While dark circles under the eyes are generally not a serious medical concern, they can be unsightly for people of all skin colors. However, there are some natural home treatments that can help to banish dark circles for those with darker skin, provided you are getting enough rest and eating a balanced diet. These remedies have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, however, so talk with your doctor if you are concerned about allergies or other complications.
Fresh Mint, Vitamin E Oil and Grapeseed Oil
According to Julie Gabriel, author of "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances," a mixture of fresh mint, vitamin E oil and grapeseed oil can help to treat dark circles under the eyes for people with dark complexions. To make this mixture, combine 2 tbsp. chopped fresh mint, 1 tsp. vitamin E oil and 1 tsp. grapeseed oil in a blender and puree for 10 to 15 seconds. Gently massage a small amount of the mixture under the eyes and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with cool, clean water. There is no need to wash with soap as long as the mixture doesn't cause any irritation. Unused portions of this mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for 48 hours for later use.
Almond and Jojoba Oil Paste
According to Bill Gottlieb, author of "Alternative Cures: More than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies," a mixture of ground almonds and jojoba paste can be applied to dark circles under the eyes on people of all complexions. To make this mixture, crush 2 tbsp. almonds in a mortar and pestle and mix them with 1 tbsp. jojoba oil in a small container. Gently massage the mixture onto the area over the skin and leave what doesn't fall of on for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse the area with cool, clean water after the allotted time and pat dry with a clean towel. This treatment can be used daily as long as it doesn't bother your skin, and unused portions of this mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for approximately 72 hours.
Papaya Essential Oil, Sandalwood Essential Oil and Coconut Oil
According to Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," a mixture of papaya essential oil, sandalwood essential oil and coconut oil can help to banish dark circles under the eyes on dark skin. To make this mixture, combine ½ tsp. papaya essential oil, ½ tsp. sandalwood essential oil and 8 tsp. coconut oil in a small bottle and shake to combine. Pour a small amount of the mixture onto a clean cotton ball and gently massage the liquid onto the affected area. Leave the liquid on for 30 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water and washing with a gentle facial cleanser. This treatment can be used twice per day in the morning and evening as long as it doesn't bother your skin. Unused portions of this mixture can be kept in a dark, cool place for up to one month.
References
- "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances"; Julie Gabriel; 2008
- "Alternative Cures: More than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Ann Worwood; 1991
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