Dark Circles Under Eyes: Causes and Remedies

• Dark circles under eyes is a common problem among people of all ages, but it can be prevented and treated
• Sometimes the dark circles can worsen and appear as under eye bags

A large number of people are afflicted with dark circles under their eyes. This is a common problem today among men women and children as well. Dark circles are black shadows that present under the eyes and can make us appear to be exhausted or unwell. Because dark circles, also known to be “bags under the eyes”, can be caused by different factors, it is important to determine what these factors are.

Some of the more common causes of dark circles can be:
• Fatigue and Lack of sleep: The process of sleep is to give the body time to revitalize and heal itself. When sleep is interrupted or the sleep depth is not deep enough so the body is given the ability to regroup, fatigue sets in and with fatigue our skin can becomes pale. The paleness can make the bloodstream beneath the skin more obvious and visible and that gives a darker appearance.

• Hydration: Most people do not drink enough water throughout the day. Dark circles can be more pronounced when inadequate hydration occurs. Many people do not know when dehydration occurs and drinking liquids such as coffee, tea, and alcohol in addition to eating foods that contain high amounts of salt add to the problem of hydration. It is wise to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily to avoid improper hydration and the occurrence of dark circles.

• Improper nutrition: Nutrition is a primary factor that helps in maintaining a healthy skin. Unhealthy food can lead to dark circles and even wrinkles. A balanced diet is very important in the prevention of dark circles occurring under the eyes.

• Allergies: Any allergic condition or sensitivity can exacerbate dark circles. Allergies commonly lead to itching and rubbing the skin which can bring about dark shadows. Hay fever, pet allergies, and some foods can contribute to the problem especially during the most allergy prominent seasons.

• Sun Exposure: The sun’s UVB and UVA rays can indeed be very harmful for the skin and it also aggravates the dark circles. Sunlight tends to darken your skin and this happens due to the rise in pigment levels. This rise in the pigment levels makes the dark circles appear even darker. There are many sun damaged skin care products that can minimise this effect.

Some of the causes of the more severe dark circle can be:

• Age: Age definitely plays a great role in the formation of dark circles. Our skin tends to become thinner as we age and this results in the blood vessels appearance to show causing dark circles. Without proper anti-aging prevention, the skin loses collagen and retains fluid which can attribute for the darker shadows to appear.

• Heredity: Dark circles are due to the blood vessels showing through the skin. Genetic skin factors are greatly inherited and tend to be passed down in addition to skin afflictions like varicose veins. The transparency of the skin is highly dependent on genetic factors and the skin is more transparent under the eye area.

• Medications: Certain medications can dilate the blood vessels. As the skin under the eye area is very thin and delicate, an increased blood flow can be easily visible and prominent in this area of the skin.

• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like improper blood circulation and dehydration in addition to high stress or anxiety disorder can also cause dark circles.

Overnight Skin Treatment

Overnight remedies can be very soothing for the skin and it helps in lightening the dark circles under your eyes. Before you retire to bed, take a wash cloth and dampen it with cold water. Squeeze out the excess water and then cover your face with the cloth making sure to cover the eye area. If you can, leave it on over night.

Cucumber, Tea Bags, Ice Cubes for Your Skin

These are a few natural means of reducing your dark circles. The tannin contained in tea bags helps in reducing the swelling and discoloration under your eyes. Cucumber slices also are very helpful in reducing the puffiness of the skin under your eyes. Just place the slices on your closed eyes and rest for 10 to 15 minutes. If done regularly, the difference can be noticed.

Use Creams Containing Retinol and Vitamin K

Deficiency in Vitamin K can cause dark circles and it is one of the most essential ingredients that prevents blemishes and puffiness. Retinol can help in the anti-aging prevention by contributing wrinkle reduction. Use creams containing these two ingredients for good results.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet can help in the care of your skin. By eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and foods containing Vitamin K in your diet your skin is given ample nutrition to remain healthy and vibrant. Drink ample amount of water to release toxins and improve circulation.

The information supplied in this article is not to be considered as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.