I use a cotton bud "dipped" into a little of my moisturising lotion mixed with concealer when I need to hide those dark circles.....it's easier to pat on, and you can use the baby bud to do that too....makes life easier all round..so that you don't poke yourself in the eye with a fingernail !!......"Used" tea bags chilled and dampened, make a refreshing wake up call for tired swollen eyes, best applied when you have a spare half hour to lie down and rest....Be good to yourself, you are worth it!