DARK CIRCLES UNDER EYES

Dear Jellybean,

Every morning I wake up with dark circles. It really bothers me because you can even notice them in pictures. I don't understand why this happens because I always get around 9 hours of sleep. I always use concealer but that doesn't do much. Do you have any tips to help avoid or cover up my problem? Also, does wearing dark or light eye shadow make a difference?
Thanks so much,
Zombie Girl

Dear Zombie Girl,

Dark under-eye circles are so annoying. If your skin is very thin and delicate, or if you're fair-skinned, you might come by them naturally. The right concealer can actually do wonders, so if the one you have isn't doing much, you must do some more research. Get yourself to a drugstore or makeup store (like Sephora) that allows you to test products, and do some experimenting - or better yet, ask one of the makeup ladies to help you out.

Try to find a shade that matches your skin tone as closely as possible. It can be a teensy bit lighter, if you can't find an exact match. (Choosing the right shade is REALLY important - if you use a concealer that's too light, you'll end up with raccoon eyes). Store lighting can be bad, and show you unrealistic results, so make sure you walk outside (you can bring a little mirror with you for this purpose, or use a store mirror near a window) and check out the color in natural light. Once you find the right product, you'll be sitting pretty.

Another trick you can use is from backstage at fashion shows (models stay up late and often have dark circles). The inner corner of the eyes (where they meet the top of your nose) is usually the darkest part, so brighten it by applying a dot of white shimmer pencil just to that area.

A shimmery eyeshadow in a light, pearly color (such as white or irridescent pink) will also draw attention away from the undereye circles, and produce an overall more awake, alive effect.

Skip the mascara when you have undereye circles, or go for clear mascara instead. Dark mascara will add to the raccoon effect. Clear mascara will separate and lengthen your lashes while keeping the look light, dewey and fresh.