How To Fake The Look of a Good Night's Sleep

We all have nights where beauty sleep is hard to come by. If you wake up not only feeling but also looking exhausted, fret not. A quick cup of coffee or two may cure the former, but the latter can also be dealt with easily. Just make sure you have the right products on hand and you can transform from ghost to gorgeous in no time.

1. Exfoliate.
One of the quickest ways to revive dull skin and pep up the complexion is to exfoliate. Exfoliating rids the skin of dead skin cells, creating a smoother, more glowing base.

2. Moisturise.
Tired skin can look dull and grey; a touch of moisturiser will work wonders to make the skin look more awake. Try a lightweight moisturiser if you have oily to combination skin. Drier skins are better off with a thick cream or oil. Rosehip oil is wonderful for dehydration and will give your face a much-needed glow. If you don’t have any oils on hand, check the kitchen cupboard. Olive oil is one of the cheapest and most effective moisturisers out there.

3. Hydrate
Water is essential if you want to look more awake. Make sure you drink plenty of water or herbal tea throughout the day to plump up the skin. You can also buy (or make your own) water sprays, which can be used directly on the skin as an added boost.

4. Cheat with Makeup!
A little makeup can work wonders on tired skin. However, don’t be tempted to paint it on thick. Caked-on, powdery makeup can make you look more tired, not less. Instead, try opening up your eyes with a little mascara, then add a touch of light-diffusing concealer under the eyes and a pop of pink blush on the apples of the cheek. Instant perfection!

Follow all these steps and you can fool anyone into thinking you've slept a full eight hours the night before!

Lucy Palmer is a freelance makeup artist in Exeter.
lucy.palmer.richeson@gmail.com