Beauty-Editor Tricks to Diminish the Look of Dark Cirlces

When it comes to covering up our dark circles, we love concealer as much as the next gal. Unfortunately, the benefits of concealer only last a short while. To hit dark circles where it hurts most, we look to more than just color correction and concealing. Below, eight foolproof (and beauty-editor approved!) tricks to help diminish the look of your dark circles—once and for all. 

Trick #1: Don’t rub your eyes

We know seasonal allergies can be tough on your eyes, but don’t beat them to death with aggressive rubbing and tugging. Why? Because this friction can cause the area to look puffy and dark. In fact, you’re better off keeping your hands off your face altogether. 

Trick #2: Sleep with an extra pillow

When you sleep on your side or back, fluid can easily pool underneath your eyes and cause puffiness and more visible dark circles. A quick fix is to prop your head up during shut-eye by doubling up on your pillows. 

Trick #3: Sunscreen is a must 

Real talk: Excessive sun exposure doesn’t do your skin any favors. Aside from an increased risk of sunburn, premature skin aging, and even some cancers, too much sun can also lead to under-eye circles that appear even darker than usual. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher to your skin, but in the case of your dark circles, pay close attention to the eye area. It’s not a bad idea to invest in sunglasses with UV filters to protect your peepers from the sun’s harmful rays or even a stylish wide-brimmed hat.

Trick #4: Apply eye cream…the right way 

Eye creams and serums won’t work as quickly as, say, a concealer to hide dark circles, but they’re your best bet for long-term improvement. They also do a great job of hydrating the delicate skin around the area, which is never a bad thing. Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Circle Perfector SPF 30 is a great fast-absorbing option for brightening under-eye circles. Plus, the formula boasts SPF 30, which is uber-helpful on days you wish to pare down your routine a bit. But there’s more to eye cream that a quick dab or two. For tips on how to apply eye cream correctly, check out this handy guide by a Skincare.com (and celebrity) esthetician!

Trick #5: Cool down the area 

We’re willing to bet that most beauty editors are in on this trick. Before bed, place a spoon, cucumber slice, or a tea bag in the freezer. When you wake up, reach for any one of the items—ice cubes can work too!—and apply it directly to the under eye area. Not only is the cooling sensation super refreshing, it can also help reduce some of the puffiness in a pinch by a process known as vaso-constricting. 

Trick #6: Remove your makeup every night

Not only is keeping makeup on your eye contour area a bad idea for your sheets—hello, black mascara stains!—it’s also a bad idea for the health of your skin. At night, our skin undergoes self-repair, which is greatly hindered by thick cosmetics not allowing skin to breathe. As a result, you could be left with a dull, lifeless complexion with beyond obvious dark circles upon waking. Be sure to gently remove all makeup before bed, prior to using your eye cream. A lazy girl trick is to keep makeup wipes on your nightstand so you don’t even have to walk over to the sink. Zero excuses!

Trick #7: Stay hydrated

The key to great-looking skin is staying hydrated—from the inside out. No surprise here, but dehydration can cause more visible dark circles and lines around the eye area. In addition to applying your eye cream, make sure to drink the daily recommended amount of water per day.

Trick #8: Ditch the salt

It’s no secret that salty foods—as delicious as they may be—can lead to water retention, bloating, and puffy skin. As a result, your under-eye bags could flare up and be more noticeable after a sodium-heavy meal. To keep dark circles and bags at bay, consider changing up your diet and cutting out salty foods where possible. The same goes for alcohol. Sorry guys…