From the last summer benefits in Southampton to the winter galas in Manhattan, the social calendar rarely slows down. Back-to-back evenings are wonderful, but they show up around the eyes first. Late nights, travel between the city and the East End, and a glass of champagne or two can leave the under-eye area looking puffy by the third event of the week.

The good news is that looking rested on a packed schedule comes down to planning. Here’s a simple timeline that works whether you’re dressing for a black-tie dinner or a garden party.

The week before

Treat sleep like part of your look. Even one or two early nights during a busy week make a difference. Drink water throughout the day, especially on travel days and before evenings with cocktails. Keep salty snacks to a minimum the day before a big event, since salt can leave the eye area looking puffier the next morning.

This is also the week to settle your skincare. Skip new products or treatments right before an event. Stick with what your skin already knows.

The morning of

Start with a splash of cool water and a gentle cleanser. Follow with your usual moisturizer. If you’ll use a tightener later, keep moisturizer and eye cream off the under-eye area that day, since they reduce the tightening effect. If you’re getting your hair and makeup done, let your artist know if your eyes tend to look puffy in the evening. They can plan the look around it.

Before your makeup

This is when a temporary eye tightener earns its place on the vanity. Peter Thomas Roth Instant FIRMx Eye Temporary Eye Tightener Easy-Wear Formula instantly reduces the look of puffiness, fine lines, deep wrinkles and crow’s feet* without residue, pulling or pilling, so it fits into a full glam routine. The effect is temporary, which is exactly what you want for one evening.

Apply a very thin layer to clean, dry skin under the eyes, with no eye cream underneath.

Keep your face relaxed while it sets. No talking or smiling for a few minutes.

Once it’s fully set, apply concealer and the rest of your makeup with a light hand.

The most common mistake is using too much. A small amount goes a long way, and a thin layer looks the most natural in photos.

During the event

Flash photography is unforgiving, so keep touch-ups simple. Blot rather than wipe, and press a little powder or concealer only where you need it. Pack a small mirror, blotting papers and your lipstick, and leave the rest at home.

The morning after

Give your eyes a gentle reset. Cool water, a hydrating eye cream and a slow start to the day go a long way before the next invitation arrives.

FAQ

Can I use an eye tightener every night of the season? It’s designed for a temporary effect, so it’s best saved for the evenings when you want to look your most rested.

Will it show in photos? Applied in a thin layer and fully set, it sits under makeup. Too much product is what causes a visible cast.

*Based on an immediate clinically measured study on 39 women ages 36 to 69.