How To Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes - Makeup - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Christin Birckhead

Last Updated: May 27, 2025 References

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  • Applying a Concealer
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  • Touching Up and Setting Your Concealer
    • |
  • Living a Healthier Lifestyle
    • |
  • Video
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  • Expert Q&A
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  • Tips
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  • Warnings
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This article was co-authored by Christin Birckhead. Christin Birckhead is a Makeup Artist and the Founder of Conceptual Beauty, a beauty service based in Washington, DC specializing in wedding services such as engagements and bridal parties along with fashion shows and executive headshots. She has over 20 years of makeup and beauty consulting experience. She is also the lead makeup artist for Ascender Communications and freelances with the local NBC news team in the DC metro area. Her clients include Nancy Pelosi, Nancy Cartwright, Armin Van Buuren, Hugh Jackman, Vashawn Mitchell, Richard Smallwood, Benjamin T. Jealous, Colin Powell, Wanda Durant, and Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 222,741 times.

Have a big day ahead, but woke up with enormous bags under your eyes? No worries! Those bags under your eyes can be concealed with makeup, some time, and a few simple steps.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Applying a Concealer

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  1. Step 1 Choose your concealer. 1 Choose your concealer. To combat the blue and gray color under your eyes, choose an orange or peach colored concealer. Orange is the complementary color to blue, which means when orange is applied to a blue area, the colors "cancel" one another out. Pick a color that is only one or two shades darker than your skin – otherwise, the concealer will be visible against the normal color of your skin. Concealers come in liquid and stick form.
    • Liquid concealers are good for light coverage, while sticks are great for smaller or narrower areas.
    • Any type of concealer will work, though remember that liquid makeup may appear glossy, whereas powder makeup can give a matte appearance. Choose a makeup based on your skin type – oily skin is more likely to be “shiny” with certain liquid makeup, for example.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes 2 Prepare your skin. Apply an eye cream to both eyes to make sure your under-eye area is well-moisturized. If there's any hint of dryness, the concealer will turn chalky and become very noticeable to others.
    • Try keeping the eye cream in the fridge prior to application. The cold temperature of the cream contracts the skin, allowing for a tighter appearance.[1]
    • Try using an eye cream with caffeine to help with puffiness and dark circles.[2]
    • If you wear foundation, put it on before applying concealer. However, any powder-based makeup, including foundation should, go on last, after the concealer.
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  3. Watermark wikiHow to Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes 3 Apply the concealer. Use either a small nylon concealer brush, sponge, or your fingers to apply concealer below the shadows of your eye bags. Dab the concealer on to provide an even, blended coverage, without smearing. You want to apply just below the crease of your bags and blend downward, toward your cheek bones, in a triangular fashion. Aim for the top of your cheeks, just below the bags and shadows.
    • Don’t apply makeup directly to the puffiness! The area under your eyes will wrinkle under heavy makeup, causing the bags to stand out even more. Applying the concealer below the bags draws attention to that area, instead of your puffy eyes.[3]
    • If you use powder foundation, remember to apply the concealer before applying the foundation.
    4. Advertisement
Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Touching Up and Setting Your Concealer

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  1. Watermark wikiHow to Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes 1 Assess the application. Take a moment to let the concealer set. If there's still darkness under your eye, you may add a bit more concealer, but keep it light. If the concealer is too bright, you will need to blend the makeup out.
    • If the concealer is too dark, balance it out with a concealer that is one shade lighter than your skin tone. This will help highlight the area below the puffiness.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes 2 Pat under the eyes to blend. Use a concealer or foundation of your natural skin tone to blend the previous application of concealer with the rest of your skin. This helps create a more natural appearance and remove a “caked” or overly-bright look.
    • Patting the concealer rather than rubbing help avoid smearing the makeup, and creates a more even blend.
    • If using your fingers to blend the concealer, use your ring finger. The ring finger tends to be the weakest finger, and provides a gentler touch.[4]
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes 3 Brighten around your eyes. Use a pale, pink colored highlighter to add some color to the inner and outer corners of your eyes. This helps draw attention to your eyes, and away from the bags and shadows.
    • Avoid eye liner or shadow in darker colors. Such colors can draw attention back to the bags you’re trying to hide.
    • Don't forget the inner area of the eye, near the bridge of the nose. Adding just a small amount of concealer or highlighter here can help brighten your whole face.[5]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Conceal Bags Under Your Eyes 4 Set the makeup. Use a face powder to set the makeup on your face, keeping it locked in and looking good all day. Take care to apply just a thin layer to avoid too much buildup of makeup.
    • No need to apply powder to your entire face. Just lightly dab the powder in the areas where you have applied makeup.
    • You can opt to use a bit more powder in areas prone to shininess – powder provides a matte look.[6]
    5. Advertisement
Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Living a Healthier Lifestyle

