Home Remedies for Dark Under-Eye Circles

Reader Contribution by Susan Melgren and Web Editor
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Dark under-eye circles plague many of us. While short-term under-eye circles may be caused by lack of sleep, if the problem is consistent for you, it’s probably a cause of one of two things: genetics or allergies. Most under-eye circles are a result of genetically programmed pigmentation. The tissue around our eyes is also delicate, and as we age that skin becomes thinner and the fat from behind our eyes detaches and moves forward, pushing the pigment out. (Fair-skinned people and people with deep-set eyes tend to experience this problem more.) Dark under-eye circles can also be caused by allergies, which can create a congestion of fluid underneath the eyes and may also cause us to rub our eyes, which can worsen the appearance of dark circles. To keep your face looking refreshed, try these home remedies for dark under-eye circles.

Photo By Elena Stepanova/Fotolia

Home Remedies for Dark Under-Eye Circles

Treat your allergies. If you suspect that allergies may be worsening your dark under-eye circles, start by treating them. Find gentle treatments for your symptoms by checking out the article “Natural Remedies for Seasonal Allergies.”

Sleep with extra pillows. Gravity causes fluid to collect under your eyes, so changing the position in which you sleep can affect how your eyes look the next day. If you sleep on your back, try adding an extra pillow under your head to encourage fluid away from your eyes.

Wake up tired eyes with caffeine! It works for your mind, so why not your eyes? Dark under-eye circles are hard to treat topically, but a few types of eye creams can help. One option is eye creams containing caffeine, such as this Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream from 100% Pure. Caffeine constricts blood vessels around the eye and reduces water retention, helping to reduce the appearance of dark under-eye circles. While not a long-term cure, caffeine-enriched eye creams can remedy dark under-eye circles on a day-to-day basis.

Eye creams made with vitamin A or vitamin C, such as this 2 in 1 Correcting Eye Cream from NOW Foods, are another good option as they can help firm up the skin around eyes and reduce the thinness that makes dark under-eye circles so prominent.

Stay hydrated. Dehydration can make skin appear dull and lifeless and can even thin it. Drinking plenty of fluids can contribute to a healthy glow and can help your skin remain elastic.

Use cooled tea bags. If your circles are also combined with puffiness, try placing cooled tea bags over the eyes to reduce swelling.

Have you tried any home remedies for treating dark under-eye circles? What have you found to be effective? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section!

  • Published on Apr 26, 2013
Tagged with: Reader Contributions
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