A number of factors can contribute to dark circles under the eyes. These include allergies, fatigue, anemia, nasal congestion and stress. In addition, dark circles can be hereditary and more noticeable as you age, because skin gets thinner, revealing capillaries underneath delicate eye skin. Dark circles under the eyes rarely signify a serious medical condition and can be effectively treated with simple measures.
Step 1
Get a physical examination. Determining the cause of dark circles under the eyes is essential before you begin treatment. A physical exam is important if you have not had one recently or if the under-eye circles are new.
Step 2
Treat your allergies. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that dark circles under the eyes can be a symptom of allergic rhinitis, resulting from immune system overreaction to inhaled substances such as pollen. Reducing your exposure to allergens, taking antihistamines and washing bedding weekly in hot water can reduce symptoms.
Step 3
Apply green tea bag compresses. Green tea contains tannins and caffeine, which help reduce blood vessels in the area under the eyes. Start by making tea with two green tea bags; then chill it in the refrigerator. Apply a tea bag under each eye for 15 minutes to reduce the look of dark circles.
Step 4
Consider taking vitamin supplements. If you are anemic or have a vitamin deficiency, high-quality vitamin and mineral supplements may help treat dark circles under the eyes.
Step 5
Try an eye cream. Eye creams that target skin pigmentation can reduce the appearance of enlarged blood vessels. While the majority of regular eye creams moisturize the under-eye area, moisture is not enough to eliminate dark circles under the eyes.
Step 6
Get enough sleep. According to dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, lack of sleep can increase stress hormones, which can lead to swelling and dark circles under the eyes. Getting adequate, recuperative sleep helps reduce under-eye swelling, shadows and dark circles.
Step 7
Stop smoking. By quitting smoking, you can improve the unhealthy sallow and dark appearance of under-eye circles.
Things You'll Need
- Antihistamines
- Green tea bags
- Vitamin and mineral supplements
- Eye cream
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