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  1. Step 1 Cut back on salty foods. 1 Cut back on salty foods. The bags under our eyes are caused by fluid retention. Overconsumption of salt leads to this retention, meaning cutting back on the amount of salt in your food can help reduce the puffiness in your eyes.[7]
    • Lay off the foods that are high in sodium, such as pickles, olives, soup, and fast food.
    • Eat more foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, avocados, and celery. These foods help balance the sodium in your body.[8]
  2. Step 2 Drink more water. 2 Drink more water. The body holds on to water when you are dehydrated, leading to fluid retention. Upping your water intake can reduce this retention, reducing the bags under your eyes. Aim for eight glasses of water a day (8 ounces each) to keep a healthy hydration level.
    • Water is gained through food as well. Try upping the amount of fruit and vegetables you eat to supplement your water intake.[9]
    • You can also stay hydrated by drinking beverages like tea and coffee, which are mostly water.
  3. Step 3 Get enough sleep. 3 Get enough sleep. A lack of good rest causes fluid retention and dark shadows under our eyes. Make sure you get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night, depending on your individual needs.
    • Though a lack of sleep contributes to eye bags, sleeping more is not necessarily a cure. If you already get plenty of sleep and still have eye bags, forcing yourself to sleep more will not reduce the puffiness.[10]
  4. Step 4 Remove your makeup at night. 4 Remove your makeup at night. Leaving face and eye makeup on at night can clog pores, cause acne, and generally prevent your skin from restoring itself overnight. Make sure to wipe off any makeup prior to sleeping for the night to reduce damage to the eyes.
    • Use a moisturizing eye cream overnight to help remove wrinkles and lines associated with puffy bags.[11]
  5. Step 5 Get your allergies in check. 5 Get your allergies in check. Seasonal allergies and sinus problems cause swelling, which can lead to those pesky eye bags and shadows. Talk to your doctor to discuss your allergies and see if there is a treatment option that can help combat the problem.
    • Over-the-counter decongestant or neti pots can help keep things moving in your sinuses, without the need for a prescription.
    • Stay hydrated! Water will keep those dark circles from appearing, but also keeps your nasal passages and sinuses well lubricated.[12]
    6. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

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  • Question What is the best concealer shade for under eye bags? Christin Birckhead Christin Birckhead Makeup Artist Christin Birckhead is a Makeup Artist and the Founder of Conceptual Beauty, a beauty service based in Washington, DC specializing in wedding services such as engagements and bridal parties along with fashion shows and executive headshots. She has over 20 years of makeup and beauty consulting experience. She is also the lead makeup artist for Ascender Communications and freelances with the local NBC news team in the DC metro area. Her clients include Nancy Pelosi, Nancy Cartwright, Armin Van Buuren, Hugh Jackman, Vashawn Mitchell, Richard Smallwood, Benjamin T. Jealous, Colin Powell, Wanda Durant, and Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Christin Birckhead Christin Birckhead Makeup Artist Expert Answer If your skin is very fair, opt for a peachy-colored concealer to cover dark circles. If your skin is darker, choose a deeper orange tone. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 7
  • Question How can I cover up bags under my eyes without using too much makeup? Christin Birckhead Christin Birckhead Makeup Artist Christin Birckhead is a Makeup Artist and the Founder of Conceptual Beauty, a beauty service based in Washington, DC specializing in wedding services such as engagements and bridal parties along with fashion shows and executive headshots. She has over 20 years of makeup and beauty consulting experience. She is also the lead makeup artist for Ascender Communications and freelances with the local NBC news team in the DC metro area. Her clients include Nancy Pelosi, Nancy Cartwright, Armin Van Buuren, Hugh Jackman, Vashawn Mitchell, Richard Smallwood, Benjamin T. Jealous, Colin Powell, Wanda Durant, and Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Christin Birckhead Christin Birckhead Makeup Artist Expert Answer When it comes to concealer, less is more – too much can give a “caked” appearance. When you're finished, set the concealer with a thin layer of translucent powder. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 1 Helpful 6
  • Question What causes bags under your eyes? Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University. Laura Martin Laura Martin Licensed Cosmetologist Expert Answer Bags under your eyes can be caused by a stuffy nose, allergies, stress, or eating too much salt. They can also be a sign of stress or aging. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 12
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Video

