Tired? Us too. Modern life doesn’t always afford us eight perfect hours, and if you’re anything like us, the result is written all over your face: dull skin, dark circles and more puff than a vape shop.
Whether you’re under-slept, had a little too much fun last night, or just have a case of the January blues, GRAZIA’s got your back. We can’t help with the headache, but we can make you look fresh-faced and fabulous. Here’s everything you need for the perfect pick-me-up makeover courtesy of the best beauty products to help you look rested and refreshed, fast.
THE DEPUFFERS
There may be those among us who will be thinking “Why not just use slices of cucumber, as custom dictates?” to which we answer: cucumber doesn’t sparkle, nor lend itself to facial massage, as these do. Pop in the fridge for 30 minutes, (better yet, keep them in there…) apply your facial serum and massage away your poor night’s sleep.
THE LED
If you’ve left your teenage visage and its youthful plumpness behind, fear not: LED therapy is an incredibly effective way of smoothing and brightening the undereye area. Dr Dennis Gross’ SpectraLite EyeCare Max Pro Device is your three-minute collagen and elastin wake-up call, helping to fight fine lines, wrinkles, inflammation and blemishes. You’ll be amazed: just trust us on this one.
THE SPRITZ
French pharmacies are the chicest in the world, naturellement, and the products you can find in them are no-nonsense, clean and effective. If you’re yet to acquaint yourself with Avéne – truly the crème de la crème of French skincare – then meet your new skincare staple. This ultra-fine mist can be used in a multitude of ways: dampen your skin between skincare steps for maximum absorption, use it as a primer, a setting spray, or a luxurious spritz to combat the mid-afternoon slump. However you use it, it will leave your skin plump and juicy. Pro-tip: keep it in the fridge for maximum refreshment.
THE MASK
With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, this rich clay mask brightens fatigued complexions and removes stubborn impurities in just 10 minutes. The crushed cranberry seeds are nature’s perfect tools for gentle exfoliation. A facial in a pot, all from the comfort of your own bathroom.
THE EYE CREAM
Wherever you stand on the eye cream debate (for the record, we at GRAZIA are firm believers) there’s no question that the skin under your eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on your face. No wonder it’s where we show our age! We are Dr. Sturm devotees, and this eye cream – with its blend of natural compounds and actives – is a godsend for tired eyes. It’ll convert you to eye creams for life.
THE SPF
If you buy one product after reading this article, make it this one. This so-much-more-than-a-sunscreen is a sell-out sensation packed with antioxidants that leave you looking and feeling dewy, dewy, dewy. Wear it on its own or under makeup for a gorgeous, youthful glow, with just a hint of tint – not to mention UVA and UVB protection.
THE CONCEALER
This buildable concealer is heavy-duty enough to deal with the darkest of dark circles – not to mention the spot that erupted while you tossed and turned – without crumbling, creasing or letting you down mid-afternoon. It’s a no-makeup makeup Holy Grail and comes in a huge range of shades.
THE BLUSH
Don’t skimp on blush if you’re feeling tired or blue: we all know how much impact a little rouge can have. (If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try the TikTok-approved underblushing hack.) We love this creamy formula from Pixi. It blends out beautifully and is so easy to apply. Simply swipe it across your cheeks for an instant flush of colour.
THE LINER
Heavy eye makeup will not be your friend on days like today. If black is your go-to, give the kohl a rest and opt instead for a white liner in your waterline and around your tear ducts to open up the eye and banish redness. It’s the sleepy girl’s very own magic wand. Finish with light, shimmery eyeshadow and lashings of mascara. Thank us later.
THE SCULPTOR
It’s no secret that we worship Ms. Tilbury, and this product is by far the most complimented in our makeup bags. We’ve had everything from “You look so well!” (reader, we did not feel well) to “You look like a filter!” and even “Have you had something done?” It’s that good.
THE SCENT
This “fragrance supplement” is designed to be used whenever you need to power through a task. Fresh and warm, with vibrant clary sage, juniper, pink peppercorn and clove, you’ll be a crucible of productivity in no time – but most importantly, you’ll smell fabulous.
