Wake up to a fresher look every day! Discover how to effortlessly mask those tell-tale under-eye bags with expert makeup techniques.

Whether it’s from genetics, a bustling lifestyle, or just the natural aging process, bags under eyes can be a common yet challenging concern. However, there are ways on how to disguise eye bags, and there are also ways on how to look after them naturally to ensure that they do not reappear so promptly. In this article, we will dive into how to hide eye bags, including the causes of under-eye bags, as well as offering step-by-step instructions on using makeup to minimise their appearance effectively. Learn the art of concealing with hydrating serums, colour correctors, and the right concealer, ensuring a smooth, flawless finish, with how to hide bags under eyes.

Key Points:

What Causes Under-Eye Bags?

Under-eye bags are a common concern that can arise from various factors. 

Genetics, for one, can play a significant role; if your family members have them, you’re more likely to develop them too. 

Aging also contributes towards under-eye bags forming continuously, as the tissues and muscles supporting your eyelids weaken over time, leading to a saggy, tired look. 

Additionally, lifestyle factors such as lack of sleep, high salt consumption, and allergies can exacerbate the issue, causing fluid retention that makes the under-eye area appear puffy and swollen. 

Understanding these causes is the first step in learning how to conceal under eye bags effectively.

How to Hide Eye Bags With Makeup

Concealing under-eye bags effectively can transform your appearance, making you look rested and rejuvenated. Here’s a simple guide to help you disguise under-eye bags, ensuring a flawless and bright eye area.

Step 1: Smooth on a Hydrating Eye Serum 

Before you start applying makeup, it’s crucial to prepare the skin. 

Using a hydrating eye serum can significantly reduce puffiness and prepare the under-eye area for makeup application. 

Opt for serums that contain ingredients like caffeine and hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate and de-puff the skin. For added cooling and soothing effects, keep your eye serum in the refrigerator before use. 

This step not only refreshes the skin but also enhances the serum’s efficacy in minimizing under-eye bags.

Pro Tip: Applying a cool compress or a chilled eye serum can help tighten the skin around the eyes and reduce swelling, making it easier to apply makeup smoothly.

Step 2: Colour Correct

To effectively know how to cover under-eye bags, start with a colour corrector. This product can address the discolouration often seen with under-eye bags and dark circles. 

Choose a colour that contrasts with your under-eye discolouration:

• For lighter skin tones with blue-toned dark circles, use a peach or yellow corrector.
• For deeper skin tones with purple or brown discolouration, apricot or orange correctors work best.

Apply the corrector sparingly; a little goes a long way in neutralizing discolouration, which means you’ll need less concealer.

Step 3: Apply a Hydrating Concealer 

Select a lightweight, hydrating concealer to avoid emphasising fine lines and puffiness. The ideal concealer should blend seamlessly into your skin, offering coverage without heaviness. 

Dot the concealer under the eyes and use a damp sponge, brush, or your ring finger to blend. This technique helps to distribute the product evenly, providing coverage without caking.

If full coverage is needed, choose a durable, long-wearing concealer. Ensure it matches your skin tone or is slightly lighter to brighten the under-eye area.

Pro Tip: A concealer one shade lighter than your skin tone can brighten the under-eye area and give a more lifted appearance.

Step 4: Set with Powder

To ensure your concealer stays in place and to minimise any additional texture from the makeup, lightly dust translucent powder over the concealer using a soft brush. 

This step helps to set the makeup, offering a matte finish that lasts throughout the day. Choose a powder that matches your overall skin tone to maintain the natural look of your makeup.

Additional Tips for Disguising Under-Eye Bags:

• Hydration is key: Keep your skin hydrated to make under-eye bags less noticeable.
• Build up products gradually: Layer products lightly to avoid a heavy look that can accentuate under-eye texture.
• Refresh with sprays: Use a hydrating spray to keep the under-eye area looking fresh and dewy throughout the day.

Do’s and Don’ts When Hiding Under-Eye Bags: 

Achieving a flawless under-eye appearance requires not only the right makeup techniques but also adopting proper skincare habits. 

Here are the do’s and don’ts when attempting to hide under-eye bags effectively.