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Tips

  • Don’t rub, smear, or stroke the makeup on your face. Remember to pat! Thanks Helpful 16 Not Helpful 3
  • Undereye bags can also be a symptom of a food intolerance. Thanks Helpful 10 Not Helpful 2
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Don't apply your makeup too close to your eyes or you could actually cause bags to form. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/news/a29242/beauty-products-you-should-keep-in-your-refrigerator/
  2. ↑ Christin Birckhead. Makeup artist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020.
  3. ↑ https://www.allure.com/beauty-trends/blogs/daily-beauty-reporter/2014/12/conceal-puffy-under-eyes.html
  4. ↑ https://www.byrdie.com/how-to-cover-up-bags-under-eyes/slide4
  5. ↑ https://www.abeautifulmess.com/2014/08/contouring-basics-using-concealers.html
  6. ↑ https://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/face/_/making-foundation-and-concealer-last
  7. ↑ https://www.allaboutvision.com/cosmetic/puffy-eyes.htm
  8. ↑ https://www.weekand.com/healthy-living/article/under-eye-bags-due-much-sodium-18023898.php
  9. ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256?pg=2
More References (4)
  1. ↑ https://www.everydayhealth.com/sleep/is-insomnia-causing-your-dark-circles.aspx
  2. ↑ https://stylecaster.com/beauty/under-eye-bag-fixes/
  3. ↑ https://stylecaster.com/beauty/under-eye-bag-fixes/
  4. Videos provided by Katerina Beauty Blog

About This Article

Christin Birckhead Co-authored by: Christin Birckhead Makeup Artist This article was co-authored by Christin Birckhead. Christin Birckhead is a Makeup Artist and the Founder of Conceptual Beauty, a beauty service based in Washington, DC specializing in wedding services such as engagements and bridal parties along with fashion shows and executive headshots. She has over 20 years of makeup and beauty consulting experience. She is also the lead makeup artist for Ascender Communications and freelances with the local NBC news team in the DC metro area. Her clients include Nancy Pelosi, Nancy Cartwright, Armin Van Buuren, Hugh Jackman, Vashawn Mitchell, Richard Smallwood, Benjamin T. Jealous, Colin Powell, Wanda Durant, and Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. This article has been viewed 222,741 times. 10 votes - 60% Co-authors: 16 Updated: May 27, 2025 Views: 222,741 Categories: Eye Makeup Article SummaryX

To conceal bags under your eyes, start by applying a small amount of orange or peach colored concealer just below your bags to cancel out the blue-grey color. Wait a few seconds for the concealer to set, then blend it in with your finger or a makeup sponge. Next, apply a concealer that matches your skin tone on top, and blend it in. If you’d like, you can also use a pale, pink colored highlighter on your lids to brighten your eyes. To learn how to change your lifestyle to reduce bags under your eyes, read more from our Cosmetologist co-author! Did this summary help you?YesNo

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Reader Success Stories

  • Mae Homans

    Mae Homans

    Jun 28, 2018

    "Application and sequence of application, very informative!"
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Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Christin Birckhead Co-authored by: Christin Birckhead Makeup Artist 10 votes - 60% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 16 Updated: May 27, 2025 Views: 222,741 Mae Homans

Mae Homans

Jun 28, 2018

"Application and sequence of application, very informative!" Debra Mangano

Debra Mangano

Sep 19, 2017

"To remember to put the concealer below the bag!" Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

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Tag » How To Cover Under Eye Bags