Dark eye circles are a common problem. These circles can make you appear older and exhausted. Using concealer may mask the problem, and some serums and treatments can minimize the appearance of these circles as well. Understanding the causes of dark and red circles under the eyes will assist in selecting the right treatment approach for your situation.
Sun Exposure
An increase in melanin production promotes dark and red eye circles. Melanin is the substance responsible for giving skin its color. Exposure to the sun promotes an increase in melanin production, according to MayoClinic.com. Reduce your risk for this problem by using a sunscreen daily, even when it's rainy outdoors. Harmful rays penetrate through the clouds, damaging delicate undereye skin. Select an SPF of 30 or higher. Some skin products contain SPF, making it easier to protect the skin.
Nasal Congestion
Nasal congestion makes veins darker in color under the eyes. Dry air, allergies and viruses can cause nasal congestion. Reduce nasal congestion by using a saline spray, available at drugstores or by prescription. You can also mix a solution at home by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt and two cups of warm water, according to MayoClinic.com. Use a neti pot, available at natural food stores, to accomplish this. Use the neti pot to pour saltwater into one nostril and allow it to run out through your other nostril. Flush out the nasal passages daily until congestion and dark undereye circles improve.
Lack of Sleep
Lack of sleep makes the skin paler, making dark eye circles appear worse. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Set up regular bedtime and morning waking up patterns. This makes it easier for your body to get into a sleep rhythm.
Placing a few pillows under the head during sleeping hours also reduces dark under-eye circles. Blood pools under the eyes while sleeping, producing a darker appearance under the eyes. Elevating the head while sleeping minimizes this pooling.
Aging
As the skin ages, it becomes thinner. This allows blood vessels under the skin to become more obvious. Fat and collagen loss, caused by aging, also makes dark and red circles worse. Some anti-aging products make undereye darkness worse. Avoid products that contain glycolic acid and salicylic acid. Select serums that contain Brazilian suma and root extracts to reduce dark undereye circles, recommends MayoClinic.com.
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