Do:

• Hydrate: Always begin with a hydrating eye serum or cream. Well-moisturised skin ensures smoother makeup application and prevents concealers from settling into fine lines, which is essential for a seamless look.
• De-puff: Incorporate products with caffeine or use a cold compress to reduce puffiness. These preparations help tighten the skin, creating a smoother canvas for further cosmetic application.
• Use light layers: When applying concealer, opt for thin, buildable layers. This approach prevents makeup from looking heavy or cakey and allows for more controlled coverage.
• Blend well: Gentle blending is key. Use a makeup sponge or your ring finger with patting motions to blend the concealer. This method avoids stretching the delicate under-eye skin.
• Set with powder: After concealer, lightly apply a translucent powder to set the makeup. This step helps to prevent creasing and maintains the concealer’s longevity throughout the day.

Don’t:

• Use heavy makeup: Avoid thick, heavy concealers as they can exacerbate the appearance of wrinkles and puffiness. Lightweight, hydrating formulas are preferable for a natural, fresh look.
• Overuse products: Over-applying concealer or powder can actually draw attention to under-eye bags. Use the minimal amount needed to cover discolouration and ensure it is well blended.
• Forget to remove makeup: Always remove your makeup before bedtime. This prevents potential irritation and damage to the sensitive skin around your eyes.
• Neglect skincare: A consistent skincare routine is vital for long-term skin health and can significantly improve the appearance of your under-eye area.

How To Reduce the Appearance of Under-Eye Bags

Beyond makeup, there are preventive measures to help maintain a youthful and rested appearance by addressing under-eye bags before they become prominent.

• Wear Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily to guard against premature aging and skin damage. Reapply every two hours or after exposure to water or sweat.
• Get Plenty of Rest: Adequate sleep is essential for preventing under-eye bags. Aim for 7-9 hours per night and consider sleeping with your head slightly elevated to reduce fluid accumulation under your eyes.
• Try Facial Massage: Regular use of tools like gua sha or facial rollers can improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce puffiness and firm the skin.
• Limit Salt Intake: High sodium intake can lead to fluid retention, contributing to puffiness under the eyes. Reducing salt in your diet can help mitigate this effect.
• Consult a Dermatologist: For persistent under-eye bags, a dermatologist can offer treatments such as fillers or laser therapy that provide longer-term solutions.

In conclusion, knowing how to hide eye bags effectively involves both skillful makeup application and diligent skincare practices. By hydrating, de-puffing, and applying makeup in light layers, you can achieve a smooth, refreshed appearance. Remember to avoid heavy makeup, over-application, and neglecting skincare. Adopting habits like wearing sunscreen, getting ample rest, and managing dietary salt can further improve your under-eye area. With these strategies, you can maintain a vibrant, youthful look that radiates health and confidence. 

Try Delilah Cosmetics for high coverage concealer and Kryolan Cosmetics for airbrush foundation, to keep you looking fresh on those days where you don’t feel 100%.

Further reading:

We are always looking at new ways to expand our readers’ knowledge on makeup ideas, skin and body care, and more. Here’s some further articles to try:

• Can you tan through makeup
• Festival makeup ideas

FAQs

Are there any lifestyle changes that can help reduce eye bags?

Yes, lifestyle changes can significantly impact the appearance of eye bags. Ensuring adequate sleep, reducing salt intake to minimise fluid retention, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco can all help. Regular use of sunscreen to protect the delicate under-eye skin from sun damage is also beneficial.

What long-term treatments are available for eye bags?

For those looking for more permanent solutions, treatments such as chemical peels, laser resurfacing, or fillers can be considered. These procedures should be performed by qualified professionals and can help to reduce the appearance of eye bags by tightening the skin and improving the overall skin texture.

Can dietary changes affect eye bags?

Yes, your diet can influence the appearance of eye bags. Foods high in antioxidants can help reduce damage caused by free radicals, which contributes to aging skin. Reducing salt intake can prevent water retention that can exacerbate eye bags. Incorporating plenty of hydrating foods and fluids into your diet also supports skin health.

Sources

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.) Bags Under Eyes. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20369927 [accessed 05/12/2024]