Dark circles underneath the eyes is a common cosmetic frustration. These shadows can make you look tired or ill even when you aren't, and may add years to your age. Sometimes you can get rid of dark rings by making certain changes in your lifestyle. However, if your dark circles aren't due to personal habits or environmental factors, you may want to invest in a good under-eye concealer to cover them up.
Age
Age is a primary cause for dark circles under the eyes. As we age, the thin, delicate skin underneath the eyes grows even thinner. This makes the network of blood vessels under the eye more apparent, and is reflected on the surface of the skin as dark shadows. To combat under-eye thinning and circles, Eyecare123.com suggests taking a vitamin C supplement to encourage the production of collagen, a protein tissue that helps support and plump the skin.
Pigmentation
Dark circles are frequently caused by excess pigmentation in the skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, dark circles can affect all types of skin colors, but darker-toned people such as African-Americans and Southeast Asians are particularly prone to dark circles. In addition, people who have high amounts of exposure to the sun are likely to develop dark circles. Sun exposure not only promotes the production of the skin-pigment melanin but also can cause the skin under the eye to thin. If pigmentation excess is the most likely the cause of your dark circles, avoid the sun and use make-up to cover up the shadows.
Allergies
A susceptibility to allergies may also give rise to dark circles under the eyes. The New York Times reports that airborne allergens can cause blood to collect in the vessels under the eye. The engorged vessels can exacerbate the appearance of dark circles. NaturalEyeCare.com adds that rubbing or scratching at the eyes in response to allergies can contribute to dark circles.
Lifestyle
Smoking, drinking excess alcohol and not getting enough sleep are key factors in the appearance of dark circles. Smoking damages collagen, thus causing the skin to grow thin and dark circles to become more obvious. Similarly, drinking too much alcohol dehydrates and thins skin. Fatigue and stress can make skin appear dull and pale. This, in turn, makes the blood vessels under the eye stand out more prominently.
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