Dark circles under your eyes can be caused by everything from age, heredity, allergies, diet and fatigue to fluid retention, weight loss, some medications and sun damage. A combination of these factors, in fact, can contribute to the skin under your eye appearing dark and even puffy. Regardless of the causes, though, you may be able to reduce and minimize the appearance of these circles through some simple natural solutions, home remedies and lifestyle changes. If you have any known allergies or skin sensitivities, use wisdom when trying a new treatment.
Restful Sleep
Even if you think you receive all the sleep that you need, reevaluate your bedtime and sleep routine to see if lack of sleep or poor sleep may be contributing to the dark circles under your eyes. Susan Berg, in "Natural Prescriptions for Women: What to Do---And When to Do It---To Solve More Than 100 Female Health Problems---Without Drugs," points out that less than adequate, restful sleep can aggravate the appearance of dark circles. Even though sleep needs vary, you should receive at least six hours of sleep each night. If you head to bed early, but then toss and turn for a while, try implementing a calming bedtime routine such as taking a warm bath or listening to soothing music.
Soothing Compresses
Cold compresses may help to lessen the appearance of dark circles, reduce swelling and soothe the skin under your eyes in the morning. Berg recommends trying a number of natural compresses to discover the one that works best for you and then applying that compress underneath your eyes for 10 to 20 minutes as part of your morning routine. Compress options include an a dampened washcloth with an ice cube inside, witch hazel soaked cotton balls and damp, chilled tea bags. She recommends using chamomile tea bags, as chamomile helps to constrict the blood vessels under your skin thereby minimizing dark circles. As some individuals experience allergic reactions to chamomile, you should use the tea bags with caution the first time in case of an allergic reaction.
Refreshing Cucumber
Cucumber balm applied to your eye area daily may be able to help minimize dark circles and soothe tired eyes. Janice Cox, in "Natural Beauty at Home: More Than 250 Easy-To-Use Recipes for Body, Bath, and Hair," recommends this homemade remedy. Make the balm by mixing 1 tbsp. aloe vera gel, 1 tsp. fresh, strained cucumber juice and ¼ tsp. cornstarch in a saucepan. Heat the mixture on high, and remove it from the heat before it comes to a boil. Mix in 1 tbsp. of witch hazel, and stir thoroughly. Cool completely. Store the clear, jelly-like cream in a small jar in your refrigerator. To use, apply a small amount to the skin under your eyes in the morning or evening. The balm will help to soothe, moisturize and revitalize your eyes; the gentle whitening properties in the cucumber will help to minimize any dark circles.
References
- "Natural Prescriptions for Women: What to Do---And When to Do It---To Solve More Than 100 Female Health Problems---Without Drugs"; Susan Berg; 2000
- "Natural Beauty at Home: More Than 250 Easy-To-Use Recipes for Body, Bath, and Hair"; Janice Cox; 2002
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