Radiance-Boosting Beauty

Normally, I’d say stopping by your local cosmetics counter early morning and sans makeup is a rookie move -- a run-in with a perfectly poised diva can be tough on anyone’s confidence. But desperate for a few tips to revive my less-than-stellar complexion, I donned my oversized shades, marched in bare-faced and asked the artist on duty for help.

Ten minutes later, I left glowing, with three radiance-boosting tricks and my ego in check.

What’s better is that the pointers are easy enough to replicate on my own.

Use two shades of concealer

This may seem like more work for little payoff, but trust me, the results are worth the extra 30 seconds. In the corners of your eyes, dab a cream formula in a shade that mimics the skin tone under your eye. Next, hug the lower lash line with a pink highlighter (like you would apply an eyeliner). The result is an illuminated eye-opener sans dark circles.

Use primer post-makeup.

By definition, these light diffusers would be applied before foundation or tinted moisturizer. Instead, pat on cheekbones or blush post-coverage for an extra glow that looks like it comes from within you.

Refresh with a spritz.

The same setting mists you use to help prime or set your makeup can be used to rejuvenate and hydrate skin throughout the day and impart an instant glow.

Stacy Baker has written for InStyle, Shape, Self, Fitness, Family Circle and Prevention. She was previously Sephora's editorial director and the executive editor of Life & Style Weekly.

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