Fake a Good Night’s Sleep In 4 Easy Steps

1. Moisturize

Assuming you’ve gone straight to the bathroom to wash out all of that non-sleep you had (preferably with cold water as it not only wakes you up but also your skin), then we can talk about what’s really important. Moisturizing is one of the most important parts of revitalizing your entire complexion. If your complexion is well hydrated, rather than parched, your skin will not only feel softer, it will look so much better. And you know what they say about people with good skin, right? They apparently sleep 7 to 8 hours a night (wink, wink). Cult favorite Philosophy Hope in a Jar ($39) is a deeply hydrating lightweight miracle designed to deliver soft, healthy, glowing skin. As an added bonus, it also reduces the appearance of wrinkles and discoloration. 

2. Brighten and De-Puff

Once your skin has been properly moisturized, we can move on to the windows of your soul: the eyes. It’s very likely that your eyes are acting all kinds of shady — the under-eye kind of shade — if your skin is feeling tired. In addition to dark circles, they might also look puffy, which is always a tell-tale sign that you have been either staying up too late, or partying way too much. To fix that, look for an eye moisturizer that not only helps minimize dark circles, but more importantly de-puffs. Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage ($28) has a cooling rollerball that massages away bags as it refreshens and brightens the eye area. When looking for an eye serum, make sure it contains ingredients include caffeine (to wake-up and tighten), anti-oxidants, and soothing botanicals.

3. Lighten Up 

Once you have de-puffed your bags and properly hydrated your lids, it’s time to trick everyone into thinking you just got back from the most relaxing holiday. How so? By putting on light-reflecting eye-concealer that not only erases dark circles and fatigue, but makes you look very well-rested. My favorite, Dior Skinflash Radiance Booster ($37), is a professional “light-work” that works in a flash or click. Just one stroke of this lightweight brilliance and you will instantly get rid of shadows, fine lines, and imperfections. Additionally, you skin will glow with such radiance, don’t be surprised if you find yourself getting some green vibes from your fatigued co-workers.

Next, emphasize the whites of your eyes by lining your lower rims with Tarte EmphasEYES Inner Rim Brightener ($18). This multitasking pencil liner gives your eyes that wide-awake effect by brightening the whites of your eyes and making your lids pop. Use this pencil also to highlight your brow bone for added shape and definition.

4. Add Some Color

Once your skin is moisturized and luminated, it’s time to add a few tricks that will give you a natural prettiness that typically can only be achieved with hours upon hours of restful sleep. Start by giving your skin that pretty flush with Hourglass Aura Sheer Cheek in Berry Pink ($45), a water-based stain that gives cheeks a subtle lit-from-within glow. Not only will this stain give your cheeks a radiant glow, it will last all day. Then add a semi-sheer lip balm, I love Clinique’s Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm in Sheer Dusty Rose ($16). This gorgeous lip balm treats lips to mouthwatering moisture and adds a hint of soft shine. Follow with a swipe of mascara and — voilà! — you now look instantly rested.

image: IMAXtree


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