Many men and women struggle with dark circles, so we have lined up some simple DIYs to get rid of them naturally.
Before we explore how to remove dark circles around and under the eyes, it’s time to shed some light on the possible causes of dark circles also known as periorbital circles.
Causes of Dark Circles Around and Under the Eyes
Dark circles are mainly found under the eyelids. There are several reasons why you may have dark circles under or around your eyes. Here are the possible causes:
Age: According to Cleveland Clinic, age is deemed one of the most common causes of dark circles under the eyes. Aging is a natural process and as the process progresses, the skin underneath the eyes becomes thinner. The blood vessels then become more visible, thus, contributing to the dark pigment under the eyes.
Fatigue: This is also another contributor to periorbital circles. How is this possible? You may ask. Well, it all starts with factors that contribute to fatigue which include; oversleeping, not getting enough rest, staying up late at night, and depriving yourself of sleep.
Research has shown that fatigue may also cause puffiness under the eyes.
Anemia: This is a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells that are responsible for oxygenating your body tissues and cells. When there is an inadequate blood supply to the areas under your eyes, it causes dark discoloration.
Dehydration: When your body lacks water, it affects your skin. Your skin may appear wrinkled and darker.
Dermatitis: Having contact dermatitis may cause widening of the blood vessels under the eyes, thus making them more visible under the skin.
Too much sun exposure: If you enjoy regular tanning, please pay close attention to this one. Excess sun exposure can increase melanin production in your skin which is responsible for giving your skin a dark appearance.
Your lifestyle: Certain lifestyle practices such as excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and smoking, can cause dark circles. In an article published by The National Institute of Health, it was found that 71 percent of persons who participated in the study had dark circles that were associated with high-stress levels.
Genetics: The dark circles may be because it runs in your family. Research has shown that this is a very common occurrence.
Now that we have explored the common causes of dark circles, let’s explore how to reduce or remove dark circles naturally at home.
Cold Compress for Dark Circles
Many medical research sources such as Healthline and Medical News Today indicate that using a cold compress for dark circles can help to reduce and eliminate them. In case you are wondering what a cold compress is, here is a simple definition:
Cold Compress is a cold or frozen item such as an ice or a cold washcloth applied to an area of the skin to provide pain relief or reduce temperature and swelling. You can make your own cold compress at home by freezing water in a zip-lock bag. You can even use bagged frozen vegetables to get the job done. After which, you wrap it in a clean cloth. Or you can dampen a clean washcloth and place it in a sealed bag. Then put it in the freezer and use it to compress underneath the eyes.
How Does Cold Compress for Dark Circles Work?
The mechanism is quite easy to understand. When you apply a cold compress under or around your eyes, it can help to reduce the dilation (widening) of blood vessels as well as reduce the swelling that is usually associated with dark circles. This in turn will decrease blood flow and reduce the visibility of blood vessels under the eye. Thus, reduce hyperpigmentation.
Cucumber Slices for Dark Circles
An article posted by Insider showcasing an interview with Michele Green, a medical doctor and cosmetic dermatologist from New York City, indicated that cucumber can help to reduce or remove dark circles. She explained that it may not remove it completely but it can help to reduce the blood vessels and reduces hyperpigmentation. Cucumber contains vitamin K which helps to strengthen the blood vessels. Thus, reducing their visibility.
How to Use Cucumber Slices for Dark Circles
This is another simple method. First, get a clean cucumber and cut it into medium or thick slices. Then place them in the refrigerator for about half an hour.
Next, remove the cucumber slices from the refrigerator and place them over the eyes two times a day. Do not exceed 15 minutes for each treatment. This is also another cold compress idea. So, you are getting the best of both worlds—the cucumber and the cold compress.
How to Remove Dark Circles Overnight—Sleep
This is the easiest of all the methods. Sleep is important for your overall health and well-being and it is also essential to achieve that amazing facial glow.
A study was done by a team of researchers to examine the negative effects of sleep on participants’ facial features. It was found that lack of sleep is a contributor to dark circles under the eyes and indicated that adequate sleep improves facial appearance.
Now, how can you fall asleep? Listen to some rain music or some calming songs. Block out distractions or employ any method that works for you to get a good night’s rest.
How to Remove Dark Circles Overnight with Aloe Vera
This is one of the most popular natural skincare products. It is widely used to treat several skincare conditions. It is enriched with antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. These properties work together to reduce inflammation and puffiness under the eye which contributes to dark circle formation. Aloe Vera helps to reduce wrinkles and skin dryness. It is said that you can use Aloe Vera to remove dark circles overnight or within two to three days. Here is a skincare routine adopted from Styles at Life on removing dark circles overnight using Aloe Vera.
- Dip a piece of cotton in Aloe Vera gel and apply the gel under your eyes.
- Let it stay on your face for 10 to 15 minutes, then gently wipe your face using a dampened washcloth.
You can repeat this process twice per day to achieve faster and better results.
If you don’t have your own Aloe Vera at home, you can start your own Aloe Vera Garden. Here is a quick video on how to get started:
How to Reduce Dark Circles Within 3 Days
Green Tea Bags
You may have thought that the only way to use green tea bags is using them to make tea, however, there is more to those green tea bags. They are vital in the removal of dark circles on your skin. How long it takes is not stated in the research articles reviewed, though some sources indicate that you can start seeing results within just two to three days.
Here is how you can get rid of those dark circles fast with green tea bags:
Pour warm water on two green tea bags in a cup. Then put the tea bags in the refrigerator for two to three hours. After which you remove and place them on your eyes for about 20 minutes. Be sure to not remove the bag that housed the green tea contents.
Final Note
There you have it. Some super easy DIYs for removing dark circles naturally at home. So, whether you want to remove dark circles quickly or you want to reduce discoloration, we hope you found these recommendations helpful. These are all cost-effective methods. It is important to note that depending on your skin, certain treatments may or may not work for you. But it is worth trying as long as you are not allergic to any of the products listed. Refresh your under eyes by trying out these DIY solutions for dark circles!
Sasha-Gaye Sampson is a health and wellness and travel writer.