Fake the awake look with this routine that will brighten up tired eyes in four simple steps.  Fall is here and with it, we are back to school and work with nights that run late and don't always leave us feeling bright-eyed and bushy-tailed in the mornings.   This can leave a girl with major dark circle status.  These tips are great when you are in a rush but need more than just au naturale. Of course, we found just the right beauty products, all made in the USA, if you are ready to restock.

Prep Your Face

Moisturize and even out your skin tone as you normally would.  Don't forget your under-eye concealer.  My go-to under-eye concealer is Fake Up by Benefit Cosmetics. Once you have completed that step, you are literally just minutes away from being done. The rest of the look is all about brightening up the eyes and adding a pop of color to your cheeks.

Brighten tired eyes with these four made in USA beauty products.

Rejuva Minerals in shade Pearl Beige. This shadow glides on smooth and has staying power. Having a light-neutral eyeshadow is a must to distract and diffuse the appearance of dark under eyes.

Smashbox Halo Highlighting Wand is a highlighter that works to detour attention away from the dark areas.  It helps deflect the dark circles and bring some light to the area.

CoverGirl Cheekers in Classic Pink. This shade is flattering on most skin tones, blends easily and looks gorgeous. Choosing the right shade of rosy pink makes all the difference in getting a fresh face.

Rejuva Pur Lash Volumizing Mascara goes on smoothly and gives rich color with just a couple of strokes.  This is a sensitive formula and washes away easily. Note: an earlier edition of this article featured Kiehl's Marvelous Mascara which has, unfortunately, been discontinued.

4 Quick & Easy Steps

  • Step 1: Apply a neutral eyeshadow all over the eyelid.
  • Step 2: Highlight the brow bone using highlighter from the center of the brow moving outward to the end.
  • Step 3: Now brush your blush on starting at the apples of the cheeks sweeping to the temples. Blend well.
  • Step 4: Lastly, add a few strokes of mascara to the upper and lower lashes. This opens the eye area.

Combine these steps with a coffee infusion – and work your day looking alive!

How are you feeling today? Are you awake or faking it??

How to brighten up tired eyes