Bright Eyes: The Master Class On How To Hide Those Dark Under-Eye Circles

The magic of makeup is that it can enhance your "good bits" and hide the flaws. 

But that's only if you know how to apply it properly. It's great that you can hide those exhausted-looking eyes with a concealer, it just one step forward and two steps back if your concealing technique is clearly visible. 

The number one rule to hiding tired and puffy eyes is to conceal those under eye dark circles and blemishes.

World-renowned makeup artist and M&S Your Beauty Makeup Ambassador Kay Montano shares the industry tips with Her.ie...

The first step?

It's important to get separate concealers for the under-eye area and for blemishes on your face as the skin on these two areas is very different.

What kind of concealer would you choose for the under-eye area?

For the under-eye area a concealer with a thinner texture works best. These concealers will hydrate the skin more. A much thicker, longer-lasting product that matches your skin tone is better suited for blemishes on your cheeks, chin or forehead.

What colour suits the under-eye area the best?

A peach to terracotta tone won't be too heavy and will neutralise the skin's blue/grey tint.

How do you apply it?

Apply the concealer in a half-moon shape from the mid-eyebrow to under the ocular bone and gently pat until the darkness is neutralised.

Recommended products?

For normal to dry skin, Kay Montano would recommend Autograph Ultimate Wear Long Lasting Concealer, €8 in selected Marks and Spencer stores.

Autograph Ultimate Wear Long Lasting Concealer, €8, M&S

Another highly recommended under-eye concealer on the list is Pur Minerals Disappearing Act 4-in-1 Concealer, €27 in selected Marks and Spencer stores. It is perfect for skin that's more oily.

Pur Minerals Disappearing Act 4-in-1 Concealer, €27, M&S

Benefit can never go wrong and this "brightening camouflage" for the eyes and face does just what it says on the tub. 

Benefit Erase Paste, €27.50, Available at cosmetic counters nationwide. 

Finally, the créme de la créme, Yves Saint Laurent Touché Eclat Concealer is considered by most as the be all and end all in under-eye concealers. 

Yves Saint Laurent Touché Eclat Concealer, €30, Available at makeup counters nationwide. 

All M&S Your Beauty products are available at Marks and Spencer stores and online at www.marksandspencer.ie/beauty.