Dark circles underneath the eyes are unsightly rings that occur due to allergies, consuming alcohol, lack of sleep, smoking or heredity. In most cases, dark rings underneath the eyes are purely a cosmetic concern and do not require a doctor's care, according to the Mayo Clinic. Dark circles under the eyes occur when the dark blood vessels become visible through the skin underneath the eyes, or when the skin under the eyes darkens from sun damage.
Step 1
Eat chocolate. Dietitian Lisa Drayer, of RealSimple.com, suggests eating an ounce of dark chocolate once a day, because dark chocolate contains flavonol, which may increase blood flow to the blood vessels in the face and underneath the eyes.
Step 2
Apply a cold washcloth to the area underneath the eyes. Rinse a washcloth with cool water, then wring it out and place it over the under-eye area for 10 minutes. Repeat as needed throughout the day.
Step 3
Take an antihistamine. Dark circles caused by allergies may disappear temporarily after taking an over-the-counter or prescription antihistamine medication. Take the medication according to the instructions on the label.
Step 4
Get laser therapy. According to the Mayo Clinic, laser therapy reduces darkness underneath the eyes. When skin is exposed to the sun, melanin may form, which darkens the skin. Laser treatments destroy the melanin on the skin, making it lighter. You may require several laser treatments before the procedure is completely effective.
Step 5
Dab on eye cream that contains arnica. Arnica contains anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce the appearance of dark rings underneath the eyes. Use over-the-counter creams that contain arnica according to the label's instructions.
Tips and Warnings
- If you don't have a washcloth, place a bag of frozen peas over your eyes for several minutes.
- Consult a doctor if the dark rings under your eyes are accompanied by other symptoms.
Things You'll Need
- Dark chocolate
- Washcloth
- Antihistamine
- Over-the-counter arnica eye cream
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