Dark eye circles are unsightly purple discolorations usually seen on the skin around our eyes. These discolorations appear when blood leaks from the small blood vessels found under the thin skin that surrounds the eyes. The purple color results when this leaked blood gets oxidized.
These purple, bruise-like discolorations are very obvious. They can make you appear tired, stressed, ill, or old. Not getting enough sleep, too much stress, excessive sun exposure, and allergies are some of the factors that might lead to the formation of dark eye circles.
Genetics and aging also play important roles. As a result of the natural aging process, our skin begins to lose it plumpness and elasticity and becomes dry. In the eye area, the skin which is already thin, gets wrinkled and thins out even more. This makes the blood vessels and oxidized blood underneath it more readily visible.
Treatments for dark eye circles
These dark circles negatively affect our appearance. Therefore, it would be practical to have them eliminated as quickly as possible. It’s a good thing that a number of solutions for this problem exist today. You can choose between natural home remedies and chemical-based or cosmetics remedies.
Home remedies for dark eye circles
Cucumbers
This is the most popular home remedy for dark eye circles. Some cosmetic companies even incorporate cucumber extracts to their eye care products.
Cucumbers are known to have vitamin C and tannic acid that are known to relieve irritations and alleviate swelling. It is also excellent in hydrating and rejuvenating the skin.
To use: Place one slice of cucumber over each eye for about 15 minutes. After that, rinse your face with cold water.
Raw potato slices
Potatoes contain an enzyme called cathecol oxidase, which is known to be a good skin lightener. Potatoes can also reduce inflammation.
To use: Place one slice of raw potato over each eye for about 10 minutes. After that, rinse your face with cold water.
Vitamin C and Vitamin E
These vitamins are potent antioxidants that work to lighten and fade dark eye circles. Vitamin C can also increase the rate at which the body produces collagen – the protein which can make the skin on the eye area more plump.
Tea Bags
Teas contain flavonoids which are known to have a powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and antioxidant properties. The anti-inflammatory effect may help reduce eye swelling and puffiness. Flavonoids can also strengthen the blood vessels under the skin around the eyes, thereby preventing leakage of blood and the formation of dark eye circles. The blood vessels are also constricted, making them appear less visible.
To use: Place cold tea bags over your tired eyes for 15 minutes. After that, rinse your face with cold water.
Cosmetic treatments for dark eye circles
Concealers
Concealers can only provide a temporary solution to this problem. Anyway, the concealer that you must use to hide dark circles should be one shade lighter than your skin tone. Otherwise, it will only make your dark circles more obvious. It is also important that when applying concealers, be sure to rub it against the skin gently.
Creams and Lotions
There are many anti-dark eye circle creams and lotions available in the market today. To be able to choose which among them is the best, look for products that contain soothing ingredients, peptides and flavonoids. Soothing ingredients may include cucumber extracts, shea butter, and antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. When using creams and lotions, be sure to apply them gently.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels can also be used to treat dark eye circles. In this procedure, which should be performed by a licensed dermatologist only, the surface of the skin is exfoliated to reveal the underlying healthy skin.
Closing Thoughts
The best way to fight dark eye circles is to prevent them from occurring in the first place – which can be done by switching to a healthy lifestyle.
Also, if you have tried all the treatments possible, but still haven’t gotten any results, it is recommended to visit your physician, as dark eye circles can also be a manifestation of a more serious health problem.