Dark circles under the eyes are a common concern for many individuals, affecting both their appearances and self-esteem. They usually aren’t a sign of a medical challenge.
What are Dark Circles Under The Eyes?
Dark circles under the eyes refer to the darker region of skin beneath the eyes. This area may appear blue, purple, brown or black, depending on your skin colour. You may appear worn out or older than you are if you have dark circles under your eyes.
Causes of Dark Circles
- Genetics:
Research has shown that genetics can play an important role in the development of dark circles. If your parents or close relatives have them, you may be more prone to this condition.
- Thin Skin and Aging:
As the skin ages, it naturally becomes thinner, making blood vessels beneath the eyes more visible. This can result in the appearance of dark circles, especially in the delicate under-eye area.
- Lack of Sleep:
Insufficient sleep can aggravate the occurrence of dark circles and make them more noticeable.
- Allergies:
Allergic reactions can also lead to inflammation and swelling, contributing to the appearance of dark circles.
- Dehydration & Sun Exposure:
Inadequate hydration can cause the skin to appear dull and sunken, increasing the appearance of dark circles. Staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
Prolonged exposure to the sun can also accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, contributing to the development of dark circles.
- Iron Deficiency:
Anemia, often caused by iron deficiency, can lead to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues, resulting in dark circles.
- Dermatitis:
Eczema and contact dermatitis can cause the blood vessels under your eyes to dilate and show through your skin.
- Rubbing your eyes:
Rubbing and scratching your eyes can cause the region below your eyes to swell and your blood vessels to break.
- Lifestyle factors:
Other factors like stress, excessive alcohol use and smoking can cause dark circles under your eyes.
Effective Treatments for Dark Circles
- Topical Treatments:
Look for eye creams or serums containing ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. These can help improve skin texture, boost collagen production, and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Cold Compress:
Applying a cold compress or chilled cucumber slices can help constrict blood vessels and reduce puffy eyelids & discolouration.
- Stay Hydrated:
Ensure that you drink enough water throughout the day in order to keep your skin well-hydrated. Hydration can improve skin elasticity and reduce the prominence of dark circles.
- Get Adequate Sleep:
Observe a consistent sleep routine of about 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. This can significantly diminish the appearance of dark circles.
- Manage Allergies:
Identify and manage allergens that may be contributing to dark circles. Antihistamines and allergy medications can help alleviate symptoms.
- Sun Protection:
Use sunscreen with a high SPF to protect the delicate under-eye area from sun damage and prevent the acceleration of skin ageing.
- Dermal Fillers:
For cases where dark circles are caused by volume loss, dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid can be injected to restore fullness and reduce the appearance of hollows.
FAQs
What vitamins are good for dark circles under the eyes?
Over the years, studies have suggested that vitamin E, vitamin C, and vitamin K in products may play a role in reducing dark circles under the eyes. Some products also contain retinoids, made from vitamin A, which can modify skin tone.
Dark circles under the eyes may be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. In those cases, an iron supplement can be helpful to regularize blood levels.
Can Turmeric remove Dark Circles?
Yes, of course! Turmeric is known for its antioxidants and skin-lightening properties that help in softening and smoothing the skin to remove dark circles.
Can Drinking Milk Reduce Dark Circles?
Drinking raw milk is another exceptional natural method of reducing dark circles. The lactic acid present in raw milk helps to carefully exfoliate the skin while the moisturizing properties help to effectively hydrate it. This re duces the effects of fatigue around the eyes and helps to effectively brighten up the skin region.