Last Updated on 16th January 2023
Are you tired of looking tired, even after a full night’s sleep? Dark circles under the eyes are a common problem experienced by many. But the good news is that it is a fixable problem. From natural methods to medical treatments and lifestyle changes, here we’ll be sharing all the ways you can eliminate dark under eye circles and step out confidently!
What causes dark circles under the eyes?
Dark circles are caused by various factors, including a lack of sleep and stress, but they are not the only ones. We have fragile skin around our eyes. That skin is very delicate, so it’s easily affected by environmental factors like sun exposure and air pollution. Dark circles can also be caused by allergies. When your body reacts to something, histamines are released, causing inflammation in the area around your eyes.
Genetics play a role, too. People with darker skin tones or those predisposed to hyperpigmentation are more likely to notice more dramatic dark circles. Dilated blood vessels can also cause dark circles because the tissue around your eyes thins, making those underlying veins more visible.
And finally, dehydrated skin can lead to dark circles. When your skin is dry, it loses elasticity and appears duller, emphasising the appearance of dark circles.
Are dark circles under the eyes permanent?
The simple answer is that it depends. If your dark circles are genetic, it may be more challenging to eliminate them entirely. Suppose environmental stressors such as lack of sleep, allergies, or poor nutrition are to blame. In that case, the good news is that with the right lifestyle changes and plenty of TLC (tender loving care! ), you can make these pesky little shadows vanish!
How do you get rid of dark circles under your eyes naturally?
Cold compresses
Soak a towel or washcloth in cold water, wring it out, and gently place it over each eye. You can also use an ice pack or frozen vegetables wrapped in a cloth for the same effect. Cold compresses can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation and keep dark circles at bay. Repeat this process twice daily for the best results.
Natural oils
Olive oil, coconut oil, and almond oil are excellent for reducing dark under eye circles. Dip a cotton ball into the essential oil of your choice. Then, wrap the soaked cotton ball around your dark circles and leave it on overnight. This will help to moisturise and nourish the area, reducing the visibility of dark circles over time.
Cucumber slices
Slice a cucumber and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Place one slice over each of your eyes for 10-15 minutes (or longer if desired), then sit back, relax, and enjoy the cooling sensation. This remedy helps with puffy eyes and dark circles and when used regularly, can help prevent them from forming in the future.
Tea Bags
After removing them from hot water, allow a pair of tea bags to cool completely. Place a bag over each eye for 15-20 minutes once they’ve returned to room temperature. The tea’s tannins are incredibly effective at reducing dark circles, and wrinkles around the eyes and improving blood circulation.
Potato Slices
Cut a potato into thin slices and leave in the fridge till it’s cold. Place two pieces on each eye for about 10 minutes and then remove them (you may need to adjust the time depending on your skin sensitivity). This remedy can help to lighten dark circles by shrinking blood vessels near the eyes and providing a soothing effect.
Rose Water
Soak your fingertips in rose water and massage gently around your eyes for a few minutes. Alternatively, apply rose water with a cotton ball directly to the area and leave for 10 to 15 minutes to promote brighter skin under your eyes.
Potato Slices
Cut a potato into thin slices and leave in the fridge till it’s cold. Place two slices on each eye for about 10 minutes and then remove them (you may need to adjust the time depending on your skin sensitivity). This remedy can help to lighten dark circles by shrinking blood vessels near the eyes and providing a soothing effect.
Rose Water
Soak your fingertips in rose water and massage gently around your eyes for a few minutes or apply rose water with a cotton ball directly to the area and leave for 10 to 15 minutes to promote brighter skin.
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What is the best treatment for dark circles under the eyes?
Eye creams
Eye creams reduce dark circles by hydrating and nourishing the delicate skin around your eyes. They are best used in the morning and at night and contain ingredients that have been shown to brighten dark circles. Apply a small amount to your ring finger and gently tap into the skin around your eyes. With regular use, you can expect results in as little as a few weeks.
What’s the best eye cream for reducing dark circles?
Manuka Doctor’s eye cream is our absolute fave for making those pesky wrinkles and dark circles disappear! This highly effective cream is packed with a powerhouse of ingredients to help you look your best. Everything from octapeptide, purified bee venom and citrus fruit flavonoid work together to erase fine lines and dark patches and restore skin’s softness and youthful glow. Just smooth a little under your eyes in the morning and night to reveal a more radiant you!
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Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can also be used to diminish dark circles. A gentle chemical solution is applied to your skin, which helps exfoliate away dead skin cells and stimulate new cell growth. This can help even out discolouration and brighten your overall complexion. A certified aesthetician should only perform chemical peels, so make sure you find a professional you trust before booking an appointment.
Laser Treatment
For those looking for more dramatic results, laser treatments may be the best option for dark circles. Lasers target hyperpigmentation in the undereye area and stimulate collagen production, resulting in smoother, brighter skin over time. While it’s important to note that laser treatments are not without risk, they can effectively minimise dark circles and create a more even complexion.
Derma Fillers
Consider dermal fillers or injections if you want a more instant solution for dark circles. These treatments involve injecting hyaluronic acid-based fillers around your eyes to quickly decrease the appearance of dark circles. The effects are immediate and can last up to a year before another treatment is required. However, it is essential to note that medical treatments are risky and should only be performed by a certified professional.
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How to get rid of dark circles under your eyes with lifestyle changes?
Get more sleep
It might seem obvious but getting enough sleep is one of the best ways to combat eye bags. Aim for 7-8 hours per night, and if possible, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule – going to bed and waking up at roughly the exact times each day can make all the difference. Keep your head slightly elevated when you sleep, as this can help curb puffiness in your eyes.
Eat healthy foods
The foods you eat directly impact dark eye circles, so it pays to choose wisely! Focus on eating plenty of water-rich fruits and vegetables (think celery and cucumbers) that are rich in antioxidants, like blueberries and pomegranates. You should also ensure you’re getting enough zinc which helps with inflammation – oysters are one of the best sources of this nutrient. And if puffy eyes are a common problem for you, avoid salty snacks or alcohol, as they can worsen them.
Do more exercise
Exercising increases blood flow, helps with energy levels and promotes oxygen circulation. This reduces any puffiness around the eyes and brightens up the skin. However, increasing the intensity of exercises won’t necessarily bring about quicker results. Instead, look to low-impact and regular physical activity such as yoga as a better option for addressing dark circles.
Skin Care
Set up an effective skincare routine that includes daily cleansing and moisturising. Reaching for gentle cleansers formulated for your particular skin type is essential. Leaving makeup on at night won’t do favours for dark circles either, so be sure to remove all traces of foundation, eyeshadow and mascara before bedtime. Finally, try incorporating facial exercises like eye massages into your daily routine, as this can help improve lymphatic drainage.
Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water is vital. This is because if our body is dehydrated, this shows up in the skin around our eyes and gives us that dreaded panda-eye look. Staying hydrated also helps flush out toxins that can accumulate in the skin, which may be causing those dark circles. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water each day is recommended- make it your goal!v
To conclude
It’s important to remember that not all solutions will work for everyone. Before trying any new remedy, be sure to figure out what is causing your dark circles. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to ask for professional help.