a more budget-friendly option, try CeraVe Eye Repair Cream. It’s gentle, effective, and approved by dermatologists for sensitive skin.
Pro Tip: Don’t rub—gently tap your eye cream in with your ring finger to avoid tugging delicate skin.
Step 3: Correct Before You Conceal:
Color correction is one of the best-kept secrets in makeup artistry. Bobbi Brown Under Eye Corrector is a classic, but Pixi Correction Concentrate in “Brightening Peach” is a fantastic affordable alternative that blends easily and neutralizes blue tones instantly.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a corrector, mix a peachy cream blush with your concealer— it’s not textbook, but it works in a pinch!
Step 4: Light Coverage, Big Impact:
You want brightening, not baking. Dior Backstage Flash Perfector Concealer and Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Concealer are beautiful, but if you’re looking for something under $15, try Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer. It’s iconic for a reason—great coverage, blends like a dream, and never cakes.
Pro Tip: Use a damp sponge and start at the inner corner only—then gently blend outward. Less is always more under the eyes.
Step 5: Add Light, Not Texture:
Skip heavy powders and reach for a brightening pen or a lightweight highlighter. YSL Touche Éclat is the gold standard, but L’Oréal Magic Lumi Highlighter is a great drugstore version that mimics that lit-from-within glow.
Pro Tip: Tap a tiny bit of highlighter above the cheekbone and into the outer under-eye for a natural lift.
Final Tip from Christina:
Great makeup starts with great skin, and that begins before anything goes on your face. One of my favorite morning rituals is a simple, homemade celery juice. It’s rich in water and packed with vitamins C, A, and K — all of which help reduce inflammation, support collagen production, and brighten the skin. It’s a beauty essential I’ve sworn by for years, especially when I want that lit-from-within glow all day long.
My go-to celery juice recipe:
- 1 bunch of fresh organic celery, washed and chopped
- Optional: ½ green apple or a squeeze of lemon for a touch of flavor
- Juice and drink immediately on an empty stomach for maximum skin benefits Hydrated, radiant skin is always the best canvas for makeup — and this is a glow boost that starts from the inside out.
Disclaimer
The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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