Some things are just really hard to fix. In fact, some are downright near impossible. But it might be less frustrating to fix a broken heart (or a messed-up computer) than trying to rid your face of dark under-eye circles. For some reason, dark spots on skin just don’t want to fade away, quietly!
But Clinique has ensured that those who suffer from under-eye circles have some hope of reducing them, and maybe even making them go away. There’s a new product in town, and it has a lot of promise: Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector ($39.50 .34 fl. oz.). This oil-free, hydrating, lightweight, flesh-tinted gel/cream (it goes on clear) is supposed to visibly lighten circles fby 30% in 12 weeks. If that seems like a long time to wait, keep in mind that until recently, nothing really did much for dark under-eye circles, besides mask them with concealers.
What It Does: According to Clinique, the skin-strengthening ingredients in this product is supposed to make skin less transparent, while an unusual, ergonomic, slanted sliver tip adds “cooling massage” that breaks up puffiness. The product is sheer, but ingredients within help create the look of brighter skin on all complexions from fair to deep. It is also good for all skin types.
Clinique also packs a lot of skin-loving ingredients into it’s products, and this product is no exception. Key ingredients that love to help your skin, include: Vitamin C, and Mulberry root, that gently work in tandem to help minimize the appearance of darkness. Caffeine and green tea extract are known for their soothing, calming properties, and they also help to protect against environmental saboteurs. something called Phytosphingosine helps minimize inflammation underneath the think skin under the eyes, that can make dark circles really stand out. Siegesbeckia Orientalis extract helps maintain the skin’s integrity and avoid the breakdown of natural collagen, while linoleic acid and cholesterol help balance and moisturize, and why protein promotes collagen production so dark circles don’t look so, well…dark! Cosmetically, there is what Clinique calls: ” translucent optics technology” that is patent-pending, and helps to capture light so that your skin’s natural tone is brightened and enhanced. One website review suggested that the inclusion of Titanium Dioxide about a third down the list of ingredients, makes this sun-protection-worthy as wel. I certainly wouldn’t go that far as it is probably used as a pigment. But this little tube really is a powerhouse of “good stuff.”
You are supposed to use this product two a day and re-apply it as needed during the day. Simply squeeze a small amount out onto the silvery tip and smooth the applicator across the under-eye area. Use your finger to smooth the excess until it’s fully absorbed. You don’t need much, but the tube isn’t huge, so you might find you are going through more than one, per month, depending upon how often you apply it. However, at under $40,00 the Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector is still reasonably priced, compared to some of the other products and potions that purport to reduce or eliminate the look of deep, dark, under-eye discoloration.
I liked the cooling effect of the applicator, and the slightly tingly and refreshing feeling of the product under my eyes. I didn’t use it for 12 weeks as suggested, but I did use it enough to suggest it as a good possibility for anyone who suffers from dark under-eye, circles. It is also very hydrating. Even if dark circles don’t daunt you, the nurturing effects of this product would be worth it “as-is.” The product is also Ophthalmologist tested, 100% fragrance free, and allergy tested. It just launched in August, and frankly, it’s a pretty hot item. In fact, on some online department store websites, there is a notice saying that due to a high demand, a customer can’t order more than 6 pieces of this product every 30 days. If you want to get this and start curing your dark under-eye circles, no need to wait. It’s available now at your favorite Clinique counter, clinique.com and other online retailers
…also just launched in August, is Clinique’s latest mascara: High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara ($19.50). Clinique couldn’t have emphasized the fact that this mascara is supposed to dramatically volumize your lashes any more visually, than the case: a very large, shiny silver mascara tube that is double the width of most other mascara packaging.
The big news is actually not the big case, but the wand, with a thick bunch of tree-like bristles, and an extra-large surface area to build lashes to what some call: “ridiculously” big volume. The wand’s domed tip gives gets even the tiniest corner lashes in one swipe (more, and you risk clumping), coloring all in a very deep, inky, Extreme Black. The look really is extreme and dramatic. TIP: volumizing mascaras add bulk, so it’s a good idea to keep the mascara brush clean by wiping it now and then. If you have blond lashes like I do, this product really makes them stand out. It might not be to everyone’s tastes all the time to have long, thick, dark lashes, but when you want them, Clinique has done mascara “one better” with this new product. Of course, since this mascara is by Clinique, those who wear contact lenses or who have sensitive eyes don’t have to sit this oen out. It’s safe for all. It’s available now at your favorite Clinique counter, clinique.com and other online retailers
