Dark circles under your eyes may be caused fatigue, smoking or heredity. In many cases, allergies to pollen, mold, dust or animal dander may cause nasal congestion that leads to dark circles. Sometimes simply getting more rest will reduce dark circles, and using a concealer or wearing sunglasses can hide them temporarily. If you always or often have dark circles under your eyes, see your doctor for an evaluation to rule out allergies or other medical problems.
Step 1
Get more sleep. Mayoclinic.com explains that while fatigue does not usually cause dark circles, it can exacerbate them by making you look paler in contrast to the circles under your eyes. Try sleeping on an extra pillow to raise your head, allowing excess fluid to drain from your under-eye area.
Step 2
Apply something cold to your eyes. A cold compress, cold slices of cucumber or cool teabags can constrict the blood vessels under your eyes, making dark circles less noticeable.
Step 3
Bathe and wash your hair at night to remove pollen and other allergens and keep your windows shut if you are allergic to pollen. Reducing your hay fever symptoms can make dark circles fade.
Step 4
Clean your house carefully if you are allergic to molds, animal dander or dust, recommends FamilyDoctor.org. Use a dehumidifier, vacuum often and, if necessary, keep your pets outside.
Step 5
Take over-the-counter antihistamines for allergies or decongestants for a stuffed up nose. These medications may relieve the cause of your dark circles. If they do not work or if they make you drowsy, your doctor may give you prescription medications with fewer side effects.
Tips and Warnings
- If you think you may have an allergy but can not pinpoint what you may be allergic to, ask your doctor to recommend an allergist, who can perform a comprehensive allergy test.
Things You'll Need
- Pillows
- Cold compresses
- OTC allergy medications
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