Dark circles under the eyes come from a range of sources, including heredity, lack of sleep, allergies, or deficiencies in certain vitamins. Under-eye creams rarely get to the source of what is causing the dark circles, and therefore often don't work. Natural remedies, on the other hand, are intended to go where the dark circles are coming from in the first place. Vitamins C, E, and K have been shown to help to improve the skin under the eye. Also useful are cucumbers, potatoes, rosemary tea, and parsley.
Vitamins C, E, and K
Vitamins C, E, and K have been shown to help to fade dark circles under the eyes. Topically, these vitamins were mixed in with a gel containing retinol, and given to 57 Japanese volunteers. The study, posted on PubMed.gov, found that this treatment was "fairly or moderately" effective in reducing dark under-eye circles, and it also helped slightly with wrinkles.
Cucumber
The cucumber is a common remedy for dark under-eye circles that actually does work. According to aestheticians Lissette Jenkins and Miranda Cohen, "Cucumber slices help to lighten the skin and also have a soothing, refreshingly cool sensation when applied." Slices of cucumbers should be placed over the eyes for five to 10 minutes at a time. Potato slices can be used for the same effect.
Parsley
Parsley is an herb that is known to diminish dark circles under the eyes. Optometrist Dr. Marc Grossman notes that parsley has high levels of chlorophyll, which helps to fade skin darkness. Parsley should be frozen into ice cubes, which helps to reduce swelling, and placed under eyes. This remedy can be used in place of eye creams.
Rosemary Tea
Another herb that can help with dark circles under the eyes is rosemary. Specifically, according to Dr. Marc Grossman, using a cold compress of rosemary tea is said to reduce swelling around the eyes, as it increases circulation. The tea should be made from a half-cup of fresh rosemary boiled in a quart of water, and then steeped for 20 minutes. The tea should be chilled before use and then placed over the eyes for 15 to 20 minutes, once a day.
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